In the mood to build something new....
I have all kinds of motors and speed controls from models I crashed this last year, and wanted to build something using some of those parts.
One of the models I crashed was my scratch-built Avro York, which used 4 motors and speed controls. It was fun to fly, and I especially enjoyed the sound of 4 motors flying the plane. I did not want to build something from scratch again. so, I looked for a model to build of similar dimensions. I decided on the Alien Aircraft Funmaster. I've already built 2 models from this manufacturer, and they both went together well, and flew very well.
I bought the model. I thought I could build it lighter than advertised, but when examining the amount of plywood in this kit, I realized that there was no way I could get the down to 4 pounds from the advertised 6 to 7 pounds. I had on hand a set of 2 motors and speed controls (in good condition) from my Flightline OV-10 bronco which I destroyed by flying it into the trees at the south end of our field. Since this model weighed 6½ pounds, they would be ideal for the Funmaster. My Funmaster is now intended to become a Twinmaster!
So far, I built the tail parts and have started on the fuselage. I will basically build this model as intended, but will leave the nose without a motor, and build 2 nacelles which will be attached to the wings, which is where the motors will be mounted.
Good luck, no doubt it will be awesome.
Good.... a build thread.
Frank
ps: any stats on the power system?
Power system: 2x 4S Brushless 3530-860Kv on 60 amp esc's.
Oooo, nice specs! :-*
Michael,
re: "Power system: 2x 4S Brushless 3530-860Kv on 60 amp esc's."
A trainer-type with twin motors and unlimited vertical. Works for me. :D Go Michael. 8)
"Always overpower a model airplane. You can always throttle back....... if you have to" ;D
Frank
what? you crashed the York? :-[
Yup. Stalled on takeoff. (I think.)
very sad to hear that, it was a magnificent model. Any chance to rebuild?
Maybe a complete rebuild in the coming months.
Some progress.
Fuselage basic construction is done. The only modification I made so far was that I did not make mounting holes and install blind-nuts for mounting a motor up front. (Two motors will be mounted on the wings.)
I started work on the wings, and I encountered one serious problem with the kit, which so far, has been excellent. Several ribs were missing. I cut new ones from scratch, and building continues.
The wings have been quite a lot of work, but I've enjoyed working on them, so far. The main wing construction is done, but I still have to build the ailerons and flaps, and then I have to design and build nacelles to house the motors.
Ailerons and flaps constructed and installed.
Michael,
Love the slotted flap geometry with the pin hinges.
You should be able to land this thing at walking speed. ;D
Frank
All major standard construction is done. I still need to check the glue joints and do some more sanding.
Then, the major modifications start: I will install servos but differently then on the plans, and then start designing and building nacelles for the motors.
Nacelles mostly done.
I basically made these up as I went along: think, measure think, cut, think, glue, think, sand, etc., etc.
They differ to compensate for the dihedral; one for the left wing, one for the right.
Good Work Michael. Going to be a great plane.
Another modification: all servos to be mounted with functioning parts externally, for easy installation and adjustments.
Servos installed in wings for flaps and ailerons.
Motors changed to E-Flite 15 brushless, and nacelles redesigned to suit.
Very good craftsmenship Michael. Good tight joints.
I think I'll have to open up the firewall, to make a larger battery compartment, so I can move the batteries forward, so the plane will balance better without additional weight.
Landing gear fairings modified to be behind the wire landing gear, instead of on top. The fairings are mounted so they will flex if necessary. Protruding screws will be cut and filed flush after painting or covering.
Fuselage modified with a much bigger battery compartment and a larger hatch.
Basic construction and all wiring (except electronic stabilizer) finished. Now to dismantle everything, sand a bit where necessary, and start covering.
Dismantled and ready to cover.
Covering started. This will take several days.
Covering done; took about 20 hours.
Very nice!
Assembled, electronic stabilizer installed, deflection adjustments made, props turn in the proper direction (counter rotating), and balanced (it took 11 ounces in the nose to balance!).
Not too cold today, and very low winds. Time for a maiden flight.
If it goes well, more decorations will be applied.
Maidened today! 3 flights!
Despite some concerns, there was more than ample power, and it flew great! The model needed not a single click of trim anywhere!
Now, I will continue decorating the model, and perhaps remodeling the nose to a more pleasant shape.
Congratulations!
Great build, looks fantastic and successful Maiden Flight; what more can a man ask for?
Happy Landings!
Thanks, Guy!
Now that I know it's a really great flyer, it`s time to improve esthetics.
First, the plane gets a nose job!
I removed the covering and built a shaped structure, then sanded and covered. See the photos.
Decorations are done!
I just have to adjust the flaps, and then wait for better weather!
That nose looks better... :-*
A few more photos ...
Looks fantastic!