Skyshark P-40N Build
 

Hello all,

I know this plane has been around for years, with lots of build threads out there, but it is new to me and it is time to start. This is the Skyshark P-40N build.

I am not doing much different than the other builds except that I will be trying to make a Access Panel so I can mount the switches, fuel Dot, and Air fill.

I may need a little help with that as I want a true flush panel hatch.

I plan on going full out on the detailing but that will come later after I have it built and get her in the air a few times. If all goes well, I will be installing custom exhaust, full detailed cock-pit, retractable canopy, maybe smoke, and a few other special goodies.

Wingspan: 82"
Length: 71"
Wing Area: 1190 sq. in.
Weight: 19-23
Engine: Revolution 50cc 5.72hp
Radio: Spektrum DX8
Scale: 1/5.5

The motor has been running just great. I built a test stand because I have only flown electrics so this will be my first gas plane. I set it all up and have found the "magic" set-up for starting it without getting a cramp in my arm.......... http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/images/icons/icon10.png

Will be putting in the following:

Spektrum AR 8000 Receiver with full TM 1000 Telemetry - Voltage - Receiver and Servo, Temperature - will mount that on the cylinder, and RPM.

Using a Power Expander with NoBs A123 6.6 volt LiFe batteries - 2300mah - 2 each connected to the Power Expander

Power Box Spark Switch for ignition kill.

Hitec - HS-5625 Servo - 2 Elevator - Right & Left Aileron - Right & Left Flap
Hitec - HS-5645 Servo - Rudder
Hitec - HS-7966 Servo - Gear Air Valve
Hitec- HS-7966 Servo - Choke
JR - DS 821 Servo - Throttle

Sierra Giant Retracts with 5" wheels - for some reason Darrell sent me struts that are too long so instead of having them modified I will first see if 5" wheel will work.
You can see how the mains fit in the following pictures.

Will be starting off with a 22 x 10 wood prop then moving on to Xoar or other high quality prop.

Here are a few pictures of the start - I won't bore everyone with the little details right now so I will be only showing the modifications or changes from "standard".

I hope you like - and no Laughing - Suggestions are welcome.

Criticism is expected.................. http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/images/icons/icon7.png

Stocky Edwards P-40N Kittyhawk
 

Here are a few pictures:

The plane I am building is Stocky Edwards - Kittyhawk

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930886

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930887

A few pictures of what I have done so far:

The main modification is to add hardwood blocks into each wing where the Dowel Rods that mount the wing to the fuselage will be located. I added some ply and epoxy then went through each wing and put CA along all the ribs and points I could reach. I put in a 1/4" dowel on each section of wing to help in alignment plus I extended the length so that it should take a small amount of the load and keep the wing from flexing too much.

For the Sierra Retracts to fit you have to notch the center tube and aluminum tube.

I will also add epoxy to the gear mounts once I have everything figured out for the 5" tire.
You can see in the pictures that with the 5.5" recommended wheel it won't fit into the wheel well. I guess Darrell from Sierra sent the wrong length. If the 5" won't fix the problem then next step will be to modify the length.

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930888

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930889

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930890

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930891

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930892

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1930893

I have had mine flying for years still. I have the same setup as yours, same plane to. It's been a while but I believe there was a slight mod to the retract support blocks and the wheel well in order to get the wheels and retracts to fit, I remember there was a slight mod, but exactly what it was I can't recall. You might want to do some research here on it. I wouldn't try to reduce the length of the struts. sorry I cant take a picture since my camera broke.

Just reread your post again, and yes the tube had to be cut out a little. No worrys about the cut as said before mine is still flying.

Remove the ply in front landing gear mount and walla...it fits.

Here are a few more pictures of my progress.

The "TEETH" will be coming off when I start detailing it as they were applied by the previous owner who started to build the plane then decided to sell it to me.

Keith

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937126http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937130http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937131http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937132http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937133http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937134http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937135http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937136http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937137http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937138http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937127http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937128http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937129

Corsair, here is a page of pics on a SkyShark P40 build. Some good pictures of making a hatch for switches, air hook up, etc.

http://www.wyliewarbirds.com/project...p40/index.html

The gentleman who did the build also sells a fiberglass hatch to save you the trouble...

http://www.wyliewarbirds.com/product...glassparts.htm

I have developed an allergy to fiberglass resin so I'll probably buy the hatch cover from him when I get around to my P40.

