Colin P

Tim, PM sent Thanks. Hi Kevin, I think you have hit the nail on the head.. that's exactly what it looks like. I remember seeing something like that in Fenwicks shop in Wolverhampton many years ago.I will try a test with a wallpaper stripper, Colin.

Hi all, Here is a photo of the chipmunk. Although it looks ok in the photo, I think it could look so much better if completely stripped and re-covered. I intend to replace all the control rods/linkages etc. and tidy up the canopy. I haven't looked at the engine yet, but it does turn over by hand very smoothly.

Thank you all for the replies, It's definitely all wooden construction John, I've pulled off some bits of the tape which looks like masking tape about 40mm wide. Underneath is balsa wood painted with white matt paint (primer?).This tape is stuck very soundly and only comes off in tiny pieces so it may take a few long winter evenings to do the whole aircraft. The fuselage seems to be done in the same manner. I did take some photos of it when I brought it home so I will try to post some in the next couple of days. I found some local clubs on the BMFA site (thanks Ron) and will search out some of those videos Wingman. Dave, I reckon that it will be a fair while before the chipmunk flies, so plenty of time for me to get to grips with a trainer. Any recommendations for a particular model? Preferably glow engined. Thanks again, Colin.   Edited By Colin P on 06/09/2014 17:42:07

Hi everyone, I have been interested in everything aviation related for about 40 years. I live close to Cosford and Halfpenny Green so spend quite some time at weekends at one or the other. I flew a couple of c/l models in the early 70s but didn't progress to radio controlled. I have a couple of old Baron 30 helis which I have flown a little, but I have just been given a balsa model chipmunk which I believe was built around 1962. The wingspan is 78in, fuselage 56in. It has apparently been stored in a loft for many years and is in good condition although quite dirty and with a rough finish. It seems to have planked wings and fuselage covered with strips of tape which have then been painted. I would like to restore this model and learn to fly so... a) can anyone help with some tips for stripping and re-covering the model b) any info on local friendly clubs Thanks, Colin.