Removable "modular motor can" - anyone tried?

I see that LOC Precision is now selling a removable "modular motor can" that allows us to remove and replace the motor mount with different motor configurations -- 4x18mm, 1x29mm, 3x24mm, 1x38mm and 1x24mm. See https://locprecision.com/product/modular-motor-can-mmc/

Has anyone tried this system or homebrewed something similar? This would be just what I need in Europe, where it is difficult to get larger motors and clustering small ones may get the biggest bang. I suppose the biggest issue is that you can't use slotted fins if the motor mount is removable.

Good question. Looks like you can only surface mount fins with this component.

Also fairly sure that I would NOT trust it to stay in place with just push rivets.

I know Semroc has something like this. I remember browsing the motor mount section at eRockets and seeing a tandem motor mount that could be removed. It rotated and locked in place. I think there was one with four motor mounts that worked the same way. I assume it was something Carl designed years ago.

Banzai88 said:

Good question. Looks like you can only surface mount fins with this component.

Also fairly sure that I would NOT trust it to stay in place with just push rivets.

Click to expand...

The LOC Precision "MMC compatible" 2.6" rockets do indeed use surface mount fins and push rivets, this is from the LOC website (Phoenix):

TMRK had a system years ago before they went belly up. The web page is still up:
https://tmrk.rocketshoppe.com/parts.htm
As Zeus-Cat mentioned Semroc has a system for some of their SLS series kits. The SLS Laser X for example could be flown with 1x29mm, 2x24mm, or 4x18mm configurations if you add the optional motor mounts. Twist and lock system.
I'm planning an interchangeable system for my Sat V build. Cheers.
PS Re: TTW fins as long as the "mother" mount is smaller than the main tube you can still do TTW fins.

Here’s a bt80 scratch built der Red Max I built about 15 yrs ago. I’m pretty sure I made a 3x18 mount for it...maybe a 3x24mm. Cant find them. I have 2 different 24mm mounts I can find. One with a motor block in top for Estes motors, the other for Aerotech reload cases. Usually fly it on F20 size motors. Nothing too fancy. Held in with homemade motor hooks made from windshield wiper blade stiffener things.






Here’s a 3x24 cluster...I think it would fit if I made one. Flies too good on the little Aerotech reloads though.

Years ago I made sort of "twist-lock" motor cans to fit BT60. I had 18mm, 24mm, 20mm (old Quest D5), and 3x18mm variant inserts. Somewhere on this forum would be threads with build pictures.

PML does it with their "kwik switch mount" using a twist lock retaining system.

The plastic rivets are actually pretty strong in shear. I've used them on 7.5" rockets weighing 45lbs. As long as they are properly installed and used in sufficient quantity, they are no worse than any other kind of connector.

Tony

https://www.itw-fastex.com/panel-fasteners.html