T-28 allowed mods.

[patrick_ohalloran]

Our T-28 allowed mods are:

    - no modifications of any kind to the airframe (i.e. clipped wings or tail)
    - decals may be removed and personal markings applied
    - planes may be repainted

Instead of painting I'd like to cover it (let's face it mine is largely tape covered already!). Should we allow covering as an option in addition to painting?

[aside: anyone up to lobby to delay May 1st race 1 week, I cannot may it on the 1st  ]

[Jon_Stychno]

I don't see any reason not to allow covering. Be careful not to melt your plane!

[adam_clement]

     
   What were you thinking of using for that? Will covering work on foam? As for the race on the 1st
of May, you could use that as your throw away.



   Adam

[patrick_ohalloran]

Any of the usual films, for foam it's just a matter of keeping the temperature lower, and not allowing the iron to dwell for too long. I have a thin mylar that does not need a lot of heat. While I'd like to cover it, unfortunately I think it goes against the idea that this is a stock class.

[Red]

Guys,

I have a little bit different view on this. Tape for repairs is one thing, but to cover your wing with film I don't think is within the spirit of the rules. Yes you could use Ultracote over the foam, but there may actually be a speed advantage there. The stock wing is quite porous and I could see a smooth surface going faster. Take a look a Jon's Cloud Dancer, it has a film covered wing.

A tape repair is one thing, even if it is covers most of the wing. A purposely smooth racing wing is another altogether.

[Jon_Stychno]

Hey now, letting the cat outa the bag there  . Its a NASA developed "speed enhancing clear adhesive backed polymer". Very expensive and hard to find.

[adam_clement]

 Fellow Flyers,

    I agree with Red. It will make the plane faster. Maybe tomorrow we can take up a collection
and get Patrick a new wing .They are $35.  Here's a link http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=PKZ4420. 

Atom

[patrick_ohalloran]

ok. I can paint it and make it smooth, I just cannot cover it in film and make it smooth. I'm not going to paint it, too much hassle.

I picked up an old fuse/wing from Guy and I should be able to hobble together a new model with parts from the existing machine. I cannot go buy a new wing, my T-28's become a 1 piece affair after crash 1 or 2, that's when all the plastic pieces on the wing/fuse joiner break.

Patrick

[Red]

Patrick,

While I'm sure you could paint it and make it smooth, I think you'll agree that is a pretty far reach from the spirit of the rules which are intended to be a "stock" airframe race.

Maybe we need an amendment to the rules which specifically adresses these concerns?

[patrick_ohalloran]

Agreed, no film. On paint I think we've allowed it so far, to keep things simple just continue to allow painting.

Patrick