Control Line: Speed
Gene Hempel
Horsepower and Torque
Horsepower is a function of torque times the rpm of the engine. If you could hold the crankshaft of a model engine while it was running and apply a load, the engine would try to rotate the load in the opposite direction — this reaction is torque. By measuring torque at various rpm, a horsepower curve for that engine can be calculated and plotted.
A simple torque stand can be very accurate for model engines. A torque stand mounts the engine so it is free to rotate about its crankshaft axis and provides a way to measure torque and rpm.
Torque Stand (Dan Armstrong)
After several attempts to build a simple torque stand, I received a note from Dan Armstrong of Irondale, AL. After building several prototypes to finalize his design, he is ready to offer model engine torque stands for sale.
Features:
- Handles engine sizes from .049 (A) through the more powerful .65s by varying pendulum weight and length.
- Scale has two readings: inner 0–50 and outer 0–150 (both in inch/ounces).
- For small engines, the pendulum weight (mounted on a steel pin with a set screw) can be completely removed.
- Overall construction is massive and workmanship is first class.
If you are interested, write to: Dan Armstrong 2123 4th Ave. North Irondale, AL 35210
Time permitting, I will try to evaluate a few model engines using this torque stand. If you are interested in having a specific engine test run, write to me and I will try to include your engine test.
Engine Rework and Antique Engines
I have received numerous inquiries about reworking antique engines. It is difficult to determine an engine's condition without inspecting it, so for more information mail a S.A.S.E. to me at the address at the end of this column.
The interest in antique engines has generated quite a bit of activity. Several modelers invited me to photograph their Speed models and ignition systems. Highlights include:
- Elmer Wolff (Richardson, TX): his 40-year-old McCoy .19-powered Speed model, plus McCoy .49 and .60 ignition engines.
- Dean Toombs: a competitive Speed modeler from the early 1950s with a McCoy .60 and a “gooseneck” Atwood .60 Champion.
I enjoyed meeting these gentlemen and hearing their “war stories” — many of them sound like the ones we tell today. If readers would like to send old photos and explanations, write with a S.A.S.E. to the address at the end of this column.
Masking and Curves
Some care will have to be taken in doing this, but when you remove the center piece you will have a very crisp, clean, precise area to be painted.
If you need a curved piece of masking tape or an exact circle, try this method:
- Take a strip of 2-inch masking tape and find a jar, can, or other round object to lay the tape across.
- Using a brand new single-edge razor blade, run the blade around the curvature of the can to cut the tape to an inside or outside curve.
- For large circles (6–8 inches) the tape can become difficult to handle; experiment to find handling techniques that work for you.
I welcome readers’ ideas, diagrams, and explanations for solving the little problems that always pop up.
Organizations and Coalitions
- NASA (National Association of Scale Aeromodelers): For more scale information, join and support NASA. Contact:
John Preston 7012 Elvira Ct. Falls Church, VA 22042
- NCLC (National Control Line Coalition): There has been another attempt to resurrect the National Control Line Coalition. Doc Jackson indicated the change from a single-interest newsletter to a comprehensive Control Line newsletter is intended to promote and advance the sport and serve as a clearing house for control-line information. Membership information:
Doc Jackson 402 E. Walnut, Box 172 Hillsboro, KS 67063
- Formation of a national organization for Control Line: A new coalition will require sacrifices of some individual identity for groups and leaders, but Speed and Team Race fraternities have much to gain. If interested, send a S.A.S.E. to:
Gazette 707 2nd Street Davis, CA 95616
If you have background information concerning Speed, drop me a line — I would enjoy putting this information into the column.
Contest
Northwest Regionals, Eugene, OR — May 29–30, 1982. This is the big shoot-out for the Northwest. Mike Hazel is Contest Director; they plan to have all Speed events this year. Now is the chance for Speed modelers to support the event. For more information, send a S.A.S.E. to: Mike Hazel 1040 Windemere Drive N.W. Salem, OR 97304
Closing
The next two columns will be a special FAI Speed series covering both model design and engine setup. Happy flying!
Gene Hempel 301 N. Yale Dr. Garland, TX 75042
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
