The following rules apply particularly to the annual SAM Championships and to SAM RC competitions in general. They are complemented by all AMA RC Safety rules and general rules for AMA sanctioned events.

Competitors are encouraged to purchase a bound copy of the rule book for handy reference at SAM contests. They are available from the SAM Bookstore.

Index of Radio Control Events  

Section I - SAM R/C Aircraft Definitions and Specifications
Section II – RC Engine Definitions, Specifications, and Classifications
Section III - R/C Fuels
Section IV – SAM RC Events Descriptions and Definitions
Section V – SAM RC Contest Procedures
Section VI – SAM RC Basic Event Summaries
Section VII - R/C BASIC EVENT Model Specifications
Section VIII - R/C SPECIAL EVENTS - Engine Powered
Section lX - R/C Electric Special Events Revised 2008 Electric Rules added

Section I - SAM R/C Aircraft Definitions and Specifications

A. Gas Powered designs are divided into two categories: Antique and Old Timer.

B. Antique: Antique models were designed, kitted or published from the beginning of the gas model era up to the end of the Antique period December 31, 1938. Antiques are, by definition, considered an Old Timer and, if otherwise qualified, may enter any basic SAM RC event.

C. Old Timer: All gas models designed, kitted or published from December 31, 1942 and older are considered an Old Timer.

D. In SAM R/C basic events, no distinction is made between fuselage (cabin) and pylon designs, u nless otherwise defined, such as those in specified special events

E. Authenticated Antique and Old Timer model airplane designs are published in two supplements to the SAM Rule Book.

"SAM ApprovedDesigns List 2004 – Gas Models"

and

"SAM Approved Designs List 2004 – Rubber, HL Glider and Towline Glider"

  Newly discovered model designs not listed in the SAM Approved Designs Lists require authentication. Authentication is the responsibility of the contestant. Claims made to authenticate a model airplane’s date of design require documented proof (dated photographs, affidavits, etc.) They shall be submitted to the SAM Design Review Committee and upon approval will be announced in SAM Speaks and subsequently listed in the next printing of the SAM Approved Designs List.  

F. The contestant must, if requested, demonstrate fidelity to an original design by submitting to the CD (contest director) a copy of the original plans or authenticated plans from which his model was built or scaled. A modeler, other than the entrant, may have built the model in whole or in part.

G. All powered SAM RC model airplanes must have originally been gas- powered designs (i.e. no rubber powered designs except in certain sponsored special events).

H. In SAM R/C events the "Builder of the Model Rule" is not in effect. This means that a contestant in a SAM R/C event may fly an airplane that was built in whole or in part by another modeler.

I. Unless otherwise defined, such as those in specified special events, all SAM basic event R/C models must weigh a minimum of 10 oz. per square foot of planform wing area, except 1/2 A Texaco models which must weigh a minimum of 8 ounces per square foot of planform wing area.

J. All glow and converted ignition engine powered models must have a minimum of 225 square inches of planform wing area per 0.1 cubic inch of engine displacement.

K . All models may be modified in the following ways: Minor changes to the thrust line, i.e., upright instead of inverted engines; strengthening or lightening of structures and provision for control surfaces. Foam plastic may not be used as a structural material. Outlines, areas, moments and cross sections may not be changed except for direct scaling. Airfoil sections must be the same as on the original model or plans. Landing gears must be in the same location as on the original model; however, single wheeled main landing gear designs may be modified to dual wheeled main landing gear designs. All changes must be in the character of the original ship. This includes wheel sizes and dihedral, which shall be the same dimensions as the original model when the model is unscaled, or shall be increased or decreased by the same ratio on scaled up or down models.

L. Autopilot type equipment such as gyroscopic, infrared and electronic stabilizing devices are not allowed in SAM R/C models.

 M. No modifications may be made to entries which would prevent the model from making normal, unassisted rise off ground (ROG) takeoffs. Therefore, no dropping gears (except "Mystery Man" model), no VTO (vertical take off), and no catapult devices are approved.

 N. There were a few Flying Wing (tail-less) models designed in both the Antique and Old Timer era. For the purposes of determining wing area of a flying wing, 1/3 of the wing area shall be considered stabilizing area.

O. It is permissible to scale any approved design up or down, except Pure Antique models and those specified in certain special events.

P. For safety reasons, all models, except 1/2A Cox reed valve engines, must have a functioning R/C controlled engine or motor cutoff.

Q. Only fixed pitch, non-folding two bladed propellers made of wood, injection molded plastic, or continuous fiberglass strand and plastic shall be permitted.

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Section II – RC Engine Definitions, Specifications, and Classifications

A. All SAM R/C models entered in the basic events must have an engine of conventional reciprocating piston design as defined by the following four categories: Original Ignition engines, Converted Ignition engines, Cross Scavenged Glow engines and Schnuerle Glow engines.

