Is there anyone out there that knows of a pro. kit builder in western Washington
I have a kit that I would like built but don't have the time or the skill to do it myself
i would of course be willing to pay
but what does something like this cost?
Is this service even available?
I would like it to built to an almost ready to cover version
The plane is a sig Kobra
can anyone help me??

Justin

Your kit would be a fairly cheap frame up, but things like radio and engine install will add to the cost (if you choose to have a builder do this).... Also, when I build for someone, I give them a LIGHTENING option which costs a little extra also.

do you know of anybody in Washington??
would shipping to you be fees-able??
what are we talking for price??

Send me your email addy, I would be glad to build up your kit for you, shipping isn't that costly. [email protected]

How quickly do you need it? If you want it by summer, then I may not be able to help you, as i am finishing up a Citabria Pro as we speak. I live in Port Orchard WA, which is a ways away from you, and I would probably charge you at least a couple huundred dollars. You ay try to find someone closer. I Like also like to work slowly to make sure evrything is done as perfectly as possible.
I am not really sure what you guys classify as a Professional? All I know is I have built tons of models and about a half a dozen airplanes now with no problems. I guess there are some that have built dozens of airplanes that are better than me.
It doesn't look too hard to build. In all honesty, you might want to just give it a shot yourself. Even those of us who build, we all had to learn sometime. My first attempt years ago was an absolute work of art. Modern art that is, meaning almost unrecognizable.

Building confidence aren't I?

Don't worry, I have gotten a little better since I was a kid.

Patriot

P.S. If you are interested in my work. Check out my thread in kit building. Citabria pro by Balsa USA.

Actually, now that I think about it, there is a fella in Snoqualmie WA, that is an incredible builder, and could probably frame that thing up in no time. I don't know him personally, but he apparently won some awards for his plane. If you want to see his work, go to www.proctor-enterprises.com His name is Jeremy, and he built that awesome Tiger Moth on their home page.

Patriot

Justin2895,

There have been several threads here where misunderstandings between the builder and customer have led to animated discussions.
No matter who you chose I would suggest you do the following;

1. Get a fixed price for the cost entire cost of the project
2. Itemize the list of components you need to supply inorder to complete the kit (i.e. covering glue etc..)
3. Get it in writing
4. Get references
5. Place a clause in your agreement that any unexpected problems must be comunicated to you before the builder attempts to resolve them.

If somebody can't give you an estimate that is accurate then they aren't qualified to build "profesionally" keep this in mind and adjust the price accordingly or look elsewhere

I'm not trying to bash the builders but it is important to know up front what the project is going to cost.

Justin,

I wish I could help you out by building your plane, but I am swamped.... I typically only build GIANT SCALE and right now I am backed up till about this time next year..... Not only am I doing giant scale kits, but I am also building a 1/4 scale PROTOTYPE model for a full scale aircraft company so I am not taking on anything new at this time....

I used to build wooden skiffs, I charged 42 dollars per hour. I provided all wood, glues, fastners and oil based paint. Time to build was 110 man hours. 4600 dollars got you a completely built and painted boat. If you wanted it glassed that was extra. Most plane builders, locally here in Texas, charge for framing the kit an equal value to the kit, placing and bulkheading push rod tubes, radio gear and all extras drive the price up drastically. 150 dollar kit may cost you 300 dollars framed, covered, ready for radio gear and engine. Remember, you still have to provide all hardware, glues, covering and other stuff you want.

Will

Justin2895,

If you havent found anyone yet, I would be interested if you were willing to ship to PA. Price would vary depending on what you wanted, but strictly framed with no covering, radio, or engine installation would run about $100.00. Im currently building a website to showcase current projects but it is far from complete. Here is a pic of a complete GP Ultimate build I just completed last week. PM or email if you are interested.

Justin try custom buit models.com cheap & good

Hi- I used this forum about a month ago to find a builder. Lucky me, I found one in my own club. However, a club member mentioned he used Scott Plummer from Monroe, LA (rc_builder.tripod.com). He said Scott had a great reputation and did great quality work at a reasonable price. Has anyone else used him and do they know how to get ahold of him? Another guy at the club wants to try him but his web site has been temporily disconnected. Thanks........................

Can anyone recommend another profesisonal model builder? I'd really like
to have a couple models built and covered for me. Thanks.

mail4geoffa,

I can give you a few references if you are interested. Let me know.

I guess put me down...

That is, if shipping across borders,and across the country is your thing..

(or if tehre's any intersted parties in Quebec or Ontario....)