Satellite Interceptor Build

[les]

Going to do an abbreviated build thread on the 3027 version of the Estes Satellite Interceptor.

Unfortunately, I didn't think to do this until after I started....

So for the tradition picture of parts, you will notice I already papered the fins. I did not paper the one piece as it was too narrow to easily work with

 

[les]

A typical motor mount. Measure and slit the tube to insert the motor hook and glue the centering ring on.

 

[les]

Used FnF on the tube for the spirals. Marked the tube and started with the wings

 

[les]

And then the stabilizers. These are not mounted tangent to the tube, so I sanded a slight bevel onto the edge before gluing to the tube.
I used a scrap piece of plexiglass over the instructions to use the alignment figure.

 

[les]

I was unhappy with how one of the stabilizer fins went on so I cut it off and retried.

Then glued on the vertical tail sections

 

[Woody's Workshop]

Looking good.
Isn't that the same as the cross bow?

 

[les]

I believe the Crossbow was a derivative of this kit. They basically eliminated the pods on the ends of the wings

 

[les]

After the tail sections were on, I still wasn't happy with that one stabilizer. Cut it off again and re-sanded the bevel. Finally good enough. Guess third times the charm finally worked.

Started gluing on the wing pods and dowels when I noticed the forward strake wasn't in line with the tail :bang::cry:
Why am I making so many mistakes on a fairly simple rocket? Argh!! Cut it off and re-positioned it.

 

[Woody's Workshop]

You have encountered, "One of Those Rockets" Scenario.
It happens to the best of us, every so often.

 

[les]

Everything together. A little primer.. A little white coat...

 

[TangoJuliet]

That's a good looking kit, and so far, yours looks good as well. :headbang:

 

[les]

Took quite a while to apply the decals (plus work got in the way)
I find I need to spread decaling out over a couple of nights. Put a bunch on, wait and let them dry, then do more (or else I mess up the early ones)

Final pix

 

[GlenP]

Nice job! I like the display stand also, I need to make some like that.

 

[gdjsky01]

Looks nice!

 

[Mugs914]

That looks fantastic. Great job, very inspiring!

 

[Bat-mite]

You kicked it, Les!