The teeth were put on at the factory.

Thanks Ram - I will check the links out

Radfordc - didn't know the teeth were put on at the factory - that means they should be easy to get off - :rolleyes:

I am getting there slowly. I am taking my time on this one. I will build the plane and get her in the air then come back and pretty much take it all apart and do the detailing.

My flying skills are okay but I am not about to put all the time and money into full detailing and "have an issue". I won't use the C word.......... :D

My plan is to go full out with the detailing - full cockpit with pilot, hatches, paint, retractable canopy, lights, guns with lights, sound, the works.

I am sorry about the pictures - I forgot to make them smaller for easier loading - will do that next time.

Keith

You're smart to be concerned about flying the plane. I have been flying RC for over 50 years and can handle just about any kind of plane. However, this P-40 does require some getting used to. Mine can be really squirrelly on takeoff...it wants to pull hard left and will drop the left wing if your not carefull. You need to really be ready to put in a lot of right rudder as the plane picks up speed. I put a gyro on my rudder and it makes life easier. The only other concern is that at 21 lbs the wing loading is up there and you have to be careful not to let the speed get too low on landing.

Rad, I have a gyro just for that reason if I need it.

I have a H9 Corsair 50 that can get a little crazy with low speed also so I am getting used to it. I plan on flying the Corsair plus practicing on my simulator over the winter then will have an "experienced" pilot help me with the maiden.

I actually like landing fast, i have about 1/2 mile runway so not much of an issue where I fly at - dried up lake bed north of my house by the Great Salt Lake. It actually spoils me so I have to focus on landing within a certain area for when I go to other places and fly.

I have some new small orange cones I will be using to mark off a "normal" runway length and practice with my Corsair landing in that area.

Not much flying for you and me coming up - white stuff will be coming and staying soon.

Keith

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937591http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1937592I have built 2 of these planes and starting on the third one. As far as the wild ground handling, adding 2 degrees right and down thrust makes this a docile plane to take off and land. Without this thrust it was very unpredictable. The leading edge wing dowels have to be reinforced inside the wing and long enough to reach the spar shear web. Enlarge to 3/8" dowels. Both planes are 24-25 lbs. Feel light in air. First one has a BME 50. Second one has 4.2 Precision Eagle. third will have a 4.2 Husqvarna on alcohol. Great flying plane! Paul

Meschmidt, Great looking planes.............!! Thanks for the info. Last night I finally lined up the motor with the cowl. So this weekend I will check the down and right thrust and set it up. I did read two other build logs so I used all of their knowledge to my advantage. I did modify the dowels and reinforced everything in the plane. Wing screw holds, wing dowels, wheel wells, retract mounts, etc.

Good flying

Hello Everyone,

Here are a few more pictures of the build. I did my first Fiberglass panel this week. It came out really good. I pick up some more Wax and PVA tomorrow so I can make the hatch from the mold.

I have the Access Panel finished and it turned out good. I am not sure which hinge I will go with so I ordered them all - LOL I will see which looks the best and will be using Magnets to keep it closed.

I am getting close to finishing the build but with 12" of snow on the ground it looks like a ROAD TRIP to Mesquite, NV is in my near future if I want to maiden the P-40 before March.

The plan is to fly the plane multiple times and make sure all is well then bring it back to the shop to start the detailing.

Just remember that the plane is still in build mode so not everything is finished.

Hope you like - please feel free to like, hate, ignore. Criticism is expected................ :D

Keith



http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947162http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947169http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947163http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947164http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947165http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947166http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947167http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947168

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1947170This is one I built for a friend. Features a DLE 55 with functional scale exhaust. Was completely stripped, glassed and detailed. Full cockpit with pilot. Needed to move the servos to the rear.

Skyshark P-40
 

Couple more pics

Nice plane JSZ,

I really like the detailing. Once I get mine in the air and am comfortable flying her then it will be time for full detailing.

I spoke with Keleo and they will make me the same exhaust as your plus I have a company in Europe that will build me a very custom cockpit.

I want to put a retractable canopy but I don't think I will have enough room in the fuselage for all the parts so it may be a manual sliding canopy but that will still be sweet.

