Big Inch (oz16977)

About this Plan

Big Inch. Rubber sport model. Wingspan 35 in.

Quote: "Something different in rubber jobs, a tricky looking sport flier with a parasol wing, and concealed rubber. Big Inch, by Paul Palanek.

These days there appears to be a deluge of channel chatter, and souped-up gas burners. It is a good time to think of a change-of-pace model. Here is our suggestion: A rubber-powered stick, with free flight gas lines. A guaranteed flier, a snap to build, and no snapped props. The Big Inch was designed with simplicity in mind, to favor the beginner, and was given lines to entice the experienced to try their hands at what they have almost forgotten - a rubber model.

The landing gear is eliminated, since there is little need of it in this sport flier. Hand launching is simple, efficient, and quick. For a rapid rewind of the rubber motor, the flier should make use of a hand drill; this will save wear and tear of the index finger. A Paulownia ten-inch prop (badger your dealer - also America's Hobby Center, 25c) was used and found to be most efficient. We call it out because many a model's efficiency is lost with the carving of a prop. To the beginners we suggest the Paulownia; for the experienced a prop blank is given in the plans.

The wing plan employs a Clark Y cross-section which, of course, is the old standby. The wing is built ruggedly but is light of weight, as is the whole model. Big Inch sports 180 sq in of area with an all-up weight of 2-1/2 oz. With proper trim, the flights are sensational, logging from two to five minutes per launch, using maximum power.

Construction begins with the tubular fuselage; however, one plate of full-size plans is given; the half-size plan will need doubling. The finished stick measures one inch out-side diameter with a 1/16 wall. Use a sheet of balsa, 1/16 x 3 x 27 in long, soak in warm water for 20 minutes, then wrap around a 7/8 dia broom handle. Secure with masking tape until completely dry. When dried, and still on the broom handle, put a razor cut through the over-lap. This will give you an edge and, at the same time, a true circle. Cement the tube and reinforce with a strip of 1/16 x 1/8 balsa along the outer seam. Run a line of cement down the inner seam as well. Trim the ends to proper length..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

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