How to Make MonoKote Hinge for 1/2A to A Size

Models
By Heman Lee

For small models with very thin stab and elevator, it is often impossible to use
R/C type nylon hinges. Using MonoKote or iron on film to make a hinge is a
quick and easy method to connect the elevator with the stab, especially if the
elevator is made from 1/16” sheet balsa. There are many different methods
such as the X method on R/C web sites. This is my method which produces a
cleaner look while being a very strong and durable joint.

Step 1
Bevel the elevator hinge side 45 °as shown in the diagram.

Step 2
Cut 2 strips of Monocote approximately 1” wide and a little wide the length of
the elevator.

Step 3
Place 5 or 6 layers of masking tape or place a 1/32” shim on the top of the
stab close to the hinge line. This will aid as a shim when you are ironing to
bottom inside hinge.

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Step 4
Place the top side of the elevator on top of the stab so that both top side meet
together.
Shim

Step 5
Tape this in place with masking tape.

Step 6
Iron the bottom inside edge of the hinge first. You may have to use high heat
on the edge.

Iron inside
hinge first.

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Step 7
After the inside edge is sealed, open the hinge flat and complete the bottom
hinge.

Step 8
After you completely seal the bottom, press the hinge together and tape this
position with masking tape.

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Step 9
Turn the hinge over display the top. You should be able to see to gap cause by
the shim.

Step 10
Maintain this gap while continueing to seal the top side hinge. This will cause
the bottom hinge to adhere to the top hinge

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Step 11
Check your hinge movement, especially the downward clearance.

Step 12
Finish with covering the entire stab and elevator with the same material. You
can do the bottom in 1 or 2 pieces. If you do the bottom in 1 piece, this will
add a total of 2 layers to you hinge joint making it stronger.

Caution: If you double up too much on the hinge, they will become
increasingly stiffer. Therefore, you need to make the gap wider.

On my first attempt, I use only 3 layer and the hinge movement was too stiff.
You need to experiment with this because various materials will have
different results.