Jessie The Jeep Posted May 8, 2008 Share Posted May 8, 2008 I spent yesterday helping out with the test flights of this Douglas Skyraider. This 1/3 scale model is now over half way through its certification flights. It is about 14 feet wingspan and is powered by a 400cc five cylinder radial engine. It had already made four flights at the end of last year, 'though the second two were delayed due to a seized engine. During the first flight of the day, one of the landing gear legs failed to come down properly, but a hard bounce on the runway with the good leg jolted it free, and a safe landing was made. Following flights tested the bomb and drop tank releases. On the fourth flight of the day, the engine started running rough and on landing, we discovered a cracked cylinder and oil everywhere! It's under warranty, so a replacement and a spare cylinder are on their way. The real Skyraider is an impressive piece of kit, able to carry a huge load, and the model is no less impressive. It is hoped the test flights will be completed in May and it will be on the show circuit later this year. A video of flights 3 and 4 can be seen here - Skyraider Flights Steve Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
abn deuce Posted May 9, 2008 Share Posted May 9, 2008 very nice work !! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jessie The Jeep Posted May 21, 2008 Author Share Posted May 21, 2008 With a new cylinder fitted, the 'Raider' completed its 12 test flights today so is now allowed to display in public. Here's some pics of the aircraft with the nose art I just finished a few days ago. The owner had to think long and hard about whether to have it painted in todays PC world, but it's authentic, and you have to remember its in the American context of the word. Later in the day, I had a blast around with my P-47, first time in its new scheme. Steve Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
martylee Posted May 24, 2008 Share Posted May 24, 2008 Nice! I migth take to air one of these days! Looks like a lot of fun, but your planes is way out of my league yet! Marty Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tony B Posted May 24, 2008 Share Posted May 24, 2008 you have GOT to bring them to Bunker bash or Military mayhem. What a display! It would really be one in the eye for other shows. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.