New Trohpy Trainer

[Brian Massey]

Well my new Trophy Trainer is well under way! This is the first one I've built using the current plans; the last one was from 1960's plans. Some changes from the old design, but still the great look of the TT. I'm hoping to make this my Northwest Regional plane in May. At this point it's just pinned together, I'm waiting for my Tom Morris controls to come so I can get them installed. Never used them before either.

I'm not sure what to expect as far as flying characteristics since I've never flown this version. Like to hear from those that have.

Brian

[Steve Helmick]

Bring hotdogs!  Steve

[Brian Massey]

And Mustard! Spicy Brown Mustard 

Brian

[Brian Massey]

Ty;

I'm setting this one up with an LA 46 also, may use a tongue muffler depending on how it balances. And, I'll probably fly on 62' eye to eye .015 lines. Not sure what weight to expect, but hoping for the high 40's; just not sure what to expect with the LA 46 as it is a little heavy. The TT I have now does excellent inside corners, but for what ever reason is really sluggish on the outsides; nor does it like the top of the hourglass. I've tried moving the CG, but never found any sweet spot. I should mention that I did not build it with adjustable leadouts . . . mistake. The leading edge is sheeted, as is the one from the 60's plans. The one I'm building now was drawn by Bob Kruger in 2006 I think. The two are somewhat different, so I'm really excited to get into the air and see the difference. I' hoping to get the Tom Morris controls in the mail in the next few days, then I can get the wing wrapped up.

I'll spend some extra time sanding the leading edge, I didn't on my Chipmonk, and have heard about it.

Brian

[Bill Little]

HI Brian,

Yours is looking swell!

I have to "think" that the flight characteristics will be as good as, or better than, the original.  The OS .46LA will give good bit more "punch" than the McCoy .40RH.

Be careful not to "bottom out" the threaded rod ends into the ball links.  That is the only "problem" I have ever heard when using Tom's systems.  When they bottom out, they deform the ball link plastic and can cause binding.  I also like to put washers on both sides of the "ball" everywhere I can "just in case".  Don't know that it is necessary, but paranoia don't 'cha know.  And a blind nut, upside down, will give some clearance in the bellcrank installation if needed.  Little brass cones are available, but the blind nut works just as well......

Aaron is building one right now using the same plans.  And an OS .46LA! LOL!!  Gotta love a Trophy Trainer.

Big Bear