Line Dancer (oz16949)

About this Plan

Line Dancer. Control line stunt model. Wingspan 27 in, for .049 engine. Uses a styrofoam foam wing covered with 1/32 sheet balsa.

Quote: "Line Dancer. A 27 inch wingspan control line sports model for .049 motors, by Dave Ridgeway.

Small 1/2 A control line models are usually 'scaled down' versions of larger designs. In the past, some have been good, but most have not come up to expectations. With this in mind, I set about making a purpose designed small model. The result is Line Dancer and its performance has been most gratifying.

The convenience of a small model has meant that many more flying opportunities can be taken. It can virtually live in the car, along with a valvespout of fuel, readied for action in a few minutes in any small space available and with the collector ring fitted to the PAW motor, the noise level is down to a subdued hum.

Construction: This is slightly unusual as wings are Styrofoam (white), covered in 1/32 sheet balsa. This is very quick to build, light and tough and holds a good airfoil section. However, if you prefer it, a conventional wing would work just as well - do try to keep it light. though.

The two wing panels are hot-wire cut from a blank of correct dimensions. Lightly sand the leading edge of the foam core to a well rounded section and remove any imperfections from surface. Then, put leadout cut-outs in the cutting templates, re-fix to the port wing panel and hot wire cut the leadout channels.

Veneer panels with light flexible 1/32 balsa sheet, wrapping around leading edge. If necessary, dampen the sheet wood to assist this operation. Cover over the leadout channels at this stage. I used a latex Copydex type adhesive to attach covering to foam - allowing it to go touch-dry before attaching. When all wing surfaces are covered, use a long, flat sanding block to face the trailing edge and centre joint.

Thereafter, join wing panels using five minute epoxy, taking care to keep the trailing edge straight and devoid of dihedral. Add the 24 in long balsa trailing edge, using tape to hold it in position - I use a PVA type glue for this and when set, carefully razor plane to section and sand flush with wing panels. When this assembly has set, plane and sand it to section and add the wing tips.

By measuring and prodding, cut out the wing sheeting along the leadout channels and at the bellcrank position; seven strand fishing trace was used for leadcuts which is either crimped with aluminium tube, or bound with thread..."

Line Dancer from Aviation Modeller International, June 1998.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

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