In this episode of MasterClass Season 2, Joshua Orchard delivers a dual-focus session: a thorough progress report on the AT-6 Texan restoration and a step-by-step demonstration on assembling custom battery packs. This episode blends scale restoration, electronics craftsmanship, and the practical building wisdom that defines the series.
Kicking Off With AMA Events & Community Engagement
Joshua begins by walking viewers through the AMA sanctioned events calendar, highlighting not only fly-ins but also club swap meets, flea markets, and non-flying gatherings that sustain the RC community. He emphasizes the advantages of AMA membership—access to clubs, educational opportunities, and ongoing advocacy for model aviation.
For transporting field gear or protecting small components during travel, builders often rely on the Magnetic Parts Tray, ideal for keeping screws, bolts, and washers contained:
Texan Restoration Progress: Wings, Fuselage & Fuel System
Joshua then unveils significant progress on the Texan built over the holiday break.
Wing Restoration
Work includes:
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Reattaching strut covers
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Adding clearance material for tires
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Repairing cracked areas with fiberglass and epoxy
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Sanding and filling low spots
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Repainting for a smooth scale finish
When shaping small fiberglass sections or sanding tight areas, DU-BRO Kwik Sand Hand Sanders help maintain clean lines:
Fuselage Updates
Major improvements include:
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A freshly painted canopy
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Fully functional fuel filler
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Correctly aligned needle-valve extension
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Removal of the muffler extension
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Polished exhaust pipes
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A refurbished fuel tank with new tubing, clamps, hardware, and anti-vibration foam
DU-BRO’s Foam Rubber Sheet is a classic choice for isolating fuel tanks and reducing airframe vibration:
Battery Pack Assembly: Tools, Techniques & Safety
The second half of the episode shifts into electronics as Joshua demonstrates how to assemble a custom battery pack, including professional soldering methods and wiring practices.
Recommended Tools & Materials
Joshua stresses:
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A 40-watt soldering iron
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Brass wool for tip cleaning
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Stay-Brite solder plus Stay-Clean flux
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Nickel strips for cell linking
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Quality 22-gauge silicone servo wire
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Automotive harness tape for abrasion resistance
Soldering Demonstrations & Pro Tips
Joshua demonstrates:
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Pre-tinning battery terminals with flux
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Minimizing dwell time on battery cells to reduce heat damage
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Using nickel strips for series connections
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The correct method for soldering power wires
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Cleaning joints with ketchup, thanks to its acidic properties—a clever “cheat code”
For attaching battery hatches, onboard switches, or access panels securely, DU-BRO Socket Head Cap Screws remain a trusted option among scratch-builders:
To finish wire connections or servo leads with mechanical security, Joshua also demonstrates crimping and strain relief techniques. Builders looking to improve linkage strength often use DU-BRO E-Z Connectors for reliable pushrod or linkage terminations:
A Session Packed With Skill-Building Takeaways
By combining classic Texan restoration work with modern battery pack assembly techniques, this MasterClass episode showcases the craftsmanship required to build and maintain high-performance RC aircraft. With robust DU-BRO hardware and detailed instruction, builders gain confidence in both structure and electronics—two areas essential for safe, beautiful, flight-ready models.
