I have a GWS Slowstick model airplane that I would like to fly by Control Line. Is there anyone who has done this -looking for some guidance.

 

I have flown control line, what is the concern?
Is this a conversion to Control-line?

 

Control line is a whole nother ball of wax. First is the bell crank which is built very solidly into the root of wing and eyelets in the ribs of the wing and wingtip for the control wires. Also the engine and tail fin are angled so that even though the plane is flying in a circle it is actually pointed somewhat outward as if to leave the circle in order to keep tension on the control lines. Just a few of the hurdles to overcome as well as a fixed fully open throttle and the engine carbuerators are even designed differently.

 

Also the control lines should form a line through the centre of gravity/balance point.
Mine was back in the days of full bore compression ignition.
(I even made my own fuel)
The Local chemist always quizzed me about the 1/2 gal of Ether I would order.

 

This is a model for electric motor control but I don't have the motor/ESC, so like to try it first using CL. Never done this before so not sure what is req'd. If you can share your knowledge and/or refer me to a website, would be appreciated.

 

I suggest you look at the plans/design of a typical CL trainer.
I imagine there should be quite a few out ther.
Take note of what has already been posted as to design features, regardless of plane model design.
You would need to set the ESC up for maximum prop RPM for most trainers.
Do you intend using it later for RC??

 

Thanks, yes, like to use it later for RC

 

A " Slowstick", or any model with the words "Slow" in their name,
are not good candidates for conversion to Control-Line flying.

Control-Line Planes are a very fast "brick" on the end of a string.
They really don't really qualify as an actual "Airplane", they just look similar.

The "Lines" create a tremendous amount of drag,
light-weight, low-speed, "Park-Flier" type Planes,
don't have enough Power, or Weight, to overcome the weight and drag of the "Lines" .

Purchase a "Flight-Simulator" that will allow You to fly on your Computer-Screen
using the actual RC-Transmitter that You have chosen.
Almost all RC-Transmitters have a "Trainer-Port" Output that is usually completely universal.

Make sure that your actual Model is square and straight,
and that the CG is located exactly where the manufacturer recommends it to be.
If the manufacturer has a range of CG-Locations,
start-out with the Plane being Nose-Heavy,
this will make the Plane more stable, and easier to fly.
.
.
.

 

Thanks for the detailed info, looks like CL is not a good idea. Wonder if I can try rubber powered?

 

What size motor are you planning on using? I designed and flew electric RC planes for many years, starting in the 80s. I tried control line but the electric motors and batteries didn't have enough power in the early days. I did make a SMALL successful "round-the-pole" plane that could take off and land using PWM power through the control wires.
This may give you some ideas:
https://www.stevensaero.com/product/ringrat-100-electric-control-line/

 

I have a diesel - a DC Merlin which I want to try on this, problem is there is no sevo available that can control engine speed or shut off.

 

A " Slowstick", or any model with the words "Slow" in their name,
are not good candidates for conversion to Control-Line flying.

Control-Line Planes are a very fast "brick" on the end of a string.
They really don't really qualify as an actual "Airplane", they just look similar.

Not all fit that category, when I started there were some simple light trainers that you could fly with a 1.5cc 2cc motors.
It had to be very calm though.

 

I have a diesel - a DC Merlin which I want to try on this, problem is there is no sevo available that can control engine speed or shut off.

Wow, Merlin, that takes me back!
What cc is it?

 

Wow, Merlin, that takes me back!
What cc is it?

0.75 cc

 

I have a diesel - a DC Merlin.

Do they still make them, I am talking 1950's!!
If 0.75cc it needs to be ultra light, e.g. single piece balsa wing construction etc, etc.

 

Brings back memories.!
Twin engine WWII Douglas Invader, ready for take off. (control-Line).
Circa 1950's.

 

Steel lines, Fox .35, and a Flite Steak Stunter flying a stunt repertoire ain't exactly a "brick on a sting"! Now some of those Cox Plastic thingies were, if they even flew! Even a balsa and doped paper with a Black Widow .049 and some hot fuel was heaps of fun! I never made the transition to RC. Couldn't afford to, back in the day... I still have a Flite Streak Jr with an Enya .19 out in the garage.