Developed
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DeHavilland DH-88 Comet

by Unkown

SPECIFICATIONS Scale:  1:6.5 Wingspan:  2.06 M Length: 1.4 M Weight: 5 Kg Engine: 0.35 - 0.40 X 2 Radio: 5 Channels required

introduction

The De Havilland DH88 Comet is a classic 1930's racing aircraft designed to carry two people. It had a maximum speed of 237 mph and even in model form is easily recognised. The prototype I have built is modelled on the winner of the Mc Robertson England to Australia air race of 1934 in its famous fire red and white colour scheme with the Grosvenor House lettering.

When Airborne asked me to build this prototype, I was keen on the model but had some reservations as I had no previous experience flying a twin, especially one with a wing section like this. The entire project was a real challenge to me - so first to the building.

WINGS

I chose to start this model with the wings because of their complexity compared to other aircraft I have built to date. The twin engines, retracts and flaps are all located in this section. Great care must be taken to create the correct thrust lines for the motors's incidence and washout. First, cover the plans with clingwrap as this material is clear and cyno does not adhere to it. Start by pinning the 3mm x 6.5mm spruce main spars and the drag spar. The ribs can next be glued down taking care to put the dihedral braces in at the correct angle. Put the false leading edge on now along with the tip and leading edge blocks. Next I cut out the ailerons and glued in the leading edges while leaving the ailerons in place. Do the same with the other wing panel and then join with epoxy. When finished, turn the wing over and finish the aileron linkages before sheeting. I also set up the flaps and hinged them at this stage. Mark the aileron position on the top of the wing and then complete the bottom sheeting, checking for correct washout. Cut the areas out of the leading edge where shown for the engine nacelles. Next, move on to the engine nacelles with the retracts and tanks.