P-38F Lightning (oz16921)

About this Plan

P-38F Lightning Park Flyer. Radio control scale model WWII twin fighter. Wingspan 40 in.

Note this plan is a free download available from the Model Aviation site at https://www.modelaviation.com/article/build-p-38-park-flyer where it appears along with the full build text and some great build pics. Also free downloads of printed tissue files to complete the model.

Quote: "The P-38 is the seventh model in the park flyer series. With a wingspan of 40 inches, it is the earlier F/G version with the more streamlined booms under the spinners. Construction is mostly of 3/32-inch balsa and 1/8-inch light plywood, with some 1/16- and 1/4-inch balsa and various basswood used. The plans, parts, build and covering instructions, and tissue templates can be downloaded for free on the Model Aviation website; however, if you don’t want to hand cut the parts, you can get a short kit from Manzano Laser Works.

Power comes from two 24-gram motors spinning 8 × 4.5-inch, three-blade, counter-rotating propellers. Rabid Models offers both 3D-printed spinners and wheels designed specifically for the model. The company also offers a power package that includes motors, spinners, propellers, and some accessories. Both Manzano and Rabid are listed in "Sources."

Similar to the other models in this series, the canopy is made from flat, clear sheet folded to shape and the boom radiators are built-up; however, replacement plastic parts from the Guillow’s P-38 could also be used.

The model can be built in three configurations in terms of its landing gear. It can be a "belly flopper," have plug-in gear, or can be built with retracts. All three options are listed on the plans.

Conventional electric retracts, even in the smaller sizes, add significant weight; therefore, metal-geared 9-gram servos are used with the struts attached to the servo horn via EZ connectors. The prototype was built using these retracts and has proven to work quite well; however, if you fly off of a rough field, it might be best to use the plug-in gear option.

The model is not a difficult build but it is complex so be sure to read and follow the build and covering instructions and thoroughly review the plans before beginning construction. There is also a link to the build thread on RCGroups in the "Sources" listing. When you have hand cut your parts or have your laser-cut short kit, it’s on to the build!

Build: The horizontal stabilizer is made from 3/32-inch balsa and has cutouts for stringers to be added to help prevent warping. The center leading edge (LE) is made from 2mm carbon-fiber rod. After the stringers and rod are in place, sand the top and bottom and shape the edges before cutting the elevator free. Hinge with trimmed CA hinges, but do not glue them in at this time. The center pod is built in halves over a center keel. The top and bottom keels are connected with stringers. When all of the keels and stringers are glued together, sand the top of the keel assembly to remove any unevenness and any bumps from glue.

Add the magnets to F1A, F3A, F3, and C2 at this time, minding the polarity. The left-hand formers are glued on top of the keels and stringers and are added at this time. Be sure to have the etching/marking lines on F2 and F3 facing toward each other. The lower hatch rail and the 3/32-inch stringers below it can be added next..."

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