B. Original Ignition engines are those produced prior to 1950 (or otherwise meeting SAM Engine Committee qualifications and approval) using compression or cam operated breaker points, spark plug(s), batteries (or magnetos), and coils and condenser to ignite the fuel mixture. Breaker point operated transistorized switching systems, which eliminate the condenser, are acceptable. Pre-1950 diesels are, by definition, Original Ignition engines. Original Ignition engines, converted to glow by the manufacturer and afterwards reconverted, retain their initial classification. Replicas of Original Ignition engines bearing the same name shall are categorized as Original Ignition engines.

C. Converted Ignition engines include glow plug ignited engines to which breaker points and a spark plug have been added, and modern (post 1949) spark ignited engines. They are limited to converted cross-scavenged 2 cycle and to 4 cycle engines only.

D. Cross Scavenged Glow engines include all conventional single transfer (bypass) port, glow plug ignited 2 cycle and 4 cycle engines, all post-1949 cross scavenged Diesel engines, and all cross scavenged glow engines converted to Diesel.

E. Schnuerle Glow engines include all multi transfer (bypass) port Schnuerle or PDP glow plug ignited engines and all post-1949 Schnuerle ported Diesel engines.

F. Engines in 1/2A Texaco models must be Cox reed valve .049’s with an integral fuel tank of not over 5.1 cc capacity. These must be basically stock engines as typified by the Texaco Jr. or Babe Bee designs. Other Cox reed valve engines such as the Black Widow and Golden Bee designs are acceptable as long as the larger 8 cc capacity tanks are replaced by the 5.1 cc capacity tank such as found in Cox #1596 conversion kit containing the smaller tank assembly. The only modifications allowed are: Moving the fuel pickup from the middle to the bottom of the tank, adding a muffler, and adding a needle valve extension.

G. SAM RC engine classes are based on engine displacement in cubic inches as follows:

1. Class 1/2A 0.000 to 0.050 cu.in.
2. Class A 0.051 to 0.200 cu.in.
3. Class B 0.201 to 0.300 cu.in.
4. Class C 0.301 to 0.650 cu.in.

Original ignition engines up to 1.200 cubic inches are also class C engines in the basic RC events.

H Four cycle engines are classed as Cross Scavenged Glow engines if glow plug ignited, or they may have points and spark plug added to be classed as Converted Ignition engines. Four cycle engines having exposed rocker arms and originally manufactured by OS, Saito, Enya, and Kalt prior to 1986 and all pre-1950 four cycle engines are rated at 60% of their actual displacement for classification purposes. All other four cycle engines including modern enclosed rocker arm engines are rated at 80% of their actual displacement for classification purposes.

I. Tuned pipes, tuned mufflers, or other exhaust attachments that increase engine performance are prohibited. Mufflers that do not increase performance are allowed on any engine.

J. Turbines, Wankels, non-reciprocating engines, supercharged, and turbocharged engines are prohibited. Only engines of the type and specific displacements listed in this section may be used in SAM basic events.

K. Replicas of original ignition engines and bearing the same name shall be considered an original ignition engine. Custom and production ignition engines designed and manufactured after December 31, 1949 shall be limited by the same rules applied to approve glow conversion engines. The SAM Engine Committee decides which engines should be classified as “original” for competition purposes. This list of ignition engines will be posted on the SAM Website or a printed copy is available from the SAM Librarian.

L. Only engines of the type and specific displacements listed in this section may be used in SAM R/C basic events.

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Section III - R/C Fuels

A. Ignition engines may use gasoline and lubricants. FAI fuel (methanol and lubricants only, no nitro or other additives) is also allowed.

B. Diesels and glow engines may use any fuel that has not been banned by AMA for safety reasons.

C. 1/2 A Texaco engines may not use gasoline based fuels, nor gasoline as an additive or any other additives. They may use only commercially available glow fuel, or any percentage blend of alcohol/methanol, nitromethane, propylene oxide and lubricants.

Section IV – SAM RC Events Descriptions and Definitions

• A The eleven SAM basic RC events are climb and glide with flight scores accumulated at one point per second. Flight time starts at the moment the model is released for takeoff, or launched. Flight time stops when the model next touches the ground or some stationary object on the ground. All events except Texaco have maximum or “max” flight times beyond which no further points are accumulated during any one flight. Texaco flights are unlimited.
• B The basic SAM RC events, flight scoring and flight maxes are as follows:

All model releases must be recorded as actual flight time, maximum flight time, or zero for overruns, landing off field, or lost model.

C Engine run times are limited to a specific number of seconds in the LER (limited engine run) events according to engine type. In the Antique events engine run times are determined by engine type and model weight

Engine run times by for the Limited Engine Run and Antique events are as follows:

Regardless of weight, a model entered in either Antique event will receive an engine run time no less than it would have in its LER class event.

