Recently got the Jack Stafford Ercoupe from a friend.
the fuselage build has been a challenge.. the parts don't match where the plans show.
Wing does not fit where the plans show also. Instructions somewhat lacking..no photos
Anyone built and flown this old kit?

I have had the kit for several months but yet to start the build. Your experiences are certainly ominous though. I'll be on my toes.

Actually I may never build it. I purchased the kit because I knew they would soon be unavailable and I have always had a soft spot for full scale Ercoupes. My concern is the wingspan,,, I'm partial to the larger planes.

Keep us posted when you fly her.

I started building the Stafford Aircoupe about ten months ago. Moved along fairly well with some help for others that have built the model. It is an interesting build to say the least. I have built for over 40 years and this is one of the most difficult builds. Now that I am along on the project, it does not seem as bad. I put the Aircoupe aside for a few months since I was not sure if I wanted to finished it. I did not knowwhat engine I would use, if the build was to resume.

I was talking at the flying field about this aircraft and told one of my friends that I just did not want to put $200.00 for a 4-stroke, just for this application. He offered (and I took him up) on a good used OS 46SF 2-stroke with a brand new Slim Line Pitts Style Muffler for $50.00. What a great friend. Now I am back building. I will have a picture or two on my progress in the next few days.

The wing & ailerons are ready for finish. The fuse is 90% completed, except for finish. The engine is mounted and elevator servo hooked up.

Below is a great thread by Anthony. This will help you along. I also can answer most questions.

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_38...ircoupe/tm.htm

Ed

This is my progress on the Aircoupe.

I've noticed you're using non-balsa colored filler. Isn't that difficult to hide with pait or Monokote?

I do not expect to have a problem with the filler. It is spackling compound. I built a Ziroli P-47, used it and had no problem. The Aircoupe might be glassed, then primed. This is what I did on the P-47. I also might go with Ultracoat, but probably would use white.

A picture of the P-47.

Keep us posted on this. I used Monokote Cub Yellow as well as their matching paint on my Senior Telemaster and both failed to hide imperfections. I'll probably switch to Sig Koverall for the next plane but I'm always interested in other's experiences in this area.

All that is left to do is to seal up the bottom where the nose gear is located. Now how am I going to finish this aircraft?

This is photos of my progress to date.

i wish monocote had never been invented. i detest it, glass and paint looks so much better. although to get back to flying after being out of it for a decade, an monocoted arf or 2 sure made it easy.

Don41

I'll take that kit off your hands. I've been looking for one without success. Do you want to sell it?

Thanks,
Jim Tice

Here is mine, 7 years old and going strong . But I don't recommend silver.

This photo was the scheme I had in mind.

Stumbled into the world of the RC Ercoupe's about a year ago, at an RC flea market. My buddy and I took turns watching our booth after we'd set it up. I went first, saw a built Ercoupe and thought even if the motor was good.... No way, I'm not in for even $20.... Should be junked...

Returned to our booth, and out my buddy went, shopping... Shortly he returned with the Ercoupe in hand " Look what I got"

When we got to my place, he asked "Can we fix this up together in my shop over the winter"? After a lot of research as to what it was, who kitted it, can we get what we need to to do this, You guessed right, took all winter but when we were done it was a plane I would have been proud to have owned. The Full Scale Ercoupe owners association, including one owner in particular couldn't have been anymore help if he had restored it for us. He sent us pictures from his owners manual as needed and the twin rudders operated mechanically just as the full scale did.

Flew great and looked equally as good.

In fact I was so taken by the entire project, I found the a company who bought the rights to reissue the kit and I bought one... Daaa

This winters project....

Got2retire

Any one with a Jack Stafford Ercoupe plane (in the box, started/ not finished/ pretty much in any condition so long as the canopy is in tact I'm interested.

I have a kit new in the box what would you pay for it? If you want to email we can talk [email protected].

Thanks,
Jim

I'll take it...Tried to respond via Email you, using the Email on your post.. was rejected

mine is [email protected]

And if you’ll look back I bought it off this very thread in July 2007! And it’s been in my house the whole time so all the wood should be good.

Jim, I'm seriously interested in the kit...Would you accept $150 plus shipping?
My email is [email protected] Shipping would be to Audubon, PA 19403...