Desert Rat Video on YouTube

[DryMartini]

Well, we had out annual Squadron 4 help day in Marengo a few weeks ago, and
Chuck interviewed Mike. Here is the video link! Good advertisement for Aerovintage!

Enjoy!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9P5ARQgzhH0

[PineCastleAAF]

Thanks Bill I did enjoy that. When the discussion turned to the spar tubes I was interested regarding the taper of the inside of the tube. I'd love to hear more about that especially how it was originally made with the equipment that went west(east). I'm assuming it tapers towards the fuselage?

Clint

[DryMartini]

Clint,

The spar tubes are square aluminum tubes, about 306" long, and
tapers on the inside of the tube. They were originally made by
rod drawing and reeling. I have been looking on and off for about
5 years for companies with this manufacturing capability, to no
avail. Any help is appreciated.

[PineCastleAAF]

Bill,
Appreciate that information. Any idea on the cost of machining new spar tubes?
Thanks,
clint

[DryMartini]

Clint,

As I have not been able to find anyone able to rod draw and reel a part of this size,
I have no ideas as to cost. However, I'm sure it will not be cheap.

-Bill

[TAdan]

Very good video and an informative update on Desert Rat. Thanks for posting it.

[PineCastleAAF]

There are some very good shots of spar tubes on the B-17C on Tells Peak. B-17 wing construction is interesting.

[PineCastleAAF]

Any chance of building new spar tubes using another method besides rod drawing and reeling that will result in the same finished product? Is the taper purely for strength or is there another reason for that? Sorry for all the questions. If you can direct me to someplace where I can study up on this that would be great too.