D Engine run time starts when the model is released for flight, and ends when the required RC shutoff has been activated and the engine stopped.

E. The Texaco events are endurance events in which the contestant may run the

engine any length of time in order to consume the model's entire allotment of fuel. For the Texaco and Texaco Glow events, a contest official measures and fuels the engine with 4 cc/lb of aircraft weight. For the 1/2A Texaco event, the contestant may fill the 5.1 cc capacity fuel tank.

F. In the Texaco and Antique events, the measured weight of the model is rounded off to the nearest pound, e.g. 5 lbs.-8 oz. to 6 lbs. and 5 lbs.-7 oz. to 5 lbs. for fuel allotment engine run purposes only. All fuel and engine run allotments have a 7 lb. maximum. A model may weigh more than 7 lbs, but the fuel allotment stops at 7 lbs.

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Section V – SAM RC Contest Procedures

A. The eleven basic SAM RC events shall be flown at all SAM Championship meets, and will be used as the basis for determining an overall RC Ignition Champion (basic events 1 through 5 only) and an overall RC Glow Champion (basic events 6 through 11 only) by awarding 5 points for each first place, 4 for second, etc. down to 1 point for fifth place. Separation of the basic events for championship points is as follows:

B. Antique classes will be flown concurrently and a contestant may enter either the Antique, or Pure Antique event, but not both. The Antique event is open to all Antique model airplanes regardless of scaling or engine. The Pure Antique event features unscaled Antique models with Original Ignition engines only.

C. Texaco events will be flown concurrently and a contestant may enter either the Texaco Ignition, or Texaco Glow event, but not both. Models with Original and Converted Ignition engines must be entered in the Texaco Ignition event. Models with Cross Scavenged or Schnuerle Glow engines must be entered in the Texaco Glow event. Each year the Roberts RC Texaco perpetual trophy will be engraved with the name of the contestant having the longest flight in the two Texaco events. The trophy resides in the AMA Museum in Muncie, Indiana.

D. The CD may combine LER classes, and Antique classes and events if there are fewer than five entrants in any one class or event. The CD must insure that everyone has a reasonable opportunity to fly and thus may reduce engine run times and flight maxes as necessary; however, such changes should only be made as a last resort when no other option is practical. In case of tie scores, the CD determines fly-off procedures.

E. In local and regional events the CD may select the classes he wishes to fly and in such meets may try new concepts as "special events" to determine their practicality. The CD must in this case pre-publish and distribute written contest information stating the events to be flown, any deviations from these rules, and the specific rules for any new events.

F. The CD shall call a pilots’ meeting of all contestants prior to the start of a contest to inform them of the rules and any changes he designates due to peculiar field conditions. It is the responsibility of the contestant to be aware of all rules for those events in which he is competing.

G. All models, except 1/2 A Texaco and 1/2 A Scale, must ROG (rise off the ground). This rule may be altered by the CD to permit hand launching only if the field is too rough, muddy, or grassy.

H. The CD will determine fly-off procedures in case of ties.

I. Only one contestant may fly a particular plane in a given event. He, or another, may fly the same plane in other events. Unless otherwise stated, a contestant may enter only one model in an event.

J. The contestant has 5 minutes to get airborne, from the time he is assigned a timer and a clear frequency. Otherwise the contestant loses his immediate turn at flying but the contestant is not charged with a flight.

K. All models must land by coming to rest completely within a landing area designated by the CD. Models landing outside the designated area will be given a zero flight score. A zero score will also be given for an engine overrun.

L. Anyone serving as a timer is an acting contest official and is responsible for minimum knowledge and enforcement of the rules. The timer must monitor the 5-minute time limit to get airborne, record the scores of all model releases and launches, and report any rule violation or flight irregularities to the CD for resolution.

M. The timer must see the model released to start the flight and must see the model land on the field to conclude the flight score. It is not necessary that he have the model in view at all times during the flight. To prevent loss of a model, binoculars may be used only during a declared emergency to aid the pilot in returning the model directly to the field. For safety reasons, timers are allowed to accompany the contestant through the model's flight and retrieval.

N. Thermal aid equipment, such as thermal sniffers, is not allowed. Autopilot type equipment such as gyroscopic, infrared, and electronic stabilizing devices are not allowed in SAM RC models.

O. There will be no time limit nor penalty imposed on the landing of a model; However to prevent delays, the contestant must land as soon as possible after a flight is completed.

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Section VI – SAM RC Basic Event Summaries

The SAM basic events numbered 1 through 5 earn points for the Ignition championship.

1. Class A LER Ignition is for all SAM Old Timer models with Original or Converted Ignition engines of 0.051 to 0.200 cu.in. displacement. Engine runs are limited to 35 and 28 seconds, respectively. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 seven minute max flights are scored and totaled.

