The Virtual Hoverally

UH-12R For Sale

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:42:53 +0000

Own a piece of history. I have decided to sell the UH-12R. It is the original craft build by Bob Windt. It has taken on many variations over the years but it is still a very sound craft. We refurbished it two years ago to its current form. I would like to keep the craft, but it is time to move on to something else. I would like a bigger craft that I can share with my family. If I sell this soon it will motivate me to finish other projects. I am willing to sell the complete craft for $4500 or the hull only for $2000. I am willing to deliver the craft to Hoverally at Big Spring, TN.

http://www.hovercraft.com/builders/12r_projects/01-marcus/marcus-01-lg.jpg

Complete Craft Includes:
UH-12R Hull with Rudder System
Tecumseh 10HP Lift Engine
Yamaha 485 Thrust Engine
2 Tiny Tachs
2 Gas Tanks (3 Gal each)
HTD Pulleys
New HTD Belt (One Event Old)
Stainless Steel Shaft
New Shaft Bearings (One Event Old)
UH Lift Fan
UH Prop
Motor Mounts
Seat

If you are just interested in the hull I will include the rudder system, seat, motor mounts, prop, and lift fan.

Any questions call or Email
Josh Speer
Cell: (812)249-2609
email: imspeedyspeer@aol.com

Maumee River Cruise

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 03:01:33 +0000

I live in Perrysburg Ohio close to where this cruise is to be and was wondering if anyone is planning on going to this event.I'd like to meet some people in the club and check out their hovercrafts.John1155@aol.com or (419)-661-8432 home-(419)-260-1399-cell

Chevy Volt - a first exposure

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 01:13:56 +0000

Chevy Volt - a first exposure

I did not test drive it, but could have. I just moved it out of the drive and to the street and back so my cousin could leave the football game early. The cool sound of the power-down is awesome, like a turbine shut-down. The car sits low, even lower than my old 911 with chin spoiler. The interior was super nice, the white center console I took a real liking to.

In general the car is about 15% smaller on the outside than I expected, and about 10% larger on the inside than I expected after seeing it in person.

Over 20 photos - some details of the braking pads/system too.
Automobile pictures by kach22i - Photobucket
[IMG]http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x295/kach22i/Automobile/volt21.jpg[/IMG]

I really like this car.

Fly On Fly Off hovercraft trailer

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:12:36 +0000

I have a fly on fly off hovercraft trailer for sale. I built it to the dimensions of Neoteric's Hovertrailer for my Hovertrek but have decided to keep using what I have. (It's easier to get into my narrow driveway with my inconsidorate neighbors) Torsion axle. Pulls well! Asking $2300.00 (my materials cost to build)

World Hovercraft Championship Report #1

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:37:34 +0000

Greetings from the WHC 2010 in Towcester England!
The Can-Am container arrived exactly as scheduled on Monday afternoon. ALL of the contents arrived safely and without damage.
The container was unloaded Tuesday morning and hovers and gear moved to the pits (called the Paddock here).
144 craft are here.
Opening ceremonies were last night and moved indoors due to the rain. here is a link to the local news coverage:
http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/173399-The-Griffon-Hoverwork-World-Championships-Officially-Opened-By-The-Mayor-Of-Towcester

It has been raining ALOT here since Sunday. Tuesday was particularly windy and caused trouble for alot of the canopies set up in the pits.

Chris Sorgatz was planning on running his F1 craft in the Endurance Race but failed the noise check at 102 dB (at ~50 ft.) 97 dB is the limit this weekend for Endurance. Chris will now run F1 only. This may be a blessing in disguise as Endurance may have been too demanding. The race course is very cool; hilly with a 60 to 80 foot elevation change from top to bottom. One lap is about 1.5 miles long.
Everyone else on the Can-Am team apears ready to go. Jet lag has now been overcome.

Bill Zang can't find his camping gear so everyone is pitching in to help him out until he can get to a store.
Time trials are starting now.
Today's forcast is for rain to start within the hour and getting windier as the day goes on. Will make for an interesting (and miserable) Endurance race.
Broadcast communications are being a challenge; look for broadcasting to begin later today (Weds.) around 9:00 Eastern time. Do not expect commentary until Thursday as we are trying to set up multiple cameras with a switching capability. The hardware is in place but we aren't quite sure how to use it! I have been asked to be the roaming microphone/ camera in the pits during the event. Anyone is welcome to text me at anytime to this US number: (269)779-1339 with questions or requests. Please identify yourself when texting. I will do my best to respond but it will depend on the timing of course. I will also do my best not to bias my interview time towards the Can-Am Team only.

Final note: Everyone here is SUPER nice and very happy that the USA and Canada are represented. The general feeling here is "Without the Can-Am Team, it just would'nt be a true World Championship".
Looking everyone's feedback- please comment.
Signing off for now-
Terry Chapman

hoverstar or hoverjet hull

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 19:37:18 +0000

im looking for either hoverstar or hoverjet hull that would fit a 503 rotax engine

Things we need for the 2010 Hoverally in Big Springs

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 18:34:17 +0000

The BOD has been busy organizing stuff for HR 2010 and I am opening this thread to solicit participation through direct help, donations or even advice. As we have previously posted the event will be a cruising oriented event and we have several special features we are trying to put together. One part that I am working on is an OFFICIAL CRAFT CERTIFICATION opportunity that will combine the safety check with a consolidation of your craft's specifications. Here is a brief outline of what I am trying to accomplish.
Here is how I see this going.
There are two stages:
Stage 1 (two helpers)
The craft would be driven (yes it has to be in running order) to a designated location on a flat surface. The craft would be aligned to a specific point. I have a lifting strap setup with scales that the hover would hover over.
The craft would be measured for length and width.
The owner would fill out an information sheet that states the:
make,
model,
year constructed,
manufacturer,
engines model and cc or hp or model #,
fan / prop specs (make,size and pitch if that is available ),
location of registration
name of Owner.
The craft would be weighed and the two scales recorded along with the distance from the front of the craft to the support slings. (this will give us the empty CG) This will require a location with a high lifting point. This may be a problem.

The craft would then be safety inspected at this location.
Stage 2 (2 helpers)
After the safety inspection the craft would move off to an adjacent area where it would undergo a sound and thrust test by:
Hovering to a set location.
Tethered to a thrust testing rig.
Engines activated
Thrust readings taken at idle
Sound readings taken at idle from 25M behind and 25M to the side
Thrust readings taken at WOT
Sound readings taken at WOT from 25M behind and 25M to the side
Thrust and sound readings taken at cruise RPM
Sound readings taken at cruise RPM from 25M behind and 25M to the side

The information would be recorded on paper and submitted to me for compilation.

I will take the information and insert it into a "HCA" certification sheet and print out a copy for each participant. ( this may have to be done at a later time)

I will be able to present the preliminary information at dinner on Saturday.

I think the certification would be different. It is not hard but would require a few people to run the program.

For this to happen we will need 6 volunteers, a fork lift or crane or boom truck for the weight rig or some good load cells of about 1000 #. some sound meters, a thrust rig including an anchor, chain and heavy game scale. The club has some of this equipment scattered around the country. If you have any of these items and would loan them to the club for a few days that would help a lot.
The certificate will be issued listing all of your craft specs and you can hang it on a wall or just brag about the results.

In addition to the craft certifications we are going to run an event that tests your hovering skills by timing a set course and seeing if you can duplicate the timed run you posted. We will need a few volunteers to time and man the course and maybe even play rescue boat!
This year we will get to see Sherri Galka at the registration desk. I'm sure she would love to have some help!!
There will be some setup and site work to do on the Friday AM of the event. Some help is appreciated with this.
We are still looking into guest speakers so if you know someone that is mesmerizing and can entertain a group of tires sun drenched hovers for an hour on Saturday night please contact the BOD and we will be glad to pick up the tip.
How about an auction! Does anyone know how to do the auction thing? The club has made good $ in the past with the auctions.

OK that's a start.

Lowell Michigan Hover Cruise

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 18:54:23 +0000

I am helping Don Bender with the Lowell Hover Cruise on Aug 28 and 29th. Wonder if I could get a heads up on how many are coming ? Mike McFarland

Hovercraft commercial insurance

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:37:31 +0000

Does anyone know where I can get commercial liability insurance for giving commercial tours on hovercrafts?

Jay Gustafson

WHC 2010 T-shirts For Sale

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 04:08:15 +0000

I have available for sale 12 T-shirts with a similar logo to the one used on our official racing jerseys for WHC 2010. The shirts are a heavy-weight, good quality fabric and sizing is right on with your normal shirt size.

Cost is $35 USD and includes cost of shipping them within the USA. PM me with your size and address.

The quality of the pic below is unfortunately limited to 75kb so image isnt too good. If you want a better pic, let me know and I'll email to you directly.

Hovering at Bois Blanc

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 20:20:17 +0000

Mike Lynch has posted a couple of photos of hovering in the Mackinaw straights. Take a look and see how beautiful this are is for hovering. Looks like Jason had his new Sevtec there also. Great photography Mike!!!

http://www.hoverclub...wimage&img=2195

GPS Units

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 13:25:02 +0000

After a recent road trip, I'm considering the purchase of a GPS nav unit for my car. I would like to get one that I could also use on the hover, I suppose for a few different purposes. Most of them offer a speedometer function, which would be nice, as well as a compass (albeit only while moving). All of the units I am looking at perform fine in the car, but only a few offer the ability to use on the water. The Lowrance XOG, Magellan CrossoverGPS, and the Garmin nuvi 500. The Lowrance offers the ability to download and use topo and waterways maps from their website (at $5 each), but has been discontinued. The Magellan has gotten poor reviews for hardware issues such as lock-ups, but as is usually the case, only the disgruntled users write reviews. In any case, I could not find the Magellan unit on their website, although I can buy it from many places on the internet. The Garmin has varying reviews depending mostly on the mood of the user it seems, but is ranking highest on my list as of now.

There are many other units available. Many of the handheld units also allow for map loading, and some of them offer in-car navigation as well. My biggest issue with these units is the price point. The large screen color handhelds are in the $300-$500 range, while the larger, heavier in-car/boat units are in the $200-$300 range. While I am not opposed to using a handheld unit, I haven't found one in my price range that has the feature set I am looking for.

