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These plans for the Fleetwon
control line combat model was sort of crammed into the 1960 Annual edition of
Air Trails magazine. I say that because the article accompanying it is rather
terse, and there are no photos of the actual built model. Bob Peru designed it
for a .35 size engine, but says it can get along with a .19 if ultimate
performance is not required. Wingspan is about 38", so a .19 would definitely be
on the low side for power unless the model is built extremely light.
Construction employs a typical balsa main framework with plywood and hardwood
used for engine and bellcrank support.
Fleetwon Control Line Combat Model
East Coast Control Line Combat Model
By Bob Peru
After the smoke clears away and the tattered streamers and balsa chips are swept
from the combat circle, do you wonder what happened? Did your ship perform like
a lead balloon? - Well, wait 'til next time - Resolved - that next combat ship has
to be simple, easily built, low in cost, have red-hot performance and be expendable.
Fleetwon was designed with these requirements in mind. It has no fancy frills,
just the bare essentials. It utilizes standard size wood and can be built in four
or five hours. A minimum amount of wood is needed for its construction, a "must"
since the price of balsa has recently increased. The design is a compromise all
around, truly a happy medium. Though some smaller ships may be slightly faster their
maneuverability suffers. Larger ships may turn a bit tighter but their speed suffers.
This flying wing design behind a hot .35 engine will leave little to be desired
in the performance department.
The K&B .35 engine was used with great success on original models but since
you may use a different engine, be sure to balance model at spar by shifting engine
along bearers to get proper mounting location. The correct C.G. location is most
important on any flying wing model so do not depart from C.G. range as shown on
plans. A forward C.G. position will make model sluggish in tight turns while rearward
C.G. will make model very sensitive. If a .19 engine is to be used the engine bearers
should be made an inch longer so that engine weight may be shifted forward to
get proper balance (text was misplaced at end of final paragraph in original).
Use firm light wood throughout construction of Fleetwon. Final weight should
be about 18-20 oz. This gives the model a light wing loading of 5 oz./100 sq. in.
This low figure permits speeds in excess of 80 mph and red hot maneuverability.
For best results do not depart from construction shown on plans, be sure structure
is square [with no] warped wings.
Full size plans for Fleetwon are on Group Plan #259 from Hobby Helpers (60¢).
Posted January 31, 2022
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