2. Class B LER Ignition is for all SAM Old Timer models with Original or Converted Ignition engines of 0.201 to 0.300 cu.in. displacement. Engine runs are limited to 35 and 28 seconds, respectively. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 eight minute max flights are scored and totaled.

3. Class C LER Ignition is for all SAM Old Timer models with Original or Converted Ignition engines of 0.301 to 0.650 cu.in. displacement. Engine runs are limited to 35 and 28 seconds, respectively. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 nine minute max flights are scored and totaled.

4. Pure Antique is for all unscaled SAM Antique models with Original Ignition engines of all displacements. Engine runs are limited to 8 seconds per pound of model weight or 35 seconds minimum. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 ten minute max flights are scored and totaled.

5. Texaco Ignition is a fuel allotment endurance event for all SAM Antique models with Original Ignition or Converted Ignition engines of all displacements. Fuel allotment is 4 cc per pound of model weight. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The longest of 3 unlimited flights is scored.

The SAM basic events numbered 6 through 11 earn points for the Glow championship.

6. Class A LER Glow is for all SAM Old Timer models with Cross Scavenged or Schnuerle glow engines of 0.051 to 0.200 cu.in. displacement. Engine runs are limited to 23 and 18 seconds, respectively. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 seven minute max flights are scored and totaled.

7. Class B LER Glow is for all SAM Old Timer models with Cross Scavenged or Schnuerle glow engines of 0.201 to 0.300 cu.in. displacement. Engine runs are limited to 23 and 18 seconds, respectively. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 eight minute max flights are scored and totaled.

8. Class C LER Glow is for all SAM Old Timer models with Cross Scavenged or Schnuerle glow engines of 0.301 to 0.650 cu.in. displacement. Engine runs are limited to 23 and 18 seconds, respectively. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 nine minute max flights are scored and totaled. The SAM basic events numbered 6 through 11 earn points for the Glow championship.

9. Antique is an open event for any SAM Antique model with any SAM approved engine of any displacement. Engine runs are limited to 8 seconds per pound of model weight or 35 seconds minimum for Original Ignition engines, 7 seconds per pound of model weight or 28 seconds minimum for Converted Ignition engines, 6 seconds per pound of model weight or 23 seconds minimum for Cross Scavenged glow engines, and 5 seconds per pound of model weight or 18 seconds minimum for Schnuerle Glow engines. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 4 ten minute max flights are scored and totaled.

10. Texaco Glow is a fuel allotment endurance event for all SAM Antique models with Cross Scavenged or Schnuerle glow engines of all displacements. Fuel allotment is 4 cc per pound of model weight. Minimum model weight is 10 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The longest of 3 unlimited flights is scored.

11. 1/2A Texaco is a unique fuel allotment event for all SAM Old Timer models powered specifically by Cox .049 reed valve engines with integral 5.1 cc capacity fuel tanks and 8” diameter maximum propellers. Minimum model weight is 8 ounces per square foot of plan form wing area. The best 2 of 3 fifteen minute flights are scored. No RC engine cutoff is required.

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*Section VII - R/C BASIC EVENT Model Specifications

* Note; In case of conflicting information with previous sections I through VI, those sections will take precedence over information found in this section; VII.

The following event categories will be scheduled to fly at all SAM Championship (SAM Champs) events and are eligible for Championship points.

In alphabetical order

 1B. 1/2A Texaco:

B. Scaling allowed
C. Minimum model weight is 8 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
D. Landing gear is required. Two wheels may be substituted for single wheel gear, but one wheel gear may not be substituted for two wheel gear.
E. 1/2 A Texaco engines must be Cox reed valve .049's with an integral fuel tank of not over 5.1 cc capacity. These must be basically "stock" engines as typified by the Texaco Jr., or Babe Bee designs. Other Cox reed valve engines such as the Black Widow, or Golden Bee designs are acceptable as long as the larger 8 cc tanks are replaced by the 5.1 cc tank, such as found in the Cox #1596 conversion kit, containing the smaller tank assembly. The only modifications allowed are: Moving the fuel pickup from the middle to the bottom of the tank, addition of a muffler, and/or addition of a needle valve extension.
F. The 5.1 cc fuel tank may be filled by the contestant.
G. 1/2 A Texaco engines may not use gasoline based fuels, nor gasoline as an additive or any other additives. They may use only commercially available glow fuel, or any percentage blend of alcohol/methanol, nitromethane, propylene oxide and lubricants.
H. Propeller limited to 8" diameter or less.
I, Either ROG (Rise off Ground) or hand launch allowed on all 1/2 A models
J. Three flights allowed. Sum of best two flights to score. 15 max.

