Hi John

Let me start off by saying that not ALL events are subject to the cottage industry situation when it comes to obtaining competitive equipment. In SSR, or Super Slow Rat for example, one can be competitive with a Brodak "Super Fly" and an O.S. 25fp, LA, or Thunder Tiger GP.25. The new Brodak .25 also holds promise for this event.

Everything you need for this event to be competitive can be store bought. What a concept!

Yes, I agree that some events require specialized equipment, but most equipment can be found, or at least the manufacturer, relatively easily with a bit of asking.

If you absolutely can't find a button bellcrank for your Mouse 1 project, Myself, or Paul Gibeault can get you hooked up with some bellcranks. I manufacture on request, (a few now and then) some pulley type bellcranks, and I think Paul still has some KK type 1/2A button bellcranks left, but you'd have to ask.

I certainly don't like the way things have played out the last 10 years or so regarding racing equipment, but I try to help wherever I can.

Let me know what events you might be interested in, and I will try and help you source out some equipment.

One thing to keep in mind though, is that it is easy to become an equipment freak. Many folks mistakenly think that you MUST have the latest greatest airplane or engine to be competitive. In reality, getting the most out of the equipment you already have, will get you further than chasing the latest fad. Many folks never realize the full potential of the equipment they have.

Best regards, Les Akre