RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Congratulation Jeff, Thanks for continue to post with updates. Would you please post some photos? I have been working on a Top Flite 86.5" Corsair ARF. Check it out. I started in the last week of January 2013 and had planed to complete the modifications of fiber glassing and other details in three months. I'm still working. Well this 1/4 scale Fokker D.VII took six months so as long as I keep it under six months I'll be glad. Just can not stop making it more scale. Let me know what you think. http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_11447949/anchors_11447949/mpage_1/key_/anchor/tm.htm#11447949 When I finish this I'll be getting my third scale Fokker D.VII down from the rafters and will be start another build thread. Thanks, Michael
Posted on: 5/16/2013 11:53 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11513920

RE: Corsair F4U-1A Top Flite Giant ARF Modifications
Rocketman, You have a very nice Top Flite 60 Corsair. The shots on your info page are great. Please feel free to post some here. Thanks for watching. I hope you are enjoying? Michael
Posted on: 5/15/2013 8:44 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11512790

RE: Corsair F4U-1A Top Flite Giant ARF Modifications
Now that the Goop has had time to dry I needed to create the mounting frame. In photos 2, 3, and 4 you can see the vinyl graphics I made just for these lights. These lights have a 3/4� diameter. I start by covering the lenses and then the outer ring. Now using more bondo I coat the ring and fill in any and all gaps. See photos 5, 6 and 7. In photo 8 I have sanded one light cover. I do this by hand, no block or flat sanding tools. Take little by little until there is just a thin layer. Then peel off the vinyl.
Posted on: 5/15/2013 8:25 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11512769

RE: Corsair F4U-1A Top Flite Giant ARF Modifications
After the first coat of bondo on the wing tips lights I added more panel line tape and here I’m installing the landing lights. Photo 1, I located the location for the first light and then traced around the actual light. Photo 2, I used a router bit in my Dremel and cut a rough hole. Photo 3, Using the Dremel with a sander, sand smooth and right up to the pencil line. Photo 4, I’m test fitting. Better to be to small and take a little by little than to big. Photo 5, Test fit. Sorry about the blurry photo. Photo 6, 7, 8, and 9 show after using Goop I press fit all three lights.
Posted on: 5/15/2013 8:08 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11512756

RE: Corsair F4U-1A Top Flite Giant ARF Modifications
Now that the lights work and I know you will be able to see them in the daylight, it is time to finish the detail work. In photos 3 and 4 I have used a cutting saw with my Dremel tool to cut the excess. Then I tape the area of the lens that I wish to remain transparent. See photos 5, 6 and 7. Next using bondo filler I pack it on. Then after a full day of drying sand and shape. This is the first layer of bondo. There will be at least one more, maybe two.
Posted on: 5/15/2013 7:39 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11512727

RE: Corsair F4U-1A Top Flite Giant ARF Modifications
While the glue is drying I took some overall shots. Do you think that the lights are too Bright?
Posted on: 5/15/2013 6:50 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11512688

RE: Corsair F4U-1A Top Flite Giant ARF Modifications
First of all I’d like to apologize for some of the fuzzy photographs. I’ve learned that now when I pull the camera too fast, that it makes a blurry image. I’ll be very more careful from now on. In the next couple of post there are a couple of blurry ones I’m sorry. Back to the wing lights navigation and landing formation lights. The blurry image 1 shows the hook I made to be able to pull the wires through. I used household Goop to install the nav lights. Then I used 1/64 ply to make a flat piece for the inside and give it more structure for the lens covers. I used tape to hold the lens covers while the glue (Goop) dries. The lens covers are over sized to allow for gluing. I will trim square latter. In photos 11 and 12 I tested out my lights for the first time in the wing.
Posted on: 5/15/2013 6:49 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11512685

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Thanks BTP, Where can I get those for my CompARF? Can I get them from Radio Shack?
Posted on: 3/19/2012 5:14 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11007509

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Gary, Where did you get the colored plastic disks for the underside of the wings? If you have extras can I purchase them from you? Also are you having working lights in them? Very very nice work, Thank you for taking the time to post all this information! Michael
Posted on: 3/17/2012 7:20 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11004817

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Thanks Gary, Coming from you that even better.
Posted on: 3/2/2012 10:15 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10984472

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Also here is a link to Best Pilots site http://bestpilots.typepad.com/my_weblog/pappy-boyington-pilot-figure.html If you want to check out another thread that I just finished here is my 1/4 scale Fokker d.VII http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_10338205/mpage_21/key_/tm.htm
Posted on: 3/2/2012 9:38 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10984430

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Thanks Gary, Just sent a PM to Pappy. Also for blazing a trail for me to follow. Looking forward to more and that part number. I'm working with Best Pilots to get a 4.5 scale pilot of Pappy check out his site and let me what you think.
Posted on: 3/2/2012 9:31 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10984426

