This month, Jay is joined by Paul Kohlmann, contributor for Model Aviation magazine.
I. Introduction and Trip Report (0:00-9:18)
Jay Smith, host of Model Aviation Live, introduces the episode and discusses his recent trip to Chicago.
The trip focused on visiting hobby industry companies in the area, including SIG Manufacturing, Gator RC, and Motion RC.
Smith highlights key updates from each company, including SIG's relocation and new facility, Gator RC's upcoming products, and Motion RC's expanded warehouse and unique offerings.
Smith also shares a personal anecdote about meeting with a friend who programmed the Doctor Who pinball machine.
II. Paul Coleman Interview: New and Upcoming Projects (9:18-14:24)
Paul Coleman, model airplane designer, joins the show to discuss his recent and upcoming projects.
Coleman shares details about his in-progress Grumman Widgeon design, noting its similar construction to his popular Grumman Goose.
Smith and Coleman briefly tease a new project collaboration to be revealed later in the show.
III. Paul Coleman's P-40: Design and Construction (14:24-36:14)
Part 1: Building the Framework (14:24-24:14)
Discussion of the P-40's balsa framework construction, with emphasis on techniques not covered in Coleman's previous P-36 Hawk articles.
Explanation of the decision to infill certain areas of the nose for added strength and scale appearance.
Part 2: Covering, Landing Gear, and Linkages (24:14-31:38)
Overview of the covering process and techniques used for painting the rudder.
In-depth look at the installation of retractable landing gear, including the use of FMS P-40 retracts and the creation of custom landing gear doors.
Detailed explanation of the Rotary Drive System (RDS) for aileron control, highlighting its benefits and installation process.
Part 3: Finishing Touches and Maiden Flight (31:38-36:14)
Focus on final assembly steps, including retract installation, tailwheel steering setup, and belly pan construction.
Discussion of the P-40's unique side windows and the use of 3D printed parts for the spinner, exhaust stacks, and instrument panel.
Recounting of the P-40's successful maiden flight and subsequent minor landing gear damage.
IV. Paul Coleman's P-40: Flying Characteristics and Tips (36:14-38:57)
Coleman provides advice for successfully flying the P-40, emphasizing a gentle takeoff approach due to the model's long nose.
He highlights the model's light wing loading, gentle stall characteristics, and optional flaps for improved landings.
V. Building with Foam and Future Plans (38:57-45:00)
Coleman responds to a viewer question about building the P-40 using foam board, expressing his support and offering assistance.
Smith shares an anecdote about a viewer encountering copyright issues when attempting to print the P-40 plans.
VI. Announcing a New Fighter Face-Off: World War I (45:00-58:26)
Smith reveals the exciting news of a third Fighter Face-Off collaboration between Paul Coleman and Derek Miko, focusing on World War I aircraft.
Coleman and Smith discuss the challenges and excitement of choosing suitable WWI aircraft for the project, aiming for models in the 30-inch wingspan range.
They acknowledge the abundance of WWI aircraft options and the unique design considerations involved.
Smith shares details about the Blue Max Dawn Patrol event in Ocala, Florida.
VII. Conclusion (58:26-59:18)
Smith thanks Paul Coleman for joining the show and reminds viewers of upcoming events and the next Model Aviation Live episode.