Cajun Gator Build
#1
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Marrero,
LA
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Cajun Gator Build
This will be my first build of any kind in the rc world, I figured an airboat would be perfect for me.
I am using the CajunGator plans scaled up 25% (30L x 17W).Ive modified these plans to include a drop deck as well as to be set up as a pusher.As of nowI have the parts cut out of 1/8<sup>th</sup> Baltic Birch ply to be skinned of 1/16, and constructing a stand to break in my new Super Tiger .51.I must say having CAD skills and access to a plotter to print the plans at full scale to trace out onto the ply is a great advantage.
My first question is about the pusher setup, ive read several places that this could cause some overheating.I will be running a Super Tiger .51 as mentioned and am just wondering if I should be worried that this will run into some overheating or should I be in the clear?
Secondly I will be usinga Master Airscrew 12x6 3 blade, as far as this goes im in the dark. Is this blade sufficient for my set up?
Also, as far as the cage goes, I am no fabricator by any means, is there any way to create something without actual welding, will soldering suffice? What kind of metals? I think I could manage something along those lines.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Pictures of the progress to come soon.
#2
RE: Cajun Gator Build
A 12X6 three blade is way too much prop for the ST 51. Use a 10X7 3 blade. If you use the 12X6 it will not allow the engine to rev in the sweet zone and the engine will overheat. Let the engine rev up, under a light load the engine will be at a richer setting.
#7
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Marrero,
LA
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
RE: Cajun Gator Build
So, just thought I would add a few more of the build, basically have it all cut out and fitted. Need to fill in some cracks and sand it down to get ready for glassing.
#8
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Marrero,
LA
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
RE: Cajun Gator Build
So its been a little while but with school wrapping up soon for this semester I hope to find some time in the upcoming days/weeks to begin to wrap up this project so I thought I would give a little update as to where I am as of now. I have been able to expoxy all seams with one layer inside and out for the first step in water proofing with minimal sanding to be done before the finishing resin Ill be using is applied.
As you can see i mocked up the engine mount and the gas tank to see what kind of fit I would be working with, so far I like what Im seeing but only have one question. Can anyone tell me if the mount I have rigged will be good enough, Im thinking about using some aluminum angle strips to bolt the surface of the engine mount to the sides but will the 1/8 birch ply be stong enough to support it at full throttle????? (.51 super tigre)
Also you can see the first stages of an attempt at a prop cage. As I have no skills in welding aluminum, I decided to go with some aluminum flat bar since I figured I can get away with only a few drilled holes and nuts and bolts. Any thoughts??
**I also am looking for any guidelines or advice to what my RTR weight should be upon completion, the dimensions are 30" x 17" and everything else you see as far as the engine, engine mount and prop cage. Just need a number for a weight I can shoot for.
Thanks for all comments. Critiques and pointers are always welcome.
As you can see i mocked up the engine mount and the gas tank to see what kind of fit I would be working with, so far I like what Im seeing but only have one question. Can anyone tell me if the mount I have rigged will be good enough, Im thinking about using some aluminum angle strips to bolt the surface of the engine mount to the sides but will the 1/8 birch ply be stong enough to support it at full throttle????? (.51 super tigre)
Also you can see the first stages of an attempt at a prop cage. As I have no skills in welding aluminum, I decided to go with some aluminum flat bar since I figured I can get away with only a few drilled holes and nuts and bolts. Any thoughts??
**I also am looking for any guidelines or advice to what my RTR weight should be upon completion, the dimensions are 30" x 17" and everything else you see as far as the engine, engine mount and prop cage. Just need a number for a weight I can shoot for.
Thanks for all comments. Critiques and pointers are always welcome.
#9
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Marrero,
LA
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
RE: Cajun Gator Build
Just thought I would add some more pics to show my progress. Slow but sure.
The cage is completed and two layers of finishing resin has been applied to the hull.
I've gotten everything mocked up and have it torn down nowready to paint.
#11
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Marrero,
LA
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
RE: Cajun Gator Build
So FINALLY, its all done, need to strap on the fuel tank and tap holes to screw down radio box cover.
Let me know what yall think.
(Sorry for the sun angles, the silver strips are metallic paint which really reflects the sunlight as you can see, I will post some better ones this afternoon)
Let me know what yall think.
(Sorry for the sun angles, the silver strips are metallic paint which really reflects the sunlight as you can see, I will post some better ones this afternoon)
#15
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Marrero,
LA
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
RE: Cajun Gator Build
Second run Part 1:
Second run Part 2:
**working to get the maiden voyage videos up, strangely large files for some reason.
Second run Part 2:
**working to get the maiden voyage videos up, strangely large files for some reason.