Grumman Tracker / Trader build thread
#76
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Kinner,
I think I'll put the "2nd" rudder servo in the "1st rudder" (lead rudder). Don't know how else to describe this. I'm still not sure why the Tracker had a double rudder.
I have everything from the Kellogg family. I just need to start on my portion to finish the model. I'll start posting soon.
I get the impression from the Kellogg's that they are going to wait to see how well the Tracker flies before they start marketing it.
If any one out there has any recommendations on engine thrust, please let me know.
Boyd
I think I'll put the "2nd" rudder servo in the "1st rudder" (lead rudder). Don't know how else to describe this. I'm still not sure why the Tracker had a double rudder.
I have everything from the Kellogg family. I just need to start on my portion to finish the model. I'll start posting soon.
I get the impression from the Kellogg's that they are going to wait to see how well the Tracker flies before they start marketing it.
If any one out there has any recommendations on engine thrust, please let me know.
Boyd
#77
If you provide an address, I'll send the drawings I made concerning the double rudder. Lots of issues with another servo in the rudder when it can be designed without.
The double rudder reason is found here:
"However, the Tracker was so short-coupled that in a single engine situation, the fin and rudder despite their size were still insufficient and an adverse yaw into a spin would result. At lower airspeeds even with both engines operating the Tracker was a handful during takeoff and approach."
From this article:
http://aviationtrivia.blogspot.com/2...vators-on.html
I sent the orginal drawings to his (Charlie's) plans site a year or so ago. Please advise.
Ray W.
The double rudder reason is found here:
"However, the Tracker was so short-coupled that in a single engine situation, the fin and rudder despite their size were still insufficient and an adverse yaw into a spin would result. At lower airspeeds even with both engines operating the Tracker was a handful during takeoff and approach."
From this article:
http://aviationtrivia.blogspot.com/2...vators-on.html
I sent the orginal drawings to his (Charlie's) plans site a year or so ago. Please advise.
Ray W.
Last edited by Kinner; 01-31-2015 at 11:52 AM.
#82
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Ray,
Just to be sure, it appears there are two pivot points at X. The only reason you show it offset is to illustrate that point, correct?
Is this operated by two servos?
Boyd
Just to be sure, it appears there are two pivot points at X. The only reason you show it offset is to illustrate that point, correct?
Is this operated by two servos?
Boyd
#83
Sorry, the extra "X" is misplaced. It was a late night with tired eyes.
Only one servo needed to drive the larger primary rudder and it's swing will cause the smaller secondary rudder linkage to displace on it's own pivot point. It's an adaptation of the full scale "booster" tabs seen on many WWII era fighters. Looks like a trim tab but actually assists the pilot at high airloads to deflect an elevator.
Ray W.
Only one servo needed to drive the larger primary rudder and it's swing will cause the smaller secondary rudder linkage to displace on it's own pivot point. It's an adaptation of the full scale "booster" tabs seen on many WWII era fighters. Looks like a trim tab but actually assists the pilot at high airloads to deflect an elevator.
Ray W.
#84
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hey guys.. retired navy pilot with 2000 hours in the TS2-a, S2-d/e and 4000 hours in the C-1a. not much modeling experience but a real interest in the Grumman C1-a. I stumbled on ur site from google. thanks for posting . blake
#85
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original models from grumman were about 4 feet longer. when shortened to fit on the Charlie class carriers it had to be shortened. and as some said the panel was added. trimmed 5 degrees either side for hands off single engine operation. could be flown with out the rudder assist if broken but required air speed and a lot of knee/leg shaking power.
#87
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Like the #85 post, I have a great many hours in the TF-1(C1A)BuNo 136769 in Naples Italy mid 1950's, Charlie and I had spoke many times about this project and I would very much like to have the plans if and when they may become available, looking forward to this continuing build.
nav-air
nav-air
#88
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nav-air,
Charlie and I made arrangements for me to finish what he started. The plans and the plane are a prototype. I am giving the estate updates as to modifications I'm making so that the final plans will be correct. The estate is waiting for me to finish and test fly the plane prior to marketing the plans etc.
