FRED-INSPIRED RC MODEL FUN!

FRED’s cheeky charm and compact dimensions have long attracted model aircraft builders, which is quite appropriate since Eric Clutton is a well-known aeromodeler and, as “Dr. Diesel,” a longtime promoter of diesel model aircraft engines.  The Stevens Aeromodel FredE is not a scale model of FRED, but a balsa-and-tissue, electric-powered, radio-controlled fun flier that manages to capture the mischevious nature of Eric Clutton’s full-size original.  To go along with the video clip above, see also this comprehensive and well-illustrated review of the FredE by Napo Monasterio.  If you’re biding your time for the chance to build your own FRED, maybe a model will help whet your appetite in the meantime?  Cheers, Matthew

Eric Clutton is perhaps better known in the USA not as the designer/builder of the Clutton FRED, but as Dr. Diesel, a master model aircraft builder and advocate and distributor of diesel model aircraft engines for many years.  As you can see from the pic below and a birthday post from a couple of years ago, Eric himself has built lovely models of his favorite subject…FRED!

There are a number of scale model FRED plans and kits out there, so here are two:

FRED is particularly popular in the Peanut and Pistachio rubber-powered, free-flight model classes, which are limited by wingspans and length and not a particular scale.  FRED’s low aspect ratio wing provides generous area within those limits and makes for a great flyer.  Here is a free Peanut FRED plan from the Outerzone plans site, which could be easily scaled up for electric free flight or a light RC setup.

Fully in keeping with FRED’s cheeky looks and Eric’s mischievous humor, if you don’t mind spending the money on a kit, here is a “ToonSCALE” electric park flyer version of FRED.  That cartoon pilot even looks a bit like a young Eric Clutton.  ;-)

If you know of a source for model FRED plans or kits, please post the link here.  If we find enough, I’ll add a new page to the site just about model FREDs.  I am sure Dr. Diesel will be thrilled!

Cheers,

Matthew