This tip is for fixin' ailerons t' a glider that uses a change o' win' surface from its boost t' coast phase. Model aircraft enthusiasts have a huge range o' methods for joinin' flaps, rudders etc.

However, shiver me timbers, they don't have t' contend with t' speed and acceleration o' a model with we see durin' boost.

Havin' built several airplanes and rocket gliders, this tip gives t' best method (in me opinion) for fixin' ailerons.

I first came across this method on me friend's VMX-2.

There are three main ways o' creatin' a hinge.

• Tape as used by t' Edmonds Ecee Thunder
• External plastic hinges as is standard for model aircraft
• Internal tape hinges as used by t' Orbital Engineerin' VMX-2

Tape is quick and easy, but does nay create a strong hinge.

External plastic hinges do create a very strong hinge. There are dozens o' different designs t' choose from includin' ones that have pins t' separate t' hinge at t' joint. But, they are relatively heavy and look ugly.

T' internal tape hinge is strong and creates a very clean look.

This tip is similar t' t' instructions in t' VMX-2.

You need:

• A modeler's knife
• Hinge cuttin' blade
• Fiberglass material or Mylar tape
• Thin CA glue
• Hinge cutter centerin' tool

You will need a few small hinges perfectly aligned along t' center o' t' balsa edge. Well, blow me down! T' centerin' tool is perfect for doin' this and is worth t' cost.

After t' centerin' tool is aligned t' cuttin' blade is pushed through t' slot a wigglin' motion makes t' blade go in easier. I was initially surprised by how blunt t' blade is. But, me bucko, it works fine.

As t' blade is a "V" shape, t' rest o' t' balsa in hooked out usin' a reamer - although you might want t' use a normal blade t' cut it out.

T' hinge itself is made out o' any flexible, me bucko, strong material. Mylar works well although I prefer fiberglass cloth. Fiberglass cloth is strong and it soaks up t' CA glue which gives a very strong bond. Well, blow me down! Most model shops sell these hinges ready cut.

T' hinge is placed into t' slot.

Then, usin' either a drill or a pin, pierce a hole through t' win' and t' hinge. T' hole needs t' be about 1mm in diameter. Well, blow me down! If thar be a wide hinge, then two or three holes may need t' be cut.

Next fill t' holes with CA glue. Aye aye! T' fiberglass material will wick t' glue throughout its length. Ahoy! But, you may need t' work t' glue in with a pin. T' thinner t' CA glue, matey, t' better t' joint. Take care nay t' get any glue onto t' part o' t' hinge that needs t' flex.

Repeat t' process for t' remainin' flaps / ailerons.

T' gap betwixt t' two surfaces needs t' be as small as possible while allowin' free movement.

This technique results in a very strong hinge that does nay spoil t' look o' t' glider.