T-Bird Triumph

John Woodfield produced an inspiring "build and test fly" YouTube video for this model about four years ago. I was hooked straight away and commented that I wanted one too.

I quickly ordered the 'plan', 'laser cut wood pack' and later the 'additional wood pack' from Sarik Hobbies. Fortunately I found a copy of RC Model World from April 2017 on Ebay, which included the original article by the designer Tim Marsh. These items languished in my workshop for a couple of years until 14 months ago...

Like John W., I decided against the motor option, but unlike John's model mine was otherwise built to plan. It has a fully rounded fuselage, including planking beneath and block-balsa cheeks on each side, along with a two-piece 71 inch gull-wing joined by two 1/8 inch steel dowels and secured with (crash resistant?) rubber bands.

Bare airframe awaiting fettling and finishing

Finished model

Plenty of space for the receiver as the servos are fitted in the wings and fin. Unusual separate wing fairing, attached by magnets (and string)

Wing joiner arrangement, an essential item not shown on the plan

T/V tail includes servos and rubber band attachment

That irresistible 'gull' shape

I think you'll agree it builds up into a very eye-catching model, but it's not a project I'd recommend to inexperienced modellers.

Happy Landings

Russell H

Beeding Bowl - Tuesday 22 October 2024

 

Views of Beeding Bowl

I must admit that it's been a while since I have been out on a slope recently, mostly due to the constant rain. I was thinking about building model boats instead, so I jumped at the chance to join up with fellow club members this morning.

As I drove past the slope I noticed two figures standing having a chat with no flying in progress. Once I joined Martin J and Kevin M they informed me that their first launches were not successful as the forecast wind failed to materialized. 

So we started to put the world to right covering many subjects such as life, the universe and the Autumn Budget whilst waiting for the wind to improve.

Next to arrive was Nick W followed by Russell H who seemed to bring better weather with them. A former club Chair once told me "You need the right model for the weather conditions" my Wildthing was not the right model for today's conditions. Today was spot on for very light foamies and floatie type models. Both Nick and Russell had the correct type of model. As the morning progressed I decided to chuck in the towel and go home. Looking forward to our next outing.

In summery, a very nice social get together with scenery to die for and excellent company. A good catch up after many weeks of no flying.