TKO build thread
 

Well I started on the TKO this weekend. I didn't get to far, but I did manage to cut the "kit". I will update with details and build pictures along the way.

RE: TKO build thread
 

A link to the previous thread refering to my new design.


http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_5591786/tm.htm

RE: TKO build thread
 

Excellent!! This will be Kewl...

Chuck

RE: TKO build thread
 

Oh yeah a little tail art for this bird when I get her done.

RE: TKO build thread
 

Gotta love that Dodge "Super Bee". Nice touch with the "TKO" under it. [sm=thumbup.gif]

RE: TKO build thread
 

Yeah it should look pretty cool on the tail, maybe 1 large one under the wing.

RE: TKO build thread
 

I have the stab halves built and sheeted. As you will notice in the pictures Rib #1 is canted to allow for 1.5" of anhedral. The sheeting is 1/16 balsa and all ribs are 1/16 balsa except for rib 1 which is 1/32. I tried to post these pictures yesterday, but was unable to upload to RCU.

RE: TKO build thread
 

I also completed the Vertical fin today. the frame 1/4" balsa with 3/32 sheeting. I will try to get back down there to start framing the wings out.

RE: TKO build thread
 

It's looking great! You're a fast builder.

That is the best way I've found to build symmetrical horizontal stabs. I've used it on three models and it more or less assures a straight build.

RE: TKO build thread
 

I learned it from building Bridi kits.

RE: TKO build thread
 

In case anyone missed what Dave was refering to. I glued a thin slice of 1/16 balsa on the centerline of the leading and trailing edges of the stab. I then cut a notch on the center line of the ribs and use a square to line them up, this creats a nice straight structure every time.

RE: TKO build thread
 

Paternguy,
Looks like it is coming along good. You are a fast builder! One question. Did you abandoned the airfoil shown in the last thread? The ribs you cut do not look as radical.

Jim

RE: TKO build thread
 

I didn't post that airfoil. LOL
One of our friends from TX posted that. LOL

RE: TKO build thread
 

Patternguy your airfoils looks similar to the one's that Joe Bridi used in his designs.

RE: TKO build thread
 

They are, the one for this bird is from the UFO narrowed by 10 % for a little more speed on the top end.

RE: TKO build thread
 

This week has been really hectic at work, so I didn't get much done until this weekend. Any way I got the fuse framed up, every thing lines up perfect.

The pictures with the tail feathers is a dry fit so no comments if anything looks crooked. LOL

I also did one with engine in it, so you can see the configuration.

RE: TKO build thread
 

Well, I did manage to get down to the shop this weekend. I got the canopy completed and the top of the fuse glued and sanded.

Sorry I didn't get any pics of the canopy fabrication. I carved it out of foam and then laid up fiberglass over it. I am very happy with the results.

RE: TKO build thread
 

Did you vacuum bag the foam/layup to get what appears to be a very smooth exterior finish? Another query, did you use the blue foam?

Tnx..

RE: TKO build thread
 

That really looks great. Like Tony said, it looks extremely smooth.

RE: TKO build thread
 

I used open cell foam from the craft store, it was 24 " x 48" x 4 " for $14. I cut the rough shape out with my band saw, and the sanded it to shape with 220 sandpaper. I then coated the whole thing with spackling compound (to fill the open cells). I then wet sanded with 400 grit. Then I laid the 2 layers of fiberglass up by hand, sanding in between coats of resin (5 coats total). I did it all over a period of 2 days. It did turn out smooth, but there was some elbow grease applied. LOL

But all in all I have to say its not to shabby for my first attempt at laying up glass.

RE: TKO build thread
 

Well its almost done. I have been out of work with a back/neck injury, so its been really slow going. All thats left to do is install the radio gear and set the CG.

RE: TKO build thread
 

pictures.

RE: TKO build thread
 

pictures 2

RE: TKO build thread
 

Did anyone catch which retracts I used in this bird ?

RE: TKO build thread
 

Kraft electrics!! I had a set in a sport twin a few years back. I know a guy that has a brand new set in the box! I have a pusle inverter for them somewhere at home.....like an electronic switch from what I under stand