Comp-Arf Pitts Python Build

[JagerBomb]

Well as many of you know I received a Pitts Python from Comp-Arf last May. The time finally arrived to put it together! I tried alot of different techniques than what I've used in the past. The goal was to build a plane that was light, precise, and low maintenence. After consulting with Frank Knoll and Jason Danhakl it was decided to eliminate 8 servos. Both for a reduction in weight, cost, and complexity. I also had a long talk with Kurt from Fromeco about power needs for the plane. We installed a Power Expander along with special batteries, regulator, and switches. Here is a list of the componets we used in the build:

1. 8 Futaba 9152 servos for ail, rudder, elev
2. 1 Futaba 9402 throttle servo
3. 1 Futaba R5114DPS Receiver
4. 1 Smartfly Power expander
5. 2 Fromeco 5200's with 16 gauge wiring and deans connectors
6. 1 Fromeco 2600
7. 2 Fromeco regulators with 16 gauge wiring and deans connectors
8. 1 Fromeco wolverine switch with 16 gauge wiring and deans connectors
9. 1 Fromeco Badger switch
10. 3W 170CS from Cactus Aviation
11. KS flex Headers
12. Greeves Pipes And DA Mount system
13. Mejlik 32X10 Prop

[JagerBomb]

First I got it sitting on the gear. I also installed an R/C Blimp tailwheel assy. Next I mapped out the location of the motor. I installed the motor and then installed the Headers and Greeves pipes. I used the mounts that Desert Aircraft supplies. They let the pipes expand and grow in length as they heat up. I made the mounts so they could easily be removed at a later date if needed.

[MikeC3D]

'bout time Mark, I was wondering when you would get to it. I love the Python,Jason ribs me all the time sayin its a yak w/2 wings.......blah,blah,blah
I'vve always liked the Compies, but Bob's got me hooked on this "LIGHT" trip. Cant wait to see how it turns out. Also, think @ the soda bottle trick for the tank, it will save you half a lb.

[JagerBomb]

The next thing was to install the 9152's in the ailerons. I decided to run a single 9152 on the inboard location. The brackets that came with the kit were for a smaller standard servo. I made my own brackets and glued them on with Dp100 adhesive. The pics show a standard arm but I replaced them with the aluminum ones from airwild. I might also add I use the gromet tool from SWB. It makes a tedious job quick and easy.

[JagerBomb]

I also decided I would make a push-pull rudder setup with 2 9152's instead of the 4 servo pull-pull setup. This seems to give a more positive feel and lack of complication. I measured out where the holes needed to be with a 4.5 inch turnbuckle. I then cut the 2 holes and fabricated some backing plates out of scrap 1/8 inch aircraft plywood. I glued them in place again using Dp100. Make sure to scuff the inside of the plane with 60 grit and then clean it with alcohol. I used the stock futaba arms that are 1.75 inches long. It turned out so well that there was no mix to match the servos. They are perfectly matched.

[JagerBomb]

Kiwi had a great idea on the stabs. The kit calls for 2 servos mounted midship with long carbon pushrods. Kiwi had mounted 2 in each stab. I went for a single 9152 on each stab. I also came up with a pretty robust mount. It is made from 3/8 plywood. It's very strong and distributes the load over a large area. After gluing in the mounts I boxed in the servos with 1/8 balsa. The linkage is short and very direct. I started with 1.5 inch arms, but 70 degrees may be too much throw? I will try some 1.25 or 1 inch to get around 50 degrees.

[Greyhoundman]

Looks good Mark, When is the anticipated maiden for this beast?

[JagerBomb]

Just as a teaser here is the scheme Bryan from Aerographix came up with. I just received the go ahead today from 180 Energy Drink.

[JagerBomb]

	Quote: Originally Posted by Greyhoundman
	Looks good Mark, When is the anticipated maiden for this beast?

Actually it was maidened just before the DOGS flyin. I flew it there but I had a few issues. I performed the nec mods and recently flew it again at the orchard farm field. I lost the base gaskets on the motor at the 5 gallon mark. Bobby at Cactus overnighted new gaskets which I installed tonight. We will be flying it tomorrow at Buder for the Extravaganza. I have been so busy I didn't have time to do the build thread while I was thrashing till 2am every morning and going to work too. More details are coming and a video as well. Yes it is BADASS.

[Greyhoundman]

Scheme looks cool will it be a full wrap or vinyl over the red base?

You already flew it? and I missed it.....I just might have to abduct milo and lola. LOL

[JagerBomb]

	Quote: Originally Posted by Greyhoundman
	Scheme looks cool will it be a full wrap or vinyl over the red base? You already flew it? and I missed it.....I just might have to abduct milo and lola. LOL

Yes it will be a full wrap over the red. Bryan is a true artist! He really out did himself again. I can't wait for him to do the wrap. Flying it while it is all red can get a little tricky. It should really "POP". The plane weighs 44lbs. and is an absolute rocket on the uplines.

[skymaster68]

hI , ANYONE FLYING THIS PLANE ON DA150 STANDARD MUFFLERS??

[JagerBomb]

	Quote: Originally Posted by skymaster68
	hI , ANYONE FLYING THIS PLANE ON DA150 STANDARD MUFFLERS??

it will fly fine on mufflers but the uplines may be a little sluggish

[skymaster68]

	Quote: Originally Posted by JagerBomb
	it will fly fine on mufflers but the uplines may be a little sluggish

thanks Jager, I have a DA 150 on my 3M Cop 260 that I'm planing to sell it is 8 month old, and get both planes on DA170's but if I don't sell it at good price I'll throw it into the Pitts.

[MikeC3D]

Mark, do you still have the Python,?