Solartex or Eze - Kote

[Dai Fledermaus]

On a trainer type which is inevitably going to take some punishment, what would you say are the pros and cons of using Solartex as opposed to Eze - Kote and glass-cloth to cover the fuz which itself has a sheet Balsa covering? I'm going to use Solatex on the wings and tailplane. I'll need the finish to be reasonably ding proof and easy to repair without adding too much weight. As someone returning to the hobby after many years, I haven't used either of these products, so I realy would appreciate your oppinions. The last model aircraft I built was covered in doped nylon and by the time I had applied numerous coats of dope followed by paint it was way overweight and flew like a house brick, so I don't want to make that mistake again.

[Bob Cotsford]

Solartex will be easier to strip if/when repairs are needed, though to be honest these days I would probably just plump for a film finish. Solartex does an excellent job of keeping the bits all in one single bag of sticks after a major event or hiding the damage after a minor one. Sometimes it's better to know there's damage and fix it before it causes a terminal experience.

[Greybeard]

If you want to avoid an overweight model then cover the whole model in film unless the building instruction says otherwise. The lighter models crash gently and there's no such thing as a crash-proof one. Consider joining a club and getting some help whilst learning.

[Dai Fledermaus]

Thanks for that. I have to admit that I hadn't considered a Solafilm finish, but what you say makes sence.

[stuey]

If you are new to film covering, it might be worth considering a polyester film like Oracover or Easycoat. They are a lot more forgiving of heat when applying than Solarfilm in my experience.

[FlyinBrian]

Profilm / Oracover is far superior to Solarfilm albeit at about twice the price. It is easier to apply, takes much more heat without melting and is much tougher. Solarfilm polyester is pretty good but I have had problems keeping the overlaps sealed.