I've just started building a DJ-1. This is my first "proper" kit (not RTF/ARTF).

When fitting the nose-blocks/"cannards", Am I correct in assuming that the nose-blocks are fitted to the fuselage, then the wood between the two slots on each side of the nose are joined by cutting away the wood between them, so that after shaping the nose the "cannards" will fit through the slot?

I know this sounds like a basic question, but I don't want to start cutting where I shouldn't -or- stick parts on in the wrong order.

Many Thanks,
=Adrian=

Adrian,
I'm not sure I understand what you mean by "then the wood between the two slots on each side of the nose are joined by cutting the wood away from them".

I built mine with the canard out of the model. The two fuse sides are pulled together to fit the width of the assembled nose block (2 blocks of balsa sandwiching the plywood core) and glued to the nose block. The balsa blocks are then carved and sanded to shape to match the contour of the fuse sides. Once you are completely finished carving and shaping the nose blocks, the canard is inserted into the fuse sides. I did not glue the canard in at this time. I only fitted it. I only glued the canard in place after I had completely covered the model. If you glue the canard in before you cover, the covering job will be a real pain. I did the same for the wings. I fitted them in place before covering, but did not glue to the fuse and ply braces until after the entire model was covered.

John

John,

The fuselage and nose parts as they come out of the box have two slots next to each other, the combined length being (I guess) long enough for the cannard.

I think I have to cut away the piece between slots 1 and 2 in order to accomodate the cannard. There is no reference to this in the instructions, but I don't see any other way for it to fit.

However, I really think think you've answered my question.

Many Thanks,
=Adrian=

Adrian,
Gotcha! Yes, you are correct. After the nose is joined and shaped, the wood between slot 1 and 2 is removed to make room for the canard. I forgot about this. They did this to keep the wood above and below the slot inline while you are bending it to the nose contour. Without the web, the top and bottom could bend in a funky manner.

John

John,

Thanks for that - I just don't want to make any really silly mistakes!!

Thanks Again,
=Adrian=

No worries. The DJ-1 is a little different than most kits simply bacause of it's layout. Be sure you make a right and left side engine mount or you'll have to cut new ones on your own. Yes, I didn't pay attention to what I was doing ...

John