Thursday 15 March 2007

March Update - problems persist...

After advice offered from previously trusted sources regarding the issues raised on the excessive flames at the rear, our engine supplier Dave at Northwest Turbines viewed our video and resolved the issue in one fell swoop - the fuel previously provided whilst highly flammable (as fuel should be) had an oil content to thick for the fine oil feeds to the bearings.

Thanks again for your invaluable advice on this Dave - much appreciated - incidentally if anyone is looking at turbine engines - forget Wren - send me a message and I'll let you have Dave's contact details.

This resulted in poorly lubricated bearing requiring a much greater amount of fuel to be injected to obtain the RPM the engine required - too much fuel results in too much combustion which had to go somewhere - straight out of the tail cone.

Whilst quite impressive (especially at dusk) this could have resulted in our first use of our trusty fire extinguisher - this would not have been a pretty sight.

We now have a serviced jet engine with clear oil and fuel feeds and are now running on kerosene mixed with 4% turbine oil - a much finer grade than previously used.

Body work - is progressing although we are now onto our second moulding - its not easy carving and sanding a symmetrical shape from foam you know!! We will have progress soon and hopefully video and photos.

We have also had contact from another R/C speed merchant who is building a similar car although powered in a conventional manner - watch this space - a race should be arranged soon...