Fokker DVIII (oz1283)

About this Plan

Fokker D-VIII. Radio control WWI German parasol fighter.

Quote: "For radio and free flight, this beautiful rendition of the famous 'Flying Razor' of World War I is the tops.

Few scale models compare with the stability, accessibility, clean design and nostalgic charm of the Fokker D-8 for RC. Engines from .14 to .19 recommended - no more than a .23.

Our model uses Babcock BCR-7A two-channel 465 MC, because we plan to add elevator control. The model handles superbly with only rudder and engine, using a 'Babcock Mark 2' compound escapement and Universal Motor Speed Control. Performed beautifully with simultaneous engine and rudder control on separate channels.

The thickened Clark Y and wing area of 465 sq. in. proved ideal for quick take offs. Descent is realistic without 'float' when throttled back, insuring good altitude control. Wind penetration is good despite the big cowl.

Fuselage: Assemble side frames over sideview drawings. Remove when dry, add bulkheads and cross braces. Cut out, cement formers and stringers in place.

Bend music wire cabane struts to shape, bind joints together with soft, fine wire. Attach strut assembly to ply-wood bulkheads with 'J' bolts. Cut away sheet balsa formers as needed for bolts. Smear plenty of cement around the bolt and nut, Check alignment of strut assembly, then solder bound joints. Smooth roughness of the solder with small file.

Entire fuselage top, forward portion of side, now covered with 1/16 sheet balsa, seams located along stringers.

Layers of 1/2 and 1/4 in sheet balsa are used to build up cowl. Cement together under pressure of large books or iron. When dry, cowl is cemented to fuse-lage, carved to final shape. Sandpaper fuselage thoroughly. Bolt engine mounts in place.

The receiver is strapped with rubber bands to a single V plywood remov-able bulkhead, lined with foam rubber, which slides into place in grooves. These grooves now installed. Mount escapement on plywood support, install torque rod. Mount antennae socket.

Tail skid is cemented in place, then entire fuselage covered with silk, including wood-covered portions, with at least five coats of clear dope..."

Update 04/09/2016: Replaced this plan with a clearer copy, thanks to JJ.

Update 05/09/2016: Added article pages, thanks to JohnCarron.

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