DF engine hatch securing?
 

Hello all,

I am looking for at different methods of securing the engine cover on the thrust tube of a ducted fan. I have been using the conventional method with the rubber o-rings. I wanted to see if there has been any other ideas/methods that people use and like better. I would like to use a a diffrent way...I am really getting to hate those o-rings!

Thanks

"clear to contact"

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

Pictures please.

CARS II

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

Can you use a velcro strip wrapped around the whole assembly ?

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

Yes I have been thinking of the velcro option, it seems neater and faster/easier to use. the only thing is the thrust tube is not as rigid as the turbine bypass tubes. I dont know if i will be able to make the velcro tight enough. i guess I will have to try it first.[img][/img]

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

I make it one piece to the fan, move it back a little to take pipe off.
Darryl

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

Hey! I recognize the model in the first pic. That's a Spirit Jets/MDM Sweet-16, which is a sport-scale model of the F-16.

Yes, the velcro option works fine in DF. Rigidity in the tailpipe isn't critical as it'll be under positive pressure when running. Even if it's a little flexible when the engine isn't running, it'll become tight when under pressure. So, all you want the velcro to do is keep the tailpipe hatch from lifting.

Dan

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

Wow your good...your exactly right! I understand what your saying and I will give it a try. Thanks.

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

On several DF kits I've had the fiberglass engine cover had flanges on them. You epoxy pieces of thin plywood to the flanges and secure with blind nuts and allen screws. I would usually glue thin strips of foam rubber to the mating surfaces to act as a gasket. If you look carefully at this picture you'll get the idea.

Joe

RE: DF engine hatch securing?
 

what about a spring?
See:
http://www.thorjet.co.uk/gallery/f20/image_10.html