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Gary and Pappy, It is possible for myself to order a pair of intakes as well? Sure is so nice and seeing them in Gary's I don't think I could finish my CompARF without them. Please let know. You can email me at radu@mac.com or call at (408) 504-6826 Thanks
Posted on: 3/2/2012 8:49 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10984397

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Hello Gary, I'm the friend that owns and is building another Comp ARF Corsair that the video was posted about on post 885. Thanks JMohn for the video. Just for the info in the video I was using a single 6.6 volt LiFe battery and that is why it is a little slower than yours. I would like to go as much as 9 volts, however, I believe I'll go with a 7.4 LiIon battery. I still do not have that shorter shock for my tail wheel. If you or others know where I can pick one up please let me know. As for the discussion regarding the folding wings with the Down & Locked gears. I had confidence with them down and locked until I read your thread. My plan was to fold then down and locked in the pits. Check them, then taxi out and fly, land and then bring up wings. Also I was thinking about linking the transmitter switch for the wings to the throttle so with the throttle up at all the wing switch is no longer active. I'm very pleased with the team at Down & Locked and I'm also intrested in the motors for the sliding canopy. Thanks for your efforts in this thread. I'm following and will add as I continue to build mine. That is if you don't mind. Michael
Posted on: 2/11/2012 10:16 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10954995

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Great thank you. I can sure use the PDF template. I have three spare carbon fiber blades and six wooden from Solo Props. That's good advice. I'll be sure to use the wooden ones on maiden. Another question for all. My Moki engine mount only has three holes. Should I drill more or drill side holes into firewall and use steal plates over the engine mount ring? Thanks again Michael.
Posted on: 1/10/2012 10:15 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10902918

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Hello Gary, I'm in California and continuing to build my Comp ARF Corsair. I'd like to meet up and fly together with other Comp ARF Corsair owners. Please pass my info along so all can meet up. My email radu@mac.com Also if I understand your last post correctly? To keep the temp down I'll have to add baffles and have operational cowl flaps to keep my Moki 250 in good tempture range? Even though I have the external fuel pump and not the turbulator? Maybe I missed something. I have run my Moki 250 on an engine stand for about 25 minutes. Oh by the way I have the Solo 3-blade hub and carbon fiber 32" blades. Thanks for any assistance,
Posted on: 1/10/2012 9:37 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10902893

RE: CARF F4U-1 Corsair build thread
Hello Gary, I'm also building a CompARF Corsair with folding wings. I have the Moki250 and have already installed my gear and tail wheel. Yes my tail wheel remains to far out in the retracted position. Your replacement of the shorter shock looks to me to be the best solution, however, where can I get one? Also I'm working with Down and Locked to get my folding wing electric as I'm not pondering weather I'll have an oil leak it's when! Due to the fact I have already installed my gear and doors with air. What is your option as to converting them to electric? Is there a sequencer that I can buy for the doors as well? Thank you Michael
Posted on: 12/28/2011 10:27 AM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10879775

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Thanks Bipeflr, I'm not sure I want to start a new build thread, due to the time and effort it takes to complete. I'm glad it has inspired you to build a plane of your own. Please believe you can create an even better plane than mine and you can and will. This was my test 1/4 scale Fokker D.VII. I now have 1/3rd scale and it's all framed and I want to take a break from WWI. So I'm now building my ComARF 4.5 scale Corsair. I have the Moki 250 and this week I was able to get the gear and tail installed and retracting correctly. I'm still tring to decide which features to make. Things like sliding canopy, lights and drop tanks. After this winter passes I'll take some video of this 1/4 scale D.VII and post on this thread to have complete closure. Thanks, Michael.
Posted on: 12/15/2011 7:42 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10861695

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Foodstick, Your Fokker D.VII looks great. The two photos are nice. Flying with moon looks like so much fun. I only hope you had so much fun that you go again and again! Even with crashes it's hard for me however I stand to my word no hanger queens. Flying is great when all go well. Thanks for sharing and the photos as well. I appreciate it.
Posted on: 9/13/2011 8:42 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10715571

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Mein Duff, I'm glad I went to your event. I had a great time. I only need to repair the rudder and vertical fin once again. As for the motor I'm not sure what to do. Randy pointed out that it might be the atmosphere pressure and soldering a air tube to the middle of the cockpit may solve the engine quitting in flight. I only wish I could have made more flight maneuvers than two take offs. I love the awards and the best cockpit aware is the best! Thanks so much! I picked up a new G38 and still not sure what to do. I'll start on repairs and then decide later. Thanks again.
Posted on: 9/13/2011 8:32 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10715557

