Epilogue
For a flight report, see here:
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_10119606/tm.htm
The Vertigo is finished. This has been a rewarding experience that has exceeded any and all expectations. First, I want to thank a few people (ok, I know that it is not the academy awards...) First, thanks to RCU for giving us this space to give a living dimension to out beloved Classic Pattern, and the space to do this thread. Next to my friend Crankpin, who is clearly the coolest guy in classic pattern today, without your help, this project would not have become the unqualified success that it is. Also LS171malibu and George Pruitt for helping me scrounge together enough part to make this build possible. And thank you to all of my Classic Pattern brothers for your help in establishing the SPA legal status of this design, as well as all of your encouragement and suggestions over the course of this build. Witout this Cyber-brotherhood, classic pattern would be little more than a concept in some folks minds.
The final weight of the airplane is 8-1/4 pounds. I would have been happy with 8-1/2 pounds, this is extra gravy in the pot. The airplane took some up trim, but there were no other glaring trim issues. It is light and responsive on the controls, and not only lives up to my expectations derived from memory, but far exceeds them in every aspect.
The airplane is done, but the story is far from over. We all know that these things are never finished per se, there will be ongoing tweaks and improvements. I will continue to post as I make any noteworthy modifications or additions to the airplane. Flight related stuff will be posted in the above linked thread. If anyone out there is building one of these aircraft, and have any questions, please do not hesitate to PM me. I will be happy to render any assistance that I can.
Thanks for joining me in this little trip to reach back into the past and bring it back to life.
Best regards,
Robert Fish
Photos: White Vertigo: 1976, age 13 (Just a kid). RE/White Vertigo: 2010, age 47 (old fat guy).