Thorp Air Command - T18.net

First Flight of UK Thorp T 18 CW March 31
After nearly 20 years my project became an aircraft and completed its maiden flight today.
The test pilot was a good friend with lots of tail wheel experience and all went well during the 20 minute shake down.
He reported the handling was good, the stall clean and he made a beautiful 3 pointer when he landed back. I wished I was doing the flying but my chance will come soon hopefully.
The only snag was the ASI appeared to be over reading. I have the tail mounted pitot static as per S18 plans so can anyone advise me which way to move the small collar to correct the static imbalance.

Alan Fraser
G-HATF
UK

Huge congratulations Alan! That's one good looking bird!

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Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

As to the static question, I would check for static leaks in the lines running from the probe to the panel, that would cause a high reading. My experience with the tail mounted pitot static system has been that its location is prone to damage but the reading is spot on.

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Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

Hi Alan, you sure did a good job, your plane looks sharp. Did you call Mike? He will be excited that you finished that's for sure. If you plan on coming to the States again make sure you stop by for another visit! Let me know when you get some stick time in the plane....Dan

OUTSTANDING ! Good looking bird ! Regarding the lines. I found that I had leaks with the nylon connections to the back of the instruments when I did my pitot static leak check. I applied a little fuel lube to the fittings and the system checked OK with my leak test. It also was OK when I had the system checked for the Mode C/altitude check. I had him cal the Airspeed and he said it was also OK. Check those fittings on the instruments.

RB

Right on "Mr". Fraser!!! - many congratulations!!

Thanks for the response from you all and the hints about fixing the over read on the ASI.
I actually got fly as 'observer' (officially there to record readings etc) now I really undersatnd what it means to build and fly your own plane. Can't wait to solo for the ultimate buzz.
Really appreciate the support and guidance from the group over the years but what this means is questions about flying and less about building

Alan Fraser

Wecome to the far side!

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Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL