Arapahoe-E scratch build launch lugs

[OC-Patrick]

Hi - where are the launch lugs typically placed on this model? Have to deal with the fins and the strakes which are equally offset from each other - thanks.

 

[heada]

On mine its half way between a fin and a strake about 4 inches up from the aft end. My kit was an original Thrustline. I don't know if SquirrelWorks has changed that.

 

[OC-Patrick]

I've found them located as heada, above, states - and also with two lugs. Any advantage/disadvantage with either?

 

[kuririn]

The Squirrel Works Arapahoe E has two launch lugs. Aft lug is at the end of the body tube, just above the tail cone. Forward lug is 6 inches further up. Both on a line between a strake and a fin.
Intuitively I would prefer two lugs. I would think it would be better at preventing a rotation around the center of a single lug. That's my highly technical scientific analysis.

 

[heada]

I like 1 longer vs 2 shorter. The 1 doesn't have concerns with getting out of alignment like you can with 2. The 2 should give slightly better guidance compared to 1 but has a greater chance of binding up and the upper one only is good until it clears the end of the rod which isn't much.

 

[o1d_dude]

Here’s a photo of the Arapahoe I found via DDG...(Duck Duck Go).

 

[OC-Patrick]

...love this site - thanks for all the responses.

I'm thinking going one of two ways. 1) long single lug and "hide" it directly adjacent to a strake, or 2) smaller lug within the front black band, and smaller lug against a strake towards the rear. Lugs really take away from this beautifully designed rocket.

 

[OKTurbo]

Here’s some pics of Arapahoe #1. Just went out to the shop and took it out of the rocket box.

That’s my oldest son prepping it at a Tulsa Rocketry launch years ago. He’s 28 yrs old now.

 

[OC-Patrick]

Here’s some pics of Arapahoe #1. Just went out to the shop and took it out of the rocket box.

That’s my oldest son prepping it at a Tulsa Rocketry launch years ago. He’s 28 yrs old now.
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Thanks for the detail pics of the launch lugs. I am inclined to do the same. No issues with hang ups on the rod?

 

[OKTurbo]

Thanks for the detail pics of the launch lugs. I am inclined to do the same. No issues with hang ups on the rod?

Nope....never had a problem with them.

 

[PatD]

Align them with the rod, tape the rod down on the pencil line, tack with CA and fillet.

 

[OC-Patrick]

Finally finished the build, added two lugs against the strakes. Finished up with paint and Stickershock.