The birth of Solstice (build thread)

[JBajkor]

Fuel overflow mounted.

[JBajkor]

Got the engine! After a few measurements the motor mounts are made and turbine is mounted. Only 2 screws holding it now, but tomorrow I will add the rest.

[JBajkor]

Checking balance. I will need to move everything I can forward. I mounted the engine far back so the hot end is sticking out, but I'm going to have to move it forward. That is moving 3 1/2 lbs: should help the balance.

[JBajkor]

Batteries are as far forward as I can get them. Since I need nose weight, I am using 5000mAh battery for turbine ECU. Most of the electronics are mounted.

[JBajkor]

Plumbing completed. Nice thing about such a large plane is that there is lots of room to mount everything.

[JBajkor]

I ran the fuel pump for a couple of minutes to push out all the air bubbles and clear away any possible foreign material. First run was done here in my back yard. Swiwin SW190B, I love this thing! After doing training of the heuristic ECU, acceleration from idle to full speed is 3.1 seconds. This is the best accelerating engine I have!

Weight and balance all done. 20 oz was required in the nose resulting in an all up take-off weight of 50lbs.

Still in primer but I had to spruce it up a little with some decals. The plan is to do taxi tests at Stoney Creek next Tuesday and maiden fight in Niagara some time after that.

[Vettster]

Been awhile since I checked in. Wow you made a lot of progress Joe. All the best with your testing and maiden.

Trevor

[Mouse]

That's a nice job on the graphics, Joe. Your friend did good. See you soon.

Mouse

[JBajkor]

IT FLIES!!!
The maiden flight was last Friday was a great success. Still need to do some tuning but it handles like a dream. I am waiting for pictures and video of the event so hopefully I can post something soon.