Large Model Association Forum

This is my first contribution since joining the LMA and whilst this is not a new build only a refurbishment because of the unusual model and it's history I thought it deserved it's own thread.

The aircraft is around 1/3rd scale model of the Edgley Optica designed by John Edgely and built by Brooklands Aerospace. Unfortunately, back in 1985 two Hampshire police lost their lives whilst flying G-KATY, susbsequent events saw the remaining planes change hands several times. For fuller history see WikiPedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgley_Optica.

Anyway, onto the model and a little bit of its history. This was one of 3 models built for the film Slipstream which was produced in 1989 and starred, amongst others, Kitty Aldridge and Mark Hamill - him of Star Wars fame. From talking to Nigel Nixon - the original builder - one model crashed during filming, one has been sold overseas (USA?) and I have the third. Some shots of the models construction can be seen in the video of "The Making Of Slipstream (1989)" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67WdIRsBks8.

The model in it's original state weighed in at a massive 32Kg, so if I wanted to get it flying again it needing bringing under the 'Over 20Kg' scheme. It has duly been inspected and registered under the scheme and there remains many more inspections and test flights (hopefully) to go. Other specs of the model are wingspan:160", length: 110" and the engine currently fitted is appears to be an old King 150cc 2 stroke (ex strimmer??) with Walbro carbs.

Initial tasks will be to remove the current fibre optics used for the servo signal lines (used to reduce interference from the 27Mhz radios), replace all servo's and rewire everything, install a PowerBox radio system with dual batteries and remove the engine and fuel tanks and, horror of horrors install an electric brushless motor. The latter is being done for several reasons, firstly because the motor is so embedded within the ducting it's a b@##er to start and requires a 2 foot long starting rod, adjustment of carbs is a nightmare and I like the cleanness and ease of use of electrical systems. Choosing the right brushless motor will be based upon the figures gleaned from the current engine and prop combination run on a test bed.

Whilst refurbing the model I'm trying to build up a complete history of it's past, so if anyone can add anything on this it would be most gratefully received.

I remember seeing this years ago, interesting machine you've got the Dave. Shame it's going to be vegetarian but I suppose it makes sense.

I see one flying last year whilst working at Turweston Airfield in Northants.
Vary different that for sure.

Bonzey

I remember this model from the past. Terry Bridle was the pilot (anyone know what happened to Terry as he was one on the early big model flyers in the UK). I seem to recall that it was very noisy with the pusher prop.

John

It was at Duxford 1990 and made an odd inclusion in Battle of Britain 50th and Hurricane competition .
I remember the struggle to start it with long metal pole and reluctant motor in the baking heat.
Funny that, did someone say baking heat.

Signing up to follow this thread, I built the 1/5 scale one back in the 80's from the plan (still available I believe from one of the plan sites). I even approached Edgley and they sent me a set of blueprints to help with my build.

Pilot is sat in the wrong seat as I had a lateral balance issue - From the large silencer we think.





Andy

The King engines are actually still produced in germany and are quite good engines for what they are, Kingflumotoren still sell these engines, interestingly they produce great power at low rpm.

Great looking plane and hope to see it flying soon

I have the plans and all the glass work for the smaller model. I believe there are still foam outer wing panels available.

I missed out on buying this actual model a few years ago... if you ever feel like its too much give me a shout!!

Any updates on this beast?