Maj. Woody's X-Treme Jets F-4C Phantom
05-21-2019, 07:41 AM
#1226
My Feedback: (11)
I was able to remove the aileron and flap servo screws without too much trouble. The good part is I do not need to replace the mounting rails. Today I have #4 x 3/8" wood screws arriving. Next I will countersink the screws into the aluminum mounts by using a larger drill bit. Once servos are installed I will install the flap and aileron control horns. Should have wings completed by tomorrow with all controls hooked up. This will complete all the control hook-ups.
Most of the steps left to complete:
Most of the steps left to complete:
1. Plumb and install UAT and fuel tanks
2. Plumb air supply for gear and brakes
3. Create electronics board and install components
4. Program and test landing gear and gear door sequence
5. Paint pilots
6. Assemble cockpit with pilots and install
7 Install batteries for best balance
8. Adjust all controls and Cortex Pro
The list is getting shorter and I should have it completed in the next couple weeks dependent on work schedule.
2. Plumb air supply for gear and brakes
3. Create electronics board and install components
4. Program and test landing gear and gear door sequence
5. Paint pilots
6. Assemble cockpit with pilots and install
7 Install batteries for best balance
8. Adjust all controls and Cortex Pro
The list is getting shorter and I should have it completed in the next couple weeks dependent on work schedule.
05-22-2019, 07:55 AM
#1227
My Feedback: (11)
Cockpit trimmed and fitted.
Spent several hours last night trimming and fitting the cockpit. I am doing install same way as Major Woody did in this thread.
The cockpit tub was cracked at the rear and was kind of fixed at the factory. Looks like it was glued and had putty applied before they painted it. I cleaned it up, drilled small hole at end of crack to stop it cracking further. Then applied fiberglass cloth to the back side. Now it is strong and should last.
I also had to cut the front of the tub to clear the steering servo. Still need to paint the pilots and add them. At least it is looking more complete seeing the cockpit through the canopy.
The cockpit tub was cracked at the rear and was kind of fixed at the factory. Looks like it was glued and had putty applied before they painted it. I cleaned it up, drilled small hole at end of crack to stop it cracking further. Then applied fiberglass cloth to the back side. Now it is strong and should last.
I also had to cut the front of the tub to clear the steering servo. Still need to paint the pilots and add them. At least it is looking more complete seeing the cockpit through the canopy.
05-23-2019, 08:43 AM
#1228
Jeff, good to see you are still at the F-4. What was the reason for following Skymaster on the pipe? It looks like you will have blistering issues with the pipe as it is, as you know I have built 2 of these and have no issues whatsoever with an inverted pipe. The full scale F-4 was built with downthrust, I believe 5 degrees, not sure though. Without the down angle on the pipe you will need some type of heat shield for the tail.
I'll post my video for those that may have missed it, the F-4 will forgive a dumb thumb until there is no airspeed left to give!
I'll post my video for those that may have missed it, the F-4 will forgive a dumb thumb until there is no airspeed left to give!
05-23-2019, 09:07 AM
#1229
My Feedback: (11)
Jeff, good to see you are still at the F-4. What was the reason for following Skymaster on the pipe? It looks like you will have blistering issues with the pipe as it is, as you know I have built 2 of these and have no issues whatsoever with an inverted pipe. The full scale F-4 was built with downthrust, I believe 5 degrees, not sure though. Without the down angle on the pipe you will need some type of heat shield for the tail.
I'll post my video for those that may have missed it, the F-4 will forgive a dumb thumb until there is no airspeed left to give!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2vNulraO0A
I'll post my video for those that may have missed it, the F-4 will forgive a dumb thumb until there is no airspeed left to give!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2vNulraO0A
Did you tee the main tanks or run in series? I have seen people do them both ways.
Also, I have nice tank fittings from Pacific RC Jets that I will use. My thought is putting a vent tube fitting on top of each main tank. Any thoughts about this idea?
Thank you,
Jeff
06-19-2019, 05:47 AM
#1230
Thanks Jeff, I have the stock T fitting arrangement on my tanks as per the instructions. It would be a good idea to have L vent fitting on top of the tanks, it would make installation of the tanks easier.
Just a note as to why I am not on here much, I've lost my flying site due to the political nature of the local club (a few that know what's best for all despite the popular vote) and one bumbling know it all, so I no longer fly RC unfortunately. I have not been able to bring myself to sell any of my models yet, even though most have sat for 1 1/2 years some for 2 years not flown. I do enjoy coming on here every so often to see what my old friends are doing, so keep up the good work, looking forward to your successful maiden!
