Specialist Accessories for the Scale Modeller

Unitracts International is Europe’s foremost manufacturer of model aircraft retracts/landing gear for R/C and other scale models and produces probably the largest range in the world.

We also manufacture/sell other specialist accessories and a small range of high quality plans. We have a modern, well-equipped factory unit of approximately 300 m² located near London where most production is carried out. Our aim is to supply quality products and the best service to scale and other aircraft modellers.

Retracts

Units are available for mechanical (servo) operation or of the pneumatic or electric (screwjack) operated type. Our units are used by many well-known international modellers at the highest competition levels and have a reputation for quality and reliability.

Mechanical retracts are available in a range of fixed retraction angles from 82º to 98º to suit most scale models. Special models are available for specific applications, for example the Fw 190 (74º) and the Mosquito (twin struts and 106º) which both require special geometry.

We also manufacture a lightweight retract in conjunction with David Stapleton Engineering.

Electric retracts can be made to order.

Three sizes of pneumatic retract are manufactured and these are designed for models up to nominal weights of 7kg, 15kg and 40kg (depending on flying characteristics of model). Again special pneumatic models are available to suit larger Fw190 (strut operated), and Mosquito, Lancaster and similar models. We also manufacture custom units for military/commercial/research UAV’s (unmanned aerial vehicles).

Oleo Legs

We were the first and probably still are the only manufacturer to offer sprung oleo legs that are damped in operation. They are manufactured in nominal diameters of 10, 13, 16, 19 and 25mm and to any length within reason from high tensile aluminium alloys and in several different styles (for example with custom-made fork ends). We also manufacture custom oleo leg/strut sets for models without retracts such as the Fiesler Storch, Fi156.

Plans

We are the sole European distributor for Sepp Uiberlacher’s range of super scale R/C plans of approximately 2m span and can also supply plans from the large range of Bob Holman.

Laser Cut Parts

We stock a range of laser cut parts which are manufactured by Bob Holman in the USA. These are to suit the excellent Brian Taylor, Dennis Bryant and Jerry Bates plans, and others are available to suit some American plans. Several sets are available for WW1 warbirds in different scales.

Brian Taylor & Other Commercial Plans

Since the retirement of Brian Taylor, we have begun sourcing accessories for his, and other commercial plans. These will be cowls, canopies, and spinners. Vacuum formed spinners will also be available for use on static and electric models and those that hand start engines. Enquire for more details.

Parts

Subject to work commitments, we can manufacture special parts for models . These include shaft extensions, wheel brakes and vacuum formings.

Technical Addendum

The geometry of retract mechanisms can be quite complex. In this section we give a brief description of the factors relevant to calculating the required geometry. Also included are scale drawings of our standard range of pneumatic retracts.