Estes Saturn 5 build

[Tom Hoelle]

This is my first venture into RocketryForum.

I'm getting ready to construct my first Saturn V - the Apollo 11 Saturn V #2157

I'm wanting to fly this with E, F, and possibly G engines. So, I'll be using the 24 mm engine tube as the stuffer tube.

In order to survive an F or G engine, I'm debating using:
1) original .045 cardboard centering rings
2) .195 foamboard [foam core with light cardboard on each side]
3) 1/32" plywood
4) 1/16" plywood

My pick would be the foamboard. What are your recommendations? I'm sure there are other threads dealing with this issue.

Tom Hoelle

 

[Ez2cDave]

As a starting point . . .

Back in the day, Flight Systems, Inc. ( FSI ) sold "Conversion Kits" for the Estes Maxi-Brutes to allow E60 & F100 motors to be used. To convert the Saturn V, the kit for the Pershing-1A was used.

It consisted of two 1/16" plywood centering rings ( BT-101 dia. ) , about 18" of 29mm motor mount tube ( FSI E60/F100 motors were 27 mm dia. ), and a 1/16" thick plywood thrust ring.

NOTE: An "F100" was actually an "E" motor ( actually, only 40 Nt-sec ) . . . So, a REAL "F" or "G" motor has a lot more power . . . Be sure your materials are strong enough !

Dave F.