In this episode of DIY Radio Control Hobbies, host Chris Chianelli explores the range of models available in the hobby of building and operating radio control vehicles, from one extreme to the other -- from simple backyard models to sophisticated RC aircraft such as helicopters and turbine-powered jets.
This segment focuses on assembly of the Merlin (TM) -- an easy-to-build, easy-to-operate "backyard flyer." The Merlin operates on an electric motor and can be built from scratch using no tools. The model can be fully assembled in a couple of hours. Because it flies so quietly and is so simple to operate, it can be flown in a flying area that's convenient and relatively small -- such as your backyard, a park, a soccer field or a parking lot -- rather than at a remote flying field.
Important : This demonstration shows the basic instructions for assembly and operation of this particular model of backyard flyer. There are variations in assembly for each individual model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with your RC plane, whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the engine can be found in the manufacturer's instructions.
Materials: Merlin model-kit
CA glue (available in hobby shops)
Scotch tape
The Merlin comes in a kit that contains all of the components that you'll need (figure A), including carbon-reinforced wings, tail, rudder, fuselage, landing gear, props, driveshaft, engine, radio controls and specialized charger and batteries. Most of the components simply snap together.
Assembly Steps - Apply the decals.
- First, cut out each decal that you intend to use from the supplied decal sheet (figure B).
- Position the decal onto the foam wing, rudder or tail assembly with the paper backing facing up.
- Wet the paper backing thoroughly so that the decal image shows through.
- Wait about 20 seconds, then carefully peel the paper backing away from the decal (figure C).
- Allow the decal to dry.
- Install the drive unit onto the carbon-fiber fuselage. Simply snap the motor onto the fuselage (figure D) at the top hole. You may want to secure the connection with a drop of CA glue.
- Assemble the undercarriage/landing-gear assembly .
- Using two of the longer carbon-fiber rods supplied inthe kit, snap the end of each rod into the rear of the undercarriage.
- Snap two of the shorter rods into the front section of the undercarriage (figure E).
- All four rods then snap into the brackets on the fuselage (figure F).
- Attach the motor to the radio box (figure G), connecting the wires with the easy-connectors (figure H).
- Install the stabilizer and rudder.
- Place the horizontal stabilizer/elevator assembly in position, aligning the precut holes in the stabilizer with the brackets on the fuselage (figure I). The elevator control arm should be positioned toward the top of the plane.
- Slip the last carbon-fiber rod through the brackets on the underside of the fuselage. This locks the stabilizer in place.
- Place the vertical-fin/rudder into the vertical clips on the rear of the fuselage (figure J) and secure the fin with two pieces of tape on either side.
- Attach the Propeller
- Install the Wings. The leading edge of the wing's carbon-fiber rod slips into the top hole on the front bracket, and the wing's trailing-edge carbon-fiber rod slips ito the lower hole on the rear of the bracket (figure L).
The next phase in assembly will include installation of the control rods and radio components, and establishing the proper center of gravity for the plane.
RESOURCES :
Horizon Hobby
Horizon Hobby is a supplier of radio-controlled planes, cars, boats, etc.
Horizon Hobby
Website: www.horizonhobby.com
Merlin (TM) Park-Flyer RC airplane
Hobby Lobby International
A retailer of radio-control model planes.
www.hobby-lobby.com/diynet.htm
Hobby Lobby International, Inc.
Brentwood, TN 37027
Phone: 615-373-1444
Fax: 615-377-6948
Website: www.hobby-lobby.com
HobbyTown USA
HobbyTown USA (Registered Trademark) is a Nebraska corporation formed in 1985 by Merlin Hayes and Thomas Walla. HobbyTown began in 1980 with the purchase of a local business in Lincoln, Nebraska. The corporation was established for the sole purpose of sharing their dream with other people who wanted to own their own hobby store.
Today, HobbyTown USA is a nationally registered franchise, and the company is widely regarded as a leader in the retail hobby industry.
With the company motto of "Building Your Dream" and with more than 150 stores open, it is the largest retail hobby franchise in the world and is ranked in the top 2% of all franchises worldwide. More importantly, there are now hundreds of owners realizing their dream of being their own boss, and having fun while they do it.
For store location information, please click here.
HobbyTownUSA
Lincoln, NE 68516
Phone: 402-434-5050
Email: info@hobbytown.com
Website: www.hobbytown.com
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