Correct alignment techniques
 

Hi
My least favourite job in building a plane is getting the Wings, Stab and fin in proper alignment ( well more the Stab and wings as most fins these days are moulded in). It is the easiest way by far to turn a fine plane into a total dog if it is done wrong. As I am always on the look out for better ways of doing things what are people's "secret" ways of getting this job done accurately?

Mike

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

Check this out, Mike:

http://www.airfieldmodels.com/inform...ruction/10.htm

http://www.airfieldmodels.com/inform...ruction/11.htm

http://www.airfieldmodels.com/inform..._panels/02.htm

Regards!

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

Obtain a copy of Bob Noll's video on alignment methodology. I think it can be obtained from Bob Hunt ( Robin's View) Products from Pa.(USA)

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

Hi
I have a copy of Bobs Video and his alignment gadgets however I have some problems with it such as how you can accurately cut the two foam slabs to support your wings horizontally when installing the wing tube. I have tried and given burn back with the foam it is very hard ( for me). Also getting such a large flat surface is not so easy either. Hence my post.

Mike

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

Yes, that part is very difficult. Even foam wing shucks are not exact. I block up the wings by using two identical or as close to identical ( block sand them on both sides with a sheet of 150 grit sandpaper adhered with two-sided tape to my slate building table ) pieces. The foam blocks and several pieces of sheet balsa shims ( 1/32" and 1/16")handle the blocking chores. I recall that Sam Turner of Tampa, Fl. went into how to cut a fiberglass fuse for the wing tube socket and corresponding tube alignment in a video he produced back in the late nineties. Now a days, guys are setting up inexpensive lazers ( there have been posts here in the pattern forum) which give incredibly accurate results.

An accurate , large surface such as a piece of pool table slate -one that is long & wide enough to accomodate the fuse with the wings is the ideal. I have half a pool table slate. Problem is lifting it and you need a very stable table to support it. Pool table companies usually sell damaged pieces and may even cut one length wise in half for you.

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

I hate this part too. In fact, I just finished an "Ouya" ARF from Texas RC and I think I messed up the stab to wing alignment. The right half of the stab is slightly forward, which I didn't notice when I measured stab tip to wing tip to equal on both sides. It will probably roll right with up elevator. Well, I'll fly it tomorrow and see. May have to mix in some aileron to compensate...

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

Time will tell coop, and you'd probably be ok. I'd say only one thing that held me back on some planes before.

Assumption.

Assuming that the fact that the tailplane is skewed slightly affects it's looping and rolling, it may not be enough to notice. Go through your trimming schedule objectively. I made the mistake of trimming an aircraft to alleivate what I thought was a crooked tail, (which it wasn't) and ended up making my mixes so twisted I'm suprised it didn't snap roll every 2 seconds!

remember! Be objective!

RE: Correct alignment techniques
 

Thanks for the reminder. I stuck to the base trims and flew it yesterday. It flew great! straight and level with just 3 clicks up elevator and 2 clicks right aileron. I was amazed. I cut the flight short because the OS46 was surging in the air. I had had trouble keeping idle on the table and suspect that the tank is a bit too high above the carb (inverted engine). I'll see if I can lower it in the bay, otherwise a Perry regulator may do the trick.
Thus, I have yet to do the usual loops, knife edge, and rolls to trim the plane properly.

From that 1 flight, I was very impressed with the plane. I think it will do the job I built it for: confidence-building and practice to fly my stored Conquest VI.
Oh, and the new Spektrum electronics I installed were marvelous! Unbelievable smoothness and response. (DX7 Tx, AR6200 Rx, and their packaged digital servos). MK BB control clevises I had lying around helped in the ultra-smooth response, I'm sure.