I bought the Flair SE5a kit in October 2000. The airframe, though longwinded, too many wings and 63 bits of wood in the top wing centre section alone, was straightforward. Then came a long pause whilst other projects were started and completed.

 

It was only after covering with olive drab and antique coloured Solatex that I became tempted to liven it up a bit with some scale detail. If I may offer a tip, that is way too late. If you intend doing the scale treatment think it out before starting the airframe. As one for instance, the bulkhead in front of the cockpit needs moving forwards about an inch, and angling at about 60% to vertical.

 

For another thing, you can add a few more wing ribs and the all important riblets to give a better scale effect. Of course, a Flair Scout is never going to be true scale, but you can add a few touches to what is a superb flying model.

 

This is, as thousands know, a great kit. Everything fits (apart from the dihedral braces).

 

I learned a lot from this project, and acquired the scale bug. Next time, I shall plan the details before starting, and add some bungy cord to the undercarriage. I had a lot of advice from Denis Pitcher, regarding varnishing and rigging wires, and other things as well.

 

 Here are a few pictures.

 

 

Should be flying soon. The weight turned out at 7 lb, which is about right, I think. Balance point is correct as designed with no extra ballast. Radio is now fitted and all throws set. Nuts tightened.

 

After showing the model to the Friday meeting, and receivng various bits of advice, I decided to improve the cooling arrangements. I sliced the tops off the dummy engine rockerbox covers, scooped out the balsa and built them up to nearly the correct height using strip. The final item is a piece of 2mm liteply that fits in the top of the rockerbox when the plane is on the ground. When removed, there is a significant improvement in the air outlet area.

 

And, after much putting it off, I added the rigging wires.