Letters to the Editor
All letters will be carefully considered; those of general interest will be used. Send to Model Aviation, 815 15th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005.
BW Masterpiece, Ignition Parts
I read the article in the January 1981 issue of Model Aviation, page 8, "Banana Wing Masterpiece." It reads, "We'd love to scale it up to 6-ft. for a .19, etc."
Someone has—Model Engineering of Norwalk. They call it the MEN Trainer. It is a bit under 6 ft., but handles my OS .25 nicely. Span is 58 in. The flying characteristics you describe fit the MEN quite accurately.
I'm interested at present in biplanes. I would like to build a 1/4-scale model. I would like your full-size plans list, please.
I would also like to know if anyone can tell me where to find parts for the old-timer ignition engines, especially spark plugs, points, and coils.
James W. Storey Fayetteville, TN
Editor's reply
Two sources we know of for ignition engine components (there may be others) are:
- Herb's Model Motors, Box 61, Forksville, PA 18616
- Mark's Model Engines, 4456 W. 3145 So., Salt Lake City, UT 84120
Attaching Windshields
I have been in the model airplane hobby for nearly 40 years, and have built and seen many models. Generally, modelers do a decent job of framing and covering, but then they proceed to mess up the entire plane with a poor job of attaching the windshield or cockpit. It seems that most modelers, including myself, simply do not know how to neatly assemble clear plastic to a fuselage.
In the February 1981 issue of Model Aviation, two models which were construction features (Taylor Cub E-2 by Don Srull and Commodore Old-Timer by Bob Oslan) were excellent examples of how the job should be done. I think it is time that they, or someone else equally skilled, provide instruction to the modeling public on how to achieve such fine results.
Douglas A. Koch Reading, PA
Editor's reply
We appreciate the suggestion for an article, and we're already working on it. Likely the article on making and attaching windshields and windows will appear a month or two down the road.
Hank Clark Reports In
The logo this month (see cutaway drawing of Stitchin) spells it out. Junior now has the Cub up at Ft. Edward, where he's doing more flying than I did all summer. Last month's logo showed him trundling wheels in the scene, and it was the intention to do that—make it an airport visitor. I'm all for it, since I'm tired of fighting off boats, driftwood, tides, currents, winds, worrisome anchorages, no gas stations on water, cruisers that hate you, lakeside owners who feel threatened, awful boat wakes on every takeoff. Much more. At airports, I will meet people, get gas, tie down with no worry, etc., etc. Maybe even make Oshkosh, and fly into some of the AMA meets.
It's a big change in my lifestyle, not to be flying around New York Harbor, but I have too much housework to repair. So, now, Hank Jr. not only has the old aircraft litho and photo biz for picture fans, but also has the Cub.
I am now laying out a Waco 10 and Curtiss Travelair biplane for scale modeling, and mayhaps build in rigidity for possible servo and engine. I sure have been influenced by your builders.
Hank Clark Dumont, NJ
Monty Malherbe
I don't doubt that many people were as shocked as I was by the tragic death of Monty Malherbe, father of South African Radio Control aviation, a member of the Aero Club, and honorary life member of SAARF, in a flying accident on October 23, 1980.
It was my pleasure and privilege to have known Monty for many years, and to have been one of his many friends.
Others who knew him will recall the hours he spent instructing prospective Radio Control pilots in the "mysteries" of flying. The hours he devoted to talking flying, promoting flying, and recounting anecdotes from his long career as a World War II fighter pilot and, later, airline pilot, and as a man who flew just for the fun of it, are legendary. His knowledge of all facets of aviation was immense and was joyfully passed on.
Many will recall Monty's ability as a contestant in local and overseas RC competitions. A few will recall his outstanding management of Springbok RC teams at World Championships. Let us not forget, either, the financial and moral support and encouragement received by many from this remarkable man in support of their flying activities.
I recall his surprise and protestations of unworthiness when I was privileged to present him with the Paul Tissandier Diploma of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale for outstanding service to aeromodeling some years ago. Outstanding service really sums up the whole thing.
On behalf of the Aero Club, I extend our condolences to his wife, Vera, and his family, Kenneth, Michael and Paula.
Don Mackenzie, PR Officer Aero Club of South Africa
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
