DIY Network

Rx for RC: Building Tips, Part 1 From "Radio Control Hobbies" episode RCH-208

Chris and expert model-builder Frank Tiano work on the construction of a PT-60 balsa-body airplane.

In this segment, Chris Chianelli gets some expert advice on building balsa-wood planes from experienced model-builder Frank Tiano.

Important: This demonstration provides some of the basic information for assembly and operation of this particular model or kit. There are variations in assembly for each particular model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with yours, whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the model can be found in the manufacturer's instructions.

advertisement

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Building Tips, Part 1

• Unlike the typical ARF ("almost ready to fly") model planes that are featured frequently on Radio Control Hobbies the PT-60 made by Great Planes is constructed entirely out of balsa-wood (and a few hardwood) parts (figure A). Though it looks complex, assembly of these planes from a kit is fairly straightforward since the pieces are all made to fit or snap together easily.

• Before gluing up the plane, Frank conducts a dry-fit to make certain that all the parts are present and that they fit together properly.

• Tip: Frank using ordinary ceiling tiles (available at home improvement stores) as a work surface for building his planes. He places the plans for the plane on top of the tile, and protects the plans using see-through wax paper (figure B).

• The tile provides a flat work-surface that balsa parts can be temporarily pinned to in order to hold them stationary for glue-up. T-pins are ideal for pinning the balsa parts in alignment as you work on the assembly (figure C).

• Once the ribs and center-spar are in place, the spar-cap can be put in place. The spar-cap is designed with a slot running along its length so that the cap snaps easily in position (figure D).

• Similarly, the leading edge installs easily and snaps securely into position (figure E). This snap-together design is a marked improvement in the realm of balsa-wood planes and greatly speeds up the process of assembly.

In the segment that follows, Chris gets more tips from Frank on building balsa airplanes.