The LMA is frequently asked to recommend a suitable model for someone wanting to get started in large modelling and maybe petrol fuelled engines. To address this issue the LMA originally introduced the Greenley and Lowley range of trainer/sport models. This article, by John Greenfield,  describes the models which he designed.  

please note: -

The LMA has released a new model called the Genesis, thus will no longer be selling the above plans, see end of this page for means to obtain these plans.

The Greenley

The Greenley is a high wing model of very simple construction. The fuselage is made from 1/32” ply, the wings are foam and the tail is all sheet balsa. Whilst the model has the look of a large trainer it is fully aerobatic in all positive and negative manoeuvres. With a 40cc motor it is also capable of prop-hanging whilst at the same time when throttled back or powered by a smaller motor it is just as happy floating around at slow speeds. It makes a very stable glider tug and, with careful construction and powered by a motor like a Zenoah 38, it can be made to weigh under 7kg.

Emily Hooper's recently completed Greenley.

Here is another one on floats by Barry Bennett. 

The Lowley

The Lowley uses the same wing as the Greenley, but is a low wing semi-scale model for general sport flying. Basic construction is the same as the Greenley, but with the addition of a built-up turtle-deck to the fuselage.

Both models follow accepted large model building practices and are an ideal introduction to the large model scene both from a building and flying perspective. They can be fitted-out with standard radio for normal flying (no expensive special servos are needed) although, as with all large models, it is recommended to fit a redundant battery system. They are simply a good fun model to have in-stock which will fly in most weather conditions.

Here, you can see the basic construction of a Lowley fuselage being built by Vic Coombs.

Here is John with the original Greenley and Vic with the Lowley.

Please note, the Greenley and Lowley models are not “trainers” with which to learn to fly, rather they are ideal for competent pilots who wish to take the first steps into large models. Both models, with their simple robust construction and superior flying characteristics, lend themselves to modification and two examples are shown below.

Warning. Modifying the design requires knowledge and skill. Please take advise from an experienced modeller before attempting modifications.

This shows what can be done to make a Lowley appear as a 30's scale model.  This Lowley belongs to Ken Bones. Ken has added a turtle-deck, cowl and simulation lights. He has also rounded the flying surfaces (taking care to keep the areas the same) (Luton 2003).

This picture from Icelandic LMA member Gudmundur shows what can be done to a Lowley with some simple additions.

Model specifications

        Wingspan 88",  Length 68"
        Can be built under 7kg, with care, and ideally suited for a 30-40cc petrol engine. 
        Only requires standard radio and servos. 
        Simple sheet construction for a rapid build. 
        No complex cowl required so no cooling difficulties. 
        Simple piano wire undercarriage with large wheels. 
        Foam wings are available from most of the good wing cutting companies who advertise in the
             modelling magazines.

How do I get one?

Both models are shown on the large one sheet plan so you can decide which to build after receiving the plan. Plans are available  from John Greenfield. The LMA trade stand no longer sells these plans.

You can contact John at :

"Little Acre" 
Kemprow 
ALDENHAM 
Herts 
WD25 8NR

Tel:01923 857009 (evenings after 7.30pm)

This page was last updated on 8/12/2006.

| Home |