I'd love to hear opinions from anyone who has one of these, or a similar 'crossover' gps. As most of the low end in car units perform similarly for navigating on the roads, I'm really interested in how these units perform when using USCG maps. If you've used one on the water, how well did it perform?

-Don

Scat 1

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 11:45:53 +0000

I originally owned this machine and sold it to be used in the Ultimate Car Build off show on Discovery Channel. The episode will air on August 30th. It is for sale on EBay at

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290459406630&viewitem=&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%26its%3DI%26otn%3D1&category=26434#ht_500wt_1182

Here is the description that is listed on EBay:
This is a used Scat hovercraft in good condition. It is a single seat hovercraft that can be used by 2 people at once. It is 9.5 feet long and weighs 330 (pounds dry). This weight does not account for passengers, fuel, or gear. The beam of this craft is 72 inches. The Rotax 277cc 26hp motor starts RIGHT UP EVERY TIME. THE MOTOR IS IN GREAT CONDITION. I have seen these motors sell for $1500 on ebay. That is, if you can find one.

The skirts have been repaired before and they are all there and are all in perfect condition. The upper trim piece on the top edge is missing but is a very easy fix. This model has 2 person seating capacity and is capable of 25-30 mph. Have fun this summer. These go over land, water, ice, grass,sand, snow, ANYTHING! This Scat will not sink if the motor is off in deep water, it floats just like a boat. In that aspect its great for getting to those isolated hard to reach fishing spots that regular boats cant get too. The hovercraft comes with a clear title and can be registered in your state, it is classified as a boat. These are made in Miami, Florida, and a similar new model can go for as much as $18,000.

Hovering Lawnmower on eBay

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 11:29:12 +0000

I stumbled upon this today on eBay. Has anyone ever used one? If my neighbors didn't already look at me sideways, they surely would after seeing me mow the lawn with one of these...

Don

Evacuations rising in Kalamazoo oil spill

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 10:17:18 +0000

Evacuations rising in Kalamazoo River oil spill
http://news.yahoo.com/s/detroitnws/detroitnws_ts3290

Article, video and photo gallery in link above.

I've hovered on the St Joseph River and the Grand River in that part of Michigan before. It's a real shame what's happened.

A few years ago an investment firm sent me a map of all the oil lines in Michigan, a stupid thing to send out after 9/11/2001 in my opinion. There are several dozen of these types of oil lines running throughout the state.

Anyone in the forum ever hover on the Kalamazoo River?

Scat on Craigslist- right here in my town- $1100.00

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:42:09 +0000

http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/boa/1865684942.html

Getting photo's down to 75kb for posting here

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 04:36:30 +0000

Whenever I try to post photos, I have to open up each one in MS Photo Editor and play around with resizing it until I get it to 75kb or smaller. I want them as big as possible, so it's a bunch of hit and miss messing around with resizing. It's a PAIN. Is there a simple utility for BATCH resizing to a specific file size? Using Windows mail to resize them doesn't do it. I've got Vista and MS Office 97.
I've got a lot of photos from the Cordova Cruise I'd like to get up here into the gallery. I'm not gonna do one photo at a time. My MS Photo Editor may be a bootleg from Windows 95, XP, or something old anyhow. It is version 3.0.2.3 I'm pretty sure I manually installed it into this Vista machine.

So what's the shortcut for batch resizing?

Drive components, Bearings, Pulley, and Bushing

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:08:36 +0000

I have some "new in the Box" drive components I'm not using for my Surveyor Build if anyone is interested?

4) Sealmaster Skwezloc NPL-16T 1" Bearings

1) Browning 2Q3V106 Pulley

1) Browning Q1 1" bushing

Make an Offer

Contact JMW052277@aol.com

Weeend Hover trip video

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:27:47 +0000

Short video of some hovering at the weekend (mostly of a UH18).

Shows just what happens when you have the lift variator in the wrong position when you open the throttle (at 2:08 - the ball of spray followed by a quick adjustment).

Video links of historical SRN5 and SRN6

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:26:57 +0000

For your viewing pleasure, Youtube videos I shot last weekend of the SRN6 that went down the Amazon in the 1960's and last remaining Navy SK5, both of which are a part of the Bellingham (Washington) International Maritime Museum. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkaJ4ELOYzQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKA4iWf34TU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7awLCBdZ8cw

2006 Shrike

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 03:00:02 +0000

For Sale.2006 Shrike. Bought in Feb 2007 without engine. Finished installing a 1997 Yamaha XT 500 liquid cooled engine
in May 2010. Engine and mount too heavy (140 lb). Needs lighter power package. $3000. David Elam Mbr. # 6400.
cattlecall6@charter.net. 334-887-6643. Auburn, AL.
Trailer included. Elec/Manual start. Tach,Over Temp light,Temperature Gauge, Voltmeter.
Kill switch.
Make me an offer I need to sell this unit.

Do you have a variable splitter plate?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:29:30 +0000

Hello all,

Just a quick introduction as this is my first post; My name is Don and I live in New York. I've owned a Scat 2 for about 10 years. It is currently powered by a Kawasaki 440 of about 45 HP, uses a belt drive and a 6 blade MultiWing fan.

On to the topic. My current drive system allows for adjustment of the fan to splitter plate gap (not while in flight), but this is a rather difficult balance as most Scat owners know. Either there is a lack of lift system efficiency, or you're blowing holes in the water. I am considering installing a variable splitter plate of some kind and I'm interested in hearing from someone who has one on a Scat (or any other integrated craft). More specifically, while flying, how often do you make adjustments? Also, how much adjustment do you have available? Can you hover the craft with little or no forward thrust?

Alternatively, I considered the option of simply lowering the plate. If the variable style doesn't offer a significant improvement, it would make sense to keep an already simple craft as simple as possible.

Thanks in advance,

Don

New to hovering, looking for advise on a used craft

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 22:16:16 +0000

I'm consider purchasing my first ever hovercraft, and I could use some advise. I'm considering a used hovercraft because of my somewhat limited budget. I've done about much as research as a person can on the Internet, and now I would like to hear from the folks with actual hovercraft experience. I'm looking for a hovercraft that can carry 3-4 adults, start on water reliably, be an overall reliable craft, and built with safety in mind. I'm wondering if there are particular brands and/or models that people would recommend more than others with my criteria in mind. Lastly, I'm wondering if there are any club member in the MN, or western WI area who would be willing to show me his or her hovercraft since I've never actually ridden one. If anyone would like to email me directly, my email address is hover@jay.org

Thanks..

Jay Gustafson

Dogs, drugs and hovering.

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:48:19 +0000

This is an attempt to un-derail the hovercraft event thread. I started talking about my dog on it, and since then nobody has talked about anything else.

The point where my pooch post derailed things is right here: http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=2189&view=findpost&p=21478

Not sure if an administrator wants to move the off-topic posts over or not, but please everyone move the dog discussion over here.

Thanks.

ABC's Wife Swap

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:57:07 +0000

Hey everybody,
I just wanted to let all you know that my wife Tracy and I will be appearing on an episode of ABC's Wife Swap on 30 July. We are known as the Monster Hunting family. We should have actually be known at the Legend Tripping family, because my wife likes to ghost hunt. My awesome SCAT hovercraft will be featured on the show, infact it plays a big part on the show. I hope you all watch the show, God knows ABC could use the ratings.

Star cruiser

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 21:21:17 +0000

Does anybody know what bearings are used in the Starcruiser thrust props? Looking for a make and or part number . Thanks Mike

Webber on E-bay

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:22:22 +0000

Just wanted to alert all that there is a Webber on E-bay. It sounds like a project but may be a great price. I know nothing about this machine and am just alerting this forum of the availability of the craft.
Good luck.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Weber-Hovercraft-13-Unique-Boat-/110561680404?cmd=ViewItem&pt=Power_Motorboats&hash=item19bdfd5c14

18HP Kohler Aegis for sale

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:14:36 +0000

I have an 18hp Kohler Aegis that I am going to be putting up for sale on ebay soon, wanted to give you guys first crack at it since it is already set up for a hover. The engine was one of the last proof engines that Kohler made before officially launching the Aegis line. It is a horizontal shaft, water cooled twin cylinder engine with EFI, electronic ignition, and electric start. It is a smooth running engine and has worked great on my hover, I am moving and won't have room for for it, so I am parting with the whole hover. If you would like I also have a 52" aero prop for it and the matching belt drive components that I would sell with it. I am looking for about $800 for the engine and $100 for the prop and drive components. You can PM me here, or get me by email at brsnow2585@gmail.com

Honda GXV390 13HP

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 23:24:58 +0000

I have a brand new Honda GXV390 13HP engine for sale. I originally bought it for a lift engine for my surveyor project, but have decided to go with a different setup. It should make a great lift engine for somebody.

Honda GXV390 13HP
Electric Start, and Recoil Start
5 Amp Charge System
No fuel Tank
Muffler
Integrated Throttle/Choke
Black Shroud

375.00 OBO

JMW052277@AOl.com

Rotax 440 Engine For Sale

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:54:58 +0000

I'm selling a Rotax 440 l/c engine from a Ski-doo MX Z snowmobile. I figured I'd see if any hovercrafters were interested in it before I put it up on Ebay in a week or so.

When I purchased this engine I was planning on putting it in my Storm and racing in FS and F2 but have since changed my mind and am just going to put a Rotax 503 in it instead. All parts needed to make this engine run are included. This engine is clean and ready to bolt in and go. This engine produces close to 100 hp and would be a great motor for a racer or a high powered cruise machine.

You get:

Rotax 440 l/c engine
Carburetors
Ignition system
Exhaust pipe & springs
Recoil starter
Fuel pump
Tachometer
Snowmobile motor mount

Price: $975
Willing to ship UPS (buyer pays shipping) or deliver for free to the Cordova, IL summer cruise July 24-25.

Contact:
Marquis Songer
(812) 208-8470
marquissonger at gmail dot com

UH Summer Cruise July 24-25

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 22:44:45 +0000

So this event is only 2 weeks away. Who is going?

