Making a windshield template for high wing cabin model aircraft

Another "How-To" video following the build of my 1/5th scale R/C model aircraft. This week we look at how to make a template for the front windshield of a high wing cabin model such as the Auster. The technique is applicable to several other types including Champs, Cubs and Taylorcraft aircraft.

[@8311XHT]

That is how I did my RC cubs and how I also did my fp202 Koala; cub wanna-be light-sport kit plane. I used poster board though for the template, took all day and left a small cloud of profanity hanging above my shop. Good video. 👍

[@cammnut]

Thank you, if the template material is a similar thickness to the final PETG that helps, I figured that out after the video!

[@micksmith7587]

It is coming alive with every episode. It looks lovely Danny

[@cammnut]

Thanks Mick, really enjoying it, can't wait for paint

[@micksmith7587]

I'm just in the process of re-building the wing of my Hawker tempest that I bent a few years back , hate repairs never seem to go as smoothly as the first build! All the best

[@cammnut]

I know where you are at, I hate to do anything twice!

[@micksmith7587]

It's just a pain getting it right the second time so it all matches up to the fuz properly but hey ho it's all part of it! It flew so well I just had to get back on it eventually! See you In the next episode! Atb

[@freeflight4ever]

Thanks for posting this very helpful video. I'm dealing with the same difficult task on my current build; the Herr Engg Piper Cub kit for rubber power. I'm converting it to CO2 power and micro R/C. I had it all framed up and covered, but the difficulty I was having with that windshield made me toss it in a box and forget about it. Well, after 20 years in that box, I've decided to give it another go...thanks to your inspiring demonstration. You've given me some ideas, I'll let you know how it goes. Thank you so much!

[@cammnut]

Really pleased I have helped, and please let us know how you get on? Take it slow and be prepared to start again if you have to :)

[@cammnut]

Not sure if mentioned in the video, the glue I used was Formula 560 canopy glue, by Pacer

[@paulhelman2376]

Comet plans usually had quite good windscreen patterns.

[@cammnut]

This kit had a template but it wasn't even close to correct

[@claudio743]

Great!!

[@paulhelman2376]

You might try strips of masking tape overlaping and meeting your top and bottom to your outlines working from the mid point outwards. This is an easier technique I believe,

[@cammnut]

sorry I dont follow your suggestion so cannot comment, if there is an easier way I welcome it ;)

[@paulstebbing1171]

I wonder if you gently heated the in place screen and then let it cool it would have kept it's shape a bit.

[@cammnut]

I did try some heat as others had suggested, but rather than ease the stressing it caused some very slight wrinkling so I abandoned that idea. But that was what was suggested by others, perhaps I was doing it wrong?

[@R.B_B]

Great technic. At 0:11 what is that beautiful engine you hold

[@cammnut]

Hi and thank you. That is a British engine, a Laser 80 in this case. www.laserengines.com/

[@michaelcasella4774]

Do you think a little warming would have relaxed and taken some of the tension out of the final 5mm ?

[@cammnut]

Hi Michael, when i had finished there was minute crazing on th bend right in the top corners, i used a hair dryer very carefully and got rid of some. But i also managed to distort a small section, so decided to abandon that idea. I am sure you are right, but i didnt see a way of doing it.

[@SomeGuyInSandy]

Very fiddly, but the result is definitely worth the effort. Well done!

[@cammnut]

Thanks :) fiddly it certainly was, there was a lot of cursing.......

[@SomeGuyInSandy]

@@cammnut Lol, I have a canopy like that as well!

[@cammnut]

I feel your pain, try a much thinner plastic if you really struggle

[@GWAIHIRKV]

Can’t wait for the rivets. . . .

[@cammnut]

Not many rivets on this one, But I think I will attempt the litho strip that goes between the windshield and the fuselage. A mix of screws and rivets. The cowl will need some rivets. That video will be soon.

[@cyborgbadger1015]

what thickness sheet is best for a 60 inch span model? 20 thou? 40 thou?

[@cammnut]

I guess it is going to depend on the amount of curving required, also if it is IC or electric. With electric you have far less vibrations and no residue to deal with, it can therefore be thinner.

[@thetwogardens6048]

whats the best glue to use for windscreens . ???

[@cammnut]

I like the canopy adhesives, slow setting but work well, I use Formula 560 Canopy glue.

[@paulhelman2376]

That piloted will be in the way of the rubber.

[@cammnut]

sorry no idea what you are referring to in that comment