Floatplane trainer
 

My eventual "gem" floatplane will be a 1:6 scale Beaver, but til then it would be a good idea to get some floatplane practice in.

I plan to resurrect my Sig LT-40 trainer and fit floats to it. I'm thinking 40"-48" Balsa USA/Sig built-up floats or (better) cut foam floats. I favor a larger size float since I may also try flying my BTE Flyin' King or 4*60 on floats after I "solo" with the LT40. For the scale Beaver I'll probably use scale 'glas or foam floats.

There are no float-flyers nearby (the nearest group is in Tullahoma TN), so I'll have to work it out on my own (no problem, I've flown for a few years), but I need to start with a decent trainer and work up.
Comments appreciated...

Floatplane trainer
 

Bill, you do not need a float plane trainer. I had never even seen a float plane before flying mine. It is easier to take off and land then on land as long as you have plenty of smooth water. It is a blast. Don't waste your time or money. Build your plane and just wait for a calm day and go do it.

Floatplane trainer
 

That is something to consider. Some of my best landings have been in a big pasture which is similar to a lake.

I'll look into a set of floats for the 4*60 or Flyin' King and get started.

Do we have experience with Niagra
http://www.foamcorefloats.com/ ?

--Bill

Floatplane trainer
 

Bill, the FK makes as great float plane, as does the LT 40...I think with the bigger floats, you would be better off with the bigger plane. The 4*60 will not be as forgiving on floats as you may be used to. The extra weight of the floats is really noticeable (much more so than the FK), so I would suggest starting with the FK, and move to the 4*60 when you are comfortable.

Floatplane trainer
 

Then the FK it will be. I've gotten back into powered planes recently after a stint with r/c sailplanes and the 4*60 is my current plane getting back into power. The FK is "in the bones" and will be completed next month.

General info on setting up floats?:

On the FK, for example, the primary mount will be the taildragger gear mount, with a secondary mount (a 1/4" ply plate) to be installed at the rear of the lite-ply cabin. General guidelines for the float mounting points?

Where should the floats (or the step?) be placed relative to the CG?

I seem to recall a website that gave float setup guidelines at one time, but can't find it now.

Thanks...

Floatplane trainer
 

Several links and articles about float mounting/rigging in the Florida Float Flyers website. See below.
Probably the best is the Chuck Cunningham article in Randy Linderman's website:
http://www.flyinglindy.homestead.com/skisandfloats.html

Hope this helps,

Jim

Floatplane trainer
 

Thanks, Jim. Those were the sites I was dis-remembering.

--Bill

Flyin' King on Floats
 

I fly my FK on floats often. Mine are the GP 60 size and work great. The step is at the CG. Engine is a Saito 91. I have a small servo mounted in the left float to work the rudder. Drop the flaps, power up and your off easily. Drop them on landing and in a Wyoming wind you can drop on the water with no forward motion.

FYI, I am building a Giant Flyin' King. 135" wing span. Planning on floats. Will have to be about 72".

Floatplane trainer
 

I have a LT-40 on 34" floats that are just the right length. They are about the size of the Great Planes 40 size floats and are balsa sheeted foam. Great combination. I'm also building a 96" wing span Beaver on floats............Seaplane