C
UT the vertical and horizontal stabilizer
parts from the
3
⁄
16
" x 3" balsa sheets using
a
sharp
knife or razor blade. Use the die cut
templates as guides. Note the grain direction
on all parts, especially the S-3’s. Square up
the edges of the parts with a sanding block.
We feel that cutting these parts out using a
template is easier than cleaning up die cut
parts. ( Light balsa die cuts very poorly.)
Glue the parts together as shown on the
plans. Use either a thick CA or an aliphatic
resin glue. Both types are relatively easy to
sand when cured. Be careful when gluing the
end grain edges, since they will tend to soak
up some glue. It is best to apply the glue,
wait a few moments for it to soak in, apply some more glue
and then assemble the parts.
Sand both surfaces smooth. The leading and trailing edges
should be shaped as shown on the plans. Note that the trail-
ing edge is about
3
⁄
32
" thick. This provides better control
response as well as keeping the control surfaces stronger. Do
not
round off the corners on the trailing edge! Cut the hinge
slots the same as you did on the ailerons. Shape the “V” on
the rudder and elevator leading edges.
C
UT the hinge slots. We like to start the
slot with a knife, and then enlarge it with
an X-acto #26 saw blade. Sand the aileron
leading edge to the “V” shape shown on the
plans
after
the slots are cut. We cover the
ailerons before gluing in the hinges.
The enclosed hinges are the best we have
used. Roughen the surface with 80 grit sand-
paper. Flex the hinges 180° a few times for
“break-in”. Coat the hinge with 30 minute
epoxy and force some epoxy into the hinge
slot. Insert the hinge into the slot. Wipe off
any excess glue. Pinning the hinges is not
required. We glue the hinges into the control
surface, let the glue cure and then attach the
control surface to the wing.
Trim the servo arm to the shortest length that will allow full
movement without the clevis interfering with the servo arm
hub. Cut a slot in the upper surface of the wing to clear the
linkage. Mount the aileron horn, and adjust everything for the
correct throw and centering.
In case you are wondering, the aileron horn is on top to keep
it from dragging on the ground during landing and damaging
the servo gears.
Hinge ailerons
Cut slot to clear linkage
Install control horns
Make and adjust linkage
Phoenix
Page 16
Wing and Tail Construction
Install aileron linkages
Cut out parts
Clean up edges
Glue parts together
Sand and shape
Cut hinge slots
Assemble tail surfaces
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