2023 Build Challenge - Tim Stebbins

Tim is building a 60-size Dirty Birdy.

“Another classic from designer Joe Bridi, the Dirty Birdy became
almost legendary in competition circles. The 64" 60-size Dirty Birdy
was designed to fly all of the AMA and FAI patterns in it's day.”
© Hangar One kits --- https://hangaronekits.com

Tim's will be using a nitro 60-size engine and (for now) he is planning on it having retracts.

(Select photos to view links or enlargements)

All the wood has been purchased and the major components have been traced
from plans and “rough cut” out. The pictures below his show progress to date.

“I’m building from plans (no kit), so the first thing to do is to trace the major components on vellum and then transfer them to balsa stock. Vellum is tack glued to balsa stock and I use a band saw and xacto knives to cut parts from 3/8, 3/16, and 3/32 balsa stock.

“Picture of fuse top and fuse sides that have been cut out. I taped the fuse sides together so I can sand each to match in size. I opened them up as a mirror image for the picture. Fuse is built upside down using top piece as the guide. I have a homemade fuse jig that I will be using to keep the fuse build straight and properly aligned.

“Picture of fuse sides with formers (3) positioned where they will be used. Also included the vertical fin and rudder pieces rough cut in this picture.

“Picture of all wing and horizontal stab ribs cut out from 3/32 balsa sheets. Plans call for a built up wing with partial sheeting. Horizontal stab is fully sheeted. Both are one piece when fully assembled. I would like to install retracts in the main wing but debating whether to use a tri gear set up or a tail dragger configuration with only main gear retracts.”

The plan forward for December is to complete framing of all the major components. Details and final assembly is planned for January,
and then covering and finishing in February. Tim will use a Futaba radio and an OSMax 60 with muffler to get it ready to fly.

Build Challenge 2023