???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I found this little seaplane 54" span and want to know what it is and how much downthrust I should give engine?I`m using a Super Tigre 29 for power 10x6 prop.Anyone???

Thanks Ron

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I believe the plane is Pond Hopper design by Ken Willard. The plans were published in RCM many years ago probably in the mid 70's. Originally it had a pusher engine configuration but the tractor version should fly well. A unique feature of this design was that Ken used a wing kit from the Falcon 56.
As to the thrust line, I would think anywhere between 0 degrees and a couple of degrees of up thrust should work. Try it and find out.
Maybe someone has a plans index for the RCM plans and can tell us which issue it was published in. I know I have the magazine but no idea which one.
Peter

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I believe the plane is Pond Hopper design by Ken Willard. The plans were published in RCM many years ago probably in the mid 70's. Originally it had a pusher engine configuration but the tractor version should fly well. A unique feature of this design was that Ken used a wing kit from the Falcon 56.
As to the thrust line, I would think anywhere between 0 degrees and a couple of degrees of up thrust should work. Try it and find out.
Maybe someone has a plans index for the RCM plans and can tell us which issue it was published in. I know I have the magazine but no idea which one.
Peter

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

A Pond Hopper,thanks Pete. I have engine set at zero degrees right now and I hope that will be a good starting fit.I don`t know where balance should be set either but was thinking maybe a 1/2" in front of float step.

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I'm not sure of how the step relates to the wing but I would balance it on or near the spar. If thats 1/2" ahead of the step thats good, if not, I'd try it anyway.
Peter

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

Looks like your the only one out there who knows anything about this plane and I thankyou very much for your interest.
Ron

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I still want to know which issue of RCM this was published in as it is on my list of planes to do and I do happen to have a wing kit in the pile of unopened boxes in the basement.
Peter
so many planes and so little time

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

Well Pete if you ever find any more info on the Pond Hopper send it at me through ciber space.I fly several planes all the time but have not yet flown a seabird.My son got this palne from his boss several years ago and its just been sitting around my shop ,less engine and radio gear. .I finally said why not!I live right on Lake Michigan(big pond) and believe it or not it does get clam enough once in awhile to fly off-anyway I always need more planes ,send me some (grin)
Ron

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

Ken Willard designed a lot of planes in his day and most of them were pretty good. He had a formula for design and most of them stuck to that formula. Whats better is that they were good fliers if not the prettiest. Slab sides and flat bottoms were a trademark of his sea planes. I know he tried many variations but always came back to the flat bottom. The Sea Master, perhaps his most famous design, isn't too far removed from the Pond Hopper. It just has a slight rearrangement of the various bits. Have fun.
Peter

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

Will do and thanks again Pete-
Ron

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I dug out my old plans for the Pondhopper and it does not give the degree of downthrust ( for a pusher). So I would think 2-3 degrees on yours should work. Mine was very forgiving with the Falcon 56 wing. There is not much frontal area to this design so wide open it is fast. Due to the front hatch being at water level I had a problem keeping the inside dry. Have fun.

RE: ???? seaplane, anyone recognize????
 

I had that issue, the date is on the plan list that is still up at RCM.com . K&B .40, Falcon 56 wing and engine nacelle that was made from a plastic model of the Hindenburg that was available at the time.