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How to Fix a Foam Airplane

Foam is a versatile material and takes virtually any form. Many different model airplanes use foam. Beginner hobbyists throw foam airplanes. While other foam airplanes are radio controlled. RC planes use a variety of lightweight materials including balsa wood, PVC and foam. While flying a foam plane, accidents happen. Crashes break wings, elevators and tail stabilizers. Foam is strong and light but brittle. Breaks may seem daunting, but they are very easy to mend. Repairing the plane adds life to the model.

Things You'll Need

2 part resin epoxy
Wax paper
Craft stick
Moist paper towel
Binder clips
2-inch wide transparent tape

Instructions

- 1
  Place the two broken pieces together to check for a tight fit. Straighten any bent places on the wing by gently bending the wing back into shape.
- 2
  Place the required amount of 2 part epoxy resin on the waxed paper. Some resins are 1-to-1 ratios, while others are 2-to-1. Check the instructions on your epoxy.
- 3
  Mix the epoxy with the craft stick. You must use the epoxy quickly, or it will cure on the waxed paper.
- 4
  Spread the epoxy on the broken edges of the plane. Wipe any epoxy from the outer surface of the plane with a moist paper towel.
- 5
  Place the broken edges together and hold in place with binder clips. Allow the epoxy to dry for at least an hour. Check with the directions on your epoxy.
- 6
  Remove the binder clips after the epoxy is dry.
- 7
  Cover the crack with transparent tape to retain the aerodynamics of the plane.
- 8
  Check the plane for balance. If the repaired wing is heavier, place some tape on the opposite wing to add weight to the opposite wing to balance the plane.

Aviation