Aero L-59 (oz12889)

About this Plan

Aero L-59. Radio control scale model jet trainer. Wingspan 40 in, wing area 270 sq in. For electric power using a pusher prop, or PSS glider.

Quote: "Aero L-59. Cyril Carr introduces his multi-purpose semi-scale jet for electric 540 or PSS.

I was initially drawn to the L59 when I saw a static model on the Aero stand at Farnborough, for not only did the model have attractive lines, it had a particularly eye catching colour scheme too. I have made several semi-scale jets for electric flight and thought that the L59 could be designed as a pusher model whilst also being ideal for PSS (Power Scale Soaring). I have found that pusher propellers are very effective, possibly giving up to 15% more thrust, but for some reason propeller noise is higher.

To ensure a satisfactory performance in model form, some dimensions have been modified a little, but I have been very careful not to disturb the overall lines of this very shapely aircraft. The body is marginally slimmer and the wing area has been increased, however if you wish to achieve an even closer scale appearance then the span can be reduced by removing the outer panel of each wing. Only do this if you are fully aware of the effects that the modification will have on performance and handling.

FUSELAGE: Construction begins by cutting the two fuselage sides from 1/8 medium balsa. Whilst working with the 1/8, cut out formers Fl to F8 and then move to 1/2 soft balsa and cut B1 to B5. Notice the slight angles to the sides of B3 and B4. Mark the position of all these parts on the inside surfaces of the fuselage sides. Scoop out parts of B2 and B3 where the Rx NiCad will fit. It is important that all batteries are fitted as far forward as possible to achieve the correct centre of gravity.

Glue B2 and B5 together at the correct angle and glue formers F1 to F5 in position on B2 and B5, Allow to set. Glue the lower half of the two fuselage sides to B2 and B5, allow to dry and then glue Bl, B3 and B4 in place. When ready apply glue to the top half of the formers, pull the sides in and pin in place to achieve the correct shape. Remove the part of B2 where the wings will fit and add the servo tray F17 (1/8 ply) and ply facings F9 to Fl 1 (1/32 ply). The dummy air intakes are made by gluing half formers F12 - F16 to the fuselage sides followed by a covering of 1/16 sheet. Chamfer the edges as required and glue these in place to take on the correct curvature. As you will find out, the biggest part of the 1/16 intake side covering, is glued to the 1/8 fuselage side, at the rear. Sand the fuselage to shape and cut battery access slots in F6 and F7.

Sand the fin and tailplane to shape, cut the appropriate slots in the fuselage and install as accurately as possible. Make the cockpit parts Cl to C3 and install the cockpit glazing and fittings. A moulded canopy is available from the Nexus Plans department.

To finish the fuselage construction, make the motor tube from a two layer roll of 1/64 ply. Install the tube and cut the cooling slots for the brushes. Use a good 540 or 600 size motor, preferably timed for reverse running and a 7 x 4 prop. If the recommended bungee launching system is to be adopted (see page 70), install the launching hook at the position shown.

WINGS: The wing profile shown on the plan is suitable for relaxed electric flying and PSS however, as mentioned earlier, the span can be reduced by one panel on each side if you wish. No washout is required and if you prefer, the wings may also be completely sheet covered.

Cut all the ribs from 1/8 balsa and lay the lower main spar and aileron hinge line spar over the plan. Glue the ribs in position followed by the top spar and leading edge. Sheet the LE with 1/16 balsa and sheet also between R1 and R2. When dry remove from the plan and sheet the lower surface. Repeat for the second wing and cut a slot in the lower surfaces and R1 where the wing brace W1 will go. Join the wings with 8 degrees dihedral and wrap the join with a reinforcement bandage of your choice. Install a plastic tube in one wing from root to tip for the Rx aerial and drill two holes for the wing fixing dowels as shown. Fit the wing fixing bracket at F11 and finally make and fit the ailerons noting that the movement is +/- 8 mm. The tip tanks can be detachable using dowels if you wish..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Quote: "Hello, Mary and hello, Steve, Hereby I send to you a plan I couldn't find in your archive. It's the plan and article. I redrew this in INKSCAPE adding some details and a bit more accuracy. That is the SVG file I send along. With that modellers can draw their own variations and/or pull a PDF file from it. Thank you for Outerzone and kind regards from Holland,"

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