Luscombe Silvaire (oz5366)

About this Plan

Luscombe Silvaire. Free flight scale model.

Quote: "The Luscombe Silvaire is a natural choice for a free flight scale design. The first all-metal light plane ever produced in any volume, this American aircraft is both good looking and aero-dynamically suitable for model work. Two versions of the 2-seater Silvaire are in existence - the standard 8-A and the more powerful deluxe 8-E. Our plans are for the latter model and were prepared from original works drawings and photographs kindly supplied by the Luscombe Corporation of Dallas, Texas.

Externally there is little difference between the 8-E and the 8-A. Omit the rear window and spats and for all practical purposes you have the standard 8-A. Both versions are left in the natural silver finish of the metal, the trim being maroon on the 8-E and blue on the 8-A. If you really go in for detail, landing lights may be added (to the 8-E) mid-way between the wing/strut junction and the wing tip. Both models should be fitted with a tail wheel, although we substituted a skid for this on our own model.

Before starting on the building instructions, we shall give a brief description of the full-size machine. The outstanding feature of the Silvaire is the all-metal wing, which is composed of just nine easy-to-replace panels. Designed around two metal spars, only two ribs are used in each wing. A single strong, non-welded strut between the wing and fuselage replaces the 'V' strut common to most other high wing monoplanes. Apart from providing easier access to the cabin and reducing drag, this type of strut allows better downward vision. The cabin is wide and luxurious, with plenty of leg room. A large baggage compartment can be reached from inside and all instruments and controls are well positioned for both occupants, who sit side by side. The semi-cantilever (knee-action) undercarriage is fitted with hydraulic shock absorbers.

The 8-E cruises at 112 mph and climbs at 800 feet a minute. Landing speed is 48 mph. On full tanks - 30 gallons - the range is 650 miles. The powerplant is an 85 hp 4-cylinder Continental. Operating costs work out at approximately the same per ground mile as a medium size American car. For those who like to add cockpit details, the interior colour scheme is in maroon and beige.

A four-seater Luscombe - the Sedan - has become quite popular with American builders recently. Although similar in many ways to the two-seater models, the Sedan has a much wider fuselage and a dorsal addition to the fin. This aircraft is definitely not so attractive as the 8-A or 8-E and much of its popularity must depend on the fact that it is the most recent Luscombe design.

So much for the full size job, now to get on with the model. The original has been flown with both the Kalper .32 diesel and the American K & B Infant. Any other similar size powerplant may be fitted. The plans on the adjoining page have been reduced to 1/3 scale. Either draw them up full size or send off to the publishers for a print of the plan. Full-size formers, ribs and tail surfaces are given at the back of the book...

Fuselage. Commence by cutting out all the formers, side members and the lower keel from 1/16 sheet balsa (medium). Attach the formers to the side members, then slot in the lower keel. This gives a sturdy basic structure which can be handled quite easily. Next add the stringers— 1/16 in square on the top and sides, and 1/8 x 1/16 on the bottom. Before adding the lower stringers, insert the 2A formers. Use the lower part of former 2 for the pattern for 2A..."

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, text and pic.

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