JC's Planes and Projects
Top Flite Giant P-47 Thunderbolt
12/3/00 - This kit was started several weeks ago. Construction so far has been very straight forward with excellent instructions and the best die-cut parts that I have ever seen. I currently have the tail-feathers done and am working on the fuse top. I had to cancel my order for the Spring Air retractable landing gear. To read more about using Spring Air gear on this project I have created a separate page
Spring Air Gear . To avoid time consuming kit modifications, I have decided to purchase the recommended Robart units.
This is by far the largest plane I have worked. I am 6 feet tall and the fuse comes up to my chin! Yes, I know, I could use a new pair of mocassins…but these were actually worn by Hiawatha.
12/16/00 - I have installed the fin and stab and finished the sheeting of the top of the fuse. I went with the "bubble" version of the Jug. Yesterday I completed the installation of the bottom fuse formers. Unfortunately, I am now stalled on the fuse construction due to the Robart retractable tailwheel being back-ordered at Tower. Until I get the tail-wheel, I am going to start on the wings. I did take delivery of the retractable Robart mains. They are huge! I am also really impressed with the simplicity and quality. I have not hooked any air up to them yet though.
Here she is with tail feathers temporarily attached. Total weight of structure seen in picture is only 2-lbs and 11-oz.
This shot shows the conventional bulkhead and stringer construction. A new Zenoah G45 with Bennet cup mount is shown for size comparison. Gosh, that G45 looked huge to me when I bought it! I definitely think that it will fit in the cowl - don't you?
This shot shows the nicely rounded tail feathers and fuse top. The tail is of built-up and sheeted construction. The tail feathers are built up and sheeted with balsa.
A shot of the rear formers and a peek into the fuse. Tailwheel assembly needs to be mounted before the bottom sheeting can be added. Note unfinished F-4 in background was "booted" from its Robart stand for these pictures.
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