Kestrel (oz1785)

About this Plan

Kestrel. Control line team racer. Model Aircraft, May 1956.

Quote: "THIS model holds the RAFMAA Class 2 speed record of 111.9 mph, officially timed at the 1935 RAFMAA Championships. Total weight of model was 24 oz, and it was powered by a normal ETA 29 Series 4, fitted with a Frog 500 needle and spray bar.

First cut out the solid crutch from medium hard 1/2 in balsa, and cement the 1/2 x 3/8 in hardwood engine bearers to this. Then place the crutch with bearers, in a vice or cramp under slight pressure, and leave to dry completely. Next cut out the 1/8 in ply former F1 and fix under-carriage to same; this can be attached either by the method shown on the plan or by the normal binding method. When u/c is fitted cut out the 1/8 in balsa F1a and laminate behind the ply F1.

Next step is to fit the fuel tank to the crutch. If a normal 30 cc commercial tank is fitted, it will be necessary to extend the vent tubes so that they protrude through the crutch and the top decking block. The tank is held in place by cementing it straight on to the crutch; this will hold it until F1 and F2 are in position, then it is packed firmly with scrap balsa. Now fit the bottom formers Ft, F2, F3, F4, F5 and F6. While these are drying you can cut out the basic sides so that they overlap the crutch, thus forming one side of the beater box.

Before fixing sides to the crutch, drop in the 1/32 ply strengtheners (shown by broken line on the plan) each side; these are fitted flush with the sheeting, ie let into the formers. Now you may fix the basic sides holding the rear end with a clothes peg or similar clip..."

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