Simple Sprint (oz9736)

About this Plan

Simple Sprint. FAI class team racer model.

Quote: "FAI TEAM RACE is a very difficult event to get into because it is so technical (or at least, seems to be). One of the reasons for this is that all the published plans, motor details, mechanicals, etc. have really referred to the best available. Very little has been published for the particular use of beginners so the presentation of this Simple Sprint plan is an attempt to change this situation by giving newcomers a simple, easy and quick-to-build model yet completely in line with modern trends, and highly competitive. The design has been developed from my current contest model so it has a fair pedigree.

So far two Simple Sprints have been built, one by clubmate Graham Howard, K&B 15 (diesel converted) powered and this was placed ninth at the 1974 Nationals with a 4:39.8 heat time - not bad! Mine is getting an MVVS D7. Graham's model flies beautifully - as a contest model must - in all conditions, including gale force winds. His model is also a little heavy at 18-3/4oz, mostly due to the use of a heavy motor like the K&B. Mine is lighter, scaling in at a nice 17oz.

Perhaps I should explain some of the model features, particularly why it is a 'pod and boom' with bubble canopy and V-tail model. The basic reason is that this arrangement gives the smallest fuselage possible, thus less weight and less drag. Also, with a very small fuselage, less building is required! The pilot position is well forward so that the required maximum cross-section of the model coincides with the natural maximum cross-section. A V-tail is used for two reasons - simplicity and lightness. If the tail were flat then the model would require a fin and an extended tail-skid, the first to accord with the rules, the second to stop the tail-plane being ground away during pit stops_ Finally, asym-metric wing dimensions and construction are employed to give the improved flying characteristics offered by such a planform.

Enough reasons and explanations, now to the actual construction. I start with the assumption that this is your first team racer but that you have built Goodyears, combat models, etc before. The glue used throughout is PVA except where noted. The wood grades as specified should be widely available since super-soft and super-hard grades are avoided. I have tried to put the building instructions in chronological order and would recommend that this order is followed, particularly on the fuselage..."

Simple Sprint, Aeromodeller, October 1974.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, thanks to RFJ.

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