[Heathkit] shipping.. an old sore spot

[rbethman]

To clear up a possible misconception, the Sukhoi SU-29 is a 9 cylinder, 
air start, 3 bladed propeller, aerobatic aircraft.  It is NOT to be 
confused with the MIG-29!

The SU-29s were imported through Florida, and have been used in 
aerobatic competition since about 1995.  They now import the SU-31.  
SU-29s are two-seaters.  SU-26s are single seaters.  The ability to pull 
Gs beyond the "supposed" 9 G point is resolved by seats that are 
reclined 45 degrees.  We also do NOT pull them for extended periods!  
However, it takes a bit to get used to it every season.  We have to work 
back up to it.  Our tolerance drops through the winter.  Aerobatic 
aircraft do NOT have heater systems, since we are concerned with the 
additional mass.

The more pertinent data points would be "How many Gs did you pull?".  In 
my case it was 10.5 both plus and minus.  The aircraft is certified for 
12 Gs.  The Kevlar, carbon fiber and titanium airframe is rated up to 20 
Gs BEFORE deformation of the airframe.

We normally use ONLY the small fuel tank for aerobatic routines.  The 
intent is to maximize energy vs weight.  It becomes an energy management 
process.  One trades altitude for speed, and vice versa.

Back to the two chemical foam issue!

They can ALSO be procured through Hobby Shops.  They are used to produce 
"forms" for the production of fiberglass pieces, such as cowlings, 
wingtips, and other parts.  It does cost a "bit" more through this 
source - since you are procuring "smaller" quantities.

I've also been known to go to the UPS store and "sweet-talk" the store 
owner into selling the "foam-in-place" packets on a couple of instances.

<Flying is an even MORE expensive hobby!>

Bob - N0DGN

On 11/2/2010 3:03 PM, Pat Swayne wrote:
> On 11/2/2010 2:58 PM, rbethman wrote:
>> I've also flown the SU-29 Sukhoi.
> How fast did you take it? And how high?
> -- Pat
>
>