Thomas Morse S4C Scout (oz4088)

About this Plan

Thomas Morse S4C Scout. Free flight scale model WWI biplane trainer. Wingspan 35in.

Quote: "A 35 inch span, 1/9th scale replica of the early American biplane using .8 to 1 cc engines. Thomas-Morse S4C Scout, by JG Watkins.

THE FIRST AIRCRAFT designed specifically for fighter training, the Thomas Morse Scout has a particularly 'British' look to it - not surprisingly, as that company's chief designer, B Douglas Thomas (although no relation) was an Englishman who had previously been employed by both Vickers and Sopwith.

Fortunately, this model does not possess all the flying characteristics of the original - many of its peculiarities being caused by the rotary engine - and is a very stable performer. In fact, the fine flying performance prevented us from finding the designer for quite some time when we witnessed its flights at the 1970 Old Warden rally - he was flying it non-stop and was only to be seen constantly trotting down wind retrieving his creation! So successful a performer is it that we are informed that with the exception of a competing flight at the Middle Wallop rally (isn't that always the way?) the model has give over three hours 'air time' without any 'failures'. The quickly detachable wings allow easy transporta-tion, while also affording crash protection if required!

Further scale details may be gleaned from the Aerornodeller Plans Service's pack no AJ.2887, price 20p. This comprises an article reprint and drawings to 1/72nd and 1/48th scales.

The fuselage is begun by cutting out all the formers, then bending the undercarriage and cabane struts to size. Sew and epoxy these to F1 and F2. Build two basic fuselage sides from 1/4 in x 1/8 in medium hard balsa, and 1/8 in balsa wing mount as shown. Glue formers F1, 2 and 3 in place, checking that they are square.

When dry, join the fuselage sides at the rear, followed by the 1/4 in x 1/8 in cross pieces, making sure that the fuselage is not warped. Cement the bearers in place using a PVA or epoxy adhesive, then glue the remaining formers in position - leaving F6 to last. Rear fuselage stringers and top deck sheeting may now be added.

Build the cowling ring from cross laminated 1/8 in hard sheet, and cover with 1/8 in medium hard sheet to F1. Add all under-carriage and cabane fairings then sand to a stream-lined section..."

Update 30/07/2016: article pages, text & pics added, thanks to RFJ.

Update 26/09/2018: Replaced this plan with a clearer copy thanks to DBHL, theshadow.

Scan from DBHL, cleanup by theshadow.

ref DBHL-7567.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

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