Level 2: Binder Fusion Build Thread

After a couple of weeks break, I got around to painting my SBR Fusion. It’s now drying in anticipation of applying the vinyl decal. All the holes are drilled (except for the shear pin holes holding the nose cone), primer, gloss white enamel, and gloss clear coat are now drying. I’ve no patience for filling and sanding so my paint job isn’t as nice as could be. My motor will likely be a J350 w/12 second delay, 36 in parachute and a JLCR with hopes it will keep the rocket close.

Mark!

Mark

Well,
This is it . . . The Fusion is wrapped up and ready to go. The motor is loaded with a J350 reload. I passed the Level Two written test. I've configured and test the JLCR on my parachute. Inspected and re-inspected everything. I could think of. Creating a check list . . .
All I have left are the optional parts: install a go pro in the CAM1 and cut out the view hole. Configure the RRC3 altimeter as a ride along and have it report the altitude at apogee. If all goes well, then I'll be trying this Saturday morning August 10 @ 0800 in Hondo Texas.

Wish Me Luck!

Mark!

Looks great Mark! I did my level one with my Fusion on a H123 and it performed great. Hope to use it for my level two as well. You did a great job on yours!

Good Luck!

John Cummings said:

Looks great Mark! I did my level one with my Fusion on a H123 and it performed great. Hope to use it for my level two as well. You did a great job on yours!

Good Luck!

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Thanks - and nicely done!

mark

Looks great, Mark. I'm confident that the flight will go well for you.

Nice job! And quick, too! Good luck on your J350 flight - sounds like you're ready.

Unfortunately I failed my Level Two. The Fusion performed brilliantly, looked fantastic coming off the pad - did everything it was supposed to. It appears the JLCR released early (probably my fault on that) and carried the rocket more than 1.5 miles away into an active corn field that was on private property being watered. We had no contact for the farmer; we searched in vain for hours. Will be trying again soon!

Mark!

Ah nuts, that's a beautiful rocket. Hopefully you can recover it, and better luck on your next attempt.

So it was a successful flight just not recovered. Your building was sound so next time you’ll get it! Good positive attitude!

John Cummings said:

So it was a successful flight just not recovered. Your building was sound so next time you’ll get it! Good positive attitude!

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John,
Thanks - very much so. It roared off the pad and flew up straight as an arrow. I'm pretty sure my JLCR folding technique didn't work as well as It should. Released early, the chute carried it at least 1.5 miles . . . probably closer to two.

Mark