Sopwith Triplane Look-a-like Construction Made of 2 Parkzone SE5A's

[bweaver]

I am starting my fun aircraft reconstruction project.

What could I do with 2 crashed Parkzone SE5A foamies?  Having 4 wings, and remnants of 2 half-decent fuselages and tail surfaces, I thought and thought, until it hurt. (it didn't take long)

Cadez and I discussed the project at the field.  While I thought of making a Fokker DR1, Greg proposed a Sopwith Triplane.  After looking on the internet for comparison images for both aircraft, I decided to go with the Sopwith Triplane.

I got some drawings and photos off of Google Images to help me in planning and making necessary modifications to the existing parts.

After comparing the two fuselages, I stripped the SE5A fuselage and shaped it to have a similar profile of the Sopwith's.  This involved removing all the junk and cutting away the top portion of the fuselage. 

The original motor was removed and a larger 15 size is being installed for more power.  The additional weight in the nose will also be helpful for CG purposes, so I am not concerned with this.

The first thing that has to be done is install a cockpit for the Sopwith centrally situated above the bottom wing. 

Then I will be modifying the fuselage sides and make a new cowling to reflect the Sopwith's. 

The photos below illustrate what I have done up til now.

[Frank v B]

Bruce,

Good thing you only crashed two biplanes.

Frank

ps: don't be inspired.

[octagon]

Hey Bruce,
after the season I have had, if you need extra wings to try and build that plane that Frank sent a picture of, I can help you out!

[bweaver]

The following slides illustrate the next steps taken in the construction of the triplane.

[bweaver]

Continued having more fun.

[bweaver]

And yet still more fun...

[octagon]

Great work Bruce. That plane is going to look awesome!

[sihinch]

I love it Bruce! A real inspiration.

[bweaver]

Still at it...

[bweaver]

Now that the wings are on, onto the landing gear and finishing touches....

[sihinch]

Bruce, I'm speechless.

Wow

[bweaver]

Even though Simon says that the propeller is in the wrong place, I plodded on and finished the aircraft.  (Besides I don't know what he's talking about.  It's located at the front.)

It took 6 oz of lead added to the cowl to balance it.  Now I can't wait to maiden it.

[BJROB]

Wow Bruce,
this plane looks great
you did an awesome job

[bweaver]

The Sopwith Triplane Look-a-like takes to the air May 7th and 8th... successfully yet! 

Flies quite majestically.

Thanks for taking the pictures Vic.

[sihinch]

That's marvelous Bruce. Is super impressive. I can't wait to see it fly with my own eyes (because these could be fake!?)