MMX Semroc Hustler

[ep29030]

Assembling a prototype MMX version of the Semroc Hustler. The lower airframe is a BT-3; upper is a BT-4. I started to make the kit with styrene fins. The shape is hard to cut from styrene—the inside corner on the leading edge is tricky. This fin has to be multiple pieces from balsa. Since I don’t yet have a laser cutter, I designed a one-piece fin can and printed it. Also printed the BT-3/BT-4 transition, the BT-4 nosecone and the launch lug with integrated standoff. The printed parts make it an easy build.

 

[ep29030]

The hole in the fin can is sized for a BT-2 tube. Glue motor tube (2” long) in place with medium CA, then use a motor blank to glue motor stop block 3/4” inside aft end of tube—motor hangs out 1/4” to be taped for flight.

The lower airframe is so narrow there was no room for a printed shock cord anchor. So… the motor tube is extra 1/2” tall to provide place for anchor. I used a 1/4” wide strip of typing paper soaked with yellow glue Put Kevlar cord under paper strip first wrap and left some hanging down to fold up for second paper wrap. See picture. Net result was Kevlar captured in a paper wrap around motor tube. BT-3 tube just slides over it.

 

[ep29030]

I already glued transition to upper airframe, added lower airframe and nosecone to spray it with sandable primer. Sanded it down to fill tube spiral.

 

[ep29030]

Glued lower airframe to fin can with medium CA. Glued launch lug with standoff to lower airframe with medium CA.

 

[ep29030]

Sprayed entire kit with Dupli-Color Filler primer then allowed to dry. Next step is light sanding with 600 grit sandpaper, a wipe down and spraying with Dupli-Color white acrylic enamel.

 

[ep29030]

FYI, my main reason in building the prototype is testing the decals. I’ve printed a set that I believe are the correct size, but I need to put them on to know for sure. And of course, it’s fun to own a unique MMX kit as well.

 

[ep29030]

Well….Hustler is painted. I used orange adhesive Monokote (no longer available) to cover the top section, rather than paint it. I bombed on the decals—way too small. Got correct measurements so I can print another set, clear coat them, and try again. So close, and yet so far. Kit is 9 inches tall. Dime in the picture for reference.

 

[ep29030]

Well, finally managed to hit the correct % downscale for decals. Wrap-around decals give little room for error. Decals on and setting. A coat of Dupli-Color 1K Clear and this kit is almost done. Adding a 1/2” x 9” Mylar streamer for recovery. Kit is 9” tall

 

[DocSeuss]

WOW!! It's GORGEOUS!

 

[ep29030]

Built a second MMX Hustler. I discovered the way this rocket is made, you can finish everything separately then assemble it last. Simplifies the build for sure. Photos go through the build. Used medium CA, except for Kevlar knots—yellow glue used to set the knots.

 

[ep29030]

Finished!

 

[Rocket-Fan]

Looks great!