Cherokee Hover In CANCELED

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:33:58 +0000

Hey Guys,
I wanted to get the word out that we are canceling Cherokee this weekend. We're looking at only 2 confirmed attendees and the weather, which has been good, but hot, is supposed to change and turn into scattered rain and thunder storms. I just feel it's a long drive for a couple guys to find that only two machines have shown up. Some said there was a lack of interest but I think I dropped the all on informing everyone of the event status a little to late in the game. My recovery has been slow and my dad had surgery a few weeks ago and Steve doesn't wanna do all the work by himself, LOL. We will try to reschedule it for later this year. Just pass the word to your friends that may have been coming and didn't confirm, that the Cherokee hover in has been canceled. We keep everyone informed of changes in the future well in advance. Steve Mayor is coming anyway so if anyone still wishes to come, you're welcome to do so. Just be aware that you may be on your own but can always call Steve ( 304-290-3610 ) and get together for some water time.

My apologies for any inconvenience. We will be better organized in the future.

Jerry

10th Annual Cherokee hover-In CANCELED!

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 18:07:34 +0000

Ladies and Gentleman, Boys and Girls. It's time for the 10th annual Cherokee hover-In. Less than a week away, July 9, 10, and 11 at Fall Creek campground on Cherokee Lake. 10 years, and I bet most of you thought I'd given up hovercrafting. Nope, had some minor health issues that had to be taken care of and now back on track. For more info and maps on how to get here, check my website http://www.coffcraft.com. Hope to see a bunch of old friends and hopefully some new ones. For all those planning to attend, be careful out on the road, make sure your hover's are strapped down, secure, and I'll see you there.

Jerry

DuQuoin/Rend Lake 2001

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 02:20:02 +0000

Does anyone remember where the meeting spot was for the cruise on Rend Lake that year? All I can remember was a shelter by the lake with an adjacent grass area that transitioned right into the water. I remember riding in Ed Windt's UH-22P on that lake, going under the bridge, and there being a campground right there that you could hover right into. The attached picture of Ed & Bob Windt was taken at this location.

Anyone that can share info on that shelter area and/or the campground that people stayed at would be appreciated. I think I'd like to visit that area sometime this summer.

Bryan Snow - do you still see Dave Allabastro? He would know for sure.

Thanks,

Marquis

EDIT - Forgot to attach the picture the first time, sorry.

Hovering in India

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 05:05:03 +0000

Hey Dave,your article in the Hovernews about your adventures was awesome. Nice writeup,made me feel like I was there in India myself. I'm sure that isn one adventure you'll never forget.
Steve W

World Hover Federation (WHF) 2010

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 04:44:03 +0000

Fellow hovercraft owners;

You might be aware that the upcoming World Championship races coming up on August 23rd. You may not know that the individual racers are currently responsibile for all costs associated with transporting their machines over to England.

I have 2 requests for each of you reading this:

1) Make a cash/check/Paypal donation to the Can-Am racing team, to assist with our expenses. Could be $50 or maybe if could go upto $500. Contact either Me (Chris Sorgat) or Dave Reyburn to make the donationhappen for us, in time for the event. We will be shipping the container out around July 17. Please help before this time.

2) Make up shirts or hats or some other garment which could be sold over there, for a profit where the proceeds go to the container costs

I'm thinking that anyone who donates gets a sticker with their name on our machines, This could be really cool!!!

Thanks,

Tornados hit 1.8 miles from my house tonight

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 02:12:04 +0000

http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/news/breaking-news%3A-possible-fatalities-after-more-severe-weather

http://www.thetimesherald.com/

http://www.clickondetroit.com/weather/24061421/detail.html

Our House to Fort Trodd...
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=5665+Lapeer+Road,+Smiths+Creek,+MI&daddr=Fort+Trodd+Campground+Inc,+MI&geocode=FZf5jwId4WAU-ymjY33jZ58liDEOjbIWX3Zo6Q%3B&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=38.822591,-94.21875&sspn=41.275297,92.900391&ie=UTF8&z=15

Wicked winds kicked up quickly for a few minutes at my house and all I could do was watch the tarp shelters over the hovers and boat and pray that they weren't going to fail or disappear. It was all over quickly, and then nothing but sirens flying by for about an hour. Lost power and cable/phone, so I had no idea what was going on. I figured somebody crashed into a transformer. News was much worse.

plastic trailer deck?

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 18:06:56 +0000

Just curious if anyone has tried a plastic deck for a flatbed hover trailer.

The stuff I'm thinking of is that 5/4x6 deck plank that's made of recycled plastic. If somebody knows something that works better, I'm all ears.

I'm pondering the issues that everyone seems to have with a plywood trailer deck and trying to avoid all that.

Thanks.

Selling my babies UH13P & UH14PT

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 16:35:24 +0000

Hey folks,
Just wanted to let you know both of our hovercraft are for sale. I have a UH-14PT on EBay currently listed. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130403584055&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT and the second will be listed as soon as this one closes. The first is aUH14PT and is a very nice machine. The second is a UH13P (our first machine) not as nice despite the pretty paint job. It has torouble getting over hump. I blame it on a bad replacement skirt install, but can't be sure as I never spent much time to fix it. I was too bust getting the next craft finished. I have been eviceted from my hovercraft garage space here at work and now they have to go. We never really used them any way.

Make me an offer on the UH-13P and I may not need to list it on EBay. We'll discuss it. It has a nearly new (10 hours or less) B&S Model 44 Intek V-Twin 27 HP. Tiny Tach and other hardware that would be a great strating point even if you wanted to junk the machine. I'm hoping to break $1000 on it, since I have nearly $5000 in it and the engine is worth almost that. You may remeber I teach at Auburn High School in Auburn Alabama and worked at B&S for nearly 9 years.

This is an image of the 13P. I have more if you want me to email them to you.

Thanks,
Byron Williams

Sevtec Vanguard on ebay

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:19:00 +0000

14 ft Vanguard, 20 hp. Built in 2003. New skirt.

Item number: 230490666092

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230490666092&viewi\
tem=&sspagename=ADME%3AB%3ASS%3AUS%3A1123

Being auctioned by Amphibious Marine.

Bryan Phillips
Amphibious Marine
Phone 360-426-3170
http://www.amphibiousmarine.com
http://www.sevteckits.com
bryan@amphibiousmarine.com

Wanted: members to wear the 2010 CAN-AM racing Jersey's

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 04:10:59 +0000

I sent out a mass mailing today, but in case I missed you, here are the details:

Some of you may know that the USA and Canada are gearing up for the WHF world races in Towcester, England on August 23rd. We are shipping 6 machines from the USA, to participate in the week long racing program. I'm putting together the racing jersey which we will all be wearing, I'm wondering if any of you might be interested in buying and wearing our official jersey? This is a limited time deal, I have to get the order into the manufacturer by Friday morning, if you are interested reply to me. They are 100% digital printed shirts, full color, long sleeve motocross style jerseys with V-neck collar. Cost is $65 each plus shipping (8-10 bucks) depending where you are located. Your name will be custom added on the rear of the shirt, just tell me how to spell it and the size you need. I can accept Paypal at this email address.: sorgatz@ameritech.net. If you would rather send a check, send to me:

Chris Sorgatz
400 2nd St.
South Lyon, MI 48178 Attached is a pic, if your not interested, no worries, you can delete the email. There have been acouple slight changes since the pic was taken:
1) HCA logo changed from Red to Black
2) added 2010 to the front and back under the existing text.

This is only good for the next 2 days,

Thanks,

Somebody's putting a turbine in a hover

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:42:09 +0000

See top row, middle column.....

http://www.turbinefun.com/itemsWanted.asp

Scales revisited.

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 03:56:47 +0000

Awhile back I started a thread on scales and was looking for a cheap electronic one.

Since then I've learned a little bit about measuring instruments in general, and I thought it might be time for a different sort of feedback.

I had an epiphany on measurement while trying to use a cheap electronic "dial" caliper, the 6" doodad. I had previously had a $10 one, found that to be inconsistent and my replacement had been a $35 electronic one. That one, once I actually tried to use it near its advertised accuracy range, turned out to be not very good at all. The error I was getting was enough to cause my project to fail.

I got a Starrett dial caliper, an actual certified one, and it made a huge difference. I could actually measure a thing 5 times in a row to the advertised accuracy of the instrument and get the same measurement each time. I've since acquired a couple more measuring tools that are actually used by machinists.

So, asking those of you who actually know something about it, because I clearly don't. I'm in the market for a scale.

Really I guess I'm in the market for multiple scales. One of them will be for things like mixing epoxy. No real need for huge precision or accuracy, but better than a dietary scale, and much more consistent. I'm thinking to put it into a super thin plastic bag and sealing it, as a level of protection for the scale.

The other scales, I'm interested in significant precision and accuracy.

For people who have a scale that they want to test, here are some ideas, and by the way maybe you could publish the results:

We want 3 weights:

The small weight should be near the lower limit of the scale's precision. For example, if your scale advertises down to a gram, find something that weighs 5 grams or so.
The medium weight should be in the middle ground, but toward the low end. For example, if your scale goes to 5 lbs, then pick something that's around a pound.
The large weight should be large enough that all 3 weights are close to the maximum weight capacity of the scale. So, for the scale I've just described the large weight would be between 3.5 and 4 lbs.

If you have actual certified known masses, then that of course would be much better.

So here's a few tests:

Set the scale up on a solid, level surface that doesn't jiggle, and if it measures down to grams or lower make sure you have a cover to keep the air currents from tainting the measurements. If there is a procedure in the instructions, follow it.
Zero the scale with a clean tray.
Measure and record each weight, starting with the smallest and ending with the largest. If you are using certified weights, how close is the value measured to the certified mass?
Did the scale go back to zero when you removed the weight?
Go back to 3 and do it again, and find out if the numbers are consistent.
Combine the medium weight and the small weight. Is the value on the scale the sum of the individual measurements?
Try the other combinations: Small and large, medium and large, all 3 weights.
Repeat starting at step 6. Do you get the same values you did last time?
Pick the scale up and set it down, bump it, and start again at step 1.

