Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Open the kit and read the instructions for the wiring and mechanical components. All kits are made differently and the instructions vary from kit to kit. Even if you are making your own foam or balsa plane design the engine and propeller kit or skeleton kit will be required.
Remove all the parts from the box and separate parts that go together. For example place the landing gear and all the parts needed to install it in own section and the wings with corresponding screws in another. If you are designing your own plane or using a template, draw the outline of each piece on the foam or balsa wood and cut out the pieces.
Assemble the frame with engine and propeller. Pay close attention to the wiring diagrams in the instructions and the mounting information for the engine. Wire the propeller to the engine and test the wiring to make sure the propeller turns. Checking this early will keep you from having to disassemble the plane later if the wiring is wrong.
Run the wires that will control the rudder and elevator to the tail of the airplane.
Assemble the fuselage first. Work slowly consulting the instructions regularly. Some kits have 100 or more pieces just for the fuselage. Take your time and place each piece and then glue it down. Review the fuselage and make sure all the pieces are where they need to be.
Attach the rudder, elevator and wings on the plane. Each piece must be precisely positioned where the instructions or template tells you. Wire the rudder and elevator with the wires to the engine.
Cover the airplane with the fiberglass or plastic coating that can with the kit. Foam planes do not need the coating. The paint can be applied directly to the foam. Paint the plane and add decals and lettering to make the plane look authentic.