"Sketchbook" (aka "Sketch Book") was a
regular feature in American Modeler magazine. It consisted of a handful of
construction, operating adjustments, and finishing tips and suggestions (aka
"kinks") for model aircraft, rockets, cars, and boats, all submitted by readers.
A staff artist put those ideas to drawings. This October 1958 issue included a
twin-engined control line model that claimed to fly well even if one engine quit
before the other (which was almost always the case on fuel-powered models) -
without an outboard thrust offset - due to both engines being located as close
as possible to the fuselage centerline. Another tip suggested a method for
marking and masking off complex, curved areas for painting by cutting thin
strips of Scotch Tape for the initial outline. One reader showed
how to significantly strengthen the wing-to-fuselage joint by using a simple
plywood insert.
Sketchbook
Compact U-control twin-engine "wing" handles well on either or both engines,
claims designer-builder Ralph Hart, Colebrook, Ontario, Canada. No out-thrust on
engines.
Masking tips from famous modeler Dale Kirn, Salina, Kansas. Methods recommended
help produce prize-winning decorating, finishing.
Extremely rigid wing-fuselage assembly for profile control models comes from
A. E. Brown, La Grange, Ill. Plywood members fit slotted fuselage and leading edges,
assuring alignment and strength.
Got a new idea for construction, adjustment or operation of model planes, boats
or R/C? "AM" pays $10 for each "hint & kink" used.
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