I'm particularly interested in Jason's scale, since he got it from the site mentioned in that other thread. But if any of you actually have good scales that are for under $500, I would like to hear about it.

Electronic is neat, but I no longer need to have electronic scales. I no longer need one scale for everything, I'm content to have a centigram scale for the small stuff (modeling) and a bigger one for larger masses.

Thanks.

Epoxy use and storage.

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 03:12:37 +0000

Hi,

I was cleaning out my garage today. In the process, I found myself staring at my "epoxy station." My current batch of epoxy is gone, but I'm left with a cookie sheet full of goo and some equipment I associate with epoxy that is also forever sticky. There must be a better way. The cookie sheet at least keeps the puddle in a finite place without dripping anywhere else, but it makes no great headway toward a clean environment overall.

I find myself wondering the same things I wondered a few years back, and occasionally ever since I first encountered unmixed epoxy up close and personal.

I have been using pumps. I hate pumps. They suck air and they drip every time the temperature goes up.

Likewise, measuring with a cup of some sort is also not very good. it's not much more exact than pumps, because of the shape of the cup. Having some sort of graduated cylinder sucks too, because you have a bunch of sticky goo on the walls and crud gets in there no matter how hard you try to keep it clean.

The best system I've personally used was with West System, measuring by weight. What I've used since then they didn't recommend measuring by weight. You throw a piece of waxed paper on the platform and take care to keep the scale clean.

So who has a really good, clean system that's easy to store and reliable?

Who knows an epoxy that gets good results, that can be measured safely by weight?

I have questions about scales as well, but I think that's a different thread.

Severe UH 13PT plan modifications a good idea?

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 22:15:05 +0000

Hello everyone.

I've been posting on this forum for a couple years now, getting advice on my UH 13PT build. maybe some of you thought it was weird when I mentioned that I'm building it to have a square front end. I never explained why. It's because I'm making it look like a Delorean. I know most people say that you shouldn't stray from the plans on your first build, but I couldn't help it. So now I'm going to ask the question I should have asked at the beginning: is this a terrible idea?

I anticipated some technical problems from the beginning, and decided it was still worth a try. Here's the problems that I can think of:

1. especially with the windshield and rear quarter panels/fenders in place (they are all removable) the thrust fan will have a lot of stuff in it's way and might not get enough air. This isn't a big deal since those things are removable.

2. Having the driver sitting down like in a sports car, controlling the throttle with a foot pedal, will make it very hard/impossible to control the craft by shifting body weight. I figured there's nothing I can do about this one and still have it 'feel' like a Delorean, so I decided to just live with it. Performance obviously is not by top priority. (also, the driver can sit in the middle and move the steering wheel and foot pedal when there is no passenger.

3. The craft will flex too much in the hull behind the doors because the cockpit doesn't go all the way back (providing an I-beam effect). The hull is made of white EPS foam and the bottom is fiberglassed. It feels solid and does not flex when I lift it up from one end, but maybe at speed it could flex in a bad way.

4. Adding a heavier engine than in the plans to the rear, and more lift area to the front will make the balance weird.

Any thoughts?

PS. Here's my youtube page with videos of my Delorean hovercraft: http://www.youtube.com/user/matthewfrancisriese

my newest video is about my account at kickstarter.com, where I'm seeking donations to finish the craft in exchange for some awesome gifts. Please consider helping me out!, or (almost more importantly) spreading the word to your friends and family! thanks!

Stern skirt

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:51:35 +0000

I know this craft (Suna-x) is based on a 30 year old design. However I thought they quit using this basic design 45 years ago (SRN-6).

I did a twist on this old concept on my craft, but from what I can tell the canting of the corner edges and running a bag skirt all the way around is much simpler.

When I watch the bag skirt hovercraft race, the exact angle of the canted rear corner is perpendicular to the slide/bank arc in a typical turn.

Beside the craft pictured and the Russian Mars 600 series look-a-likes, is anyone else separating the stern skirt like in the early days of hovering?

Suna-x Anchorage
http://howelltribe.blogspot.com/
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_p8fMzbZTFL4/SkVMTvEABSI/AAAAAAAABzg/Vy9O8CV8v_M/s400/P1060691edit.jpg

An older skirt on my craft:
http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x295/kach22i/G8-STERN-CONSTR.jpg

Sevtec with the typical "corner cant" I was talking about
(was thinking about Chris's craft too):
http://www.amphibiousmarine.com/
http://www.amphibiousmarine.com/BryExp33_800.jpg

SRN6 stern corner skirt
http://www.australianhovercraft.com/hover_pictures.htm
http://www.australianhovercraft.com/hover_6.jpg

Mars/AK-Invest family:
http://www.aks-nn.ru/ru
http://www.aks-nn.ru/data/objects/21/4.jpg
http://www.aks-nn.ru/data/objects/24/33.jpg

Night hovering and Camping

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 13:39:30 +0000

Vids of a night hover/camp trip during last weeks Scottish Hoverin

SIUC Hovercraft Camp Live

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 13:51:54 +0000

For all of you who would like to check out the hovercraft camp we are putting on, we are streaming live on Ustream. Here is the link to the live feed. We will be streaming the rest of the camp through the end of next week, things get started every morning around 9am. http://www.ustream.tv/channel/siuc-hovercraft

We also have started recording all the shop activity and it is available on Ustream at the same address as the live feed. The recorded sessions will show up one the page when we aren't streaming. So you can catch up on our build after hours. Day 3 of 8 and the deck is completed, cockpit completed, engine mount completed, airbox completed, and rudder in about 60% finished. Here is the schedule for the rest of the build.

Thurs:
Skirt construction
Air duct construction

Fri:
Air duct construction cont.
Skirt installation
Engine Mount installation
Cockpit installation
Mating of thrust duct to air box

Mon:
Installation of air duct and airbox
Joystick installation

Tues:
Air splitter installation
Flight control installation
Engine installation

Wed:
Air screen installation
Paint
Safety check

Ok, We are coming up on the last build day tomorrow and we are well on track to complete the hover tomorrow. Engine was mounted today, tomorrow is paint, controls and a shakedown. Thursday we have a boaters safety course in the morning, and some preliminary flight training in the afternoon. Friday we should be out on the lake the whole day, getting these kids comfortable flying. Don't know if we will be able to stream from the lake, but we will figure something out so everyone can see at least some of the action from the lake.

Colombian Navy River Boat

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 20:45:31 +0000

Riverboat with an attitude.

www.portierramaryaire.com • Ver Tema - Armada de la República de Colombia (ARC)
[IMG]http://www.armada.mil.co/recursos_user/imagenes/eventos2005/planos_nodriza_v.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.cotecmar.com/galeria/nodrizas/images/DSC_1934_MED.JPG[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.cotecmar.com/galeria/nodrizas/images/DSC_1822_MED.JPG[/IMG]

Maybe not a riverboat.
[IMG]http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/1359/nodriza62na8.jpg[/IMG]

EDIT..........Translation of text:

Quote

No Defense Magazine this month echoes a story about the interest aroused in the U.S. Support Ships River Patrol V-VI (or nurses who call him there) Armoured 275 tons displacement, to this effect a delegation visited the U.S. Navy shipyard Cotecmar (Science and Technology Corporation for the Development of Shipping Industry, Maritime and River of Colombia) in Cartagena de Indias.
It seems to be a concept they like for Iraq (imagine that rather than use them to equip the reborn Iraqi Navy.)
Not bad, but they lack some punch, the towers house robot double of 12.7 mm MG (2x2 or 2x3 depending on model) a 40 mm grenade launcher on the bridge and two 7.62 mm on each side .. ... everything would get it and put a gun in 25 or 30 mm fore and aft.

Colombian River Patrol Vessel on Flickr - Photo Sharing!
[IMG]http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3641/3388306905_393ef18de3.jpg[/IMG]

Quote

The picture is of the Vessel NODRIZA, which was built by Cotecmar shipyard for the Colombian Navy.
They have two shipyards and a Technical services unit located in Cartagena, Colombia, 180 miles from Panama Canal.
---------------
Owner: Colombian Navy, Colombia
Designer: Cotecmar R & D Engineers, Colombia
Shipyard: Cotecmar Shipyard Cartagena, Colombia
Commissioned: March 2009
Power: 2 x MTU 6062 HK2 (290 kW resp. 389 hp / 1660 r.p.m. each)
Main propulsion: 2 x SCHOTTEL Pump-Jet type SPJ 82 RD
Reduction gear: Twin Disk MG 5114 SC
Steering: SCHOTTEL Steering System type SST 602
Speed: 9 knots
Special features: Helicopter Deck for Bell 412
Classification: without
Operation area: Colombia

ARC 51 Almirante Padilla
Navy Of Your Country
[IMG]http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v253/110/125/744957955/n744957955_551510_5229.jpg[/IMG]

Harold's stable full of hovers

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:30:41 +0000

Harold, I think you now have as many or even more hovers than Bob Windt.
You could open a rental shop! ......or let me come down there and ~~abuse~~ baby some of them http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/forum/public/style_emoticons/default/cool.gif .

Motor City Motors Hovercraft.....

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:52:02 +0000

Anybody need a new hover...... Cheap...?

A guy bought the hover off the Discovery Channel's Motor City Motors and I've been watching the price drop every couple of days. If I wasn't saving all my coin to go to Worlds in August, I'd have to snatch this up. He started at $2200 and he's down to $975 right now on Craigslist.

http://detroit.craig...1760402908.html

UH-10F History

Tue, 25 May 2010 18:14:11 +0000

Marquis got me feeling all nostalgic with his 12R post. It got me thinking, I'm sure there are some people here who have some more information on our UH one-off. Here is the story that has been passed down to me through our hoverclub here at SIU. The original UH-10F which we have now, was the first one that Bob Windt built after he developed the 10F platform(or built, then drew the plans, I don't know). Anyways, it got passed to us when UH was done with it, and we started our club with with it's rebirth from the couple of buckets that it was residing in at the time. We fixed it up and called it Phoenix, suitably. Since then, we raced it up until about 2005, when it got retired from racing and we started using it to introduce our new pilots to flying hovercraft. Here is a picture from one of the last times she was out, this picture has since been plastered all over SIU's website and our recruiting brochures.

