In this action-packed MasterClass episode, Joshua Orchard shares the final steps in preparing the Midwest AT-6 Texan for safe, successful flight. From fiberglass finishing to servo geometry, pneumatic retract tuning, and center of gravity refinement, this session delivers a complete pre-flight roadmap for scale and sport builders alike.
Finishing the Texan: Fiberglass, Primer & Paint Perfection
Joshua begins by revealing that the Texan restoration was completed right on schedule—most notably the fiberglass work around the retracts, which he describes as turning out “beautiful.”
The paint process was equally meticulous:
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Two coats of automotive primer
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Two coats of white base primer
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A tack (mist) coat of yellow
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Two wet coats for solid coverage
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A final wet layer of glossy 1K clear
To avoid lifting paint or leaving hard edges, Joshua removes masking tape using mild heat from a heat gun—an essential technique for clean, professional lines.
For sanding edges, shaping filler, or prepping fiberglass for primer, DU-BRO Long Sanding Bars offer the precision flatness needed for surface perfection:
https://www.dubro.com/products/long-sanding-bars
Covering, Heat Management & Decals
Covering the Texan required careful use of heat via iron and heat gun. Joshua warns builders to test heat slowly, starting around 250°F and topping out near 325°F for shrink-film coverings.
He also provides pro tips:
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Apply stickers wet with Windex for easy repositioning
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Let decals dry several days before sealing
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Re-adhere old stickers with 3M Super 77
For trimming covering film or cutting tight curves, DU-BRO Tru-Cut Scissors remain the builder’s go-to tool:
https://www.dubro.com/products/tru-cut-heavy-duty-scissors
Servo Setup: Maximizing Resolution Without Sacrificing Control
Joshua explains that proper servo resolution—maximizing servo rotation before hitting endpoints—gives smoother, more precise flight control. He advises:
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Start mechanically: over-control slightly using horn geometry
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Then electronically reduce throw through the radio
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Follow the plan’s recommended throws
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Use aileron differential to reduce yaw from down-going ailerons
For reliable, slop-free linkage, Joshua emphasizes hardware quality. Many builders use DU-BRO Swivel Ball Links to achieve smooth, bind-free movement across the full servo stroke:
https://www.dubro.com/products/swivel-ball-links
To secure control horns with confidence, DU-BRO Heavy-Duty Control Horns ensure rugged, repeatable performance:
https://www.dubro.com/products/control-horns
Pneumatic Retracts: PSI, Leaks & Landing Gear Logic
Joshua tests the Texan’s Robart pneumatic retracts, noting:
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A drop of only 5 PSI over 48 hours indicates a tight, leak-free system
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Ideal operating pressure: 100–110 PSI
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Spring-air vs. non-spring-air systems each have trade-offs
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Pneumatic retracts remain lighter and more scale-authentic than electric equivalents
To secure air lines, fuel lines, and wiring inside the fuselage, the DU-BRO Tube & Wire Holder keeps systems neat and protected:
https://www.dubro.com/products/tube-wire-holder
Center of Gravity (CG): Finding the True Balance Point
Originally set at 27% chord, the Texan required excessive nose weight. After consulting other modelers, Joshua moved the CG to 34%, improving elevator authority and delivering a safer, more predictable landing profile.
Why Every Builder Needs a Trainer
Joshua closes by emphasizing the value of keeping a high-wing trainer in your fleet. Trainers give pilots a safe environment to test new radio setups, control mixes, and CG changes before risking more complex models.
