Model information
Description
Components to replace the plastic wing struts with carbon fibre rods for the FMS PA-18 1300mm Super Cub. The author notes that the design is not perfect and that the front strut is swept forwards slightly, resulting in a very small bend in the strut, though they report this has not been a problem in practice.
Required materials: 4x carbon fibre rods (4mm or 3mm), at least 350mm each. The author used CF tubes but notes they were susceptible to crushing; they recommend 3mm rods though they have not tested them.
Printing notes: The author strongly recommends printing in a material with good layer adhesion such as Nylon. They used Taulman PCTPE (a Nylon blend printable on basic printers). ABS or ASA are also suggested. The author states: "Do not use PLA." Print with supports and good tolerances.
Assembly:
1. Cut struts to an approximate length.
2. Test-fit the rods into the Fuselage pieces.
3. Glue struts into Fuselage piece using CA (super/krazy glue). WARNING: The CA will bond almost instantly and permanently, work quickly.
4. Install the fuselage piece and trim down the struts until they are the correct length. Use the Wing pieces to verify the length (approximately 330-345mm).
5. Glue the Wing pieces, being sure to get the correct orientation. Note that CA will bond instantly.
Original text by the author on Printables
<p>Use these prints to replace the weak struts on this model.</p><p><strong>Note:</strong> This design is not perfect, but it works. I did not realise that the front strut is swept forwards slightly, so there is a very small bend in the strut. This has not been a problem in practice.</p><h3>Needed to complete</h3><p>You will need 4x carbon fibre rods, 4mm or 3mm, at least 350mm each. I used CF tubes which were a problem to work with due to their susceptibility to crushing. I would recommend 3mm rods but I have not tested these.</p><h3>Printing notes</h3><p>I strongly recommend printing in something with good layer adhesion such as Nylon. I used Taulman PCTPE, a Nylon blend which is printable on basic printers. ABS or ASA would also make good choices. Do not use PLA.</p><p>Print with supports and good tolerances.</p><h3>Assembly</h3><ol><li>Cut your struts to an approximate length.</li><li>Test-fit the rods into the Fuselage pieces.</li><li>Glue struts into Fuselage piece using CA (super/krazy glue). <strong>WARNING: </strong>The CA will bond almost instantly and permanently, work quickly.</li><li>Install the fuselage piece and trim down the struts until they are the correct length. Use the Wing pieces to verify the length. They will be approximately 330-345mm.</li><li>Glue the Wing pieces, being sure to get the correct orientation. Again, CA will bond instantly.</li></ol><p>I would love to hear from anyone else who prints these and get your feedback.</p>
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