Top Flite S.E.5A - Manual (Page 3)

INTRODUCTION
The S. E. 5A has always been a modeler's favorite. Among all airplanes,
and certainly of those which were born and flew to fame and distinction during
World War I, the S. E 5 was one of the best and most attractive Not the least
of the reasons for its great appeal to modelers is the great suitability of its design
as a flying model Let's explain this.
To make a successful flying model, without changes to the outline or sec-
tions which would destroy its essential character, we need the following features:
a. The nose length of the airplane ought to be enough to guarantee a
good balance without adding large amounts of weight in the front end;
b. The tail surfaces (stabilizer and fin) control the stability of a model
to a large extent If the model is more stable in flight, it will be easier
and safer to fly We require that the stab and fin be big enough to
insure good stability without enlargement.
c The airplane should be fairly simple in design to eliminate building
complexities
d. Size is important too. For reasons of transportation and ability to
fly in a reasonable wind, experience has shown that the wing span of
the model (for a .40 - .60 engine) should be in the 50 - 60 range In
order to eliminate headaches in small and fussy details, a scale of
2"= 1' is found very suitable. This means our subject real plane needs
to be 24' - 30' wing span.
How does the S. E. 5A shape up?
First, it has just about as long a nose as is found in fighter airplanes
of the period. Balance will not be a problem—a tail-heavy S. E. 5 would be
difficult to come up with.
Secondly, the areas of the tail feathers have been found to give excellent
stability just as they are. A model of the S. E. 5A will be a stable and safe
model—so stable, in fact, that it can be flown very successfully with single-
channel R/C equipment controlling only the rudder.
Thirdly, the S. E. 5A has clean, functional and straightforward outlines
and shapes that are easy to model.
Lastly, the wing span of 26' 7-1/2" gives our 2"=1' model an ideal span of
a bit over 53" This size model will fit into most cars without disassembly, saving
a lot of trouble.
So we see that our requirements are amply met in these respects. Some
other planes are Just as suitable — but lack one final important requirement
They are obscure or little-known subjects that somehow never rang the bell
The S. E. 5A, on the other hand, is a glorious and immortal plane that every
scale modeler has made or hopes to make some day.
BEFORE YOU START—READ THIS!
These instructions have been carefully developed after building several
prototype models. We urge you, in your own interest, not to ignore them. Our
aim is to insure that the model goes together in a reasonably quick time and
without annoying snags.
Regardless of previous modeling experience follow the directions carefully,
checking them off as you go.
Notice the instructions often call for some items to be started before others
are complete This is to allow time for important glue joints to dry properly,
yet not hold up building progress. Also, in order to help modelers of less experience,
we have tended to the easier jobs first, leaving those requiring more care until
later as skill increases
Do not separate parts from die cut sheets until you need them! This will
save loss or breakage of some of the small or delicate pieces.
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