Messerschmitt Bf 108 (oz16993)

About this Plan

Messerschmitt Bf 108. Radio control scale model. Wingspan 1340 mm, for electric power with geared Speed 480 motor.

Quote (google-translated): "Grand Ambitions and the Morning After: 'Bf 108 Taifun' Scale Model. Bruno Schmalzgruber has a passion for electric-powered, wooden model aircraft. His drive to create consistently results in outstanding designs, this time a Messerschmitt Bf 108 Taifun.

In 1934, Messerschmitt switched to all-metal construction. Its first product was the M37, which was later renamed the Bf 108 in accordance with the new RLM type designation system. It featured a high-quality aerodynamic airframe and was designed as a four-seat touring aircraft. During its maiden flight in 1934, it was the fastest machine of its time. The Bf 108 can confidently be regarded as the prototype for modern touring aircraft, as its fundamental design concept remains unchanged to this day.

For its time, the aircraft was revolutionary. It boasted all modern features, such as slotted wings, flaps, and retractable landing gear. Its all-metal construction relied heavily on the skin acting as a load-bearing shell. Of the 885 aircraft built, a few survived the war.

The most widely produced variant was the Bf 108 B, powered by an Argus As 10C engine. This air-cooled, inverted V8 engine delivered a takeoff power of 240 hp. It had a top speed of 305 km/h and a landing speed of 100 km/h. With a wingspan of 10.62 meters, the aircraft had an empty weight of 860 kg and a maximum takeoff weight of 1,400 kg.

The model: To this day, the Bf 108 has lost none of its elegant appearance. It is therefore surprising that one does not encounter this type more often at events. Admittedly, I too was somewhat daunted by the significant amount of work involved, but for any dedicated modeler, this aircraft is sure to make the heart beat faster when it stands ready for takeoff on the runway for the first time. It cannot be denied that larger models - with wingspans of 2 meters or more - move through the air more elegantly, but in the realm of electric flight, nothing comes for free.

The power system, in particular, is a significant expense and also increases the takeoff weight. I therefore decided to aim for a more cost-effective and transport-friendly class. With a wingspan of 1.34 meters, a Speed 480 motor paired with a 2.5:1 gearbox provides sufficient thrust. Flight times settle in at between 5 and 6 minutes.

Construction: The wing and fuselage are constructed entirely from wood; the plans show all ribs and formers at a 1:1 scale relative to the model. The engine cowling is made of the same material and attaches directly to the front of the fuselage using two formers. The upper fairing, made of 0.4 mm plywood, is removable, allowing easy access to the power system at any time.

For the prototype model presented here, a Multiplex Pico 4/5 receiver and 9-gram servos proved to be excellent choices. There is such a vast array of speed controllers available that choosing one is difficult, while a 12-cell battery pack with 800 mAh capacity ensures the necessary power flow. With a takeoff weight of 1,347 g, the wing loading remains within reasonable limits at 60 g/dm². Takeoff and landing issues are non-existent even on grass runways, so nothing stands in the way of flying there either.

For those wishing to fly without a gearbox, the Speed ??600/8.4V motor paired with a 23 x 15 cm propeller is an excellent choice; an 8-cell, 1250 mAh battery pack should be used. The large propeller offers advantages for ground takeoffs, while simply throttling back extends flight time."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

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