Wing Rigging

**Butchers** · #1 04-12-2015, 06:19 AM

I am building a model of a Fokker E3, the model is from a Japanese site so I can follow the plans but obviously can't read the text.
I was wondering what I should use for the wing to pylon rigging. Can cotton thread be used or should it be something thicker?

**wag** · #2 04-12-2015, 06:38 AM

There are dozens, maybe hundreds of methods for rigging early aircraft. For larger scale models (1/33 and larger) I like using .015 steel wire while with smaller scale models I like elastic thread (E Z line is one brand). If you do use cotton thread, run it through some beeswax or candle wax to keep it from looking "fuzzy".
Wayne

**Butchers** · #3 04-12-2015, 06:50 AM

Thanks for the reply, the other thing I meant to ask is the rigging then just glued to the pylons? I notice with this model the over wing pylon is pretty straight forward but the underneath seems to be attached to the undercarage frame somehow.

**wag** · #4 04-12-2015, 07:07 AM

I'm not familiar with that particular model, but on the full scale E-III the front set of wires were fixed permanently in place while the rear wires were used for wing warping (roll control). They passed through a pulley on the upper pylon and attached to a lever under the fuselage connected to the control stick. Wingnut Wings has some excellent photos on their site.
Wingnut Wings - 1/32 Fokker E.1 (Early)
Hope that helps.
Wayne

**Butchers** · #5 04-12-2015, 09:44 AM

Thanks, I have just looked at the link you posted there are some really good photographs.
Although this is the first aircraft build I have attempted now the fuselage is all together and the tail is twisted to about 15° so I will probably have to start from scratch.

**SJPONeill** · #6 04-12-2015, 11:35 AM

There are many articles on rigging techniques in plastic modeling forums...

**Hely** · #7 07-04-2015, 11:12 AM

I rigged all my plastic biplanes with fishing line passed through holes drilled in the wings, either side of the strut locations...

**cbg** · #8 07-04-2015, 12:22 PM

dear Butch,
Have had good luck with nylon for scales 1/72-1/50. I use this brand of nylon thread which is bronze in color, has good sheen, but not too glossy and has advantage of being able to accommodate changes in humidity and temperature.

got this at JoAnne's or Michael's, can't remember which. . .good luck.

Also recall a thread or comment regarding 'tippet' brand or variety of line for rigging on this forum.
cbg