Black Magic
The New Black Magic
A free-flight power model redesign for R/C flying, based on Fred Hempsall’s 1947 plan for a 60-inch sport model, featured in Aeromodeller, August 1956.
Overview
Black Magic was first published in September 1947 in Aeromodeller and has since become a beloved choice for thousands of sport flyers. Its attractive design, sleek lines, and dependable performance have contributed to its lasting popularity.
Modifications for R/C
A reader, R. Garman, sought a suitable radio control design for his ED 2.46 engine and noted that Black Magic offered exciting potential. He reached out to the editor regarding structural enhancements. It was decided to reinforce the mainplane anchorage, the fuselage cabin structure, and the wing tips. The fin area was expanded, and the original knock-off plate engine mount was replaced with a versatile plywood plate on bearers, allowing for various engine sizes. While Mr. Garman still prefers the old-style mount—which he claims has saved his crankcase on multiple occasions—the choice ultimately rests with individual builders.
Battery and Undercarriage Recommendations
The new drawings accommodate standard battery sizes, such as B122 or B123 for high torque and U12 for low torque. However, Mr. Garman opts for heavier batteries due to his higher current demands.
For those with extensive R/C flying experience, Mr. Garman offers another valuable tip: instead of keeping the rear undercarriage legs as a single piece of wire, he cuts them in the middle, taps the ends to 4 BA, and connects them using a 4 BA sleeve. This allows for easy undercarriage replacement without disturbing the overall structure. For builders lacking taps and dies, soldering a copper sleeve over both ends can achieve the same result.
An alternative approach involves inserting a hardwood block between formers F2 and F3 at the bottom of the fuselage. This block can securely attach a 14-gauge strip dural one-piece undercarriage with bolts, creating a removable unit that can be easily replaced. This method has gained popularity in the U.S., particularly amongst R/C kit models like the Trixter Beam and Live Wire series.