Just a note as to why I am not on here much, I've lost my flying site due to the political nature of the local club (a few that know what's best for all despite the popular vote) and one bumbling know it all, so I no longer fly RC unfortunately. I have not been able to bring myself to sell any of my models yet, even though most have sat for 1 1/2 years some for 2 years not flown. I do enjoy coming on here every so often to see what my old friends are doing, so keep up the good work, looking forward to your successful maiden!
06-19-2019, 05:57 AM
#1231
My Feedback: (11)
Thanks Jeff, I have the stock T fitting arrangement on my tanks as per the instructions. It would be a good idea to have L vent fitting on top of the tanks, it would make installation of the tanks easier.
Just a note as to why I am not on here much, I've lost my flying site due to the political nature of the local club (a few that know what's best for all despite the popular vote) and one bumbling know it all, so I no longer fly RC unfortunately. I have not been able to bring myself to sell any of my models yet, even though most have sat for 1 1/2 years some for 2 years not flown. I do enjoy coming on here every so often to see what my old friends are doing, so keep up the good work, looking forward to your successful maiden!
Just a note as to why I am not on here much, I've lost my flying site due to the political nature of the local club (a few that know what's best for all despite the popular vote) and one bumbling know it all, so I no longer fly RC unfortunately. I have not been able to bring myself to sell any of my models yet, even though most have sat for 1 1/2 years some for 2 years not flown. I do enjoy coming on here every so often to see what my old friends are doing, so keep up the good work, looking forward to your successful maiden!
Sorry to hear about your field loss. I know how tough it is to not sell your stuff. I am in a similar situation, except my field has been closed by the FAA. For me, I do have other options that require a two hour drive to fly my turbines. I have not done it yet since our field just closed May 23. They are working with the FAA to reopen it to some degree. Not sure turbines will be allowed back though.
I have thought of selling my stuff and use the funds elsewhere. I just cannot get myself to do it and will make the drive to fly a couple time a month. I do have a local field that I can still fly smaller EDFs and other aircraft. No turbines allowed due to fire danger.
I hope you can figure something out and begin flying again. I really understand your frustration. Good luck and glad to see you are around here still.
Cheers!
Jeff
06-19-2019, 06:36 AM
#1232
Thank you for the info on the tank feeds. I also inverted my pipe as Bob suggested. Plenty of down thrust at the rear and should avoid heating the stabilator.
Sorry to hear about your field loss. I know how tough it is to not sell your stuff. I am in a similar situation, except my field has been closed by the FAA. For me, I do have other options that require a two hour drive to fly my turbines. I have not done it yet since our field just closed May 23. They are working with the FAA to reopen it to some degree. Not sure turbines will be allowed back though.
I have thought of selling my stuff and use the funds elsewhere. I just cannot get myself to do it and will make the drive to fly a couple time a month. I do have a local field that I can still fly smaller EDFs and other aircraft. No turbines allowed due to fire danger.
I hope you can figure something out and begin flying again. I really understand your frustration. Good luck and glad to see you are around here still.
Cheers!
Jeff
Sorry to hear about your field loss. I know how tough it is to not sell your stuff. I am in a similar situation, except my field has been closed by the FAA. For me, I do have other options that require a two hour drive to fly my turbines. I have not done it yet since our field just closed May 23. They are working with the FAA to reopen it to some degree. Not sure turbines will be allowed back though.
I have thought of selling my stuff and use the funds elsewhere. I just cannot get myself to do it and will make the drive to fly a couple time a month. I do have a local field that I can still fly smaller EDFs and other aircraft. No turbines allowed due to fire danger.
I hope you can figure something out and begin flying again. I really understand your frustration. Good luck and glad to see you are around here still.
Cheers!
Jeff
Sorry to hear about your field situation WRT to the FAA! What club was that and where is their field?
Bob
06-19-2019, 07:11 AM
#1233
My Feedback: (11)
The club and park district are working with the FAA and Control Tower to get a letter of Agreement to open the field back up. Not sure what rules will be placed on the pilots, but fairly sure that Turbine aircraft will not be allowed back.
So my options are Riverside and Buttonwillow in Bakersfield. Both of these fields are a couple hours away. Then I also have a dry lakebed to fly from, but my understanding that the military fly drones out there and will disrupt radio signal at any point in time. I have a friend who is trying to find out if the military has certain times that they could let us know to fly. So far no response from them.
