Phoenix Model A6M Zero 20cc - PH196

[djmoose]

Here's the first episode of a video series where I'll be putting together the 20cc Phoenix Model A6M2 Zero. We'll also visit a REAL Nakajima-built Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero on display at the National Museum of the United States Air Force™ at Wright-Patterson AFB near Dayton, OH.

[djmoose]

Ailerons, Flaps, and Retracts

[djmoose]

After going over Japanese WWII aircraft tail codes, we'll take care of everything in tail...horizontal stab, elevators, rudder, servos, linkages...and finish with the tail wheel.

"The tail unit was of all-metal construction except for the rudder and elevators, which were fabric covered. The tail fin formed an integral part with the rear fuselage, while the horizontal tail surfaces were attached just above the fuselage centerline. Each elevator had a metal trim tab that could be controlled by the pilot, but the rudder trim tab could only be adjusted on the ground."
Jackson, Robert. "Technical Descriptions: Tail." Combat Legend Mitsubishi Zero, The Crowood Press Ltd, 2005, pp. 89.

[djmoose]

The last few steps are to get the front of the plane ready to go. Let's mount the exhaust stacks and cowling.

"The first engine upgrade came with the introduction of the A6M3 (Model 32). The new model utilized a Nakajima Sakae-21 engine. The Sakae-21 was also an air-cooled radial with 14 cylinders in a double row producing 1130hp at 2750rpm. The new engine also incorporated a two-speed supercharger for better high-altitude performance. The powerplant had a down-flow carburetor and a redesigned cowling to incorporate the air intake at the top/center of the engine cowling."
"The new engine was used on the Model 32, Model 22, and Model 52."
"Some slight changes were made to the engine after the A6M5 (Model 52) was introduced. The most noticeable visual difference was that individual exhaust pipes replaced the older grouped exhaust pipes on each side. This allowed additional thrust to be generated by the engine exhaust, but required a redesign of the cowl flaps and additional heat shielding for the fuselage."
D'Angina, James. "Powerplants." Mitsubishi A6M Zero, Osprey Publishing Ltd, 2016, pp. 17.

[Bato79]

What is the propeler size and which prop you are using?

[djmoose]

In the video, I'm using a 17x10x3 Xoar...I'll do some tests to see what that draws. I also have a Master Airscrew 16x10x3 as well that I'll give a go.

[djmoose]

Here is a quick flight and review showing this wonderful ARF in the sky!

"In a short period of time, Mitsubishi created the world's first long-range escort fighter, and one of the first carrier-borne fighters to outperform its land-based contemporaries. When compared with aircraft of the same period, the A6M was one of the finest fighters built. The Mitsubishi's ability to turn inside its opponents forced the Allies to dramatically change tactics." D'Angina, James. "Conclusion." Mitsubishi A6M Zero, Osprey Publishing Ltd, 2016, pp. 62.