RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Nice job Duane. Great to hear the positive comments and photos guys. Richard, I have some ribs for you, I just need to pick them up.
Posted on: 5/17/2012 10:06 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11084484

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Richard, You have correctly pointed out where I could have done a better job of drawing the tail post. There is actually another layer I could have drawn in there to make it clearer for you. Sorry you had to go thru the trouble of cutting your fuse and re-gluing. Though I'm sure it is of little consolation to you now, I have made an addition to the drawings. I'll try to upload it shortly.
Posted on: 1/26/2012 7:55 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10929836

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
I wrote the two previous posts while at work and was thinking about the "Simla Lite" on the way home (45 min drive, plenty of time to think and a long day). I, too, thought about flattening the fin, maybe make it around 3/8 wide. Would lose a lot of weight there. I'm not telling you anything new when I say you just got to be careful you don't lose so much weight in any one specific area where you are forced to add weight for counter balance!! [X(] I have talked to Duane and others about creating "Lite" versions of my kits. All of them would benefit and would probably reduce cost, too. Just got to find the time to do it!
Posted on: 12/22/2011 7:42 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10872361

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Bill, Good, glad we saw the same light. As for me, I would coat it with film. IMHO a huge weight savings there. Another idea, since you are now lightening the model you can probably go with 5/32 wire on the lg mains instead of the 3/16 I provide in the kit. Let me know if you want them, I'll bend a set for you. BTW: the prototypes Duane, Kevin and I built have 5/32 wire. As you mentioned, you can the cut the centers out of the outboard ribs. Obviously, there is less stress and moment on the wing the farther out from the cg. So, yes you could remove more weight in the last 4-5 ribs/cells. Removing more and more as you near the tip, like no shear webs in the last two ribs/cells. Make sure the wing tip is very light (or eliminated altogether) so as not to stress the last few ribs/cells (if you significantly lighten them). Could probably actually lighten the 3/4 x 3/4 leading and top edge of the fin. Cut lightening holes in with a good scroll saw. There may be other opportunities in the fin, too. Duane has already mentioned how Ed hand picked every single sheet and stick of wood in his kits, he had to, he was in national competition. Of course, as a "kitter" I don't have that luxury without significantly increasing the cost. It will be interesting to see what you come up with Bill. Write or call me if you need help in getting to that point.
Posted on: 12/22/2011 5:06 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10872142

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Bill, A few quick ideas which you probably have already considered. But, it's good to "air them out". Like Burkard I would be weary of removing all of the sheeting. There is quite a bit of weight in that sheeting though. Eight pieces of 3/32 x 6 x 48 can get heavy, how much would you save with contest? I think I would adopt the Taurus type of covering. Glue in a sheet on the leading and trailing edges with cap strips on the ribs and consider shear webs. Reduce the span to 96". Hollow out the top blocks even more or go with Cees's method and remove them. Hollow out the wing tips, stab tips. Cut lightening holes into the 1/8 fuse sides and take a bit more out of the fuse ply doubler. Though I have already laser cut quite a bit out of it and the wing ribs. I wouldn't open up the 3/32 balsa fuse especially aft of the wing. There is a lot of moment there and plenty of force generated from that huge stab, could crack the the fuse if not trussed correctly. Anything forward of the firewall (cowl and such) is for looks. Obviously, no structural worth at all. Remove whatever you can there or thin it out. Finally, ribs one thru five are all ply or ply/balsa laminates. More than anything else just there to provide a safe, structural surrounding for the tube. Could experiment with reducing the weight with those 10 rib locations. Although, as I mentioned above, I have already cut lightening holes into them. Hope this helps a little bit anyway. I'll study it a bit more.
Posted on: 12/22/2011 3:20 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10871997

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Bill, I, for one, will be very interested to see how you come out on this. I think it can be done, let me know if I can help.
Posted on: 12/21/2011 6:23 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10870738

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Wow, you guys have been moving along! Great thread Duane! Just a note, released the 2nd production run of Simla's last night (Tuesday, Dec 19 - two days before the end of Fall [:D]). As of this writing (one day later) a third of them have already been sold. Two heading to Switzerland and two to dear old New Zealand! Haven't started on the Taurus II yet Duane but I'm gaining on it!
Posted on: 12/20/2011 6:12 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10869018

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
David, Very nice approach on the "hybrid" leading edge. I think I will incorporate that design into revisions of the King Altair, Tauros, and Simla since they all use a false leading edge/leading edge. -jp
Posted on: 9/12/2011 5:45 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10712560

RE: SIMLA BUILD THREAD
Hello everyone, Just checked in on the thread the other night and was very surprised to see how much it has grown. The last time I looked at it you were just getting started on the 2nd page. You guys make a kit manufacturer proud!! I have deliberately stayed away from the thread because of my schedule. Besides Classic RC Hobby, I have a full time job where I am a plant engineer, I am on the board of directors of two non-profit organizations, and I recently started an RC club here in Lancaster County, SC. Add to that the never-ending projects here at the house (the current one is replacing all of the windows) and perhaps you will agree I'm a bit busy. It seems to have slowed down here a bit in the last week or two so maybe I can spend more time on the hobby and participating in this thread. I have other Simla builders contacting me for info. I am entertaining the thought of sending out an email to all of the current Simla owners and letting them know about this thread. I also plan to link to it from my web site. It might get a bit busier in here Duane! Thanks for the compliments on the kit guys, very much appreciated.
Posted on: 9/8/2011 4:56 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10707856