UH-12R History

Mon, 24 May 2010 13:24:59 +0000

This is the original 12r. For those who may not know, the design started out life as a single engine machine. I believe it had a Rotax 440cc liquid cooled engine that had a belt drive to the 48" thrust prop and a belt drive to the 30" lift fan. Over its' 20+ year life span it was converted to a twin engine machine that utilized a variety of snowmobile thrust engines depending on what the UH guys had available at the time, and to my knowledge has always had a 10 hp Tecumseh lift engine since it was converted to the twin setup. It currently does not have the original lift engine in it, I think it died when the previous owner had it and it was swapped out.

Ownership - this craft is the original UH-12r that was built by Bob Windt. Over the years Bob probably raced it, but it was primarily raced by his nephews, Bill and Bob Zang. The craft remained with UH until it was eventually sold to Ken Roberts around 1998 or so. Ken owned it until the fall of 2008 when Josh Speer and I picked it up from Ken in route to the Muscoda, WI cruise. When we got it the thrust duct was gone and the top rear half of the deck was in really bad shape.

The appearance has also altered over the years, since it was heavily raced in its' early years. When Ken owned it he raced it a few times, but he mainly used it as a cruiser. I know UH did a lot of cosmetic work in preparation to sell it, which is when Ken purchased it. It has survived many crashes during its' life. I know of one pretty major incident with a tree when Ken had it, and that resulted in the front end of the craft being totally rebuilt. That is when the built in handles made from the stringers of the craft were incorporated into the machine.

When Josh and I got the craft we replaced parts of the ribs and stringers that were busted up in the rear of the craft, installed new floatation foam, replaced the skin on the top rear of the craft, and put on a new 48" thrust duct and put the red skirt on. The craft was then painted both inside and out to protect it from the weather, and we added the vinyl graphics. It currently has the same 10 hp Tecumseh lift engine, and has a 400cc l/c Polaris snowmobile engine for thrust. The current thrust engine has been very tricky to tune and as a result may be removed soon in favor of the Rotax 583 that Ken had on the craft. It wasn't reinstalled when we rebuilt it because we didn't want it to have that much power, but the current engine isn't working out so well and we have the 583 sitting there ready to go. The craft has been stored indoors since we took possession of the craft.

The second 12r that was built was made slightly larger than plan and was twin engine from the very beginning. It also had a 54" thrust duct instead of the 48" in the plan. I asked Bob Windt once why he made it larger, and his response was "Because I'm a little bit larger." I think Bob Windt and maybe Terry Chapman primarily raced it in the early part of it's life, and then Jeremy Wilson and Pat Sanquist towards the end of it's day. Eric Whitesell obtained it for WHC 2002 in Terre Haute and reincarnated it for one last go around, but he sucked in an entire box of spark plugs into the prop while tuning the thrust engine and that was the beginning of the end for it. It exploded the prop and tore a hole in the duct. It wasn't really fixable on-site and was probably a good thing it didn't race because the thing was in pretty bad shape and probably would have just barely squeaked through tech inspection. Much of the plywood skin was very brittle and delicate, and the thrust duct was not in that good of shape. Its' life was ended in a spectacular bonfire the last night of that same event.

An interesting note about 12r #2 - at one time it had a trap door system in the lift duct where Bob Windt could pull a lever of some sorts and it would cut off air going into the splitter plates, instantly causing a controlled plow-in which allowed him to turn on a dime in the water. I have heard rumors of this device being banned, but have never had it confirmed. Apparently they thought it was dangerous and there was also something about not following the "normal" line of the race course, which was the cause of the rule. Once again, I've not had that confirmed by anyone official.

There are some on this forum that have had direct experience with these two machines, I'm sure they'll provide stories, etc. as well.

Marquis

Toyota and Tesla teaming up.

Fri, 21 May 2010 18:35:17 +0000

This is very interesting to me.

Since Tesla stopped making their roadster for awhile, I thought they were dead. It appears though that they still have some sort of clout.

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN2023511120100521?type=marketsNews

Mystery Tubes

Tue, 18 May 2010 22:19:06 +0000

Any guesses as to what these tubes do?

http://www.reynolds-towers.com/coppermine/displayimage.php?album=lastup&cat=103&pos=2
http://www.reynolds-towers.com/coppermine/albums/hovercraft/osprey/pre-season-servicing-2010/anti_plow_01.JPG
http://www.reynolds-towers.com/coppermine/albums/hovercraft/osprey/pre-season-servicing-2010/new_skirt_apr_2010_004.JPG

I have a PM pending at the UK site to the owner, entertain me on what you think his reply will be.

2nd Annual White River Cruise - Saturday, May 22 , 2010

Wed, 12 May 2010 21:54:53 +0000

Just a reminder for everyone, Saturday the 22nd is the White River Cruise.

http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/Events/White%20River/index.html

Hope to see you there!

Muscoda in June

Wed, 12 May 2010 02:05:30 +0000

That time of year again...Muscoda!

The Spring Muscoda HoverIn is just a month away. If you are coming to this wonderful hover gathering, please take note of the following:

SAFETY FIRST!!! Please GUARD ALL PROPS AND FANS. We don't want gas cans, life jackets, small mammals, or body parts going through rotating propellers. Messes up the grass. There is a hardware store downtown, where you can get some wire mesh and bungee cords, should you need them.

Be courteous in parking your cars, hovers, and camping. Please do not park cars on the grass. Avoid operating your hover in the grassy areas, also. And, to avoid issues, please do NOT park your hovercraft on the boat landing for more than 5 minutes or so. And, please be aware of prop wash! Accelerating off the ramp can throw sticks, stones, dust, etc. Know who's behind you! Also, if you climb up the grade to the parking lot under power, please be careful! We've seen an increase in craft sliding off the pavement towards the trees.

I will have a decibel meter handy if anyone wants "real world" sound testing. Please be mindful of noise levels. Please restrict "late night" hover activities - campground quiet time is from 11:00 pm onward. Please keep noise levels low after 11 - this includes voices, music and hovercraft!

Watch out for fishermen, boaters, and Whuffos ("Whuffo you got them hy-dro-boats on land for?"). They share the ramp too!

Always remember that onlookers are usually NOT aware of the handling characteristics of hovercraft, and have a tendency to stand too close or place their hands in the wrong place (ie, near props).

When the ramp gets crowded, please walk your craft down the hill. It's just too dangerous with adults and children milling around.

Questions can be directed to myself (site #1 by the fence).

The Boat Ramp side shelter is reserved for Saturday night, so we can have a potluck dinner. Please let me know if you are bringing something. I've got brats and dogs. A second gas BBQ grill is always a bonus. There will be a collection jar if you are a terrible cook...and a grocery store in town for those of you who buy at the last minute.

Above all, HAVE FUN, but always remember to promote our sport in a SAFE and COURTEOUS MANNER.

And Thank You for Your Support

Honeycomb

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:09:05 +0000

I just read something which got my mind thinking. I could sit alone at my computer doing what research to answer my questions. However this would be time consuming and not a real life experience. I would rather benefit from the knowledge here on this board and hear the differing opinions.

Partial quote from an on-line friend:

Quote

We made the first all composite cored 50' Superboat. We used Aluminum honeycomb in the hull and Nomex in the topside. The minor porosity of the laminate would allow water to be sucked into the many cells of the honeycomb, horrible weight gains and the aluminum foil simply evaporated by seawater. Many foam/balsa cores cured that and better due to the greater bonding surface not found in the honeycomb edge faces.

When you look at a honeycomb panel used in some hovercraft (polycarbonate core with fiberglass cloth top & bottom), there is a curious perpendicular connection between the two different materials. This connection may or may not be better than that of the aluminum skinned craft described above. I don't foresee any home builder of hovercraft using the aluminum skin honeycomb material, so I'd like to focus on the common polycarbonate core honeycomb panels in the discussion.

1. How are these two different materials (polycarbonate/fiberglass) bonded together, thermo-fused perhaps?

2. Is this connection watertight, is it watertight before or after resin has been applied?

3. Under what conditions would this connection fail? As in; repeated air expansion which could (in theory) pop the bonds, hydrostatic pressure and fluctuation, differential atmospheric pressure sucking things in or out, impact damage...........etc.

4. What really prevents water from migrating cell to cell?

5. What is the scientific definition of minor porosity in this context?

I know there is no such thing as a perfect material, and that all materials have conditions in which they fail. Some materials are just more problematic than others (I'm not claiming that of honeycomb). People have all sorts of experiences differing from what the sales brochure includes or neglects to expand upon.

The joints and connections, where and how the material is used (above or below the waterline) and a host of other factors I assume will all add depth to the information presented.

Please discuss at will.

Street View camera discussion.

Mon, 10 May 2010 21:59:11 +0000

This is for the 360 degree camera discussion which I just split off from here:

http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=2160

Bryan,

I know how the 360 degree panorama works, but what you're describing (one camera panning around) sounds like a whole lot of work. The real Google camera is a bit much, but the idea of having a "street view" of the pits would be awesome. Just have somebody walk through the pits in a pattern and people could see everything progress at a relatively short interval.

It makes me wonder if there is something more localized than GSV. Maybe the civil engineers have some sort of short range surveying equipment that triangulates position more accurately? Then give somebody a walking stick with an 8-way camera on it, and every time the stick hits the ground the shutters go off. Probably get a whole lot of blurry pictures, right?

Maybe a "hat cam" worn by a short person? We could give them a clown suit and a beer and let them go.

World Championships- Web Ideas

Mon, 10 May 2010 01:54:53 +0000

I recently had the opportunity to spend some time with the organizers of the upcoming World Hovercraft Championships in England this coming August.
They have asked me to post to solicit ideas on how, through the internet, we can all participate in this event, even without being there.
As of now, there will be a multi-camera real-time broadcast of the event through http://www.live.raceresults.info/ complete with commmentary of the racing. But the organizers wish to personalize the event by adding pre-recorded material showcasing just about anything we wish to provide during non-racing times. This could include:
*pilot profiles
*craft construction techniques
*historical information
*cruiser features
*etc.
And this is open to anyone around the world reading this, not just North American content.
Also- what about the use of an interactive web site, message board, chat, skype, Facebook, etc.? Other ideas? Please keep in mind that the resources may not be available to act on all of the ideas, but this could be fun!
Let the ideas fly.
This is going to be a spectacular event.....how do you want to participate?
Thanks-
Terry Chapman

For Ken

Fri, 07 May 2010 15:58:03 +0000

http://community.invisionpower.com/blog/1174/entry-4573-ipboard-310-dev-update-search-overhaul/

I'm sure you'll be giddy.

