Sounds like a very realistic weight scenario. The TF P-51 is a 65 in. plane, slightly larger than most 60 size stunters, although the stunters may have more wing area to balance things out. 287 grams(10 oz.) is a very beliveable number and right in line with full bore stunt finishes. The fiberglass is a minor amount of weight(about 35 grams), as long as it isn't saturated with an excess of epoxy.
ALL the finishes are plastics of one sort or another. The ALL have very similar densities. They ALL require a certain minimum thickness to cover the base and develop a solid, shiny surface of about the same weight. The only way to really save weight on a finish is to follow Sparky's directions- build an immaculately smooth plane and then finish it with a minimum of primer and filler.
The main reason dope has a reputation for lighter weight is that a clear dope finish(6-10 coats) over colored silk, with colored dope only for trim and on the fuse, is a lot less weight. There simply is less paint involved with the heavy pigments.
Topic: Finishing Weight Gain (Read 1012 times)