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Flying model helicopters of any sort were fairly rare in 1952, when this edition of
Air Trails magazine hit the news stands. The sophisticated, miniaturized, smart
stabilization systems of today's models were not available at any price, and radio control
was the realm of military research vehicles. Methods for driving the rotors included
glow and gas engines, rubber bands, and even Jetex engines. Many free flight helicopters
sported the JETicopter's arrangement of a pair of engines at the end of a moment arm
which caused rotation. Cox .010 and .020 engines were a popular choice, as were the Jetex
engines. I always wondered what happened when one engine quit, resulting in asymmetrical
thrust. It probably caused a few moments of consternation as the craft bucked around
in the sky until the second one finally quit. There were full-size,
man-carrying
helicopters that used small jets to drive the rotors. This JETicopter might
well have been inspired by
Marquardt's Whirlijet full-size craft. That $3.75 price in 1952 is
the equivalent of $35.60 in 2018 dollars (per the BLM
Inflation Calculator), which is cheap for a model kit and one engine
with fuel pellets!
Check out my vintage Cox Sky Copter model,
which used a single top-mounted .020 engine to drive the rotors via counter-torque.
JETicopter Advertisement
 Now You can Fly a Model Helicopter!
New! JETicopter
New flying thrills for you with a real flying model helicopter! Duplicates the flight
of an actual helicopter ... twin-jet power takes it to a height of 100 feet or more ...
self-adjusting rotors bring it to a perfect landing.
Kit includes all parts, die-cut balsa ... full scale plans, rotor hinges and engine
mounting clips ... materials for covering fuselage and forming landing gear.
Kit includes one Jetex #100 engine
Complete Price
$3.75
JETEX Engines
Use the amazing Jet ex Jet Engines for reliable, effective power for model planes,
boats and cars.
Prices including instructions, fuel, accessories, mounting clips
#50 wing spans 12" - 20" $1.95
#100 wing spans 18" - 30" $4.50
#200 wing spans 24" - 36" $5.95
#350 wing spans 36" - 54" $8.95
Additional fuel supply for each size:
65c - 75c - 95c - $1 .00 respectively.
See your Dealer or write: American Telasco, Ltd., 55 W. 42nd St., New York 18, N.
Y.
Posted June 17, 2018
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