Last Updated 26/08/98 21:52
Schleicher Ka-3Peter 'the scalpel' Webb
 
Built and flown by Peter Webb in less than  eight weeks this  interesting model, based  on the only 
example of a Ka-3 in the country (based at the Long Mynnd) is looked at in detail. 
 
The Ka-3 started life as a Cliff Charlesworth plan. Those that know this  design will be  aware  that 
this version is designed to one quarter scale. Taking advantage of the miracles of modern photocopier
technology the original plan  was  enlarged  to  one  third  scale. The result was  a very impressive
looking model of 3.3m wingspan.
 
At rest  on Corndon HIll, Shropshire                  Download larger version (800*600)
                                  Download larger version
Some constructional details were changed, in  particular  the wing joining system. The 'Charlesworth'
method is a scale representation of the full-size method. It was thought that using a  Graupner  wing 
joiner whilst not being scale would be more durable considering the  stresses  and  strains that  the 
model would be subjected to whilst landing in the rough heather and bracken on our flying site.
 
Although it is such a large model because the construction is largely strip  spruce and  plywood  the
cost of the materials is quite reasonable(Peter asked me to put that in case his wife reads this).
There were one or two problems  during  the construction - mainly due to the original plan being none 
too clear in places - although referring to  the  construction  pictures in  Aviation Modeller helped
make things slightly clearer.
 
Flying - the Ka-3 in its element                   Hurry up its heavy
 
The model was finished in solartex and the finish applied using cellulose car paints. The model has a
servo on each aileron, airbrake and elevator half and is equipped with hooks for both  aerotowing and
winch launching. Over two pounds of lead were required to balance  the model, the all-up weight being
xx pounds xx ounces. A one third scale pilot was  kidnapped from a colleague and until the ransom is
paid fills the cockpit admirably.
 
At rest - gorgeous from any angle                  That's my pilot! 
 
Test flights were made from Pole Cottage at  the Long Mynnd. This is  a  westerly  facing  site  that
produces good clean lift. After a range check there  were  no  further  excuses  and  the  model  was
launched into the lift. The rest was totally uneventful. The model flew straight without the need for
any trim input. The ailerons whilst  being  effective  paled  into  insignificance  compared  to  the 
strength of the rudder. The speed was quite impressive considering the size of the  machine, although
it could be slowed down to a more scale speed if required. A few low passes were  performed  for  the 
camera and then it was time to land. The brakes were surprisingly effective and the Ka-3  was brought  
in for a perfect landing. Apart from a few more ounces of lead in the nose no  further  changes  were 
thought neccessary.
 
 
 
 

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