Spitfire VIII (oz5823)

About this Plan

Spitfire VIII. Control line near-scale stunt model, for .35 power.

Quote: "Near-scale model of the famous W.W.II fighter will complete the most complicated stunt schedule with ease. 53-1/2 inch span gives 540 sq in area. Geoff Pentland's Spitfire Mk VIII, for 29 - 35 engines.

AS Freeman of Amersham is seen here with the test 'Spit' made from the original KOOKABURRA Plans, as distributed by A Milner in Australia. Our plan has been Introduced to APS with the full co-operation of the Australian designer, to whom all acknowlegement is due.

Ltike most stunt models, the Spitfire is built around the all important wing. As an aid to assembly, a 1/4 in sheet jig is pinned over the bottom spar position. Mount on this, the bottom spar (built from two laminations of 1/8 x 1/4 in strip), by laying down one lamination and then butting the other onto it with a slow drying (PVA) glue. This method of laminating the spar will ensure that the spar accurately follows the section of the wing.

Now cut the 1-1/4 in wide strip from 1/4 in sheet, and set on edge over the drawing at wing trailing edge to support the1/4 in square strip TE. Cement the wing ribs at appropriate positions. Add top spar and the Leading edge, then the top 1/16 in sheet TE strip and vertical grained webs between ribs at spars.

The bellcrank assembly should be securely seated as detailed, with extra stress supports at first rib bay. Lead-out wires are best made from Bicycle 3-speed cable and joined to the control plate (bellcrank) with piano wire, the 14 swg push rod is fitted after bending and the bearings greased before adding top sheet and the leading edge sheet.

The tip assemblies are built over the profiles and the leading edge block shaped last. Shape tailplane from soft 1/2 in x 4 in sheet and sand to section, inserting ribs T1 to T4, and E1 to E6. Fit elevator connecting rod with horn soldered securely in place and tape hinge the elevator to the tailplane.

When the wing has set, remove from jigs, cement the u/c spar in position complete with u/c, legs and add bottom 1/16 in sheet TE. Cover lower LE and centre section bottom with 1/16 in sheet, fit the cap strips, then tape hinge the flaps in position..."

Note for alternate drawing see the Kookaburra Spitfire VIII (oz5822) listing.

Supplementary file notes

Article page, text and pics, thanks to RFJ.

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