1/1/2002
Here is the beginning of the lift fan. The blank being glued together.
I am not sure how I am going to cut the fan. Being 4 bladed, the
bandsaw won't be able to reach the full length of each blade. I may
have to resort to a hand saw. :(
1/30/2002
Yes, I did it. I've used a hand saw! Unfortunately, the lift fan
cannot be cut with the bandsaw. I tried 3 different methods for
cutting the shape. Making several cuts along the blade and then using
a chisel to remove the material between the cuts. Using a wood rasp to
file away all that doesn't belong. And using the hand saw to cut down
the blade. The last method was probably the quickest, but it involved
a hand tool. :( I am looking forward to cutting the thrust prop on
the bansaw.
3/9/2002
Finally back at the lift fan. The fan is ready to get the airfoil shape
sanded. After the airfoil shape, it was balanced and received a layer
of fiberglass and epoxy.
3/10/2002
I mounted the lift fan to the lift engine to make the splitter which
deflects some of the lift air to fill the bag skirt.
4/1/2002
The lift fan has been balanced and the first coat of primer is on.
4/4/2002
The lift fan is finally finished. Now the fan just needs a finished
hovercaft.
6/24/2002
Just when I thought that I was finished with the craft, I replaced the
lift engine. There was absolutely nothing wrong with the old lift engine,
and it provided plenty of lift. The reason for changing engines is mainly
due to laziness. The new engine is 8hp with electric start. Just turn
the key and away it goes. :) I thought that I was going to have to change
the engine mount, but 2 of the holes lined up and I just had to drill 2
new holes.