RE: Redesign and reconstruction of the Oldest Taurus on Earth
Yes, I believe I do understand now, though I didn't at the time I read it. Just saw that you edited and added to post 884. I suppose it is not particularly crucial what I am called. My wife calls me honey, my kids call me daddy or pop, my boss calls me Engineering and Maintenance Manager, and my cat calls me "feed me". As for the Oryon's delivery date, well, life's more important priorities tend to get in the way of my personal goals. This is, after all, a small side business.
Posted on: 2/25/2011 1:42 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10363356

RE: Redesign and reconstruction of the Oldest Taurus on Earth
Cees, Correct, Lance made the 1/32 mod not only to the fuse tail section but to the front of the fuse. I took his design, re-drew it, and changed a few other things but kept that part of his design. Lance also incorporated a false leading edge/leading edge combo on the wing instead of the original "super formed" balsa leading edge. I kept that design, too. For those who knew Lance, he and I had spent quite a few hours on the phone during the "transfer of business" and shortly thereafter. He had told me he was burned out, as he alluded to in his post. At the time we were talking he wanted to restore an old Datsun 240 Z he had sitting in his garage. I spoke to him about 6-8 months ago, he seems to be doing well. Cees, though Duane and I know each other fairly well I'm not sure he knew the history of my small business when he wrote that I made the changes. I would assume, that he assumed, I came up with the current design I employ. On a different topic: did you ever get your Orion repaired? I do not recall anything about it after the fence post pictures. The weekend is upon us!! I hope everyone enjoys a nice flying weekend!!
Posted on: 2/25/2011 12:34 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10363251

RE: Redesign and reconstruction of the Oldest Taurus on Earth
By "American" definition (well, at least by my definition) a kit cutter is an individual or firm who owns a laser cutter (or die cutter) and cuts kits for contract work. I do not own a laser cutter and I do not contract out my services. I contract a kit manufacturer to cut my kits. I supply the laser cut files, my specifications, and they cut the laser sheets for me. For the time being, I would much rather contract the services of a knowledgeable kit manufacturing company than try to do it myself (that is not to say that other "kit cutters" don't know what they are doing). This is most of the reason why my kits are a bit more expensive than others, because I have to pay a contractor. I cannot speak for Lance and the history of his "kit cutting" endeavors. However, when I bought this small enterprise from him he was using a kit manufacturer, too. Now, you know the rest of the story. [;)] Have a good day!
Posted on: 2/25/2011 11:57 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10363154

RE: Redesign and reconstruction of the Oldest Taurus on Earth
Cees, "No there is no language barrier, only first read the thread before asking questions. " I have read the thread over the past year(s). I've kept up with it ever since your first post. Because of the time I spend in design work and many other activities I don't visit RCU much and post even less. I even decided to hold my reactions during your "pot shot" in post 607 (that's me, the exceptionally handsome guy on the right, Rusty and I are securing the wing to the NATS winning Taurus for display at a VRCS event). However, I thought your renderings were worth a positive comment. It appeared to me it was generated in 3D software, that's why I asked what software you used. But, perhaps you just Photoshopped it. Of course, the renderings are the least of the work you have done here - which has been exceptional, as well. BTW - I'm not a "kit cutter". Regards
Posted on: 2/25/2011 9:57 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10362874

RE: Redesign and reconstruction of the Oldest Taurus on Earth
I don't understand your response which I suppose is due to the language barrier. However, your English is better than my Dutch. I'm just curious what software you used to generate your renderings. It looks like it could have been created with Photo Modeler, Image Modeler, (even Sketchup) or some similar software.
Posted on: 2/24/2011 7:42 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10360156

RE: Redesign and reconstruction of the Oldest Taurus on Earth
Taurus Flyer, The renderings you show in posts 863 and 867 are excellent! What software did you use to create them? Photo Modeler? Image Modeler? Sketchup?
Posted on: 2/23/2011 10:55 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10357938

RE: Ed Kazmurski's Taurus
An open response to Duane's open letter: [size=2][b]Duane, you are a machine!![/b][/size] I'm glad I don't work for you, I drive myself hard enough! Yes, the Taurus II will start soon enough. But, I need to re-connect with my wife (she has felt much ignored the past year), do some house projects (read: honey-do list) and finish the Oryon or Orion. I still have to wrap up a few loose ends on the Simla, too. I expect we'll get started in the fall/early winter. What do you think? Nightmare?.....yes, on Elm Street.
Posted on: 2/15/2011 5:56 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10337429