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Now with photos 1 through 5. I show the process photo 1 shows that slip the letter piece on enacting and photos number 2 show spreading the flu all around and photos 3 through 5 show that they are pressed upon on the rim. Some glue will get on the outside and on your fingers but with a bucket of water cleanup is easy. Using your fingers you just lightly press and hold the leather in place. You will need to continue routing and holding in place as the glue dries. This is about a 5 to 10 min. process. Even with glue on the outside you can get your fingers in water and wipe off any excess glue. Photos 6 through 12, show the last rim piece of leather being glued on. It was much easier than I thought. Working with this new glue I found leather treatment to be streaming easy. I plan on using in many other areas.
Posted on: 9/13/2011 9:23 AM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10714541

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Upon finding out how nice the leather glue stuck nicely around the rim. I realized that I wouldn't have to do the stitching by hand and pressed it all the way through the wood frame of the fuselage. I thought to myself why don't I use my sewing machine. Photos 1 and 2 show that I flipped the black leather over and on the underside marked the trim. This is the lineup where I want to feed the sewing machine through. In photo 3 you can see the status leather. In photos 6 I was able to cut the leather very close to the stitching as I knew that this new glue for the leather it here and give a nice shape. Photo 7 through 12 show the same process. This time, however, these photos show the process of making the larger front pieces of the cockpit rim.
Posted on: 9/13/2011 9:21 AM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10714540

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Well now that I have fixed the rudder and vertical fin. I have to make the final details. I have several more photos. Once these images are entered in I will end this thread. I have many more World War I airplanes to build as well as some World War II. Photo number 1 is of my completed new tail and vertical fin. I rebuilt the broken parts and reattach the rudder and, painted the black cross and put the weathering back on to match the rest of the tail. Photo numbers 1 and 2 show the open cockpit as I'm starting to figure out how to do the trim. In photos 3 and 4 I'm starting to put on a rubber rim. I used CA to glue on the rubber trim. In photo 6, I show the glue down leather trim over top of the rubber rim. I was surprised to find out how well the blue held the leather down. So at that time I started to use the bamboo to go around the trim in order to have a smaller lip around the cockpit area. In photo 8 you'll see the glue I used was this echo flow. It's a type of leather craft cement. It is water-soluble and cleans up easily. In photo 8 you can see I used some black leather. I thought Black might be nicer than the Brown so I had to peel off the Brown.
Posted on: 9/13/2011 9:19 AM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10714534

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
You all are to nice. I assumed that the Satio oil mixture was 32:1 and found out the hard way that it's 20:1 and even after break in it remains 20:1 My fault. Well repairs are underway and the tail is completely rebuilt and covered. New motor installed and working on re-building the front screen grill. Warks62 is rebuilding a new exhaust for me. Thanks Warks62 make it extra long so I can cut to my liking please. Also my first batch of vinyl stencils are just about to be shipped. For those who asked. Thanks for the support!
Posted on: 8/23/2011 3:40 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10684003

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Well Guys, I have some bad news. Check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjbnG6dntJo I made the mistake that I assumed the break in oil mixture was 32:1 and it's really 20:1 and the engine seized on this flight. I'm under repairs as I type. Sorry Don't watch as this might hurt to see. I can tell you however, it will be less painful than it was for me. :-) Down wind, dead stick landing are tough.
Posted on: 8/21/2011 12:35 AM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10679680

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Warbird Man I have tried to reply to your email several times. Let me know if you have received it.
Posted on: 8/3/2011 3:00 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10653770

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
After one more photo in the garage at night, I realized that some photos outside in the natural light might be better and more realistic. I still have to add the leather padding around the cockpit and finish the dummy engine. Then call it done! Then move onto the next plane. I want to work on my Byron Corsair first (would you like me to post a thread on that?) then I plan on working on one of my other WWI planes. For all those watching I’m going to take photos of all my framed up WWI planes and take votes as to which one to build next. Or should I even do another thread? Please let me know. What do you all think? Should have I weathered more? Should have I weathered less? Should have I weather at ALL?
Posted on: 8/2/2011 8:54 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10652515

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Back home now to take some photos at the work bench for comparisons. I started the weathering at 10am Sunday and took these photos Sunday night at 10:30pm.
Posted on: 8/2/2011 8:37 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10652488

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
After the fuselage had some weathering, I paced the wings to get an overall look. Then removed the upper wing and started in on the lower wing. At that time I realized that I had not masked off the rudder for the frame. Here I might have gotten a little carried away. Let me know what you think? Just a little on the top of the upper wing. Then more weathering on the fuselage. Here I wanted some engine exhaust weathering. Here I used four different colors with the final being a grayish brown.
Posted on: 8/2/2011 8:33 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10652479

RE: Fokker D.VII 1/4 Balsa USA
Next I went on to the fuselage. I laid down masking tape to simulate the bars of the frame inside the fabric. Then a little dirt around the engine areas. I wanted to keep moving around as I didn’t want to stay in a single area and get errors like runs in the paint. In addition with so much reducer in the paint the dark areas come out wet with each spray and even though it dries fast you need to be patient and move away and come back. Just a little more work on the tail.
Posted on: 8/2/2011 8:28 PM by Author "MRadu" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10652473