David Shaffer

My Feedback: (1)

Dear RCU,

I am getting ready to cut a new fiberglass cowl for my Lanier Stinger .60. What is the easiest way to cut the cowl to fit my engine? I am using a OS .91 four stroke for power. Any help with this cowl fitting job would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks !

David Shaffer

DaveB

IMO the best method is to tape a piece of light cardboard, e.g. from a manila folder or similar, and with the engine in place, tape the card board to the side of the fuselage so it covers the parts of the engine that will protrude through the cowl. Then, cut the card board to allow the engine to extend through the cowl as needed. Finally, transfer the cardboard opening to the cowl and cut as needed.

There have been posts on this subject quite recently; I would recommend a search to find the posts which are explained in better detail than what I have provided.

DaveB

linclogs

There's a good article of how to fit and cut a cowl in the latest issue of Model Airplane News. I just received my copy in the mail today.

linclogs

Campy

My Feedback: (1)

One other thing I would suggest.

To minimize/prevent "chipping" of the gel coat, put some masking tape over the areas to be cut, make you marks on the tape and cut it slightly UNDERSIZE. The use a tapered stone on a dremel to bring the opening out to the correct size. The masking tape, while making the stone more difficult to clean after, will minimize/prevent chipping.

FLYBOY

My Feedback: (11)

I use the large and small sanding discs on the dremel. Mark the hole out approx where it needs to be, start way small and sneak up on it. Draw your lines with a good felt tip pen and work slow to get the lines right. use the small one for tight curves, the large one for the rest. I don't have chipping problems doing it this way, but have used masking tape as stated on some to make sure no chips. Works well