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How to Build a Remote Control Model Plane

Whether you're looking for a hobby to occupy your time, or perhaps just a way to stimulate your creative side, building a remote controlled model plane can be a very rewarding experience. Just as RC plane builders come in varying ages, model RC plane kits come in varying degrees of difficulty. Building an RC plane is not only fun, but it can be used as a bonding experience between generations.

Things You'll Need

Model plane kit
Large well-lit work area
Screwdriver
Sandpaper
Craft knife
Glue
Paint
Paintbrushes
Remote control

Instructions

Preparation
- 1
  Choosing the right plane for you might turn out to be the most difficult part of building one. There are many factors that must be considered, such as how much you want to spend, the type of engine you prefer (electric or gas) and the type of plane you want (such as a slow flier or scale jet).
- 2
  
  A work bench is an ideal spot to assemble your RC plane.
  
  Find a work area that is well lit and has enough room to accommodate all tools, supplies and other accessories. According to RC Airplane Advisor, an old door or large piece of plywood stabilized across two sawhorses provides a sufficient work area.
- 3
  
  Separate electric components from wooden or plastic ones.
  
  Check your RC plane kit for all necessary parts against the parts list provided by the model maker. Organizing and separating the parts will help later during the assembly stage.
Assembly
- 4
  Follow the assembly instructions from the manufacturer carefully. All parts should be accounted for, because you already checked them against the instructions.
- 5
  
  Give the glue enough time to dry.
  
  Allow 24 hours drying time for the glue to properly bond. This is to ensure all joints are strong and the plane will be able to stand up to sanding and painting.
- 6
  Sand the entire plane down to eliminate sharp corners and to remove dry glue bits left over from assembly. Make sure to sand with a wood block; sanding with your fingers will create unevenness on the plane's surface.
- 7
  Paint the plane the colors of your choosing. Use colors that you know will make your plane stand out from the crowd.
- 8
  
  Always find an open area to fly your plane.
  
  Take the plane for its first run. Be sure to go to a large open area where you have room to fly your plane. Be careful and observant of the other people around where you are flying.

Aviation