Piper J-3P

[chris46]

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

[chris46]

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

[chris46]

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

[chris46]

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

[chris46]

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

[TheLurker]

That's a pretty little thing.

[ramses]

Beautiful Piper!
Good luck with the trim flights,
Happy landings

Cheers, Ramses

[dputt7]

   WELL DONE THAT LOOKS GREAT!

[ZIP.58]

Chris, another great model—and not the kind you see everywhere.
I'm really looking forward to flying our Pipers together.
Pete

[Anyun]

Beautiful model with a striking colour scheme! And that engine really sets it apart from the usual Cubs.