Split flap connection
 

I am currently building an older kit (F8F Bearcat) made by Long Island Hobbycraft & designed by Nick Ziroli. The kit provides direction for an optional inset aileron in place of the standard aileron which extends across the whole trailing edge. I plan to build the inset aileron this is a bit larger in width but only extends about 6 inches from the wing tip. I would also like to build and install flaps. The flap design would be a split flap at the fuselage and controlled by a single center mounted wing servo. Does anyone know of a manufacturer that makes a control horn assembly that would connect to the two flaps and provide a single interface fo connection to the servo. I know many yeas ago VECO manufactured a flap connector for their control line kits.

If anyone knows where I might make a flap connector I would like to know.


Sledge_78

RE: Split flap connection
 

Sledge_78,

Can't wait to see her at the field. There are a couple of ways.

1) You could use a long torque rod made from piano wire (I wouldn't recommend).
2) You could use a dual connector. Looks like a little fork that has one connector for the servo and two on the other side for two push rods (unless the flaps are close together this probably won't work.
3) You could use bellcranks.
4) You could use Sullivan Golden Rods (these will bend significantly).

Let me know if you need help landing her (LOL)!

Marc

RE: Split flap connection
 

Sorry, bellcrank picture wrong.

RE: Split flap connection
 

Mark,

I appreciate the input. I see your drawing with the bell cranks but I think it should be simpler like: (omit the first two rows of dots)


* ....................... *
* ....................... *
*---------|--------*



servo

Overall I was looking for a quick & easy manufactured part. I agree I could fabricate but if I don't have to .... I truly believe the flaps will make an improvement to the performance particularly landing speed & stability. This is my idea and not a kit option. f8F should really rip with an OS 50sx & 52" span. It's an older kit with a lot of wood blocks, even the cowl is wood.

Sledge_78

RE: Split flap connection
 

I question why you would go through all the pain and suffering to make both flaps work together, especially at both ends, using belcranks.

Two mini servos and either mixing or a JR Matchbox will make it so much easier to do in a lot less time. You can adjust the end points on both servos/flaps individually. If you end up with a little roll from extended flaps, you can easily change the flap position to fix it.