This was my second plane, but the first one that I built.  
The description of this model in the East Coast Model Center 
catalogue said it was a good second plane.  Because of this, and 
it’s good looks, I chose to build it.   I ordered it from East 
Coast Model Center for around $100 Canadain. 

The finished Cloud Dancer and my dog Kaily.

Specifications:

        Name: Cloud Dancer 40
	Manufacturer: Ace R/C
	Wingspan: 60 inches
	Length: 46 inches
	Wing Area: 625 square inches
	Weight: 4.5 lbs
	Radio Required: 4 channel
	Radio Used: Futaba Conquest 4 channel
	Engine Required: .40-.45 2-C  or  .40-.53 4-C
	Engine Used: O.S. 40 FP


Construction:
	
	I started construction with the wing.  It is typical 
D-tube construction and caused no major problems.  I have heard, 
although, that some of the older kits came with flimsy torque 
rods which caused aileron flutter.  My wing turned out to be 
warped (building error), but with the help of one of the club 
members, I had the warp out in no time.  I used the supplied 
hardwood rails for fixed landing gear.  I left off the wheel 
covers because I will be flying from a grass feild.  I did, 
however, construct the wheel pants and test them out.  They are 
difficult to construct but add great looks to the plane.

       The fuselage is straightforward and went together quickly. 
 Some of the wood supplied in the kit was warped.  I decided to 
use it anyways and it turned out fine.  The biggest problem I 
found with this plane was the heavy tail.  My plane needed lots 
of lead to even it out.  Make sure when you are planning the 
engine installation to get it as far forward as possible.  One 
more problem was the fit of the canopy.  I did eventually get it 
right, but it took me many tries.  
	
       The tail section was very easy and went together in just 
two nights.  It is built up balsa and proved to be quite striong. 
 I was somewhat reluctant to use the supplied hinges, but I ended 
up using them and they work fine.
	
       I covered my plane with Top Flite Monokote.  The top is 
missile red and the bottom is white.  This will help to 
distinguish the top from the bottom when it’s in flight.  I also 
used the supplied decals to make it look a little less plain.

Ready for covering!!

Flying:


	I took my Cloud Dancer to the field the day of my clubs 
scale rally.  I knew there would be lots of experts there and 
somebody could test fly it.  I found somebody who was a seasoned 
expert and he took it up for me.  It took off with only a very 
short run and flew very fast.  It can roll, loop and takeoff at 
half throttle! This is just with an OS 40 FP, imagine a 46!!!  He 
trimmed out the plane then landed it for me to try.  I found that 
it was very easy to fly and goes where you point it.  Landings 
are easy too, since it is very light, just cut the throttle and 
let it float in!


	All in all, the Cloud Dancer 40 is a great plane.  It is 
easy to build and flies great!  I would deffinetly reccomend it 
to anybody who has mastered a trainer and is looking for a more 
fun and fast plane.  It will take off and fly like fast, yet slow 
down and float in for landing.  And for only $100, it’s an 
amazing deal!

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