RE: Vacuum Bags
Gents, Thanks for the responses. I take it you don't use a clear bag material, as all I can find at HD and Lowe's are white or black in color. Further for the caulking material do you mean a "silicone-type" material in a large tube that you dispense with a caulking gun? Will the caulk make a permanent seal on the bag. I was hoping to make a 4' X 3' bag or two permanently sealed on three sides that I could put the two wing halves in and seal shut with one of the temporary seal strips like I use on my smaller bags I bought from ACP for the skinny glider wings I have been bagging up until now.
Posted on: 9/9/2012 9:35 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Composites Fabrication And Repair"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11222771

Vacuum Bags
Folks, I have just assembled a vacuum bagging setup, and would like to use the system to sheet some balsa/foam wings and stabs for a pattern airplane I'm building. But I still need some bags to put the wings, etc. inside and seal. I know several composite suppliers sell bags, but I'd like to make my own if possible. Joe the Woodworker shows how to make them out of 300 mil vinyl. I don't think this is the stuff modelers use, so thought I'd ask and see what I can use and would be available in a small town. If you have a material and adhesive set you use, could you share your approaches? Thanks , Larry Fitch West Richland, WA
Posted on: 9/8/2012 10:38 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Composites Fabrication And Repair"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11221831

RE: 2 Cycle fuel mixture
Thanks guys, I'll get some oil and Stabil today, and get this twin running right away. Thanks Again, Larry
Posted on: 9/6/2012 8:44 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11219502

RE: 2 Cycle fuel mixture
pdm52956, Thanks for the iinsight about usig synthetic from day one. I agree with your comparison to lawn care engines. How long is it good for? That''s my question. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 9/5/2012 8:16 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11219025

RE: 2 Cycle fuel mixture
Acerc, I'll give Ace a try in the morning. Thanks! Second question-How long can I expect mixed fuel to stay usuable once it is mixed and in my sealed fuel container. I've seen statements from a couple weeks to a couple months. What experiences have you had? Larry Fitch
Posted on: 9/5/2012 5:21 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11218829

2 Cycle fuel mixture
I have a 3W 56b2 gas engine that I'd like to start using. While I've had it for a few years,but never started it. The manual says to break it in using a 32:1 gas/oil mix using non-synthetic oil. I've not been able to find any at local big box or lawn care shops. Have others found a source for petroleum 2 cycle oil? Larry Fitch
Posted on: 9/5/2012 4:09 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11218739

RE: Lightning Build
First, I think Jeff has designed and built a wonderful pattern airplane in the Lightning. I hope to build one this Winter. As a different way to build these complex shapes out of balsa, a friend of mine does it as follows: First, he makes a full sized foam plug for the fuse, making it out of blue foam. He wets the balsa and places it on the plug, and wraps it tightly with ACE bandages until the wood dries. When dry, he unwraps the bandages, and places the sheeting on the fuse structure and glues it in place, trimming as he goes along. Now this is a very simple description of his process, and his results are amazing. His name is Jim Hiller, and the airplane he builds this way is his design, and is called the Option 160. The use of the ACE bandage may be another way to build the Lightning, and safe a few roles of masking and electrical tape. Not only does the bandage hold the balsa firmly to the plug, or structure, it also helps drawing out some of the moisture from the wood. I know Jim could do a much better job of describing these techniques, but I hope I may have added a few thoughts. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/31/2012 8:14 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Electric Pattern Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11213173

RE: plumbing a YS 120NC
I've looked at the YS manual and see where they recommend a check valve and a couple filters. However, in addition, I've seen several planes that have externally routed fuel tubing that is sometimes clamped (for some purpose), and a few pictures where shut-off valves have been added. I'm not sure the purpose or use for these devices, nor which of the two (supply and pressure) lines these are added. A little insight would be appreciated. Larry
Posted on: 8/25/2012 7:40 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11205429