Forty-Plus Years of Hovercraft Development

Thu, 06 May 2010 23:47:35 +0000

Forty-Plus Years of Hovercraft Development
by David R. Lavis

Link to pdf
http://personal.stevens.edu/~apiccolo/Senior%20Design/DRLCACTS%20Paper.pdf

For some reason it's missing almost half the images in the second half.

EDIT 05/12/2010: I now have a full copy complete with all images and diagrams of the Lavis-1998 paper, courtesy of a professor in Australia. However it is over the 75k limit, so it will not load on to the forum board. If you are interested in a copy, PM (or e-mail) me and provide your e-mail. I will not respond to PM requests which fail to provide contact information.

First ever Connecticut hoverally

Wed, 05 May 2010 17:37:12 +0000

Hi all, just to let you know June 19th there will be an Entry Level high school competition at Riverside Park in Hartford, CT. Basically, it's five high schools racing against each other for the first time in any form of organized event. There will be 5 heats of 5 laps each, followed by a 20 lap endurance race. I hope to open it up to all HCA members for Entry Level next year, maybe include F-25 as well. Admission is free, it's all part of an event being put on by Hartford Riverfront Recapture called "A Sporting Chance for Youth". They have been very supportive, and want to set it up as a stand-alone event for next year. their website is www.riverfront.org and their phone is 860-713-3131 for information, or you can email me at jbenini@parishhill.org Racing starts at noon, and should wrap up around 3:30. The park is located on Liebert Rd., exit 33 off I-91.

how to fix a wooden prop/fan

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 21:46:17 +0000

I was testing the lift system on my UH 13pt a while ago and a wrench fell into the lift duct and banged up the lift fan. I'm selling it now (along with a couple other UH Props/fans and hubs/backing plates) in the classifieds on this site-
http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=2154
http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=2155

I was wondering what it would take to fix the lift fan. Here are some photos of the damage:
http://i155.photobuc...se/CIMG0047.jpg
http://i155.photobuc...se/CIMG0050.jpg
http://i155.photobuc...se/CIMG0051.jpg
http://i155.photobuc...se/CIMG0052.jpg
http://i155.photobuc...se/CIMG0053.jpg

any thoughts?

Aluminum hubs and backing plates for UH props/fans

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:31:01 +0000

Hubs (from Universal Hovercraft): This custom machined aluminum hub is used to mount our 4-blade lift fans up to 26" in diameter or propellers up to 42". Mounts to shaft with a split taperlock H bushing. For best results, we recommend using our optional 4-1/2" backing plate (Item# 03450BP) when mounting propellers and fans.
http://www.hovercraft.com/content/index.php?main_page=product_standard_info&cPath=189_59&products_id=48
Retails for $49.95. your price: $30.

Backing plates (from Universal Hovercraft): Recommended for use with our 4-1/2" hub. Distributes bolt pressure evenly and reduces the risk of damaging your prop or fan due to over-tightening.
http://www.hovercraft.com/content/index.php?main_page=product_standard_info&cPath=189_59&products_id=51
Retails for $17.50. your price: $10.

I'm also selling two 36" props and two 24" lift fans (see my other classified). If you buy a prop/fan, hub, and backing plate I'll take $15 off the total.

Contact Matt (831) 227-7139
or riese.matt@gmail.com

thanks for looking!

UH Props and Fans for sale!

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:23:28 +0000

For sale:

- 36-18 finished Propeller, 36" diameter (x2). One was used for about an hour total, the other is unused. I ended up using a different engine and so I no longer need these. Retails for $246.95 each. Your price: $170 each.
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0054.jpg

- 24-16 finished lift fan, 24" diameter. Used for a couple hours total and stored outside in California off an on for months. This one is in good condition. It is like new, except for some thin spider-like lines in the fiberglass at the tips of the fan blades (see photos). Retails for $250.95. Your price: $150.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0055.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0056.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0059.jpg

- 24-16 finished lift fan. Used for a few minutes, until a wrench fell into the lift duct! There are small chunks taken out of the leading edge of each blade (see photos). Price: $90

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0047.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0050.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0051.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0052.jpg
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/CIMG0053.jpg

-------------

I also have the 4.5" aluminum hubs and backing plates for all 4 of these.
Hubs retail for $49.95, your price: $30.
Backing plates retail for $17.50. Your price: $10.

If you buy a prop/fan, a hub, and a backing plate I'll take $15 off the total.

Thanks for looking!

Contact Matt (831) 227-7139
or riese.matt@gmail.com

*buyer pays shipping. ships from California 94116.

19P on Ebay

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 23:59:26 +0000

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Hovercraft-Uh-19P_W0QQitemZ150436816125QQcmdZViewItemQQptZOther_Boats?hash=item2306bba4fd

This is Rob Russell's. He's 10 or 15 miles from me, just over into Canada. I made the prop, fan, and duct for him.
Very nice craft and workmanship. Haven't seen it in about 8 years. Too bad he never got to finish it.

tiny tachs

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 22:35:52 +0000

I have used tiny tachs for many years and they have worked excellent. I just bought a new one for a craft and then the one in the other craft decided that it wouldn't work at all,it is completely dead. Apparently the battery is done. I would just like to voice my displeasure that you have to replace a perfectly good tiny tach just because the battery is dead. You have to just about destroy the tach to get to the battery. Just wish the manufacturer would make these wonderful products user friendly.

Small Boat Owners

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 17:59:58 +0000

Just passing this on as we have a lot of boat and Michigan people here.

New Human Powered/Electric Gear Prototyping
http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/propulsion/new-human-powered-electric-gear-prototyping-32341.html#post360230

Quote

Qualified testers must provide their own water craft with front-end pedaling or electric motor, a connecting shaft, and propeller. Optimum input RPMs for the unit are from 50 to 100.

Briggs engine

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:15:27 +0000

The same hp inteck is cheaper but are there any substantial differences ? Mike

Wabash Cannonball Cruise

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 02:08:55 +0000

It is official. Mark the Wabash Cannonball Cruise on your calendar for September 4th and 5th. The event will take place at Kimmell Park in Vincennes, Indiana. We would like a large turnout for this event. The Parks and Recreation Department would like to work with us on this event in the hopes of having a larger event in the future. Kimmell Park is a great park on the Wabash River that has on site camping and a shower house. Camping rates are really reasonable so bring your hover and family and have a good time. We will have many more details to follow in the coming weeks. We just wanted to get the date and location out there so you have plenty of time to plan. We have also created a facebook page. Look up Wabash Cannonball Cruise and you will find it.

Josh Speer

Thrust engine mount and tensioner idea

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:01:39 +0000

Here's my idea for my engine mount and tensioner. The engine mount is made of 1 1/2" x 3/4" Alum rectangular tube at 1/8" thick. the seams are glued with e-6000 industrial adhesive and bolted with 1/4" stainless bolts and nylock nuts.

The tensioner is mainly what I'm asking about. This is a HTD belt reduction, running on a 16hp Briggs Vanguard Twin. The idea is to have an aluminum "wheel" against the back of the belt, being pulled by the threaded rod. I'm thinking that maybe I shouldn't trust the geometry of it to keep the tensioner wheel in place. maybe when it starts up the belt will pull the wheel up (or down), bending the threaded rod. Any thoughts?

If I could see some photos of what other people have done to tension their HTD belts, that would be great.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s289/matthewriese/04_21_0.jpg

Non-local Hovering

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 20:31:30 +0000

Ok, so I just read the hovercraft reliability and safety document. Very good information. Seems like they need some USCG like regulation on commercial watercraft across the pond. That document got me thinking about the upcoming watersport season. I thought it would be good to have a place where everyone can post state or area specific things to watch out for when hovering and boating(to a lesser extent) outside of their usual location. I know I plan on going to hoverally in TN this year, so let's get some input on some of the variances in the waterway regulations in various states. I'll start:

Illinois-As far as my experience goes, this info is good for just about anything south of I-64.

-Make sure that your battery terminals are covered, period. Every time I have been stopped by a Conservation Officer, that is one of the first things they check. I think this is a USCG requirement, but they are enforcing it with a vengeance. They way they treat it, you could be standing knee deep in empties of your favorite adult beverage and be fine, but woe to you if your battery terminals are not covered.(side note, Illinois Conservation Officers have more authority than state police, no battery covers or battery not secured, based on how bad a day the officer is having or how big the chip on their shoulder is, they can impound your craft and drop you on the closest shore nearly buck naked.......not an exaggeration)

-Standard equipment-lifejackets for everyone aboard, bailing device, fire extinguisher(req'd based on length), sounding device, pretty standard.

-Of course, watch the drinking

-Everyone who is not piloting the craft must be seated while in motion, if you have to change seats, crawl on the floor so they can't see. I got stopped last summer when someone in the boat I was driving moved from the back seat to the copilot seat to get something out of the glovebox, which translated into, stand up half way, turn 180 degrees, sit down. This is another one that they enforce really hard.

-This is pure speculation, but, based on all my encounters with the Illinois DNR, expect to get stopped at least once while hovering for sheer curiosity. I'm sure they will want to try to find something wrong. I have limited most of my hovering to non-public water since the campus lake is plenty big enough for what I have running now.

Hovercraft Reliability & Safety

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:41:20 +0000

The attached doc was produced a couple of weeks ago and, although aimed at UK hovercrafters, may be of some use to you non-UK types.

