My Winter project (which looks like it won't be finished until next winter!) is at that stage where it is covered, stitched and in the silver. Now all the problems appear that were not evident til this stage. Lots of little "glitches" that need attention before the color goes on. The hardest part is not getting impatient and sticking with it. The temptation is to say "that's good enough", which of course I would hate myself for later. So, sanding, filling, fitting and sanding. Soon, baby soon!

Bish

Take your time, Bish. This project deserves your very best! You'll be pleased in the end.

Bish,
Is that the TF Stinson? Looking very nice.
Is that a TF 182 build in the rafters?

Tom C.
Your reliant look's very sharp! Would love to see some "Best Scale Photo" postings on your model.
Paul

Tom, nice looking SR 8! Is it the Ikon NW version? Is it as good flyer as I think this is going to be? How affective are the flaps?

Paul, it's not the TF kit, it is from Richard Barron plans and is quarter scale (125" ws) and yes that is a TF 182 in the rafters. It is going on commander floats and is nearly ready for final assembly. As you can see it has some hanger rash on the front end. I won't go into detail, but think "spooked cat on the workbench"!

This Reliant is the most massive model I have ever build and it takes a lot of time just to get from one end to the other with the sandpaper! It is coming along just fine, but I get really anal with it and it slows things down. The interior alone will probably take til Chistmas!!! The nice thing is the cargo door opens and is perfect for all the switches, charging jacks and fueling connections.

Bish

yeah, I guess it does look quite a bigger than than a TF.
Nice looking shop BTW Bish.

Bish,

Yes, It's the IKON SR8. It flies like a big, expensive trainer. Looks great in the air! Flaps are needed for landing, otherwise it stays a few feet off the ground, and just keeps going!

A word of caution on the Barron design. Look long and hard at the wing mounting system. I saw a Barron Reliant lose a wing, with disasterous results. It may have been builder error, but an ounce of prevention etc. etc.

Thanks Tom,

I did look at that and I made a complete mod to the system. I looked at the ideas on the plans and decided it was just not in the cards to do it as illustrated. Installed a double tube system, the front one being 1 1/8" by 36" long that I think should be indestructable. Also made the gear legs out of 3/8 aluminum bolted to a hardwood anchor. Barron loved to bend 1/4 wire and make horribly complex gear legs. Other wise the plans have been a dream come true to work from. As I said, I am in the process of "fixing" all the little details which should take about another two weeks. Then a final coat of silver, wet sanding and start on the color. The interior will get done later.

Glad to know yours is a good flyer. I pretty much assumed it would be like a big trainer.

Bish

Bish,

My SR8 has a modified spar system. It has two removable spars going through the fuselage, and well into the wings. It's all hidden by the headliner.

Good luck and have fun with the cockpit.