Finishing
Sand the entire model smooth. The F-106 can be finished using a number of different methods. Since the entire model is
sheeted, the model can be covered with a plastic film or it can be painted. If painted, then the balsa grain would first have
to be filled using either a light sanding filler and/or a lightweight fiberglass job.
Control Throws
Balancing and Flying the Model
The model must be balanced before attempting flight.
Failure to properly balance the model will most likely result in the destruction of the model. The model should be bal-
anced upright on a balancing stand. The plans show a CG range of 22% to 24.5% of the MAC. This translates into a
location 3-1/32" to 3-1/2" forward of the front face of B10T. If the model doesn't balance within this range, try moving
the internal components, such as the flight and/or receiver batteries until it does balance within this range. The initial
test flights were flown at 22.5% and the CG was progressively walked back to 24.5% over successive flights.
The original prototype was flown as a 3-channel bungee launched model with 350w of power. This updated version
can also be flown with a similar low-power system. The prototype used a 5-channels with retracts and has flown with
up to 1100w of power. The performance is spectacular, but my recommendation is to go with a 650w power system.
This will push the F-106 to 95-100 mph and give it spirited, jet-like performance.
It's a good idea to perform a radio range check with the fan motor off and again with it running at full power. Double-
check the control throws and direction. If you installed retracts, you'll also want to do some taxi-tests to make sure
the model is tracking straight and that the retracts work every time. Once you're ready, put a fresh charge on the
receiver and flight packs and pump up the retracts. Set the control throws on low rate for the first flight. Line the
model up at the threshold and smoothly roll on the throttle. Because the model doesn't have a rudder, the nose
wheel steering will only be effective during the first few seconds of the take-off run.
Don't be tempted to alter the scale nose-down ground stance as the model has no problems rotating off the ground
for take-off, even at the forward CG limit. On a smooth surface, the model accelerates quickly and lifts off in 150-200
feet. Once at take-off speed, apply gentle backpressure and the model should rotate and rise smoothly off the run-
way. You can raise the landing gear at any point, or even just leave them down for the first flight. Once airborne, con-
centrate on flying the model to a safe altitude where it can be trimmed for level flight.
In flight, the model is smooth and steady. Because of the short wingspan, it can be sensitive on the roll axis, so don't
go beyond the recommended throws until you've gotten used to the model. It is very stable in pitch and goes where
you point it, but is also very maneuverable and accelerates well with application of power. It really likes to be flown
through large, jet-like maneuvers. The model has no bad habits in high-alpha flight. You raise the nose and it slows
down. The higher the nose, the higher the drag. At the same time, it's a very clean design, so lowering the nose will
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Savage Light Industries
F-106 Delta Dart
Ailerons, measured at the T.E. of the elevon root rib:
High rate: Up & Down - 1/4”
Low rate: Up & Down - 3/16”
Elevator, measured at the T.E. of the elevon root rib:
High rate: Up & Down - 5/8”
Low rate: Up & Down - 1/2”
