Twin Otter Stab Mod
 

I have the VMAR Twin Otter ARF which has some design issues. The one I am most concerned about is the light build design of the tail feathers. The horizontal stab is VERY thin and flat. It is constructed to slide into a slot in the vertical stab and then expoxed in place. The problem is that it is very thin and only connected at part off its cord to a relatively small area on the vertical stab. This results in a very flemsy horizontal stab which even flexes when you run up the motors on the ground (static run-up).

My plan is to drill a hole through the vertical stab and attach (Epoxy) a carbon fiber tube (1/4 inch OD) to the bottom of the horizontal stab from one end to the other. I am thinking of installing the tube near the leading edge since it is not attached to the horizontal stab.

I would like some other suggestions on how to build up and strengthen the horizontal stab without altering the scale look of the model. all suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks,
Vic

RE: Twin Otter Stab Mod
 

I'm not exactly sure what you're thinking of doing. If the stab is very thin, you won't have room for a 1/4" tube.

I would remove the LE, drill a horizontal hole throught the vertical fin and replace the LE with a CF tube the same diameter as the thickness of the stab (If the stab is 1/4" thick, use a 1/4" tube) then use filler to get the shape back and re-cover with black (The black may have to extend slightly further aft than it does now to hide the work)

RE: Twin Otter Stab Mod
 

That is a better idea than what I had. I was just going to place the tube along the bottom on the horizontal stab just behind the leading edge and epoxy it in place.
thanks for the GREAT idea....

RE: Twin Otter Stab Mod
 

just to jump in here . i built the same kit and never changed anything . just tightened up the covering and when flying . it's been banged around in the truck and no problems . it flies very well. don't over think it , it might look flimzey and light but it's okay no issues . have fun with it it flies very scale .....

RE: Twin Otter Stab Mod
 

Nice build, could you please tell me what motors and ESC's you are using, and how do you connect two esc's to one battery?

I might get one soon and I was thinking E-flite motors and ESC's but, I don't know If they will be powerful enough:D