Tips and Tricks

Recently we flew our RMS-WACC using a 24mm AeroTech Reloadable Motor System that had a D15-4 installed. Unfortunately when we packed the Recovery System (parachute, heat shield, etc) for the BT-60 Main Body Tube we didn't wrap it tight enough producing a tight fit within the tube.

This led to the ejection charge kicking the motor past the Engine Hook which is suppose to lock and hold the motor in place. The Recovery System did deploy but when we retrieved the rocket we noticed the AeroTech 24mm Casing was gone. Ouch!!!

To prevent Engine Hook failure from happening it is a good idea to simply take a piece of black tape and wrap it around the Engine Hook and motor (see illustration). This will prevent the Engine Hook from springing away from the motor during ejection.

It is also a good idea to make sure your Recovery System isn't jammed into your Main Body Tube.

The Rocket Gods were kind to us that day. I sent my two boys out after the final launch of the day and my oldest found the casing (A $65 saving). We religiously use the tape technique and haven't had a problem since.

Here at QModeling we try to provide easy to build kits. As our customers know we even include various alignment gauges and assembly aids with the kits parts. Even so, sometimes our customers make helpful guides that we miss! 

For example, QModeler Mike Zampello came up with a nice way to align the launch lugs on a RMS-SNOOPER. Use a fairly long scrap piece of 7/8” wide balsa with parallel edges.  Tape a section of launch rod to it and use the extra tape to attach both to the main body tube. Now you can align the launch lugs very precisely.

Thanks Mike!