RE: plumbing a YS 120NC
Joe, Thanks for the links. They tell me just what I needed to know. Moderator: I would appreciate if you could strike some of my initial posts. Not sure how three posts showed up, and aren't needed. One is just fine. Larry
Posted on: 8/23/2012 7:29 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11204035

plumbing a YS 120NC
I am building my first pattern airplane, a Black Magic 110. It will be powered with a older YS 120NC. I've seen pictures of parts of fuel systems in airplanes in this forum, but am not sure how to hook one up from scratch. Can anyone provide a sketch or drawing of a complete fuel system for the YS? Any help will be appreciated. Larry
Posted on: 8/23/2012 5:03 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11203895

plumbing a YS 120NC
I am building my first pattern airplane, a Black Magic 110. It will be powered with a older YS 120NC. I've seen pictures of parts of fuel systems in airplanes in this forum, but am not sure how to hook one up from scratch. Can anyone provide a sketch or drawing of a complete fuel system for the YS? Any help will be appreciated. Larry
Posted on: 8/23/2012 4:59 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11203890

plumbing a YS 120NC

Posted on: 8/23/2012 4:52 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11203882

RE: Pipe for DLE 35 RA
novayusa, I sent you an e-mail. Larry
Posted on: 8/18/2012 6:19 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11197668

Pipe for DLE 35 RA
Guys, Thanking about putting a DLE 35 RA in a 2 meter pattern airplane. Everything I've read says it is a good setup for a pipe on the DLE's rear exhaust. What are sources for an appropriate header and pipe? Does anyone have experience with running the DLE 35 on a pipe? Help me understand. Thanks, Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/14/2012 12:32 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11193320

RE: AeroSlave?
Shepga! Thanks for your efforts. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/12/2012 9:04 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11191127

RE: AeroSlave?
Chuck, Thanks for the help. I'm not upset or anything cause I know these folks all have "day jobs" too, and have lives they are responsible for conducting. I look forward to making contact with Lance. Thanks Again, Larry
Posted on: 8/11/2012 9:00 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11189307

AeroSlave?
Folks, Is AeroSlave still open for business? The reason I ask is because I've sent them four emails over the past two weeks, and no response about airplane kit availability. I've not done business with them before, so don't know if this is their "normal" or not. Anyone else have different experiences with these folks? Larry
Posted on: 8/11/2012 6:28 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11189189

RE: Lightning Build
Jeff, Thanks for the response. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/1/2012 9:54 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Electric Pattern Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11178049

RE: Lightning Build
Jeff, Thanks for the speedy response. I think I have much of the needed material in my "rainy day" stack. I notice that you sheet the wings with 1/16" balsa. I take it this is with the foam cored wings. I'd guess 3/32 is used with the built-up version? I think that is what I read on Don's wing build thread-or did I get that wrong? Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/1/2012 9:53 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Electric Pattern Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11177290

RE: Lightning Build
ViperDriver, et. al., I'd like to build one of the Lightnings sometime this Summer or Fall.I sent an email to Don Turnock, asking if he could provide a material list of the wood necessary to complete the airplane, starting with one of his short kits for the builtup fuse, wings, and tail. He responded by saying he didn't have such a list, and recommended that I ask you and others that have built one. So, does anyone have a material list they would share? Jeff, thanks for such a wonderful design, and for working with Don to help all the rest of us be able to build one as well. Larry Fitch West Richland, WA 99353
Posted on: 8/1/2012 7:29 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Electric Pattern Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11177115

Pattern Transmitter setup
Folks, Is there any type of "standard" setup used by folks flying pattern? I don't mean realtive to values used as these are pilot and airplane specific. I mean which switch is assigned what function. I know some guys assign "cross trims" so the elevator and throttle trims are assigned backwards. I currently have all three control surfaces (aileron, rudder and elevator) assigned to a single switch, and was told yesterday that I should assign them seperately. I would like to learn a "better way" and thought I try to find out if the is any type of standard commonly used. When I ask for help, it would be good to have my transmitter seem similar to what others are familar with. Any help is appreciated. BTW, I have a Futaba 12Z transmitter, so any setup configuration is likely possible, and not too hard to accomplish with my handy dandy Futaba User's Manual. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 7/27/2012 7:28 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11171135

