FORD TRIMOTOR

My 1/20-scale Ford Trimotor has a 46 3/4-inch wingspan, which works out just right, since 6-inch propellers are scale size, and are just what the E-flite 250 outrunner motors require with a 2S LiPo battery. It features plug-in outer wing panels, with the wing center section (with the nacelles and landing gear) remaining in place on the fuselage. Only the aileron servo leads need to be disconnected for transport. Control is full-house 4-channel with four servos. Power comes from three E-flite 10A speed controls and a single Thunder Power 1320mAh, 2S LiPo pack.

CONSTRUCTION

Begin with the fuselage side frames. They feature built-in window frames, and so are dedicated left- and right-hand assemblies built directly over the plans. Join the sides over the top view drawings using the wood sizes and formers shown. Then, after you’ve joined the frames, remove the frame from the board and add the stringers. Build up the cockpit