If the Electrfily DR.1 Was a Kit
04-30-2011, 06:49 AM
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If the Electrfily DR.1 Was a Kit
I have been posting this build in the CAD/Design section, but I wanted to show what this would look like as a kit. I really like the design of the Great Planes WWI birds, they look sturdy, fast to build and come with some pre made parts such as the cowl, landing gear and struts. Well I called Great Planes to see if I could order the plans and Laser Cut parts and they said they don't do that. There are no plans so that is one reason, but I still wish they could offer a no thrills short kit. I know there are great short kits out there, but I wanted a fast easy build so I designed this Fokker Dr.1 based on pictures Ive seen on the internet and from a set of 3 views. I then sent the parts over to National Balsa for laser cutting and Fedex printed out the plans. Everything went together fast except I have to keep stopping to alter parts or the plans for future use, but other than that a fast easy build. The cowling was even laser cut, then I brush 50/50 water/alcohol on the non glued surface and the part curved immediately, then I glue it on. As you can see I am using the replacement parts by Electrifly and that also makes for a fast build. I have the Nieuport 11 at the cutters then I should have the SE5 done shortly. So far the balsa parts weigh 5.9 oz and with all the Great Planes parts she weighs 8.3 oz.
05-01-2011, 07:42 PM
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RE: If the Electrfily DR.1 Was a Kit
I have most of the build complete with some minor adjustments and final sanding. I will also go back and make the necessary adjustments and measurements to the plans and parts. The Great Planes parts fit well and you can see from the pictures my complicated wing jig, duct tape and clamps.
05-07-2011, 01:03 PM
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RE: If the Electrfily DR.1 Was a Kit
I finished covering today and after the family leaves tomorrow, I will add the decals and put the plane together. As shown the model weighs 8.8oz so I think I am still doing ok. The true red really sticks out and looks pretty nice. Since the structures are lighter and smaller than most of my builds, I used only the iron to shrink the film nice and tight, normally done with a gun. The wings were fun since I used once piece on top and one on the bottom, the curved trailing edges and 6 wingtips. The middle wing suffered a small puncture hole on the bottom after droping an xacto knife. Instead of removing the covering on the entire bottom of the wing, I just removed half of the covering and added a fresh piece.
05-07-2011, 08:16 PM
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RE: If the Electrfily DR.1 Was a Kit
I hope you built the firewall/motor mount better than the arf !
it will be interesting to see if you can get a nice rollout or landing.. that little dr1 of electrifys is the toughest plane I ever tried to get a straight line takeoff or landing, even on a nice runway matt...
Also I would balance it slightly more nose heavy if you are real close to the original
it will be interesting to see if you can get a nice rollout or landing.. that little dr1 of electrifys is the toughest plane I ever tried to get a straight line takeoff or landing, even on a nice runway matt...
Also I would balance it slightly more nose heavy if you are real close to the original
05-08-2011, 11:13 PM
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RE: If the Electrfily DR.1 Was a Kit
I did reinforce the engine mount area and should not be an issue. I think the biggest problem with the ARF is the type of glue that is used, not very strong for an engine mount.
Tonight the family left so I was able to finish the Fokker minus some screws I still have to buy. Without electronics or motor she weighs 12 ounces. Cannot wait to take her out for a test flight. My Nieuport design is at the cutters right now, can't wait to get started on it.
Tonight the family left so I was able to finish the Fokker minus some screws I still have to buy. Without electronics or motor she weighs 12 ounces. Cannot wait to take her out for a test flight. My Nieuport design is at the cutters right now, can't wait to get started on it.
