Balancing a pusher?
 

One of my long-term projects is an RAF FE2b two-seater pusher. I've been doing a bit of research and started wondering how those WWI pushers were balanced. If it's the usual 25-30% MAC then that's a definitely a building challenge what with the engine behind the CG.

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

what makes you think it would be any different?
aerodynamics doesn't change.................the engine is pretty much dead center thus making it even easier to do this model.

we have 2 DH2's at our field and balance exactly as the typical front engine models of the time period.

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

Note to self: Never post after a night without sleep and fully jet-lagged! :D

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

why?
this is a very interesting project...........i love reading your threads as i do believe we all get better educated on design ideas we never really think about.
i for one am obsessed with researching the fabrication of WW1 planes and the techniques used in that time period................then of course being a Millman by trade, anything wood related gets my curiosity up.

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

If the fuel tank is aft of the CG, you would balance it with the fuel tank full. If not it will have a very aft CG at TO; as the fuel burns the cg goes forward.

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

Ideally, the engine would be on the CG but that would require a drive shaft extension. So does anyone know of a company that makes these extensions for 90-size engines?

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

Do like this guy and make one:) http://www.rcscalebuilder.com/forum/...077&PN=2&TPN=6
It is one of the hardest thing to make work, models or full. How much of an extension do you think is needed?

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

It seems the power boat guys do this all the time, and will sizable engines.

RE: Balancing a pusher?
 

I've seen a stunning 1/3 scale DH2 from some modeler in the UK (Ian?) which used both a drive shaft and, I believe, a reduction system so that it can used a scale size prop spinning a dummy at scale speeds. That wouldn't be needed with the FE2b but I think I'd need an extension of at least 3-5 inches.