This hobby is taking another big hit with the new FAA regs. It is happening all across the country at fields old and new that are in airspace they govern.
Best regards,
Jeff
06-19-2019, 07:27 AM
#1234
Hi Bob,HiIt is the Valley Flyers club at the Sepulveda Basin in California. There are several threads on RCU and RC Groups about it. Since the field is a public park and is located less than 2 miles from Van Nuys airport, the FAA shut it down after our last jet event.
The club and park district are working with the FAA and Control Tower to get a letter of Agreement to open the field back up. Not sure what rules will be placed on the pilots, but fairly sure that Turbine aircraft will not be allowed back.
So my options are Riverside and Buttonwillow in Bakersfield. Both of these fields are a couple hours away. Then I also have a dry lakebed to fly from, but my understanding that the military fly drones out there and will disrupt radio signal at any point in time. I have a friend who is trying to find out if the military has certain times that they could let us know to fly. So far no response from them.
This hobby is taking another big hit with the new FAA regs. It is happening all across the country at fields old and new that are in airspace they govern.
Best regards,
Jeff
The club and park district are working with the FAA and Control Tower to get a letter of Agreement to open the field back up. Not sure what rules will be placed on the pilots, but fairly sure that Turbine aircraft will not be allowed back.
So my options are Riverside and Buttonwillow in Bakersfield. Both of these fields are a couple hours away. Then I also have a dry lakebed to fly from, but my understanding that the military fly drones out there and will disrupt radio signal at any point in time. I have a friend who is trying to find out if the military has certain times that they could let us know to fly. So far no response from them.
This hobby is taking another big hit with the new FAA regs. It is happening all across the country at fields old and new that are in airspace they govern.
Best regards,
Jeff
Yea, that's a tough one. That field is located in an area that shows as "0" feet authorization on the FAA's UAS Facility Map - meaning that they will not authorize any UAS flight in there using the LAANC system. That doesn't directly apply to us, but it does indicate the fact that they really don't want any non-manned aviation activity in that area.
They have given access to historical "fixed sites" that are in a similar situation, but I'd be willing to bet that at most, you'll get authorization to 400', but no higher. It doesn't necessarily mean no turbine flying there, but that may be up to the local authorities to work out.
Good luck with that!
BTW, our flying field is grass and is OK for certain turbines, but we routinely drive over an hour to a better site - its just a matter of desire! I'd go further than that to fly turbines, if it was necessary...
06-20-2019, 02:43 PM
#1235
My Feedback: (11)
Jeff,
Yea, that's a tough one. That field is located in an area that shows as "0" feet authorization on the FAA's UAS Facility Map - meaning that they will not authorize any UAS flight in there using the LAANC system. That doesn't directly apply to us, but it does indicate the fact that they really don't want any non-manned aviation activity in that area.
They have given access to historical "fixed sites" that are in a similar situation, but I'd be willing to bet that at most, you'll get authorization to 400', but no higher. It doesn't necessarily mean no turbine flying there, but that may be up to the local authorities to work out.
Good luck with that!
BTW, our flying field is grass and is OK for certain turbines, but we routinely drive over an hour to a better site - its just a matter of desire! I'd go further than that to fly turbines, if it was necessary...
Yea, that's a tough one. That field is located in an area that shows as "0" feet authorization on the FAA's UAS Facility Map - meaning that they will not authorize any UAS flight in there using the LAANC system. That doesn't directly apply to us, but it does indicate the fact that they really don't want any non-manned aviation activity in that area.
They have given access to historical "fixed sites" that are in a similar situation, but I'd be willing to bet that at most, you'll get authorization to 400', but no higher. It doesn't necessarily mean no turbine flying there, but that may be up to the local authorities to work out.
Good luck with that!
BTW, our flying field is grass and is OK for certain turbines, but we routinely drive over an hour to a better site - its just a matter of desire! I'd go further than that to fly turbines, if it was necessary...
I just received word that Sepulveda Basin will reopen tomorrow. The altitude limit has been reduced to 250 feet. Which is still adequate for most aircraft. Turbines have been approved to fly. Smoke is no longer allowed for any aircraft. No take off or landings from right to left, so if wind is reversed then no flying.
At least I have a nearby field for turbine flight again.
