tip-tanks fabrication
 

hi,

looking for an easy way to make tanks like the ones in this pic...

thanks,
V.

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

ok the pic didn't load, will try again

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

I have a damaged wing from a Lightning...you could use the tip for a mold....

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

Depends on the diameter etc that you need.

Given the time of year, you'll likely have a few carboard tubes lying around soon, from the inside of rolls of Xmas paper etc. If the diameter suits, take one of those, cut a few balsa circles that fit inside to give rigidity, slap on a light balsa or foam nose and tail section, then a couple of layers of lightweight glasscloth.

Gordon

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

What are the dimensions?
I have a mold for the tip tanks and drop tanks on my Aeromacchi.
I don't remember the exact dimensions, but the tip tanks are about 3" diameter, and about 24" long, and the drop tanks are about 2" diameter and a little shorter.

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

Use some plastic waste pipe of near diameter for the main body, put some balsa dowel on a drill/lathe WHY (make a mandrel if needed ) and turn to shape using a sanding block, glue into the waste pipe, seal the wood with thin cyano and use a little car body filler to blend in , ditto for the back end,finally, prime and paint. Drill to fit wing.........

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

Try using some model rocket body tubes and premade balsa or plastic nose cones and glass them, it will save a lot of work. If the diameter is larger than 1.5" or so, you could even get some phenolic or composite tubes for additional rigidity.

Some sources to check:

http://www.balsamachining.com/

http://www.semroc.com/Store/Products/NoseCones.asp

http://www.apogeerockets.com/building_supplies.asp

Good luck!

Barry

RE: tip-tanks fabrication
 

no1- thanks 4 the offer but i don't want make any molds (too much work);)

Kevin, 3" is too large i'm thinking 1.5 " or 2" max

I'll try the tube&cone deal most of you mentioned, since they don't have to be scale (just want to get some "scrape protection" for my BVM UViper wing-tips):D

thanks for the help

V.