RE: ED KAZMIRSKI'S SIMLA in Model Aviation
Hello everyone, just stopping by. With all of my projects going on I rarely get to check in. I hope everyone enjoys the article that (mostly) Duane and I put together. Little did I know when we started on the project that it would land in Model Aviation magazine. Next for me is the Orion, and Duane and I have another surprise we will be cooking up starting later this year. Again, I hope everyone enjoys the "team's" work!
Posted on: 2/14/2011 6:04 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10334938

RE: What is it?
Hey guys, Jim's kits and planes are listed on my web site. The Thrush, Lancer and Kaos have sold, but there are others. Lots of discontinues kits, too. Just go to my web site and follow the "Jim's Planes" link. He also had some engines (NIB). I'll be working on the site tonight adding monokote, wheels, fuel tanks, etc Thanks.
Posted on: 12/13/2010 5:08 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10195169

RE: What is it?
[b]No Dave, nothing much can get by this great crowd of guys and that's why I started on the Classic Pattern Forum first!!![/b] Thanks guys. I'm glad it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be....makes me feel a wee bit better.
Posted on: 11/23/2010 11:08 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10154199

RE: What is it?
It's a mini pulse xt. A few years before he died he started to get into electric arf's. I'm not quite sure why, because he loved building more than flying. He also had a regular scale pulse xt. Very sharp, you're right, they are sleek.
Posted on: 11/22/2010 10:29 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10153376

RE: What is it?
Yes, I believe it is a .40 (meant to look at it but forgot). I thought it looked a little bit like a Quickie racer, too. It has a very thin wing.
Posted on: 11/22/2010 9:51 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10153274

RE: What is it?
Ok, so none of those pictures uploaded, I'll try again. Be gentle with me guys. Thanks.
Posted on: 11/22/2010 8:25 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10153008

What is it?
An older friend of mine passed away and left 45 planes and kits behind. His widow asked me to help "liquidate" the treasure trove in the basement. I have identified all of the kits except this one. I fear this is going to make me look pretty ignorant, but, I'm not sure what it is. I'm sure several of you will recognize it instantly. If anyone is interested in discontinued, classic or vintage kits then check out my web site in a week or two. I'll have his planes on there.
Posted on: 11/22/2010 8:21 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10152996

RE: Top Flite Taurus Build
FB, Sorry to hear the Taurus will not be finished this year. But, as you imply, life happens. No, you really can't use the '62 Taurus for the T2. Primarily because the T2 has a Bosch airfoil. That particular profile has much better penetration than the modified 2419. Also, the fuses are dimensionally different and the stab is much thicker. Maybe Duane has a side by side picture to show the difference. Duane and I were allowed to have the '62 Taurus for a day before it was presented to the AMA museum last October. Duane had also brought the T2 and I brought a 70% built Primus. We both took pictures and I broke out my scales and calipers to come up with the dimensions of the planes. The differences between the two original planes were quite surprising and are what I mentioned above. Also, I verified that my Primus kit is dead on the original '62 Taurus except for one dimension. The front of the original '62 fuse (just in front of the wing) is about 1/8" to 3/16" taller than the Primus. I was quite concerned about this so I checked two different sets of TF plans. As it turns out, all plans correlated. Either Ed's draftsman or TF changed the front of the fuse a bit from the '62 original. ...Another interesting and unsolicited bit of useless information except for those of us who love the Taurus.
Posted on: 10/5/2010 7:10 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10049938

RE: Top Flite Taurus Build
Ok FB, it's time to jump back in!! I've been on the Simla project for the past 15 months and it's about time for my own little break. BTW you mentioned the swept back wing Taurus earlier in the thread, my next project is the Orion, it's already about 70% done. After that Duane and I will start our third project together, the Taurus II (or swept back wing Taurus)! Looking forward to the rest of your build. I can't believe how pristine the contents of your kit look to be. Hope you finish it before the "year of the Taurus" runs out!
Posted on: 10/5/2010 1:24 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10049131

RE: Home and Hobby web site
It's online now.
Posted on: 7/19/2010 9:10 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9875329

RE: Ed Kazmurski's Taurus
A bit of a tease for you lads, the Simla's are moving along.
Posted on: 5/23/2010 10:06 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9753169

RE: Ed Kazmurski's Taurus
Duane, Great posts chronicling our "covert" mission. I wanted to make a correction, the Top Flite kit is .25 inches taller than Ed's original. It was bitter/sweet to see it hang in the museum. However, I thought it was great to see it near its older sibling, the Orion.
Posted on: 10/4/2009 9:05 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9146737

RE: Special Classic Pattern Event in Muncie, September 2009?
Rusty, You were a gracious host as was the VRCS group. I had a great time at both fields. As you and Ralph intimated, it was a good show and a fun time was had by all. I just wish the weather had been more agreeable for a longer period of time. That was a killer batch of cookies Rusty!!
Posted on: 9/28/2009 9:46 AM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9129592

RE: Special Classic Pattern Event in Muncie, September 2009?
Actually, that is not exactly any Taurus. I would surmise it is the oldest existing Taurus today. It is the 1962 NATs Taurus that the VRCS bought. Duane took the picture.
Posted on: 9/26/2009 6:28 PM by Author "jjpetro" in the forum "Classic RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9125946