One of my long-term projects is an RAF FE2b two-seater pusher. I've been doing a bit of research and started wondering how those WWI pushers were balanced. If it's the usual 25-30% MAC then that's a definitely a building challenge what with the engine behind the CG.

what makes you think it would be any different?
aerodynamics doesn't change.................the engine is pretty much dead center thus making it even easier to do this model.

we have 2 DH2's at our field and balance exactly as the typical front engine models of the time period.

Note to self: Never post after a night without sleep and fully jet-lagged!

why?
this is a very interesting project...........i love reading your threads as i do believe we all get better educated on design ideas we never really think about.
i for one am obsessed with researching the fabrication of WW1 planes and the techniques used in that time period................then of course being a Millman by trade, anything wood related gets my curiosity up.

If the fuel tank is aft of the CG, you would balance it with the fuel tank full. If not it will have a very aft CG at TO; as the fuel burns the cg goes forward.

Ideally, the engine would be on the CG but that would require a drive shaft extension. So does anyone know of a company that makes these extensions for 90-size engines?

Do like this guy and make one http://www.rcscalebuilder.com/forum/...077&PN=2&TPN=6
It is one of the hardest thing to make work, models or full. How much of an extension do you think is needed?

It seems the power boat guys do this all the time, and will sizable engines.

I've seen a stunning 1/3 scale DH2 from some modeler in the UK (Ian?) which used both a drive shaft and, I believe, a reduction system so that it can used a scale size prop spinning a dummy at scale speeds. That wouldn't be needed with the FE2b but I think I'd need an extension of at least 3-5 inches.