*** Andy Steere's Diamond Dust Construction Page ***

This is my second Diamond Dust, during its construction. Using most of the components from the first model, this only took a week of evenings to get to the point where it is ready to cover. Building the second one is usually quicker than building the first one (which only took three weeks).

Notes about the photos:

  • I took these pictures with the intention of rewriting the consturction manual included with the kit... because it is horrible.
  • Engine came from Diamond Dust #1 (check out the crash picture to see where it has been).
  • Hitec HS-81 throttle servo was replaced, as its gears were stripped in the crash.
  • Hitec HS-605BB servos were reused, with CNC-Aluminum servo arms from Helicopter-World.
  • Gas tank was replaced with a new one, as the old one split.
  • Photos are in basic order of construction.
  • Engine mount was beefed up because of how much material was cut from it to fit the engine, plus how powerful the engine is.
  • Engine mount laminated with 6oz carbon fiber on both sides, then after installed in ribs... the whole thing, including the leading edges and firewall, are covered in 2oz kevlar. All applied using CA glue. It will get a thinned coat of epoxy as a fuelproofer after the covering is applied.
  • I will add more notes later... this page is still under construction.

    Click on the number below each image for a larger version of the picture (larger number, larger version of the picture)


    1024 / 640 - MVVS GRRT with Q500 R/C carb
    1024 / 640 - Lots of after-run oil to clean it out.
    1024 / 640 - Looks pretty good...

    1024 / 640 - considering where its been.
    1024 / 640 - Primary ribs.
    1024 / 640 - Build tail-feathers first, as always.

    1024 / 640 - Lay out leading edges and spars.
    1024 / 640 - Insert ribs (don't forget rubberbands)
    1024 / 640 - Engine mount as included in kit.

    1024 / 640 - Modified with a Dremel for the GRRT
    1024 / 640 - CF laminated with thick CA, both sides
    1024 / 640 - Trimmed and inserted into ribs

    1024 / 640 - Another shot, laying on 2oz Kevlar
    1024 / 640 - Build trailing edge, glue spars
    1024 / 640 - Install leading edge

    1024 / 640 - Glue gussets and kevlar wrap joints
    1024 / 640 - Kevlar transfers stress to ribs and LE
    1024 / 640 - Install antenna tube and radio

    1024 / 640 - Sheet middle and install capstrip
    1024 / 640 - Closeup of kevlar-wrapped joint.
    1024 / 640 Install everything, double-check balance.

    1024 / 640 - Battery moved to back to balance
    1024 / 640 - Closeup of radio gear, note CNC arms.
    1024 / 640 - Elevons installed and READY TO COVER!

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    ©COPYRIGHT NOTICE: You are granted permission to view these images and movies while accessing these web pages, but I retain all rights to the images and they may not be used for any other purpose without my permission.

    Copyright 2001-2002 - Andy Steere

    Last modified on 07/15/2002

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