DH.85 Leopard Moth (oz2517)

About this Plan

Leopard Moth DH85. Control line scale model from Air Trails June 1953. 38 inch wingspan all-balsa design for .14 engine.

Quote: "Calling all scale fans! An oldie-but-a-goodie is back as a real faithful control line replica. Leopard-Moth DH85, by Aubrey Kochman.

The Leopard-Moth, a hopped-up version of the famous 'Puss,' was produced in 1933, and on its first public appearance, piloted by its owner, Capt Geoffrey de Havilland, won the King's Cup Race at an average speed of 139 mph. Incorporated in its design are all the lessons learned from the experience of several years' operation in all parts of the world, of the more familiar Puss-Moths.

The model as presented was designed as a Class A control line job, mounting an inverted Cub .14. Sheet covering of the entire model results in a very rugged ship which more than makes up for the added weight. If care is taken in the selection of wood the additional weight can be held to a very few ounces.

The fuselage is constructed directly over the full-size plans. Pin the 3/16 sq longerons in place and add the uprights, gussets and hardwood motor mounts. The second side is built in a like manner atop the first. When dry, separate and crack at the rear of the cabin. Cement the cross braces in place. Add the stringers and sand them to shape. Cement the bellcrank mount in place and add the upright braces. Bend the landing gear to shape. Secure the separate legs to the plywood mounts by either binding with Celastic, strong thread or using J bolts. With the last two, don't spare the cement when in-stalling the gear. Celastic is a cement unto itself. For scale appearance, slip some 1/16 ID rubber tubing onto the wire before soldering the legs together..."

Update 02/04/2012: Added article, thanks to RFJ.

Supplementary file notes

Article.

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