Over the last couple of years, I've spent some time examining commercially built leisure hovercraft and I've been horrified by the state of the electrical systems fitted to all of them - exposed wiring, poor insulation, no marinisation of engine ignition systems, no fuses, wires tied to fuel pipes, etc, etc. I've not looked at any US built craft so this criticism may not apply to them

This doc gives some of the basics that will hopefully help avoid some of the most common faults (electrical!) that seem to be the cause of the majority of the reliability issues seen in leisure hovercraft. The good news is that they are all completely avoidable with a little care and almost no expense!

reliability101.pdf (358.47K)
: 29

Rudder turning mechanisms

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 20:52:50 +0000

I'm re-designing the steering system on my 13pt and I realized that I have no idea how y'all turn your rudders. Basically I want to know how to turn the linear motion of the steering cable into circular/rotational motion of the rudder. photos of your setup would help!

Tools

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:08:58 +0000

This past weekend I trashed my 11th drill driver. I have had many brands and many levels of quality but I would really like to hear your opinion on what type of drill driver you are using and how long it has lasted. My first drill driver was a Milwaukee 12 volt contractors model bought in 1987. Since this I have gone through Porter Cable, Craftsman, Black & Decker, Ryobi, Panosonic, Skill, Kawasaki, and Dewalt. Some of these in multiples. Most have either worn out their motors or the switches have gone bad or the batteries went bad and cost more to replace than a new unit. What brand and model do you recommend? I have to replace mine soon!

X -Configuration Props

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 02:21:59 +0000

I came across this today on ultralightnews.ca, it may be old but seemed interesting, has anyone tried this?

"The latest Ivoprop development is a powered-parachute application using a tandem pair of two-blade propellers mounted in an X-configuration of 60/120 degrees rather than 90 degree right angles like a standard four-blade prop. The military Apache helicopter successfully uses this to produce an effect known as hyper-acceleration. Under the right conditions, the leading blade accelerates air into the following blade the way multiple turbines in jet engines increase airflow to achieve more thrust. As much as 430 pounds static thrust with a Rotax 582 engine have been measured using the X-prop, though this varies with changes in pitch and density altitude."

Hitler had a Sevtec?

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 01:58:11 +0000

This video is hilarious, I never knew that Adolf Hitler was a Sevite. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqXt_P9Q8Uk

Space Shuttle

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 20:46:04 +0000

Hey,
I had another wonderful opportunity to witness a Shuttle launch from darn near as close as you can get in Titusville, FL. I didn't get any pics of the launch this time as I videoed the last night launch. I wanted to view it in all its glory as this is the last scheduled night launch. I did have my camera at hand to take a mess of pics of the vapor trail which turned out to develop into very interesting shapes: a Dragon, and Cupid's Heart of all things! I likened the Dragon as the politicians who want to de-fund the space program, and the heart as American's love of our pioneering space exploration. The rumble this morning was the loudest I've heard yet, and we even were apparently treated to the shock wave as Discovery blew past the speed of sound. Our observation point is right on the water and the sound just rolls across and really slaps you in the face...what an experience!!

Here's my Picasa album:
http://picasaweb.google.com/jchovernut/SpaceShuttleDiscoverySTS131?feat=directlink
and YouTube video of the cloud:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgoxCEgeWE4

I hope to be able to get days off for the remaining 3 launches to bid farewell to the STS program. Ideally, I'd love to get the hovercraft out of re-fit and operational again to get right up to the "red zone!"

New piece of hover equipment

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 14:41:27 +0000

I was lucky enough to get this new "toy" for welding seams on banners that my classes print for my school district. It's used to weld together industrial fabrics that are used in things like swimming pool covers, boat covers, etc.

http://leisterusa.com/uploads/hipuma/images/362pix/lei0067641_k.jpg

Although it will make putting banners together a lot easier for my students, I'm really interested in it eliminating HH-66 to bond skirt corners together, especially since I had a student steal the last can I had and attempt to go sniff it

Hope to start trying it out on a variety of things on Monday.

TV Show - Motor City Motors "Spider"

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 23:42:25 +0000

Set your DVR's and VCR's.

The second episode of Motor City Motors I was in, is going to air on Monday, April 5th, at 12pm EST on Discovery Channel.

It will probably have nothing to do with hovers but there is a chance (if they didn�t cut that scene) that you get to see me CRUSH the hover from the other build into a steel pole in the building while driving the hovercraft back onto the set, cause someone sabotaged the engine out of the Spyder.

For those interested - We started with a 2001 Mitsubishi Spyder, pulled the powertrain out of it and from scratch, built a tubular steel frame which housed the driver and 8 huge legs. The machine is 26 ft long, 7 ft tall and 9 ft wide.

It's worth the time, to watch the repeated failures we went through, before we got it to work on the 3rd try. Not sure if Discovery will air it that way, but thats the real story.....

All signs point to the series not being re-aired, and it doesn't look like the Brothers will get a second season. So in all likelyhood, if you miss the episode, you wont get a second chance...

Adrian, MI in the news

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 19:21:35 +0000

So Mr. Mike, what's up with those Hutaree guys? You got some new clients?

20 HP Kohler

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 18:36:13 +0000

I have a New 20 Hp vertical shaft Craftsman Kohler enginer. it has fuel pump, electric start, single cylinder dual cam. I bought this motor from a lawn & garden ebay store. He test ran the motor, but has otherwise never been used. I bought the engine last summer and is still in the box. The only reason I am not using this motor for my craft is because i decided to go bigger. I will also include a box of mounting bolts that i had to order. selling for $525 OBO. Motor is located in Milwaukee WI, but i can ship if buyer pays shipping costs. I payed between $75-$100 for shipping on this motor.

greenwae@gmail.com
507-339-2032

The passing of Konrad Barczynski

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 15:54:40 +0000

Konrad Barczynski passed away on March 25, 2010. He was the father of Chris Barczynski and grandfather of former F2 World Champion, Christopher.

Konrad started in hovercraft as an offshoot from his interest in constructing ultralight aircraft back in the '70s and his passion for more speed grabbed his son's attention and brought him into the sport. Konrad started the design of the Delta range of racing hovercraft that was later continued by Chris.

Born in a part of Poland that was soon swept up by the Nazi's, Konrad once shared his incredible story of escape and evasion during that occupation with me over a bottle of vodka. It was a story worthy of an intense movie script!

An amazing man who will be missed.

Bob Rennick

new engine

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 14:40:17 +0000

I am looking for a new vertical lift engine for my hovercraft in the works for lift. The honda is a 16 hp twin and the briggs is a 17.5 els single. The craft will be a 16ft pointed with a geo metro for thrust. The cost is the same for either. Any suggestions or experiences? Mike

Rotax 503

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 12:58:29 +0000

Just wanted to share that after many months of frustration, I finally got the 503 running like a top. The engine would start with authority, and would spool to full RPM. However after it idled, it would only reach 4500 RPM when given full throttle and then wind down by itself to 3000ish RPM. I've been plagued by this off and on for several months. I've checked all full lines, air leaks, etc. and until now, I've discovered the problem. Ultimately it was a pepper grain size of carbon (or something) attached to one of the needle jets (I have two carbs). After cleaning and increasing the float levels, then engine now runs great. Just wanted to share, should anyone else experience this.
Donnie

Terry T's Wig

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 03:14:49 +0000

Looking good Terry!!!!

Why offset air drive on Sevtec

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:16:22 +0000

OK...now to start the dumb questions....I've been reviewing the Sevtec Surveyor plans prior to starting my build and I noticed the entire airdrive is offset from the centerline. Why? I assume it has something to do with mitigating the torque effect but am not sure. Are all hovercraft designs offset or just the Sevtec's?
Shawn

Hoverally 2010 Big Springs, TN

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:34:58 +0000

Dear Members,
We the BOD have finally been able to put together HR10.
It will be at the Rural Retreat in Big Springs, TN on September 24, 25 & 26 2010.
I realize that some, if not most of the children will be back to school. The main reason is the ability of the site to accommodate the larger than usual attendance.
This event will be scaled back in comparison to previous years. There will be no racing. We will have challenges for the participants. As details become available, they will be posted.

SIUC Summer Hovercraft Camp

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 17:37:39 +0000

For those who are interested, we are putting on a summer hovercraft camp this summer. It is geared towards high school students. There is more information about registration and course content at the two following links. There are 2 sessions of the camp, so the information on both links are identical except for the dates.

https://www.dce.siu.edu/index.php/Academic-Camps/Hovercraft-Camp-I
https://www.dce.siu.edu/index.php/Academic-Camps/Hovercraft-Camp-II

EA-81 2 barrel Hitachi Carb

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 03:39:36 +0000

I have a new, only ran for a few min 2 barrel Hitachi carb for sale. It came with a brand new ea-81 subaru crate engine I bought off of ebay. I tried to use it but never got it right. I also had removed everything like the egr valve and such. It also sat in someones garage for prob 20 years. One things for sure none of the parts are wore out. I really know nothing about these carbs and could have just had it hooked up all wrong, hard to say. Asking $100 BO tvthover@yahoo.com 651-260-1095

Terry Tousignant

Scat II Hull ID location

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 21:15:45 +0000

OK..semi technical. I can find the HID number on my SCAT 1 on the splitter plate, but I can't find it on my SCAT II. I'm afraid it should be in the same place but the splitter plate has been modified to move it forward. At Hoverdynamics, we used to put the HID in two places, deck and hull. Does anyone know if SCAT did that also?

Jim

Urethane foam

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 20:41:06 +0000

I'm gathering up materials for a Surveyor build and was wondering if anyone had a good supplier for the urethane foam other than Amphibious Marine....Can polyurethane work just as well? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Shawn

Ultimate Car Build Off

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:21:49 +0000

Ultimate Car Build Off - not only "cars"!
I have had to keep things silent until the show was to air.
At this point there is not an air date as of yet, but it will be coming soon.
Here is a link to something of a teaser:
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1339194834934

What's everyone running?

