How to Build RC Aircraft
Building radio controlled (RC) model airplanes is a interesting hobby with many dimensions and directions. Along the way you learn a little about aerodynamics, how to build models, and basic electronics--all while having fun with your friends flying (and occasionally crashing!) your model planes. Here's how to get started.
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Things You'll Need
- Available money
- A progression of model airplane kits and models
- Basic modeling tools
- Patience
Instructions
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INSTRUCTIONS
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1
While gearing up to build your RC aircraft, why not practice your modeling techniques by building replicas of few planes that interest you? Revell models are widely available and are some of the best; check their website (reference below) to see what's available and visit a local hobby store to collect many choices. Building an airplane model will teach you about the parts of an airplane and introduce you to modeling tools, paints, decals, and techniques.
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2
While you're in the hobby aisle, pick up a couple of rubber-band powered balsa wood aircraft for a quick-and-easy introduction to flight. Experiment with your model to learn basic aerodynamics. What happens if you add weight to the nose or tail, or move the wing forward, or change the angle of the rudder? The same principles apply to flying your RC model.
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3
Gain some RC flying experience with a Ready to Fly (RTF) airplane. RTF planes are already assembled, and by choosing an electric model, you can dispense with gas motor complications and concentrate on learning to fly. There are many reputable dealers. Search the Internet for "RTF RC electric airplanes."
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4
Next stop: an "Almost Ready to Fly" (ARF). An ARF airplane comes with pre-built main sections like wings and fuselage, simplifying the building process. You should be able to assemble an ARF plane, including your engine, radio, and landing gear, in about 15 to 20 hours. This might also be the stage where you experiment with switching from an electric power system to a gas-powered ("nitro") plane.
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Feeling comfortable with your skills in the air? Graduate to building your own RC model plane--from scratch. Flying Models has a few free plans to get you started, or search the Internet for "RC airplane plans."
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Tips & Warnings
Consider joining an RC flying club. There you can get help with learning to fly or even hire an instructor who will plug his radio in with yours to make sure you don't crash an expensive plane.
Look for clubs and learn more about airplane modeling at the Academy of Model Aeronautics.
Don't start your RC model building career with an extremely fast, sharp-looking fighter craft or ducted fan jet airplane. Successfully flying such a model requires many hours of RC experience and a quick hand. Beginners should look for "trainer" style planes designed to fly slowly and easily so you can gain command of the controls. When that gets too tame, move up.
