Fokker D8 (oz8338)

About this Plan

Fokker D8. Rubber scale model of the German WWI parasol fighter.

"Complete Data From Which You Can Build a Successful Model of a Famous German World War Fighter. Build and Fly the Fokker D-8, by Harry Schaffer.

WHEN a flying scale model is to be built, it is wise to select a type of ship, which lends itself to stability. As a rule, the type which fulfills this requirement to the highest degree is a high-wing monoplane or parasol. In such ships the center of gravity is low and the wing area smaller in proportion to the tail surfaces. Then again, the monoplane type is usually superior in flying qualities to the biplane.

In looking through our list of planes and giving consideration at the some time to these factors in order to make a wise selection, we could not help being impressed with the general design of the Fokker D-8. Examining the design of this plane more carefully, we found that it had the necessary factors to the fullest degree. It is a monoplane, the wing is parasol, the center of gravity is low and the tail sur-faces are quite large in proportion to the wing area. Only one drawback is apparent; the wing is located quite near the nose. This fact might make it difficult to balance the model actively for flight. However, this fault may easily be corrected by adding a little weight to the forward end of the ship. This selection was well justified after I had made the first flying model for it proved to be an excellent flyer.

Another factor which makes this ship interesting to build is the history that it made for itself during the World War. It made its appearance in the fall of 1918, though very few of these fighters actually saw combat. The planes that actually reached the front were outstanding in their ability to cope with Allied machines. It was powered with a 110 h.p. Oberursel rotary motor which gave the ship a speed of approximately 11$ m.p.h. Like many German ships, this plane was ahead of its time as regards its general design. The wings were cantilever without any brace wires.

Since the World War the trend of development has progressed continuously toward this type of plane. The Douglas Transport, Boeing model 247 and other similar ships are good examples.

Before trying to construct the model, it is wise to look over the plans carefully and familiarise yourself with the details of construction. Do not start until you have a clear picture in your mind of the entire ship. A great deal of material has been wasted by such procedure. After you feel that you understand the plans thoroughly, gather all the necessary material together and commence your work.

Fuselage Plates No 1 and 2, giving the side view, are used to construct the sides of this model. By placing the drawing over a Ward and using pins, the lougerons are thus held in place. Both sides of the fuselage are made at one time, thus assuring them of being the same.

The vertical braces are now cut and placed in by gluing the bottom one first and then putting the top ones in and gluing them. When the two sides are completely dry, separate and begin to glue the cross braces starting at the front of the model. This makes the frame of the fuselage.

We must next cut the bulkheads which are found on plate 1. These are made from 1/16 flat balsa, notched and glued in their proper places. The cowling must now be made. This will have to be carved or made on a lathe, the latter being the best way. The drawing on plate 3 shows the exact shape. Take the best of care in making the cowling, the point where the nose button joins the cowling is rather thin, thus requiring much care in turning. After it is com-pletely shaped, sand smooth with very fine sandpaper and give about three coats of banana oil. This when doped will dry with a bright luster. The inside of the cowling is painted black and then the cylinders are made, painted and glued in place..."

Quote: "Scanned from my original issue of the January 1935 Universal Model Airplane News it's Harry Shaffer's Fokker D-8. This is a rubber powered model published full size . it looks like it would be a good flier with rubber power or electric r/c... enjoy, jeff."

Quote: "Fokker D-8. I started working on assembling Jeff's Fokker D-8 this morning. I then remembered doing one in cad some time ago. It turned out to be the same one that Jeff just posted. I think the original scans came from The Plan Page. Enjoy. Gene"

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