2B/3B. Antique

A. Any SAM approved Antique designated gas model, designed, kitted or published prior to January 1, 1939, as listed in:

"SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models"

B. Antique events are basically LER (Limited Engine Run) events with engine run time based on model overall weight.

1. The measured weight of the model is rounded off to the nearest pound- e.g. 5 lbs 8 oz. to 6 lbs; and 5 lbs 7 oz. to 5 lbs for engine run allotment purposes. All engine run allotments have a 7 lb. maximum.
   A model may weigh more than 7 lbs. but the engine run time allowed stops at 7 lbs.
2. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.

C. Launch ROG (Rise Off Ground).
D. Four flights allowed. Sum of best two flights for score. 10 minute Max.

2B. Antique Glow

A. Schnuerle glow engines are allowed a 5 second engine run per lb. of model or a minimum 18 second engine run.
B. Cross Scavenged glow engines are allowed a 6 second engine run per lb. of model or a minimum 23 second engine run.
C. Ignition engines.

1. Original ignition engines and pre-1950 diesel engines are allowed an 8 second engine run per lb. of model or a minimum 35 second engine run.
2. Converted ignition engines are allowed a 7 second engine run per lb. of model or a minimum 28 second engine run.

D. Scaling from original size is allowed. Minimum wing area of 225 sq. in. per .10 C.I. of glow and converted ignition engine displacement.

3B. Pure Antique

A. Only original ignition engines (no converted ignition) or pre-1950 diesels are allowed. Engine is allowed an 8 second engine run per lb of model or a minimum 35-second run.
B. No Scaling from original size.

1. The measured weight of the model is rounded off to the nearest pound- e.g. 5 lbs 8 oz. to 6 lbs; and 5 lbs 7 oz. to 5 lbs for engine run allotment purposes. All engine run allotments have a 7 lb. maximum. A model may weigh more than 7 lbs. but the engine run time allowed stops at 7 lbs.
2. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.

D. Scaling from original size is allowed. Minimum wing area of 225 sq. in. per .10 C.I. of glow and converted ignition engine displacement.

4B. LER - Limited Engine Run: Ignition

-and-

5B. LER - Limited Engine Run: Glow

A. Any SAM approved Antique or Old Timer gas model, designed, kitted or published prior to January 1, 1943, as listed in:

"SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models"

C. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
D. Scaling allowed.
E. Engine classes are based on the following displacements:

F. Engine run times by engine types for LER events are as follows:

G. The sum of the best two flights out of four are scored.
H. Max time:

1. Class A 7 minutes
2. Class B 8 minutes
3. Class C 9 minutes

6B. Texaco Ignition

-and-

7B. Texaco Glow

A. Any SAM approved Antique gas model, designed, kitted or published prior to January 1, 1939 and designated as an Antique in the :

"SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models".

B. Unlimited flight time
D. There is only one Championship Texaco Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the contestant with the highest scoring time in either the Texaco Ignition - OR - Texaco Glow event.
E. Fuel Allotment:

1. In Texaco a contest official measures and fuels the engine with 4cc per lb. of total aircraft weight.
2. The measured total weight of the model is rounded off to the nearest pound - e.g. 5 lbs 8 oz. to 6 lbs; and 5 lbs 7 oz. to 5 lbs for fuel allotment purposes only. All fuel allotments have a 7 lb. maximum. A model may weigh more than 7 lbs. but fuel allotment stops at 7lbs.

F. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
G. Scaling allowed
H. Texaco Ignition can use any SAM approved ignition engine, which includes any pre-1950 diesels.
I. Texaco Glow can use any SAM approved glow engine, which includes any post-1949 diesel.

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Section VIII - R/C SPECIAL EVENTS - Engine Powered

A varied menu of popular special events will be selected to fly at each SAM Championship event (SAM Champs).

  In alphabetical order

 1S. 1/2 A Scale Duration

A. Model shall be a replica of a reciprocating engine powered, man carrying airplane of pre-1943 vintage. Powered sailplanes are not acceptable.
B. Although models are not judged for scale, a reasonable effort should be made to simulate realistic coloring and markings. Model to be balsa/plywood construction. Foam may be used for detail only. Plan or 3 view may be needed for confirmation.
C. Monoplane minimum model weight is 8 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area. Multiwing minimum model weight is 6 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
D. 1/2 A Texaco engines must be Cox reed valve .049's with an integral fuel tank of not over 5.1 cc capacity. These must be basically "stock" engines as typified by the Texaco Jr., or Babe Bee designs. Other Cox reed valve engines such as the Black Widow, or Golden Bee designs are acceptable as long as the larger 8 cc tanks are replaced by the 5.1 cc tank, such as found in the Cox #1596 conversion kit, containing the smaller tank assembly. The only modifications allowed are: Moving the fuel pickup from the middle to the bottom of the tank, addition of a muffler, and/or addition of a needle valve extension.
E. The 5.1 cc fuel tank may be filled by the contestant.
F. 1/2 A Texaco engines may not use gasoline based fuels, nor gasoline as an additive or any other additives. 1/2A Engines may use only commercially available glow fuel, or any percentage blend of alcohol/methanol, nitromethane, propylene oxide and lubricants.
I. Three flights allowed. 15 minute Max. Sum of best two flights score .

