The tank had only 20psi amount of Argon left, which was just enough for finishing on one of the first welding projects: the tow hitch release mechanism. The vertical tab needed fillets. I originally tried and did not have enough heat (you can see remnants of the failed weld puddle), so today I fix this.
During the previous weld attempt, I was only on a 110VAC circuit, which limits to 120A of current. Hooking into the 220VAC mains lets me run up to 200A of current, which is more than plenty.
I also added a tack to the sides of the plates that hold the release mechanism itself. These vertical plates have tabs that go into slots in the base, and those tabs are welded to the base from the bottom, so this additional tack was mostly for cheap insurance.
After a cooldown period and quick reassembly, the release hitch is ready for duty.
I also now have 1000ft of yellow polyethylene 1/4in rope for the maiden flight. Last minor items will be the weak links at either end, tying off, and ensuring the airplane-side release mechanism works reliably.
Trailer to-do's are now:
- figure out how all of Goat parts transport together
- take all of Goat for its first trip around the neighborhood
- finish weld the upper rail to the vertical supports
- finish weld the frame joints
- UV paint on the plywood decking
For the first-flight:
- covering repairs
- backyard final assembly and very thorough pre-flight check, including weight & balance
re-weld the tow hitch release (I'm now doubtful it had good penetration)- buy weak-links and end rings
- get radios (1x airborne, 1x car)
After the first-flight:
- leather patch to wing tips where will rub the ground
- leather patch guides for elevator control lines
- paint trim color
- wing root kiss seal
- main strut fairings
- jury strut fairings
- emergency parachute
- drogue chute
- variometer
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