Its difficult to imagine trying to learn this sport without access to a forum like this. Everyone I have met or corresponded with has been so incredibly helpful. Sharing information that would be impossible for me to learn on my own in many lifetimes. In every endeavor I have enjoyed in my life there has been a common thread that made it enjoyable. That thread is the people you meet along the way. Stunt flying is certainly no exception.
When I flew RC in the late 70’s the flying field was full of like minded individuals. The dry lake I fly from now is always empty. There are signs of previous use with the odd burned out glow plug or broken propeller blade lying in the dirt. Now it is the internet for technical information sprinkled with an occasional trip to Tucson or Whittier Narrows. I should also add monthly trips down to Warren Walker’s man cave but these trips are more culinary and delicious in nature. Much more enjoyable to get barbecue sauce off your fingertips than Ambroid.
Throughout the process of building this model, I found that inspiration came in many flavors. While I was working on my previous model I sent pictures of all the pieces neatly laid out on my workbench to my dear friend Dave Shadel. Almost instantaneously a reply came via email. “What kind of chainsaw did you use to cut out the bulkheads Dave asked”. The not so subtle message was received loud and clear. It’s time to have the blade on my chainsaw sharpened! Regrettably that first model lasted only slightly longer than a open box of See’s candy and I needed something to fly.
Moving forward I decided to build an Impact. I called Bob Hunt and ordered a wing. (Thanks Bob!) While Bob built the the wing I ordered plans and started foraging for balsa wood. It was rewarding how many lessons learned from my previous airplane where applicable. The bulkheads however took a little longer this time as the chainsaw was still in the shop.
With few exceptions, I only deviate from the plans as required to convert from glow to electric. Jim Hoffman was a big help in this regard sharing construction photos of his beautiful Predator. Chris Cox also shared detailed interior pictures of one of his beautiful models. It’s true, a picture is worth a 1000 words. I was making pretty good progress when another friend I had made through this forum, Fred Underwood mentioned that some electric Impact’s had longer noses. A quick note to Howard Rush confirmed it would likely require nose weight without a change. The 1.5” extension took about 3.5 days!
Between seemingly never ending sanding sessions I read everything I could on paint and finishing. Through Dave Shadel I met Phil Granderson. A recent business trip took me to Berkeley only one town away from Phil. Meeting Phil and his lovely wife Kathleen was a wonderful experience. Seeing Phil’s artwork was crazy cool, and I could not help but stand and marvel at his craftsmanship. Seeing what is possible (maybe not probable) is great for ones inspiration!
Tim Just
Topic: New Impact (Read 1230 times)