How to Install an Elevator on an RC Plane

Callum. W

The elevator on an RC plane is a movable surface, therefore it must be hinged. The elevator controls the plane's climb and dive rates, incorrect installation could spell disaster for the plane. There are many ways to install this vital part of the plane depending on materials used and shape of the elevator. For this article we will assume that the RC plane is made of balsa wood

Instructions

Assembly

Join the 2 stabilizer halves together if necessary. Many RC plane elevators are split in two, this accommodates the rudder. Align the elevator with the stabilizer to ensure the elevator will be the correct length after joining. If your plane does not have a split elevator skip this step.

Position the elevator next to the horizontal stabilizer and mark where your hinges will be installed. Be sure to mark both the elevator and the stabilizer.

Use sandpaper and bevel the leading edge of the elevator. This allows the elevator to move freely in both directions.

Cut slits in the stabilizer and elevator the width and depth of the hinge. Be careful to cut the slit straight on the centreline and not at an angle. This is the most difficult part of the installation as you are usually working with widths that are ¼" or less.

Cover the stabilizer and elevator at this time. Keep in mind that you will need to trim away some covering from the stabilizer before you glue it in place

Place the elevator and stabilizer in the appropriate slot in the fuselage. It helps to place the elevator first on split elevator planes.

Align the stabilizer and glue it in place. Make sure the stabilizer is centred before gluing. Measure the distance from wing tip to tip of the elevator on each side, they need to be the same.

Glue the hinges into the stabilizer. Make sure the hinges remain free moving and no glue has gummed them up.

Glue the hinges into the elevator. Again make sure the hinge moves freely and no glue has fouled it.

Install the control horn on the elevator. Make sure the holes on the horn are aligned with the pivot point of the hinge. Connect the pushrod to the control horn. This completes the elevator installation.