Flying License Plate (oz12599)

About this Plan

Flying License Plate. Control line sport model.

Quote: "Build this regulation size auto license plate, and put on your own number in your state's colors. No problem with identity!

Looking for a control-liner that's a cinch to build and fun to fly? If so, this model could be your cup of tea. It's sure to turn a few heads at your local flying field.

I used two pieces of 1/8 x 3 x 12-inch sheet balsa to build the wing. Both pieces were butt-cemented to form a rectangular panel measuring 6 x 12 inches, the standard size for most auto license plates. Make sure that the panel is perfectly flat before the cement sets.

After the cement has thoroughly dried, shape the wing's four corners with a sharp knife. Sand the corners, then sand an airfoil into the wing, using #400 sandpaper. The elevator is then carefully cut from the wing. I added cloth hinges and a nylon control horn to the elevator before re-attaching it to the wing.

After cutting the fuselage from 1/4-inch sheet balsa, I cemented and bolted a nylon engine mount made by Sterling Models to the nose of the fuselage. Sterling uses this type of mount in its Beginners Profile Series for 1/2A engines. It's easy to install and a lot stronger than a plywood mount braced with balsa supports. Sterling's mount sells for one dollar and can be ordered directly from the company. Sterling's address is 3620 'G' Street, Philadelphia, PA 19134.

The fuselage assembly should now be cemented to the bottom of the wing. Sand the fuselage smooth after the cement has dried. Afterward, cut the lead-out guide and bellcrank mount from 1/8 plywood. Cement both parts to the bottom of the wing.

Sand the model smooth with #600 sandpaper, then apply at least five coats of sanding sealer. Each coat should be sanded with worn #400 paper and finally #600 paper before applying the next coat. Finally, apply three coats of color dope to the entire model. The color selected should match the color of your particular state's license plate. I live in New Jersey and I used Aero Gloss's Curtiss Blue..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Update 20/11/2020: Added vectorPDF and CAD (dxf and dwg) versions of this plan, thanks to Valeria367.

Quote: "Hi, Steve and Mary. Good morning. How are you? I hope all are fine. Days ago, I saw in your web the plan for the "Flying License Plate" by Berkeley McCollum (oz12599), and I thought: "Wow! What a funny and simple model! Simple of draw, simple of build, and with a very original look; and I started to make one vectorial version of the plan. Now, here's the result of my work: the version of the plan in PDF vectorial format, and in both CAD vectorial formats, DWG and DXF. As usual. All the best, from your friend. Valeria367"

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