Sport Original design tow plane: Pegasus

[Bill99]

Thanks for the info all

 

[john Derstine]

OK, just for the ignorant me... what brand engine are you running, really like the plane GREAT WORK.

It's a DLE 120cc with Bowman rings, NGK plugs and an onboard electric starter.

 

[john Derstine]

Yeah, after honing in on the engine, I could make out DL, so yes, more than likely it's a DLE. Just wondered as I have noticed that a lot of this size plane (sort of Cub) are going to BIG engines, I suppose being a tow plane, it needs to be that size to haul the Glider and get off the ground itself, plus climb well at the same time. Sort of elementary in a way. I have been thinking of going electric on my PC6, approx 110", but maybe better sticking with gas for the tow plane, anyone got thoughts on that ??????? .

There are efficient electric tow planes, but gas is better if you're at an event or gathering, as you can fly longer and more cheaply.

 

[john Derstine]

Ok fellas, The Pegasus is all but finished. everything is hooked up surfaces set and trimmed. I' using a FRsky TD R12 and I've used every hole. dual ailerons, dual flaps, dual elevators, rudder, throttle, choke on a momentary button, starter on a momentary toggle switch, ignition on a toggle via Tech aero IBEC. Tow release is not hooked up. I may not need the choke, but for first flights i configured with a servo actuated choke.
there are two 4000mah 2s flight packs plugged directly into the RX, and one 3300mah 4s for the starter smack up against the firewall. as it is it balances perfectly with no needed extra weight. All up weight should be around 27-28 pounds. haven't done the final weighing since covering it. I have to get some slightly longer prop bolts than supplied with the electric starter. and retouch a lot of the covering seams. I used Oracover and as I once liked it, it seems today the quality has deteriorated. delaminates easily. Next will be a hot start test outside and test run of the engine and throttle adjustment.

 

[john Derstine]

a few more pictures, and I want to add that I plan to offer electronic plans, laser cut files for the ribs and fuse parts, plus 0ver 300 construction photos, no instructions but a few notes and a bill of additional materials including sources for carbon gear and wing tube. Not sure what I will charge, but I want to keep it reasonable. I realize it's risky to do this, but I'm not too concerned about people ripping off my efforts, perhaps I can get some coffee money for my efforts.

 

[pawnshopmike]

Absolutely beautiful work brother.

 

[john Derstine]

Ok long time coming to post the latest. Maiden is done, flew excellently as I expected, wing is strong, unlimited vertical with a Beila 25/12 3 blade carbon prop. I made a few changes. I ditched the onboard electric starter after it seized the one way Sprague clutch bearing. Cheap chinese thingy. I opted for a two fisted hand held electric starter which reduced weight and is easy enough to use. no video of the maiden sorry to say but here are pics of the day. 29 pounds ready to fly,
I'll be making available laser cut files , full size plans printable on a 36"plotter, 300 construction photos, a bill of materials and brief notes about building. (no written instructions) plans and laser files are in DXF format, plans are also provided in PDF format. If anyone is interested i'll be making these available for a fair price with a google docs secure link provided. just don't know what they're worth. I realize theres a risk of sharing files, but it would be an honor system. I'm not looking to get rich.