Jeff
06-21-2019, 06:52 AM
#1236
Hi Bob,
I just received word that Sepulveda Basin will reopen tomorrow. The altitude limit has been reduced to 250 feet. Which is still adequate for most aircraft. Turbines have been approved to fly. Smoke is no longer allowed for any aircraft. No take off or landings from right to left, so if wind is reversed then no flying.
At least I have a nearby field for turbine flight again.
Jeff
I just received word that Sepulveda Basin will reopen tomorrow. The altitude limit has been reduced to 250 feet. Which is still adequate for most aircraft. Turbines have been approved to fly. Smoke is no longer allowed for any aircraft. No take off or landings from right to left, so if wind is reversed then no flying.
At least I have a nearby field for turbine flight again.
Jeff
Bob
01-30-2020, 08:25 AM
#1241
My Feedback: (11)
Hi Everyone,
I am back working on my F4. Last year was a hectic and now I am back to assembly and flying. Only a few things left to complete and hope to fire up the turbine this weekend. If all goes well I plan to do maiden the following weekend. Control hookups are complete. I inverted the tail pipe as suggested here. I am now ready to install components. I would appreciate any pics and suggestions for equipment layout in cockpit.
1. Plumb and install UAT and fuel tanks
2. Plumb air supply for gear and brakes
3.Create electronics board and install components - In progress
4. Program and test landing gear and gear door sequence
5. Paint pilots
6. Assemble cockpit with pilots and install
7 Install batteries for best balance
8. Adjust all controls and Cortex Pro
The list is getting shorter and I should have it completed in the next couple weeks dependent on work schedule.
Thank you,
Jeff
I am back working on my F4. Last year was a hectic and now I am back to assembly and flying. Only a few things left to complete and hope to fire up the turbine this weekend. If all goes well I plan to do maiden the following weekend. Control hookups are complete. I inverted the tail pipe as suggested here. I am now ready to install components. I would appreciate any pics and suggestions for equipment layout in cockpit.
Originally Posted by F16Jeff;12526443
Most of the steps left to complete:[left
Most of the steps left to complete:[left
3.
4. Program and test landing gear and gear door sequence
5. Paint pilots
6.
7 Install batteries for best balance
8. Adjust all controls and Cortex Pro
The list is getting shorter and I should have it completed in the next couple weeks dependent on work schedule.
Jeff
01-31-2020, 08:55 AM
#1242
My Feedback: (11)
More progress
Last night I located and mounted all my equipment on the tray. The batteries and air tanks fit in the nose very well. Depending on balance, I will be able to add or remove as necessary. Tonight I will terminate all connections to CB 200 and Cortex Pro. Complete fuel tank and fuel pump plumbing. Plan to make a air valve and gauge board to fit above the intakes in the turbine area. Really feeling like it is close to being finished.
Jeff
Jeff
02-10-2020, 07:27 AM
#1243
My Feedback: (11)
Now everything is nearly completed on my Thunderbirds F4e Phantom. Some final questions, what is the optimum balance for maiden flight? More important, what size screws are used for the front wing screws? It turns out mine were not included with the hardware. They seem to be M4, not sure proper length for them.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Jeff
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Jeff
02-10-2020, 08:13 AM
#1244
Now everything is nearly completed on my Thunderbirds F4e Phantom. Some final questions, what is the optimum balance for maiden flight? More important, what size screws are used for the front wing screws? It turns out mine were not included with the hardware. They seem to be M4, not sure proper length for them.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Jeff
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Jeff
I flew mine with a CG of 253mm back from the leading edge at the wing root, you will be good at 250mm. I did not start with anything further forward than that, so I can't comment, my planes however did not need any trim. The wing bolts are 20mm or 3/4" long, not sure of the size, they just fit into the embedded nut.
Do not be worried about this plane, it is so easy to fly. You can slow it down, don't be afraid of that, it is so forgiving. Good luck my friend and keep us posted! Luke
02-11-2020, 11:22 AM
#1245
My Feedback: (11)
Hi Luke,
Thank you for the quick reply. Sorry to hear about your field and not being able to fly your jets. We have been successful so far in working with the FAA and nearby airport to continue flying at our field. Of course it is always being watched and we never know when the next battle will come up.
It is hard to believe I have been working on this Jet for over a year now. It is exciting to know I am close to flying it. I am hoping to possibly maiden this Friday if I can get everything completed the next couple evenings. Then take it to Coachella Jet Jam on Saturday. It is a big stretch goal at this time,, but one I am working towards.
