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sewbusy -> Aerotech 118" YAK 55SP Prototype (11/18/2006 12:55:21 AM)
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Well Guys... The time has come to get this kit going. John Sharpless at Aerotech has designed a 118" Yak 55SP prototype & he proposes to release the kit in early 2007 after all the various testing is done. This version will be the ONLY model at this time, specifically designed around a 150cc sized engine. This will make a unique product for Aerotech.
Although the aircraft is called the Yak 55SP, it is actually an Arsenyiev or Technoavia SP-55M and it was designed by the same individual who designed the Yak 55M. It is a "highly" modified full scale aircraft specifically built for competition.
With this in mind, (competition) Joe Cutright, (a full scale air-frame & power plant licenced mechanic working with Lockheed Martin) & myself (his gopher) have undertaken the task of bringing this "beast" to harness. In the days/weeks/months ahead we will try to show our progress and the ins & outs of the road ahead for those of you who may be interested in building Aerotech's newest project.
Aerotech used their precise laser equipment to cut the formers and parts for the kit which we received and needless to say, the tolerances were computerized. No need for further explanations there.
Joe tackled the wings & stabs first. These were fully prepared & I learned the technique of making skins for both. Since my building experience had been limited to repairs on previous aircraft, this was all new to me, & my education has now begun. After Joe finished building the skins, my next job was to locate all the weights for the sleeves. Man... I was pulling weights from everywhere I could find.......finally ending up at Home Depot for some last minute heavy stuff! I swear that my back went out just before taking them out of the van...heh, heh....
We spent a few nights getting both wings and stabs set up... here is a shot of one wing & stab
More to come tomorrow.
Wayne
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