Toronto Electric Model Aviation Club Forum

Toronto Electric Model Aviation Club (TEMAC) => Building / Construction => Topic started by: bweaver on July 04, 2020, 04:46:29 PM

Title: Cowling Modification To Fill Holes Resulting From Previous Fuel Motor Cut Outs
Post by: bweaver on July 04, 2020, 04:46:29 PM
If you have ever had a conversion of a fuel powered model to battery powered, you will probably want to fill a lot of holes that have been cut in the cowling to accommodate the motor.

It was a nice afternoon to sit out side and do just that with this project. 

The photos will show the process. 

Tools and materials include blue foam (what else), 5 minute epoxy, hobby knife, Polly Filla (large hole type), Dura Grit file.

The largest opening on the bottom of the cowl is left to do.  Once that hole is filled and sanded, then all the exposed foam surfaces will be painted and sanded with water based resin on the exterior.  (I do not think it will be necessary to fiber glass.)

Time for a beer...
Title: Re: Cowling Modification To Fill Holes Resulting From Previous Fuel Motor Cut Outs
Post by: davidk on July 04, 2020, 08:56:45 PM
Beautiful !
Title: Re: Cowling Modification To Fill Holes Resulting From Previous Fuel Motor Cut Outs
Post by: sihinch on July 04, 2020, 10:38:56 PM
Class! Or should I say, Masterclass!
Title: Re: Cowling Modification To Fill Holes Resulting From Previous Fuel Motor Cut Outs
Post by: bweaver on July 05, 2020, 12:29:05 PM
Finished and ready for painting. 

This was a fun challenge which I enjoyed doing very much.

The Deluxe Materials EZ-Kote water-based fiberglass resin is great stuff to work with.  I didn't feel it was necessary to use the fiberglass cloth for strength.  I believe the changes will be very durable and will satisfy the 50-50 rule for functionality and appearance.

Title: Re: Cowling Modification To Fill Holes Resulting From Previous Fuel Motor Cut Outs
Post by: Andy Hoffer on July 05, 2020, 04:57:12 PM
Way to go @bweaver.  Beautiful restoration.  I would guess that your method also has application to the repair of crunched cowls, e.g. when @Frank v B does his balsa planting runs.

Re your photo above, you and I should have a little chat about back lighting.  And maybe we can even invite Frank.  I know you are a much more receptive audience on constructive suggestions.  All I ever get from Frank is shown in the attached photo.  Maybe if you are there he will listen.  (Yes, I know it's a long shot, but Frank is worth it.  And at the very least he will be tormented!!)  8)

Cheers,
Andy
Title: Re: Cowling Modification To Fill Holes Resulting From Previous Fuel Motor Cut Outs
Post by: bfeist on July 05, 2020, 06:18:27 PM
Blue plastic dust in your yard for the next 20,000 years, but worth it!