F-18E Maximum flap position
 

Does this look like a good full flap setting for an F-18E? This 18 belongs to David Searles. I dont know if the flaps were maxed out in this photo but the deflection looks similar to my 18-C (at full position) which behaves nicely. Reason I am asking is because I am going to hinge both wings tonight.

Thanks, Pete

RE: F-18E Maximum flap position
 

Pete,

That was one of the original first generation SkyMaster F-18 Super Hornet models. (painted it myself) The kit, frankly, was a piece of junk. The plane literally came apart at the seams after only a few flights. The bulkheads broke away from the fuse sides due to poor glue adhesion. (The interior was not cleaned or prepped prior to epoxying them in.) Finally the wing started to delaminate at the seams. TW did acknowledge the problems as mfg issues at the time & replaced the kit (twice), after which I finally gave up and paid for quality by buying a RTF Hornet from Tam.

As for the flap setting, it worked well for the few flights I did get and, that is very close to the full flap setting I used on my Tam Hornet, on which I put over 600 flights. The extra drag requires you to carry a bit more power on final, but that's a good thing, if you ever need to go around.

David S

RE: F-18E Maximum flap position
 

David, Thank you very much, I appreciate the info.

What year was that airplane produced? Terminated/redesigned?

Pete

RE: F-18E Maximum flap position
 

That kit was from early 2005, I believe. Didn't really keep track of their updates after I switched to the Tam Hornet. Got the Tam Hornet & "Never Looked Back" as they say.

David S