2S. Brown Jr. LER

Brown Jr. LER models are typically large fuselage designs with wing mounted directly to the fuselage. Parasol models with wing mounted on cabanes are also considered to be fuselage models.

A. Non-pylon Antique model, pre-December 31, 1938. No scaling.
B. No minimum wing loading.
C. An original or SAM approved replica Brown Jr. spark ignition engine.

1. No modifications to engine which would improve performance.
2. Engines can be built from different models, but all parts must be original or replica, including needle valves.

D. Launch is ROG (Rise Off Ground).
E. Ninety (90) second engine run.
F. Unlimited flight time.
G. Three flights allowed. The longest flight is scored.
H. Model flown in Brown Jr. LER cannot be flown in Brown Jr. Texaco.

3S. Brown Jr. Texaco :

This event designed to encourage replicating and flying the Texaco models flown in the early years of the Golden Age of Aeromodeling. Typically large fuselage designs with wing mounted directly to the fuselage. Parasol models with wing mounted on cabanes are also considered to be fuselage models.

A. Only 1937 or earlier Antique model. Non-pylon model. No scaling.
B. Wing span must be 84 inches or greater.
C. No minimum wing loading.
D. Same engine guidelines as Brown Jr. LER event.
E. Fuel allotment will be 4 cc's/lb. of model weight. Maximum weight of model is 7 lbs. Maximum fuel allotment is 28 cc. regardless of model weight.
F. Any non-pressurized fuel tank may be used to accommodate up to 28 cc (.95 oz.) of fuel. Contest official fills tank.
G. Launch ROG (Rise Off Ground).
H. Unlimited flight time.
I. Three flights allowed. The longest flight is scored.
J. Model flown in Brown Jr. LER cannot be flown in Brown Jr. Texaco.

4S. Class A Texaco

A. Any SAM approved Old Timer gas design.
B. Any SAM approved Class A engine.
C. No throttling for speed control, but engine cut-off required.
D. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
E. Fuel Allotment:         

1. In Class A Texaco a contest official measures and fuels the engine. Any fuel tank may be used.
2. For Glow and Ignition engines: 14 cc of fuel.
3. For Diesel engines: 8 cc of fuel.

F. Launch ROG and fly.
G. Three flights allowed. 15 minute Max. Sum of best two flights score .

 5S. Classic Texaco

 A. Any SAM approved Antique designated gas model, designed, kitted or published prior to January 1, 1939, as listed in the:

"SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models".

B. No scaling.
C. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
D. Pre-1943 original spark ignition engines only. No diesels.
E. Modifications:

1. Non-original needle valve assemblies may be used.
2. Intake restrictors may be used.

F. Fuel Allotment:

1. In Classic Texaco a contest official measures and fuels the engine with 4cc per lb. of total aircraft weight. The measured total weight of the model is rounded off to the nearest pound-e.g. 5 lbs 8 oz. to 6 lbs; and 5 lbs 7 oz. to 5 lbs for fuel allotment purposes only.

Note: Classic Texaco has no fuel allocation limit or model weight limit. SAM wants to encourage flying the original giants that weighed more than seven pounds. For example, a 9 pound model would get 36cc of fuel.

G. ROG launch.
H. Three flights allowed. Best single flight scores.
I.Unlimited flight time.

6S. Foxacoy : LER Event

A. Any Antique or Old Timer design as recognized in the

“SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models”

may be flown in this event .

B. 788 square inches minimum wing area.
C. Scaling allowed.
D. Model must weigh a minimum of 10 oz. per square foot of wing area.

1. This will allow use of airplanes that are legal for C glow LER, if 788 square inches minimum wing area or greater, to be re-engined and eligible to compete in Foxacoy.

E. Engine must be stock Fox .35 stunt or McCoy Red Head FV .35.

1. McCoys with lightning bolts on the bypass are ineligible.
2. Engines may be chromed to restore compression and fit.
3. No pressure fuel systems.

F. ROG launch.
G. Engine run time- 35 seconds.
H. Score the sum of best 2 of 4 flights. 7 minute max.

7S. Ohlsson .23 LER event

A. Any Antique or Old Timer design as recognized in the

“SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models”

may be flown in this event .

B. No scaling . Note: The Old Timers scaled to the previous rulings' 450 sq. in. wing area are no longer grandfathered or eligible for this event.
C. No minimum weight requirements
D. Any O&R .23 ignition engine, no pressure, no modifications other than needle valve assembly and balancing crankshaft.
E Engine run:

1. Side port - 45 seconds (Large and Small exhaust).
2. Front Rotary Valve - 35 seconds.

F. ROG (Rise off ground) launch
G. Score the sum of best 2 of 4 flights. 7 minute max.

 8S. Ohlsson Side Port LER event

A. Any SAM approved Antique gas model, designed, kitted or published prior to January 1, 1939 and designated as an Antique

in the: "SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models".

