Control Line: Speed
THIS column is a continuation of the one in the April issue. We are describing the rework needed to set up the Supertigre X-29 for suction fuel feed. I hope by the time you read this all the previously described engine rework is finished. The venturi is the next part that requires careful attention. Disassemble the needle valve assembly from the venturi. Set the needle valve assembly aside for later use. Machine an insert from any type of aluminum material (I prefer 2024-T6) to fit inside the stock venturi bore. Drill a 5/16 in. hole through the insert. This hole dimension has been found to be best suited for good suction for the X-29 engine. Use only a small amount of pressure to press the insert into the venturi opening.
Control Line: Speed
THERE has been quite a bit of interest in B speed and I have asked Dave Layman if he would supply the necessary information to write a column about setting up the X-29 for tank suction. This will be done in two parts due to the amount of information covered. Engine Set-Up: First, disassemble your X-29 except for bearings. Then, heat case in oven to approximately 350ºF for easy removal of bearings from case. You may have to rap case on a piece of wood so that bearings will fall out. Allow bearings to cool, then clean thoroughly in lacquer thinner, and dry. If you have ultrasonic cleaner, it would be even better.
Control Line: Speed
WITH the contest season almost finished, I finally have some time to gather all my notes together and write this month's column. The first noteworthy piece of information is the excellent newsletter called "Flying Lines," written by Mike Hazel and John Thompson. These fellas are doing a beautiful job of editing the newsletter. It covers a broad spectrum of articles concerning Speed and control-line racing. Please send $6.00 for a year's subscription to: Flying Lines, 1411 Bryant Ave., Cottage Grove, OR 97424. They need your support to make this newsletter a success.
Control Line: Speed
AT THE 1979 Nats, Charlie Davis made a proposal to consider the Oltyme Speed Society. The attraction for this type of event generated quite a bit of interest. Now is the time for all inactive speed fliers to speak up and make their thoughts known. If the speed modelers do not write and express their views, you have only yourselves to blame. It is very easy to sit back and criticize but do nothing to participate. Which category do you fit into? I would like to present Charlie's proposal in its entirety for everyone to consider. The next voice you hear will be his. It is becoming painfully apparent that the hobby we have all enjoyed for so many years is being threatened with extinction because of the lack of participation. There are a number of reasons for the lack of new blood and the constant loss of active members. To remain competitive today requires more time, money and equipment than most people can devote to a hobby. New modelers are turned away by all that is required to become competitive and the fun is gone for most of those already engaged in it.
AMA Nats Lincoln '79: CL Speed
AS I write about the happenings and the meetings of the '79 Nats, it is difficult to express the appreciation and thanks to all who helped execute and administrate the Speed events. The event director for this year's speed events was Dave Reiber with Bev and Mindy Wisiewshi as his assistants. This year's Nats were well attended and the overall speed entries were up from the '78 Nats. Everyone enjoyed themselves and the B.S. sessions flowed faster than the speeds. Let's move on to the bustling activity of Monday, July 30, which had F-40, FAI and A speed. In FAI Speed, Japan's #1 speed flier, Akeshi Kusumoto, pulled a 137.74 mph over Frank Hunt and Glenn Lee at 135.33 mph and 125.81 mph respectively. Akeshi's FAI model was powered by a prototype OS MAX 15. The outward appearance resembled a Rossi .15. It incorporated a brass sleeve with an electroless nickle coating. Beautiful workmanship. This engine may be available in the U.S. within 4-6 months.
