Multi-surface finishing

[Robert Stinson]

I've been looking at a couple of electric warbirds lately, and I have some questions about finishing. If anyone can answer, or direct me to a thread that answers, I'd be grateful.

Specifically, I'm looking at planes that have a white gel-coated fuselage, and wings & tail that are either balsa-sheeted foam or balsa framework.

I want to do a wartime cammie scheme.

Do I cover the balsa sheeting with film? Or do I use a sealer? On the balsa framework, I have to cover it with film, right?

So, now I have the fuselage and some covered surfaces. How do I prep this stuff so I can paint over it?

Thanks in advance for any help...

[davidfee]

Scuff the film with 400 grit paper, clean with acetone, then paint...

Or cover with really light fiberglass (~0.6oz) and epoxy, spray primer, sand, then paint...

Or use tissue paper and water based polyurethane (or dope if you're careful), prime, sand, then paint...

etc.

There are lots of techniques, most of which will work quite well. Mostly it depends on how much time you want to spend prepping and painting.

-David

[Robert Stinson]

Thanks, guys - I think I'll experiment with the sanding the film, on a test piece.

[Viper Pilot]

Robert,

Check out Jim Ryan's fiberglassing technique. That would be the best way to do what you're talking about.

Also check here (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=74258)

VP