RE: Sources for Pattern Airplanes/kits
Thanks for the responses. I find it hard to believe folks in four different US states as well as Norway are helping a guy in Washington state find a model airplane. This can be a very nice place when each of us try to help someone we don't even know. Thanks again, Larry Fitch West Richland, WA 99353
Posted on: 7/15/2012 12:44 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11156205

Sources for Pattern Airplanes/kits
Folks, There is a thread in this section about photos of people's pattern airplanes. Most folks that posted pictures did not state the source for their airplane. I'm aware that f3a Unlimited sell several different airplanes, but the list of other sources is hard for me to come by. I have found the AeroSlave folks near Dallas, TX, but other sources seems clouded in mystery for this newbie. A list of web addresses for other airplanes would really be helpful. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 7/15/2012 7:53 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11155908

RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
Guys, Thanks for the advice. I think I will use the balsa as the instructions direct. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 5/27/2012 6:32 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11096068

Obechi instead of balsa?
Folks, I'm in the process of building a few 110-120 sized pattern airplanes. Currently working on a Black Magic 110, with a Boxer 120 sitting on the shelf waiting it's turn. I understand that normally pattern airplanes have foam core wings covered with 1/16" balsa. I have some Obechi veneer sitting in the shop, and am wondering why this material used lots for sheeting foam-core glider wings wouldn't make good sheeting for a pattern airplane. Any thoughts or ideas from more experienced folks?
Posted on: 5/25/2012 9:56 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11094337

Need a pipe and a header
Can anyone point me in the right direction to buy a new tuned pipe and exhaust header to fit on an OS 1.20 two stroke engine? I'm not too concerned if the pipe is carbon fiber or aluminum. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 9/29/2011 10:59 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Glow Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10740522

RE: Viper IIm
Guys, Thanks for the responses, they both help. Do you folks know much about the Black Magic website? I've been to it a couple of times and can't seem to get much information about the airplane from it. The most information appears to be the history bit about the owner. How do you figure out what the airplanes are all about? Larry
Posted on: 8/24/2011 10:09 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10685136

Viper IIm
Does anyone have experience owning/flying the Viper IIm by Dennis Hunt of Oak Ridge, TN? Dennis makes and sells the Viper (and other models as well) in his shop, and sells them as ARFs or ARCs. I believe they are balsa and foam construction, and look very nice. I'm looking for my first pattern airplane and don't want to start with a 3000-5000 dollar ARF, so I'm looking for sound, well flying alternatives to power with a YS 120-140 sized engine. Larry
Posted on: 8/24/2011 7:19 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10684928

Build Thread of a Don Carlson airplane
Most who frequent this part of RCU know that Don "Frequent Flyer" Carlson is producing some nice kits of several classic pattern airplanes. I'm about to sign up for one of his new Wild Beat kits, which is about to hit the market in a month or so. Does anyone know of a build thread on this website of one of Don's kits. I'd love to be able to what is involved in completing such a kit, and get a better understanding about what is involved. As a "rookie", I'd like to get as much information as possible about his products/kits. Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/5/2011 11:23 AM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10656868

RE: Sources for pattern airplane kits
doxilia/all, A local member of my RC Club has a set of plans for the Boxer120, but isn't interested in selling them. According to him, the plans he has are on a "velum"-like material, not paper and have been epoxied to the balsa sheet stock, per the instructions. Part of the construction effort is to epoxy the plans to the sheet stock. Then the components are cut out of the sheet stock. The 'velum-like" material is used as part of a "composite-like" sandwich of balsa, epoxy and this "plastic-type" material. Are other airplanes constructed this way, and does the laminating the plans to the balsa really add to the strength/stiffness of the airplane structure/members? If this construction technique is valid, then buying a set of paper copies of the plans doesn't make much sense. Thoughts? Larry Fitch
Posted on: 8/4/2011 5:17 PM by Author "LRFitch" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10655736