I have the Revolution 50 in mine. How does your fly and what size of prop are you using? I will start off with a two blade but I want to go scale to 3 blade.

I actually just picked up all my stuff to build my paint booth this weekend. The booth will be 96" long x 36" wide x 36" high in front and 48" high in th back. I will have it built in 3 sections so I can close off either section Right or Left of the center where I will normally paint parts and small items. I will be able to open it up and fit a full wing or fuselage and paint it without killing everyone in the house.........:D

My next plane will be something in the bomber class and large - maybe a B-24 or B-25 120" or 140".

I can't wait until I can get the P-40 in the air.

Send more pics when you can. I would like to see more detail of your cockpit and everything.

Have a good weekend

Keith

One of the cockpit. I modified a Bob Dively cockpit for the Top Flight P 40. Also I should have replaced those ugly gear pods with the Top Flight ones as well.

Merry Christmas to everyone- finally have some time to work on the Access Hatch.

Here is a picture of what I have been doing the past few weeks - Paint Booth in my basement

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951262

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951263

I needed the booth so I can start painting my P-40 spinner and backplate plus I just finished the Access Panel - you can see it in the booth.

I have the brackets so it should be pretty easy to install. I will use the robart hinges and 3 rare earth magnets to keep it closed.

Next will be to make a new tailwheel hatch and then set it up so it opens and closes with the tail wheel.

http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951264





http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951265



Happy Holidays

Keith

Here are some more pictures of the work I have completed.

1. Added a strip to the Hatch Panel and inserted 3 rare earth magnets. These should hold the panel shut.
I also aligned the Robart Hinges and they should work just fine. Had to notch the panel but you won't see them.

2. I have the fiberglass hatch drying and will cut it out tomorrow and fit it to the plane fuselage. The good thing is I made a mold so if I mess it up I can make another one.

3. Worked on the tail wheel doors the most of the afternoon and night - took me around 5 hours to figure out how to connect the rods and ball joints in a manner that will allow the doors to close tightly but not hit the tire.
My concern is that I have a Pull Pull system for the tail wheel on an independent servo. When the tail wheel is raised the wires will go slack and if the wheel turns it might get caught in the doors so I will need to conduct lots of
testing.

4. I have to make a new set of tail wheel doors as the cover that came with it was horrible - thin and warped. I want to make a heavy duty door anyway so I can connect all the linkage and hinges.

It is getting there. I hope to have it finished enough to take it out to the garage and run it up or at least outside in the driveway if we don't get anymore snow.

Keith



http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951359http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951360http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951361http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951362http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951363http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951364http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951365http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951366http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951367http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951368http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1951369

Skyshark P-40 Update 1-6-2013
 

I continue moving forward slowly. It took me a couple of days to finally get the Access Panel cover the way I wanted it and to get the internal mount finished and installed. It came out pretty good I think. I still need to sand the hatch cover and will paint it when I paint the plane.

I did put on the silver metal paint so that when the camo paint chips it will show the simulated aluminum.

The spinner looks a little pink but it actually is fire engine red. That is just the first coat.

Next will be the tail wheel doors final install and alignment.


Enjoy - if anyone is actually looking.............:D



http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1955091http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1955092http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1955097http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1955098http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1955099

We're looking! Very nice work!

Hi, I'll be following your Skyshark P-40 build. I just picked the Skyshark P-40 up from a flying buddy who wanted to downsize his fleet. I've been reading the Sharkshark P40 threads, lots of good info. His was the unpainted one and he used brushed on latex.
I think I'll use a DL 50 or 55 that I have on the shelf and move the servoes from the tail to the fuselage.

Anyone know if the fuselage was made using polyester or epoxy resin?

A pic of the P-40 is below.

cheers - ken
.
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/atta...mentid=1969274

Kenair,

I am not 100% sure but I think it is Epoxy Resin with fiberglass - Like the West system. It smells the same as West System epoxy when you sand the fuselage. At least to me it does but my nose is old and worn out.

Good luck with your build and I look forward to seeing lots of pictures.

Your plane looks to have different paint or maybe there is a clear coat on top as the Decals have been applied and your paint looks glossy.

If you have any questions feel free to email me.

Keith