bdphil, I was thinking 1/8" ply when I posted that.

I didn't mean to confuse with the term lite ply. I guess that has a certain measurement or is a certain type of wood that is different to the ply you mentioned?

Yes, the ailerons are sheeted foam. The other surfaces are regular wood and seem like they are built rather strong. I'm thinking of recessing the ply as noted above.

I'm guessing that the sheeted foam is not near as strong as the other surfaces and that there is something I should do (more than the ply) to ensure a strong connection?


YNOT, that pic looks pretty sweet. I've heard that ball joints aren't really the way to go on the larger birds (for control surfaces). I'm sure that is a hot topic of debate as I have seen it a few times searching the boards for answers. I would have to say that it's a matter of opinion. Personally I think it all matters on the situation and the hardware used. Those titanium rods seem like they are very good. I like the idea of adjusting them without removing the clevis. I may use them on this bird eventually but for now I like the freedom in the method posted about the welding rods. I can make them the perfect length and not really have to guess on what H9 rods to order. I like them but to tell the truth, haven't measured the actual distances to the surfaces. I'd hate to order a bunch @ 6 or 7 bucks a pop to have them be slightly long or short. Granted I could use the existing rods and make them the right size then order based on the length of the rods that I will not be using but I haven't gotten the servos or control horns yet..

I liked the look of the offset MKs as well. I just figured I'd keep this one as simple as possible this time around.

I appreciate the input! This board is the best when you have a question and the knowledge base is superb!

Thanks