David Andersen presented a 1/5th scale MG-15 machine gun as used in the Stuka, Ki-45 Nick and other WWII aircraft.  This gun was made by 3D printing which Dave described briefly.  He plans to supply the 3D CAD files of this gun with the plans of the Ki-45 on the Minnesota Big Birds web site.  The modeler can then download the files and make the part on a 3D printer. This is the wave of the future, Dave proclaimed prophetically.

Mitsubishi Ki-45

Jim Courtney’s first venture into giant scale was intended to be simple so he chose a Meister Scale Spitfire kit. It’s “not scale” but “sport scale.”   But it was “a joy to build, a lot of fun.” 

He modified the front cowl and re-did the rear formers which “weren’t right.”  He fabricated the elevator and aileron hinges from 1/16” music wire and brass tubing.  This makes them look scale and allows the surfaces to be removable.

Main colors were Behr latex paint from Home Depot.  Other detail colors were Warbird Colors paint.  Promark paint masks.  26 lbs.  G45 engine.

Phil Zuidema discussed Fly Boys, a local aerial photography UAS operation.  A one-hour presentation with UAV expert Charles Eide will take place at the Inver Hills Community College - Wednesday, December 11th at 12 noon.  Details at: http://newsroom.inverhills.edu/unmanned-aerial-systems-special-presentation/

Roy Maynard’s Mustangle (the British name for a Mustang acquired under lend-lease) was built from one of Wayne Siewert Aerotec kits, which are know longer available.  One-fifth scale, 86” span.  Pilot by; Best Pilots. Although most of the airplane is carbon fiber, it is not an ARF, still a lot of work. 

The DA-50 engine was modified by TrueTurn prop hub, extending the prop shaft by over 2 inches.  This enclosed the engine within the cowl, exposing only the spark plug cap.  The small scale air scoop immediately behind and under the spinner is the only source of cooling air. The engine is well baffled to use “every molecule of incoming air.” 

The air is exited thru a much larger opening in the under wing radiator.  UP2 air valve operates the gear and inner doors in a scale sequence.  The color scheme comes from the plastic model magazine, Scale Aviation Modeler International.

Paint masks and dry transfers by ProMark.  Klass Kote  paint custom mixed to color chips,  Flex ‘N Flat two-part flat clear coat. Roy fit all switches, fuel and air fill lines under one magnetic hatch in the top of the cowl.

Article's to Read

Please read the articles TransAmerica Tour 2014 (Model Aviation, Nov 2013, p.89) and Aerial Photography (Model Aviation, Dec 2013, p.35).  Then compare to AMA National Safety Code B.1 that reads “All pilots shall avoid flying directly over unprotected people, vessels, vehicles or structures…”  

Team American Spirit of the TransAmerica Tour 2014

The Muroc Model Masters flying field had been selected to be the starting point for Team American Spirit of the TransAmerica Tour 2014. The goal of TransAmerica 2014 was to fly two model airplanes across the USA. One gas powered plane (Team Spirit) and one electric powered plane (Team Pulse). The gas powered plane starting in California will fly west to east and the electric powered plane will start in GA at SEFF and fly west. The tour wanted to involve as many AMA clubs as possible along both routes as they travel across the USA.

It's already been coordinated with Edwards AFB and R2515 Airspace Management. MMM received the go ahead as the launch site for the American Spirit Team. The plan is to fly a gas powered plane, a Sig Rascal 110 with a 26cc engine from CA to NC in an effort to promote model aviation in a collaborative effort with AMA's National Model Aviation Day and to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

But we have been notified that the TransAmerica flight has been cancelled due to not enough AMA Clubs stepping up to support the cross-country flight.

For Sale, Partial R/C Trade Possible

Customized, 2003 Honda Shadow Spirit - FOR SALE ... Several custom parts and work done to this motorcycle to enhance ride conform, safety and performance.

• Roadhouse 2 into 1 Exhaust

• Custom Harley Vivid Black Paint w/ AB P-Striping & Marine Ball & Anchor

• Custom Running Lights with separate (hidden) switch

• Willie & Max Hard Mounted Leather Saddlebags

• OEM Floorboards

• 1 ¼” T-Bars with Internal Wiring

• Back Rest (Not shown in photos) and more …

Recent maintenance both carbs totally rebuilt and new tires (2012). This year added High Def running lights (lights up the mountain passes like daylight). Oil & Filter every 2k to 3k, coolant flushed every other year since new. Have records.

Bike has a little over 27K, 85% of that coming from a few cross country trips.  You wont find one nicer … she’s a sweetie!

MN delivery possible, RC Aircraft, Motor or ? trade possible.

Open to Offers, Contact Jon Bomers ...