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CARF-Models Ltd.
info@carf-models.com
2.
The wing fold mechanism
We recommend to read this following step several times before you actually start working on the
wing fold installation. This is the most complicated (and most critical) building step of your
CARF Corsair assembly and you should try to understand every paragraph in full, imagine all
possible consequences of the critical work steps. This part of the build should not be rushed, you
should allow at least 3-4 building days, to allow glue joints to cure over night before you continue
step by step.
The wing fold mechanism is a CARF Models development, where we put the most emphasis on
the simplicity of the system. On purpose we did not want to rely on a locking pin or any other
additional mechanical features, which might seem safe at first glance, but create potential of
failure when you look closer. So the design of our wing fold uses the same strong mechanical
feature as most retract systems do. A hydraulic cylinder is mounted in the outer wing stud, which
is permanently mounted to the center wing mounts with an axle. No hydraulic fluid lines need to
be disconnected when taking the outer wings off for transportation and storage. The sliding lock
pin unlocks the bottom hook of the outer stud when the cylinder expands, and pushes the pin into
the opposite end of the slot in the inner mounting claws. Then the force of the cylinder pushes the
outer wing upwards. When the wing is almost vertical, the lock pin could slide back to the outer
position in the slot, causing the wing to "flop" back and forth in the wind when folded all the way
up. To prevent this, a keeper is mounted to the locking pin, which interlocks with a small pin in
the center wing fold mount. Incredibly simple, but very effective – and safe.
The Haeusl hydraulic system itself has been used in retract systems for many years, and has
proven its reliability world wide. Jet modelers know Haeusl pumps very well, these high precision
units are used as fuel pumps by most turbine manufacturers. The hydraulics come with a separate
instruction manual, which you please read with great care before you start installing the system
into your Corsair.
Page 12
Instruction Manual F4U-1D Corsair
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