Control Line: Racing
John Ballard 10102 Kimblewick Dr. Louisville, KY 40223
Improved wing construction procedure
During the 1991 Nationals, the Shahan/Fogg and Ballard/Lambert teams compared Rossi .15 engine performance and prop selection. Identical engine and prop combinations were evaluated for airspeed and acceleration off the ground. Engine RPMs and power were very close; however, the aircraft flown by the Fogg/Shahan team had superior airspeed. This indicated that lighter materials and more precise interior wing construction were necessary.
The first step was the purchase of a complete vacuum-bagging system from Composite Structures Technology (CST). Using information from an article in MA on foam wing construction, we located double-density lightweight foam.
The wing frame was constructed from CST carbon fiber and basswood. The foam was installed in panels and sanded to shape; we experimented with the hot-wire approach but elected to use a sanding block, which requires less skill than the wire cutter. Finally, the wing was finished with .75-oz. fiberglass cloth and the vacuum-bag system.
Several photos accompany the construction stages. Clear tubes were used as wire guides. The results of vacuum bagging were spectacular: excellent rigidity and very light weight.
CL Racing
FAI Team Race trials
Bill Bischoff sent photos of the U.S.A. Team Race selection trials. Some races were very close, and the unpredictable diesels helped alter the expected outcome of the event. Also included are photos of several three-up heat races showing pilots jockeying for position.
The results were as follows:
- First: Gillott/Holfelder
- Second: Oge/Willoughby
- Third: Lee/Fluker
- Fourth: McCollum/Rudner
- Fifth: Ascher/Ascher
The Gillott/Holfelder entry was the only non-flying-wing airframe, featuring a conventional fuselage and elevator. Most engines were modified Nelson TR rear-valve engines with rear exhaust. All propellers were carbon fiber, and only the Oge/Willoughby entry used the single-blade/counterweight design.
Team racing news and newsletters
Kenn Smith edits an excellent newsletter for Team Racing enthusiasts. The newsletter contains:
- Specific information for racing
- A small column by TR expert Walt Perkins
- Team Race plans
- Sources and vendors for hard-to-find racing parts and accessories
The TR Inquirer is published once a month. For subscription information, write to Kenn Smith, 521 Jansen Ave., San Dimas, CA 91773.
Kenn also edits the Southern California Foxberg Championship Series (SCFCS) Report. This newsletter documents contest results, equipment sources, and includes a contest calendar. Both newsletters are available for a modest price.
Northwest racing
The president of CBBBA (Columbia Basin Balsa Bashers) in Richland, Washington, sent a photo of a rising star in Northwest racing circles. Joe Rice was the 1991 NW Regional Control Line High Point Champion. In addition, Joe established a national senior speed record in Sport Speed and 1/2A Profile Proto. We hope to see Joe at the Chicopee Nationals.
As always, your comments are appreciated.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