My goal is to have it flying this summer, but may not make it.
maser
Charlie and I made arrangements for me to finish what he started. The plans and the plane are a prototype. I am giving the estate updates as to modifications I'm making so that the final plans will be correct. The estate is waiting for me to finish and test fly the plane prior to marketing the plans etc.
My goal is to have it flying this summer, but may not make it.
maser
#89
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I don't build but would love to have a copy of ur C-1A plans. my last flying job was uss Lexington cod pilot for 8 yrs. of the 88 true C-1A's built I have flown over 35 of them. I was assigned to test the birds when they came out of overhaul at Birmingham and Dothan.
thank,
Blake ( co said the real "ghost of Lexington" lol
thank,
Blake ( co said the real "ghost of Lexington" lol
#90
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Blake,
I don't have the authority to make copies of the plans. That is vested with the Charlie Kellogg's plans. You will have to wait till they start marketing the plans.
As one Navy veteran to the other, Anchors Away. I spent 8 yrs. in the Navy Reserve JAG Corps.
Sorry.
Boyd
I don't have the authority to make copies of the plans. That is vested with the Charlie Kellogg's plans. You will have to wait till they start marketing the plans.
As one Navy veteran to the other, Anchors Away. I spent 8 yrs. in the Navy Reserve JAG Corps.
Sorry.
Boyd
#94
Very cool. Thanks for the update.
I see your going the conventional nose vs. the fiberglass Charlie was working on. I don't mind carving if it saves alot of cash.
Those lighten holes in the back of the nacelle are most reminiscent of the sonobouy stores. Drop some sonobouys and follow up with a depth charge. I can just see all the goodies someone could build into the Tracker.
My Dad flew a few MAD missions in the S-2 off the Jersey Coast way back when. He didn't like the low level stuff but preferred that vs. Airships.
Ray W
I see your going the conventional nose vs. the fiberglass Charlie was working on. I don't mind carving if it saves alot of cash.
Those lighten holes in the back of the nacelle are most reminiscent of the sonobouy stores. Drop some sonobouys and follow up with a depth charge. I can just see all the goodies someone could build into the Tracker.
My Dad flew a few MAD missions in the S-2 off the Jersey Coast way back when. He didn't like the low level stuff but preferred that vs. Airships.
Ray W
Last edited by Kinner; 08-10-2015 at 07:46 AM.
#95
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Ray,
I do have the mold to the front section of the fuselage. I will use it to make certain parts, such as the windows, nose section etc.
I'm trying to decide on how many goodies to add to the project. Since this plane has never been test flown I'm the one that will have to do a maiden. I'm reluctant to do to much until I know how well it flies. Charlie makes a good product as I have seen others fly his planes off the board. I plan to incorporate a gyro system in case I have an engine failure.
I will make every effort to test fly by next season.
Boyd.
I do have the mold to the front section of the fuselage. I will use it to make certain parts, such as the windows, nose section etc.
I'm trying to decide on how many goodies to add to the project. Since this plane has never been test flown I'm the one that will have to do a maiden. I'm reluctant to do to much until I know how well it flies. Charlie makes a good product as I have seen others fly his planes off the board. I plan to incorporate a gyro system in case I have an engine failure.
I will make every effort to test fly by next season.
Boyd.
#96
Spectacular news Maser. Your design angle is sound. Build a good flyer and let others do the add on's.
Where abouts is Piedmont? I used to live in Altus (South West corner), OK many moons ago.
Ray W.
Where abouts is Piedmont? I used to live in Altus (South West corner), OK many moons ago.
Ray W.
#99
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Hi Boyd, Charlie's wife just sent me the link for this build. Great to see the Tracker taking shape. I sold my SBD to Trent in NC, really looking forward to see it at Delaware nest year. Fran