Rigging for Scale Model Aircraft

[Charles Adams]

I recently attended a short seminar at a model show that talked about how best to add rigging to WWI-era models. The recommendation was leader line used by fly fisherman. This stuff is so thin, it can be thinner than a human hair. It's very strong, yet the key is that it stretches. Apparently, you don't want a material that doesn't stretch somewhat.

Here's the skinny:
To install simulated "wires" made from this material, use CA glue applied with the tip of a toothpick. Then, dip another toothpick in accelerator and apply that to set the CA. Grab the other end with a good strong pair of tweezers, stretch, and glue to the other end. It's tedious work, but the results can be outstanding.
You can use a Sharpie marker to color it so it can be seen. This can be done using a silver marker to simulate aluminum wire.
Be sure to do the rigging after you have painted and finished your model so you won't have to touch up any paint.


I just received additional information on this topic from the teacher at the seminar, Stephen Tontoni of NW Scale Modelers and IPMS/Seattle. I asked if I could share this information here and was granted permission. Thanks, Stephen!


Rigging Aircraft --- Tips and Techniques
Stephen Tontoni
Member, NW Scale Modelers and IPMS/Seattle


Materials:

Tippet line (find at fly fishing stores, even Walmart -- pay attention to width, not "test")
CA glue and accelerator
Sharpie marker (silver or black)


Tools:

High quality tweezers
Flush cutter
Pin vise or dremel w/ fine bit for pilot holes
Panavise (or other mounting stand to hold the model)
Magnifier
Reading glasses and/or Opti-visor




Rigging Aircraft --- Tips and Techniques
By Stephen Tontoni

[This article outlines two possible techniques for rigging bi-plane models. These techniques can also be adapted for airship models. Just keep in mind the description was written for airplane modelers.

For both methods, it is recommended that you paint and finish your aircraft model first.

The first procedure does not involve drilling holes all the way through the wing where the rigging will be mounted. This method can be harder, but it means you only have to touch up the inner surface of each wing.

The second procedure involves drilling holes all the way through the wing, meaning you must do more touch-up work after you are finished rigging.]

Procedure One:
1) Drill PARTIAL pilot holes before assembly
2) Paint/assemble model
3) Draw tippet line through Sharpie to color it
4) Touch toothpick to accelerator
5) Touch line to CA glue
6) Insert in pilot hole
7) Touch toothpick to joint and hold
8) After waiting, cut line to next hole (a little short)
9) STRETCH line to get to hole
10) Apply CA to end of line
11) Insert in new hole
12) Touch CA accelerator; HOLD IT!

Procedure Two:
All tools and materials are the same; this procedure differs in step 1, then 8 through 11. It adds some additional paintwork at the end.

1) Drill pilot holes before assembly
2) Paint/assemble model
3) Draw tippet line through Sharpie to color it
4) Touch toothpick to accelerator
5) Touch line to CA glue
6) Insert in pilot hole (this anchor must be strong; a knot is good here too)
7) Touch toothpick to joint and hold
8) After waiting, THREAD LINE through next hole
9) STRETCH line from other side
10) Apply very thin CA to hole
11) Touch CA accelerator; HOLD IT!

**Repeat Steps 8, 9, 19, 11 until complete

12) Remove exposed tippet line with a sharp scalpel, sand as necessary
13) Touch up paint

[wag]

Aeroclub makes elastic thread that works in a similar fashion-I bought a spool about 5 years ago and I've used about 1/4 of it. And I build a lot of biplane models. I like to fasten the thread to a partial hole in one end,THEN assemble the model,then run to full hole at the other end. For fastening the end you can use a small "cone" of stretched plastic sprue or the end of a toothpick to wedge the thread in place. Glue it in place,cut it flush,then touch up with paint. Also use the accelerator sparingly as it will cause the sharpie ink to run all over your nicely painted model.
Wayne

[Majortomski]

A method I use to obtain equal "pull" on rigging lines is to use a small hemostat or plastic clamp type clothes pins hanging on the end of the line that needs tension.

[mike celeskey]

I'm a newbie here, but have been modelling for a loooooong time.
To tighten that thread (ONLY FOR POLY-THREADS) pass a lit cigarette, incense, or mosquito punk, directly under the thread, allowing the warmed smoke to contact it(approx. 1" away....practice first), and watch in amazement as the thread tightens!!!!
Mike