Vickers Vimy

Breguet · 27 September 2004, 01:13 AM

I recently "inherited" this 105" model built to David Boddington plans. I propose to put two 91 FS engines in it.
I'm told this should be enough. I haven't seen any pictures of a Vimy with the wheel instead of the skid in front - has anyone else?

Anyone out there ever flown one or seen one flown? I saw one once but didn't pay much attention as it was not a plane that overly interested me at the time as I never expected to have one!!!

DonnyW · 27 September 2004, 04:58 AM

Hi Berguet, The Vimy sounds an interesting project and I know David Boddington plans are generally very good. I dont know of anyone who has made the Vimy but could give a comparison with my latest project. The Italian version of the Vimy ..a Caproni Ca3. Mine is 120" span and will be powered by two OS52 FS so wonder if you need the power of two 91's ?? As its an own design I built a smaller prototype at 72" span and it flew fine on two 0.15 two strokes. However I appreciate weight can be a deciding factor on power .. I expect my 120" version to be around 10-12lb mark. Smaller engines will be easier to hide in the Vimy's nacelles. As for the flight characteristics of the Caproni prototype.. very easy to fly and surprisingly held its own in quite a strong wind. I have had the "dreaded engine out" and it flew quite happily with one engine until the wind lifted a wing and it started the expected spin. With the other engine cut and a nose dive to gain speed, it came out the spin and glided, albiet steeply to safety. I expect the larger version to have similar characteristics and think the Vimy will also be the same. Like yourself..any pictures I am aware of have the front skid but will look to see if I have any profiles without. Hope this helps

Breguet · 28 September 2004, 05:06 PM

Thanks Donny,

I am a bit worried about weight as I didn't build this one and I was told it was quite tail heavy. The recommended powerplant is 2 x 70 FS. Hence my thought for 2x90 given the nose weight I might have to add. Mind you the more weight the worse on the wing loading side. --- Sigh.

Glad to hear about the Caproni flying well - one of my favourites. any flying shots?