The Piper J-3P
While he was still alive, a friend of mine—who sadly passed away recently—gave me a kit from Hacker. It is the Piper J-3C. While searching for scale-accurate reference materials online, I came across an article by Aero Resources Inc. about a small series of Piper J-3s equipped with a 3-cylinder radial engine. That struck me as an interesting variation, as an alternative to the usual J-3 Cup models.
Chris
As usual, I started building details, namely the Lenape Papoose 3-cylinder radial engine Dumy in 1:15 scale. (see the "Techniques" section in the General Forum).
I will not report here in datail about how such a model is built. The procedure is the same for most kits. Only this: The parts are cut very precisely and fit together very well. The wood quality is also good. The construction is, for such a large model, delicate and requires reinforcements in certain places. On the other hand, the basic construction is very light, weighing only 35 g (without covering, paint, rubber and propeller).
Chris
Now the model could be assembled for the first time, including landing gear and tail wheel.
To finish the model I made and adjusted the wing struts and sprayed them with the airbrush. In this context, I reduced the dihedral indicated in the plan. Last but not least, the engine cowling included in the kit had to be adapted to the new situation with the 3-cylinder radial engine. Now the model is ready to be covered with tissue.
Chris
to be continued
The model is now fully covered with tissue and treated with dope. The planned paint scheme will match the photo provided, which shows one of the two Piper J-3Ps still in airworthy condition.
Chris
to be continued
Another special day: the rollout of the Piper J-3P "Papoose" from my workshop. With rubber and propeller, the model now weighs 90g. The wingspan is 71.5 cm, giving it a scale of 1:15 relative to the real aircraft. The wing loading, excluding the horizontal stabilizer, is 12g/dm². The next report will cover the first trimm flights.
Chris
to be continued
That's a pretty little thing.
Beautiful Piper!
Good luck with the trim flights,
Happy landings
Cheers, Ramses
WELL DONE THAT LOOKS GREAT!
Chris, another great model—and not the kind you see everywhere.
I'm really looking forward to flying our Pipers together.
Pete
Beautiful model with a striking colour scheme! And that engine really sets it apart from the usual Cubs.