B. No Scaling
C. Minimum model weight is 10 oz. per sq. ft. of plan form wing area.
D.. *Any Ohlsson side port ignition engine, no pressure, no modifications other than the needle valve assembly and balancing crankshaft.
*Note: The Ohlsson sideport event is open to any size sideport ignition Ohlssons. In actual practice, the Ohlsson side port event contestants unanimously favor flying .60 size engines and models Both small and large exhaust .60's are used in this event.
E. ROG (Rise off ground) launch.
F. Engine run time:

1. 45-seconds: Small exhaust (teardrop).
2. 35-seconds: Large exhaust.

. Score the sum of the best 3 of 4 flights. 7 minute max.

9SG. O/T Glider (Not an engine powered event)

A. Any glider designed or kitted before 1947, scaling OK.

Towline gliders are listed in the:

“SAM Approved Designs List ~ Rubber, HL Glider and Towline Glider”

B. Maximum wingspan = 120 inches, no minimum wing loading.
C. Precision event: 20-minute total of three flights (or less).

1. Time over 20 minutes, deducted from total.

D. Tow release starts the clock.
E. High start or winch only. Max extended length = 700 feet.
F. Launch equipment supplied by CD or pilot.

10S. R/C Assist Nostalgia

 A. Any model designed or kitted 1/1/43 to 12/31/56, scaling OK.
B. Two wheels OK if single wheel on plans. No single wheel if two wheels on the plan.
C. Any production cross-scavenged glow or diesel engine up to 0.65 cu. in. Ignition engine up to 1.2 cu. in. Engine pressure OK. D. Ignition engines must have cam operated points i.e. no Hall Effect (electronic) ignition systems.
E. No Schnuerle, PDP, or ABC piston types, or converted ignition.
F. Fuel: Gas/oil or FAI fuel for ignition. Any nitro content for glow.
G. There are two classes:

1. Small = .0 to .300 cu. in. glow/diesel or .0 to .350 ignition.
2. Large = .301 to .65 cu. in. glow/diesel or .351 to 1.2 ignition.

H. Power loading of 1 oz. per .01 cu. in. of displacement; i.e. .19 powered model will weigh a minimum of 19 oz.
F. Models may be hand launched, ROG, or VTO (vertical take off).
I. Engine run times: glow/diesel = 18 secs; ignition = 25 secs.
J. Score the sum of best 3 of 5 flights. 7 minute max.

Top

Section lX - R/C Electric Special Events

General Rules

1E. Electric Limited Motor Run (ELMR)

and

2E. Electric Texaco (ETEX)

A. Model Requirements

1. Any Antique or Old Timer design as recognized in the “SAM Approved Designs List ~ Gas Models” may be flown in this event.
2. Unless stated otherwise, the model shall conform to all current SAM Radio Control Old Timer Rules.
3. Models must have a minimum wing loading of 8-oz. /sq. ft. of planform wing area.

B. Batteries

1. Manufacturers marked NiCad rechargeable pack having any number of cells. Unmarked cells may be tested at the Contest Directors option.
2. LMR (Limited motor Run) and Texaco models shall be allowed one (1) ounce of motor battery weight for every three (3) ounces of all-up airframe weight (gross model weight less power battery). All weights are rounded to the nearest whole ounce.

2008 Battery Rules for LMR and Electric Texaco

The battery shall consist of seven NiCad or NiMh cells or two LiPoly cells with a manufacturer’s capacity of no more than 100 mah per ¼ lb of model All Up Weight (AUW; weight ready to fly with battery).

Alternate batteries with different numbers of cells are permitted provide the capacity, in milli-amp hours, is less than;

700 divided by the number of NiCad/NiMh cells

Or

200 divided by the number of LiPoly cells

Per ¼ pound of model AUW

NiCad/NiMh Examples

Eleven NiCad or NiMh cells of 500 mah marked capacity = 32 oz model (minimum A.U.W.)

Seven NiCad or NiMh cells of 800 mah marked capacity = 32 oz model (minimum A.U.W.)

Seven NiCad or NiMh cells of 1500 mah marked capacity = 60 oz model (minimum A.U.W.)

LiPoly Examples

Two LiPo cells of 800 mah marked capacity = 32 oz model (minimum A.U.W.)

Three LiPo cells of 800 mah marked capacity = 48 oz model (minimum A.U.W.)

Two LiPo cells of 1300 mah marked capacity = 52 oz model (minimum A.U.W.)

A table of battery options for various model weights is available for viewing or download, click here. Or use Steve Roselle's Excel calculation spreadsheet.

