Top Flite TOPA0310 - Manual (Page 4)

HINGES & PULL-PULL SYSTEM
Due to the variety of hinges available, and the
preferences some modelers have for certain types,
this kit does not include hinges. Our preference is
Robart
® #310 Super Hinge Points (24 required,
ROBQ2510), but other hinges may be used as long
as they are suitable for giant-scale use.
Similarly, a pull-pull cable system for rudder control is
not supplied with the kit. We used the Sullivan No.
520 Pull-Pull Cable Kit, but other systems will work,
provided they are suitable for use in giant models.
COCKPIT
Since the Top Flite Stinson features scale opening
doors, a complete scale cockpit interior is virtually a
“must.” While you could just “black out” the cabin with
fuel proof paint, a highly detailed scale interior is easy
to achieve with Top Flite’s Stinson Reliant Scale
Interior Kit (TOPQ8409). The kit features front and rear
seats, a laser-cut wood instrument panel and other
accessories. The interior may be installed at any time,
but will be easier to fit during fuse construction.
COVERING
Of the many different types of model airplane
coverings available, a “fabric” type of covering is
most preferable due to its scale appearance. The
prototype on the box was covered with 21st Century
Super Coverite, then primed and painted with Stits
paint. If you prefer not to use a covering which
requires painting, you could use 21st Century
® Fabric
which is available in a wide variety of colors and
closely simulates painted cloth.
COMPETITION-MINDED MODELERS
The Top Flite Gold Edition Stinson SR-9 was
designed from scale three-view drawings supplied by
Scale Model Research (address follows) and photos
of various full-size Stinsons. The scale of this kit is
1:5, or one-fifth scale.
If you plan to enter your SR-9 in scale competition
(it’s lots of fun, and the runways are usually paved!),
this kit qualifies for Fun Scale, Sportsman Scale and
Expert Scale. All the scale classes have the same
flight requirements in which you must perform ten
maneuvers, five of which are mandatory. The other
five are up to you—easy stuff like a slow, low
“inspection pass” with flaps extended, or maybe a
touch-and-go. If you have never competed in a scale
contest, you could start out in Fun Scale. In Fun
Scale, the only documentation you need for static
judging is any proof that a full-size aircraft of this
type, in the paint/markings scheme on your model,
did exist. A single photo, a kit box cover from a plastic
model, or even a painting is sufficient proof! If you’re
interested, contact the AMA for a rule book that will
tell you everything you need to know. Look in the
back of the AMA magazine (Model Aviation) for a
schedule of events.
The trim scheme we selected for the prototype
featured on the kit box cover is a variation of a trim
scheme taken from an SR-9 produced in 1937, NC-
17154—which was still flying when this was written.
If you are not concerned with a 100% accurate trim
scheme you can make a variation of the one on the
box, or design your own. If you plan to compete in
scale competition, use the photos in your
documentation package as a guide.
One last note for those interested in scale
competition: Strive to build your model to reflect your
documentation. Whatever lines and features appear
on the full-size plane should also appear on your
model. There seems to be much variation of the
Stinson restorations in existence, so refer to the
photos and documentation of the Stinson you are
using for your model.
SCALE DOCUMENTATION
Three-view drawings and photo packs of full size SR-
9’s are available from:
Scale Model Research
3114 Yukon Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 979-8058
Fax: (714) 979-7279
DESIGNER’S NOTES
For several years I’ve been hearing modelers say, “It’s time
for something different.”
Well, this is it - The Top Flite Stinson Reliant, Gold Edition, for
the scale craftsman. We have tried hard to design a
‘traditional’ stick model with Gold Edition engineering. This
model is a departure from what we normally do, so if you like
it, please let us know.
The Top Flite Stinson Reliant is a LARGE model that requires
strong craftsmanship and modeling skills. Be prepared for a
richly rewarding project that requires dedication to a
sometimes challenging project. Do not be intimidated by the
Gull Wing of the Reliant. The wing is relatively easy to build on
a flat building board with the included die-cut jigs. DO be mildly
intimidated by the traditional mostly stick-built fuselage.
The Top Flite Stinson Reliant is a sport scale model of the
model SR-9 Reliant, manufactured by Stinson in the late
1930’s. With some modifications, it can also be built as a
Your Top Flite Gold Edition Stinson Reliant is
intended for scale and general sport flying
including mild aerobatics such as chandelles
and stall turns. Its structure is designed to
withstand such stresses. If you intend to use
your Stinson for more rigorous types of flying
such as aggressive aerobatics or flying from
rough fields, it is your responsibility to reinforce
areas of the model that will be subjected to the
resulting unusually high stresses.
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