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 01:59:24 +0000

Ok, so I have been curious lately, looking back over pictures from past races. What is everyone running currently? I am surprised that there isn't some kind of bragging board on here where everyone talks about what they have under the hood, so I thought I would start one. You can be as brief or long winded as you like, just give us an idea of some of the details of the machines you are flying right now, or working on. I'll start with both of mine, which are in progress.....:

Cruiser: in refit

deck dimensions: 14'x7'
construction: styrofoam and plywood
skirt: bag
lift: 12.5hp tecumseh w/ 26" 4-blade lift fan
thrust: 18hp Kohler Aegis liquid cooled, belt drive to 52" prop in 54" duct
cruise speed: unknown-pending refit
lift capacity: unknown-pending refit
seating: pilot + 2-3 tandem
fuel capacity: 2x6gal twin tanks thrust, 1x3gal tank lift
range: unknown-pending refit and first flight
rudders: 2 cable controlled, provisions for 3rd partial rudder
elevator: provisions for addition
features: electric start on both engines, modular seating/hauling capabilities, fog lights and high beams
construction cost: raw materials $700

Racer: in construction

deck dimensions: 10'x5' pointed
construction: styrofoam and plywood
skirt: bag
lift: 6.75hp Honda w/ 22" 4-blade lift fan
thrust: 340cc Kawasaki firebust liquid cooled, belt drive to 40" prop
cruise speed: unknown-pending completion
lift capacity: unknown-pending completion
seating: pilot
fuel capacity: 1x3gal tank thrust, 1x2gal tank lift
range: unknown-completion and first flight
rudders: 3 cable controlled
elevator: haven't decided yet
features: electric start on lift engine optional

Sorry, found the original post.

Skim aire hovercraft

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 01:03:01 +0000

A new club member Rick Poorman who lives down the road in Ohio is in the process of restoring a Skim Aire hovercraft which is in pretty good shape. It has a 340cc hirth engine unknown if 22 or 28 hp. Any history of the craft would be interesting as well as replacement multi wing blades which are fixed at a 40 degree angle.Any answers as to the hp , manufacture history and blade replacement would be great. By the way Rick used to work in the manufacture of the Hurricane hovercraft which were made in Toledo, I believe Harold Carter can sometimes be seen on this craft on the web cover page. Mike McFarland

Finger skirt operation - Auburn University's craft

Sun, 14 Mar 2010 04:09:58 +0000

Geoff sent me a link to new video he put upto youtube on their craft. I hadn't seen it run since last year in Iowa. I have to say, I'm impressed!! The craft seems to be running alot faster. I think it's ready to start racing!

One question I have is for you finger skirt operators. Watching the video, the craft appears to be under high engine load (assuming high fan speed) but you will notice as the driver moves side to side, the craft seems to tip very easily, like it's short on skirt pressure. I've only built bag skirts, so maybe this is natual for finger's? I'm wondering what you guys think, is this normal, or is there not enough splitter air, or is the driver got to be more aware to stay on center with a finger skirt? Whats your take?

One reason I ask, is I see the machine loosing ALOT of speed in the corners and on transitions.... Lets get the team some information so they can start kicking ass in FS/F2..

http://www.youtube.c...h?v=GYigeSDCVl4

Atlas Hovercraft

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 03:06:39 +0000

Just talked to Harold C. He drove past Atlas Hovercraft in Flordia.
In 2008 he was there and they were working on the Hovercraft.
Today, the place is deserted. Hovercraft sitting, deteriorating.
Eye witness by HC.
That's all I know. I suppose he will fill in details later.
Steve M.

Center Southeast Hoverin

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:40:31 +0000

The events page has the main information anyone should need to be prepared. As of now I haven't gotten a confirmation that we can free play on the soccer field, and I haven't gotten the contact information on the pavilion yet as it doesn't exactly get controlled by the city rather the director of the Farmers Market. As long as there isn't soccer games scheduled on the same weekend I feel pretty good we can play on the large open field area as well as the river. Hopefully I can get a contact through the farmers market for a favor to take a tractor and landscape box to the gravel parking lot and boat ramp just before the gathering. (just in case the river has been up and washed a rut or two in the gravel).
I haven't gotten permission to dry camp on the hoverin grounds yet. The mayor told me to contact him again more near time and see what he'd found out. If I can secure permission or rent the pavilion (it seems no one has ever tried) there is at least one bathroom, maybe two in the end of it and at least one power outlet. If I can't secure the pavilion I may have a port-a-pottie or two setup down there.
The insurance thing tried to pop up and I immediately said that'd kill the gathering. I said this is individuals getting together which some or most belong to a club, but the club isn't putting this on. If you need insurance that will kill us showing up right off the bat. He asked what kind of thing "we" did. I said usually a hoverin is at a campground on a body of water and we gather and chat, play with our machines, answer questions and give demonstrations to interested viewers and Saturday night gather and everyone pitches in dish for a meal. I was planning on skipping the meal and let everyone bring what they want from town back to the pavilion at will for a Saturday night meal gathering, that would support your local businesses for letting us hang out for the weekend. He then asked, "So you guys would be staying in hotels, and eating at some of our businesses probably". I said yes and buying gas too, and possibly spouses coming since you town square shops are walking distance from the hoverin location. He said, "Well sounds like this is no more than a few guys deciding to show up in bass boats and fish together for the weekend". I said, "Exactly except we might take up a little more parking lot than normal and wanted to check with you first to make sure we wouldn't get ran off before we come, Oh and it'd be nice if we could play on the park field for the weekend." He then asked for a few days to check some things out and he'd return a call with an answer. Since "we" weren't asking the city to really do anything for us he said the insurance wasn't an issue and it was a go.
I'm not really hosting this event, just getting permissions and trying to gather information to help any willing participants to come. I've kind of "hosted" a cruise the past two years one of which was very successful with the help of the weather. Hosting events in the past I tried to plan for who was coming on meals and such. At this event I've tried to set it up more loose. Where the participants can be on no schedule, just hang out as they please, and cruise as they please, get or bring your food and eat when you want. For that reason RSVP is not really necessary, but it is nice to know who to expect just in case someone doesn't show so we know to check on them in case of trouble. If I can secure the pavilion we'll gather there if you want around the meal times for those who want to visit rather than dine in at a local business.
There really isn't anything to "hosting" an event like this and no one has lost or gained anything depending on participation or turnout. If you can arrange something like this in your area I think we could have alot more events doing it like this and no one is out anything except a little information gathering time. So if your so inclined for a little weekend vacation come hang loose at Centerville. Its a cool little place.

http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff48/thinwater/Center%20Southeast%20Hoverin/CentervilleHoverin.jpg

This is a shot of the grounds and pavillion, you can get an idea of the size.

Update! I visited the hoverin site again today. I'd have to recommend the Days Inn over Grinders switch if for no other reason than Grinders Switch Inn doesn't have enough parking lot for a trailer. I'm uploading a picture slideshow link to pics I took with description of what I found to be usefull info during my visit. The pavilion is available and I've sent word of the dates I want it. I just haven't been able to make contact with THE individual responsible though he has been informed through the Mayor. There are restroomS in the pavilion and power but it is high on the rafters so bring ext chords if you have an appliance you want to bring down to the hoverin. There is also a pic of the ramp transition with an individual on it for size and angle reference. It got me quite pumped to be there looking at it thinking of the hovering. The river was up maybe a couple of feet from what I'd call normal but was beautiful none the less.

Centerville Hoverin Area Slideshow

UPDATE 4/18/2010....PAVILLION AQUIRED. We're setup. Communication and feedback has been slow on that. Its done.

UPDATE 4/19/2010 The pavilion has tables for us but no chairs. Bring your folding chairs, I figured you would anyway but wanted to be sure and tell you.

Update 5/7/2010 This link was provided to me by Hickman Co Chamber of Commerce it will be updated to show remaining closed roads around the area. It has an impressive picture of the bridge at the hoverin site. http://www.hickmanco.com/ema/

Hotel is good but bring your own bottled drinking water as most of Hickman county's water treatment plants are contaminated with river water, which is fine for facility use.

Current Conditions:
State Routes:
Highway 7 in East Hickman County is open only to East of Santa Fe at Ladd Hill in Maury County due to a road collapse.
Highway 46 in East Hickman County is open to Dickson & I-40
Highway 48 North is passable at least to I-40 & Dickson
Highway 48 South is down to one lane at the Ollie Thompson Bridge but otherwise passable to Hohenwald
Highway 50 West is passable to Interstate 40
Highway 50 East is closed at Bratton Lane until further notice
Highway 100 North is now open (caution should be used at Mill Creek)
Highway 100 North only has two lanes open at the Duck River Bridge
Highway 100 South out of Centerville is passable to Linden
Highway 230 between Highways 50 & 100 is open
Highway 230 between Highway 48 and the Only Road is open (no access to I-40, however, at this time) The Only Road is open.
Highway 438 from Perry County is now passable at mile marker 2, but still closed at mile marker 0.5 until further notice.
County Roads:
The following County Roads are officially closed until further notice:
Moss Branch Rd Taylor's Creek Rd Whitson Farm Rd
Ragsdale Cemetery Rd Blue Buck Creek Rd Sullivan Rd
Collins Lane E. Sugar Creek Rd Christian Lane
Russell's Branch Rd Bates Trail Rd Barnhill Rd
Old Mill Creek Rd Petty Cemetery Rd Steep Hill Rd
Moss Springs Hllw Rd Brown's Bend Rd Hurricane Branch Rd
D. M. O'Quin Rd West Johnson Rd Indian Trace Rd
Hicks Lane @ Only Bucksnort Rd
The Highway Department is attempting to have all of the roads above at least to a passable state by the end of this coming weekend.

The following County Roads are barely passable:
Missionary Ridge Rd W. Beaverdam Rd Garner's Creek Rd
Sugar Creek Rd Milam Branch Rd Hassell's Creek Rd
Ugly Creek Rd Blue Buck Rd Copperas Branch Rd
Billy Tarkington Rd Dog Creek Rd Cavender's Branch Rd
Plunder's Creek Rd McFarlin Rd Old Hadley School Rd
Buck Branch Rd Sulpher Rd Barren Fork Lane
Camp Henley Road Barren Fork Bridge Rd

The following bridges are washed completely out:
Old Mill Creek Shop Hollow Road

What is this?

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:29:59 +0000

I have a customer who is restoring this thing, but knows nothing about it. Anyone seen this contraption before?

My guess is that whoever made it went out of business due to multiple lawsuits over the deaths caused by that throttle!