The manufacturer’s label, with the capacity specified, must either be clearly visible when installed in the model or the battery shall be removed from the model and presented for inspection by the CD prior to flight.

C. Motors

1. Any permanent magnet D.C. electric motor may be used. This includes brushless motors.
2. Motors may drive the propeller directly or indirectly via a (gear or belt) speed reduction drive.
3. Ferrite or non-ferrite magnet motors (i.e. Cobalt) may be used.

D. Power Control

1. Power flow from batteries to motor may be controlled by any method.
2. Power shut off by radio command must be demonstrated to the timer.

E. Propellers

1. Folding props may be used as long as they are restrained from folding in flight. Rationale : Since some landing gear designs support folding props while other do not, this rule maintains fairness, while allowing the use of folders which can be configured to fold only upon hitting a solid object, thus saving a motor shaft or gearbox from more serious damage.
2. Prop hubs that are partially cut through are not allowed.

F. General Flight Rules

1. Models must comply with all R/C LER rules, such as ROG, landing on field etc. unless otherwise noted.
2. Flight time is started at the moment the motor is switched on, or model is released for flight, and ended when the model touches the ground, or some stationary object on the ground.

1E. only - Electric Limited Motor Run (ELMR) Flight Rules:

1. Standard motor run shall be a single continuous run time of 90 seconds for all motor types.
2. Maximum flight time shall be 10 minutes. This may be increased at the CD's discretion, depending on field and weather conditions.
3. Score the sum of the best 2 of 3 flights.

2E. only - Electric Texaco (ETEX) Flight Rules:

1. There are no maximum motor run times. The motor may be stopped and started one or more times until the battery pack is exhausted.
2. Two flights allowed. Best single flight scores.
3. Maximum flight time is unlimited unless the CD places limits the day of the contest due to contest conditions or possible high number of frequency conflicts.

3E. Spirit of SAM (Electric Powered - Rubber Model Designs)

A. Model Requirements

1. Any electric powered replica of a pre-1943 rubber model as recognized in the "SAM Approved Designs List ~ Rubber Models, HL Glider and Towline Glider”may be flown in this event.
2. Unless stated otherwise, the model shall conform to current SAM R/C Old Timer Rules.
3. Scaling is permitted. There are no wing loading or weight requirements.
4. All models shall have landing gear. Landing gear shall be added to models designed without landing gear. A two-wheel gear may replace a one-wheel gear. Dropping gear is not permitted.

B. Batteries

1. NiCad batteries only, not to exceed 45 grams (1.6 oz) as removed for weighing. The battery pack must be removable for weighing by the CD.

C. Motors

1. Any electric motor(s) may be used.
2. The motor(s) may drive the propeller(s) by any mechanical means.
3. Propellers may fold.

D. Power Control

1. Power flow from the batteries to motor(s) may be controlled by any means
2. Power shut off by radio command must be demonstrated to the timer.

E. General Flight Rules

1. Models must comply with all R/C LER rules, such as ROG, landing on field, etc. unless otherwise noted.
2. Flight time starts when the motor is switched on and the model is released for flight. Flight time ends when the model touches the ground or some object on the ground.

F. Flight Rules

1. There are no maximum motor run times. The motor may be started, controlled and stopped one or more times at the pilot's discretion.
2. Model must ROG (Rise Off Ground) unassisted.
3. No maximum flight time
4. Three flights are allowed. Two flights are required to achieve a score. The SECOND longest flight counts.

Events for Electric Powered - Rubber model designs

 Electric Limited motor Run (ELMR)

 4E. R/C Electric - Wakefield (EW)

1. Any electric powered replica of a pre-1943 rubber model, described as a Wakefield, in the: "SAM Approved Designs List ~ Rubber Models, HL Glider and Towline Glider”.
2. No Scaling allowed.
3. Motors are limited to the Graupner Speed 300 or 280 Ferrite models.
4. Five (5) minute 'Max", maximum flight time.

5E. R/C Electric - Rubber Unlimited (ERU)

1. Any electric powered replica of a pre-1943 rubber model as recognized in the: "SAM Approved Designs List ~ Rubber Models, HL Glider and Towline Glider”.
2. Landing gear is required on "Stick" type models.
3. Scaling is allowed.
4. Motors are limited to the Graupner Speed 400 4.8, 6, or 7 volt, and the Speed 300 and 280 ferrite models.
5. Seven (7) minute "Max" maximum flight time.  

A. General rules for both Rubber Wakefield and Unlimited classes:

1. No modifications allowed to the motors other than timing advance.
2. No restrictions on props or gear boxes.
3. Props may fold.
4. Models must ROG unless field or weather conditions dictate otherwise.
5. Battery power is limited to 7 or less Ni-cads.
6. Motor run is limited to a single continuous run time of 60 seconds.
7. Score the sum of best 2 of 3 flights.

2008 Battery Rule for Wakefield and Unlimited Rubber events.