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How to Make Your Own RC Radio Controlled Airplane

Radio controlled aircraft (RC) introduce potential flyers to the world of aviation, all while keeping their feet safely on the ground. RC airplanes are available in various levels of models or kits. The best method of building a RC airplane, if you are new to the hobby, is with a suitable model or kit. Select a kit that is easy to assemble, is easy to repair and is easy to fly. These three criteria are important as it prevents frustrations and potential abandonment of a rewarding hobby.

Things You'll Need

RC airplane model kit
Hobby glue
Toothpicks
Heat gun
Work bench
Scalpel or utility knife

Instructions

- 1
  Set out all pieces of the RC airplane model kit on the work bench. Read the instructions at least twice. Separate the pieces by where they belong; fuselage pieces with fuselage; tail pieces; wings and so forth.
- 2
  Begin the model assembly with the fuselage -- the main body of the aircraft. All other pieces, engine included, mount to the fuselage. Build the fuselage first as it provides a visual reference as you assemble the other parts.
- 3
  Cut off the needed parts from the piece frames with a sharp cutting tool like the scalpel or knife. Assemble the empennage -- the tail. After the tail, concentrate on the wing assembly.
- 4
  Attach the landing gear to the fuselage and then add the finished wings and tail. If the kit is a "fabric over frame" model, cover the wings, tail and fuselage with the frame fabric and turn the heat gun onto the frame to shrink it tight against the air frame.
- 5
  Add the engine and test the RC controls after installing the receiver.

Aviation