nose cones for Launch Pad kits

[Kidwoosh]

Has anyone found a better way to build the nose cone fairing on any of the Launch Pad line?. I just can't bring myself to waste the time with the paper cone used on so many of the kits.Considering that most require nose weight anyway,would building it up with a Bondo type filler and turning on the drill press be better?

Thanks to all,Kurt J.

 

[eugenefl]

Hey there Kurt. I've pretty much heard of people sawing off the plastic tip and replacing the rest of the cone (and paper hat) with a balsa piece. I figure the Bondo might work, but if it's weighted you might have some trouble keeping it affixed to the plastic cone. Either way, I totally agree with your assessment of the paper cone. I don't like it myself and would almost prefer to not have a tip at all.

 

[sandman]

I just make a whole new nose cone out of balsa...save the kit one for another project.

sandman

 

[eugenefl]

Originally posted by sandman
I just make a whole new nose cone out of balsa...save the kit one for another project.

sandman

Yeah, and you could whittle a canoe with a sail out of a toothpick if you had to.

 

[sandman]

Yeah, and you could whittle a canoe with a sail out of a toothpick if you had to.

I could but, I'd have to charge for that...I do take Paypal

sandman

 

[Kidwoosh]

I'm going to try drilling small holes to aid in retention,and using the original cone for a mold.I'll probably try using water to delaminate the paper leaving a good surface to true and fill.When I think about it,the volume of filler between the plastic cone and paper form really won't be much.If it works,I'll pass on the experience.Thanks to all,Kurt J.