I appreciate the cg measurements. i will start at 250mm and go from there.
All controls are set up to recommended throws.
I am curious if you are using crow on ailerons for full flaps and any elevator compensation?
Cheers!
Jeff
Thank you for the quick reply. Sorry to hear about your field and not being able to fly your jets. We have been successful so far in working with the FAA and nearby airport to continue flying at our field. Of course it is always being watched and we never know when the next battle will come up.
It is hard to believe I have been working on this Jet for over a year now. It is exciting to know I am close to flying it. I am hoping to possibly maiden this Friday if I can get everything completed the next couple evenings. Then take it to Coachella Jet Jam on Saturday. It is a big stretch goal at this time,, but one I am working towards.
I appreciate the cg measurements. i will start at 250mm and go from there.
All controls are set up to recommended throws.
I am curious if you are using crow on ailerons for full flaps and any elevator compensation?
Cheers!
Jeff
Jeff old buddy, nice to see you finishing this project! Last time I flew mine was over a year ago, I no longer fly. Club only listens to one man, members had no voice or vote, so I had to move on, FEMA has taken over the flying site anyway so it's all but completely over for turbine flying here.
I flew mine with a CG of 253mm back from the leading edge at the wing root, you will be good at 250mm. I did not start with anything further forward than that, so I can't comment, my planes however did not need any trim. The wing bolts are 20mm or 3/4" long, not sure of the size, they just fit into the embedded nut.
Do not be worried about this plane, it is so easy to fly. You can slow it down, don't be afraid of that, it is so forgiving. Good luck my friend and keep us posted! Luke
I flew mine with a CG of 253mm back from the leading edge at the wing root, you will be good at 250mm. I did not start with anything further forward than that, so I can't comment, my planes however did not need any trim. The wing bolts are 20mm or 3/4" long, not sure of the size, they just fit into the embedded nut.
Do not be worried about this plane, it is so easy to fly. You can slow it down, don't be afraid of that, it is so forgiving. Good luck my friend and keep us posted! Luke
02-19-2020, 10:04 AM
#1248
Jeff old buddy, nice to see you finishing this project! Last time I flew mine was over a year ago, I no longer fly. Club only listens to one man, members had no voice or vote, so I had to move on, FEMA has taken over the flying site anyway so it's all but completely over for turbine flying here.
I flew mine with a CG of 253mm back from the leading edge at the wing root, you will be good at 250mm. I did not start with anything further forward than that, so I can't comment, my planes however did not need any trim. The wing bolts are 20mm or 3/4" long, not sure of the size, they just fit into the embedded nut.
Do not be worried about this plane, it is so easy to fly. You can slow it down, don't be afraid of that, it is so forgiving. Good luck my friend and keep us posted! Luke
I flew mine with a CG of 253mm back from the leading edge at the wing root, you will be good at 250mm. I did not start with anything further forward than that, so I can't comment, my planes however did not need any trim. The wing bolts are 20mm or 3/4" long, not sure of the size, they just fit into the embedded nut.
Do not be worried about this plane, it is so easy to fly. You can slow it down, don't be afraid of that, it is so forgiving. Good luck my friend and keep us posted! Luke
Are there not other clubs flying jets in your area? I’ve got 5 or 6 clubs in the greater Denver area (only one flies jets and has appropriate runway for our high density altitude). Jeffco Aeromodellers.
Carbon Egida and me. 400’ is ridiculous.
I also fly competition sailplanes and we’re kinda screwed going forward since our old LOA with FAA is canceled. 400’ cap and all. Time to march on Washington...
Last edited by Riddle4U; 02-19-2020 at 10:06 AM. Reason: Misspelling
The following users liked this post:
dionysusbacchus (03-04-2020)
04-05-2020, 08:19 PM
#1249
My Feedback: (11)
My F4 came to life today.
Finally had some time off work this weekend. I work in the cruise industry and dealing with many guests being quarantined. Now most are home.
So now I have been finishing up a lot of the small things. Still need to balance and tidy up some lines and wires. Tonight I fired up the K140g2 and very impressed with the power. Now I have to wait for the stay at home order to be lifted.
For some reason I cannot upload an mp4 video of it running. I will try again later.
So now I have been finishing up a lot of the small things. Still need to balance and tidy up some lines and wires. Tonight I fired up the K140g2 and very impressed with the power. Now I have to wait for the stay at home order to be lifted.
For some reason I cannot upload an mp4 video of it running. I will try again later.