Hi Rcpilet,

I started in aeromodelling about 1950. One of my friends started in 1965, and he estimates he's built over 300 airplanes, mostly from plans. I've built somewhere between 100 and 150, mostly from BIY kits. But we both agree that we can still learn "new" ideas. That's why I like this thread and others like it. We all make mistakes and there are misunderstandings, but hey guy, please don't take my comments and opinions personally. I make mistakes and have senior moments. But for an old guy, I quess I do OK!

1. I did not say you asked too many questions, many questions, or any questions. I said you RAISED many questions. Translation: You
increased interest in the 4S120 conversions, by starting this thread, thus "provoking" many questions. I chose to just use "raised,"
instead of "provoked" (or a translation!). I ain't no wordsmith, but I think it's all somewhere in the dictionary.

2. Yep, I did see that you're using a long-shaft engine. Did you see where I kindly suggested that you could probably make it much
shorter? I'm not saying you should make it shorter, because you may prefer to move the firewall back (or have to move it back for
balance).

3. About the shroud comments. I copied that in from my WordPad in error. My error. Sorry.

4. I don't remember the exact threads here on RCU, but try searching for RamboRCU. Also, you'll see Jim's 4S120 on the JAG Engines
website. Jim very kindly answered my questions about his 4S120. Also, Google "Marty Hammersmith's Homepage." Marty also did
a successful conversion, and he used to answer questions. Don't know if he still does. The others were not on RCU, and go back a
couple years or so. Marty and Jim got me onto the Ryobi 4S120.

5. I've seen several examples of structural problems in the Four Stars. Not a reflection, in any way, on Bruce's design. The problems
were mostly related to an over-size engine. I believe Marty's 4S120 developed stress cracks in the deck sheeting, just aft of the
firewall. He suggested 'glassing this area. I've done this on all of my Four Stars since my second 4S40. Cuts down on hangar rash
and holding/lifting fingerdings. The others had to do with failure of the tail group: big engine, lack of bracing, poor glue work. Looks to
me that your building is top-notch, so these comments are for others following this thread. It's always easier to avoid a structural
failure than having to repair one after the crash!!!

Actually, except for the front-end, you've already got your 4S120 conversion going real fine! I like your thread; keep it going.

R.C.