DR-1 (Sands): Builders Group

Jim Bruton · 18 August 2004, 04:25 AM

A few of us in the thick of building Ron Sands type Fokker Triplanes see a need to establish this area as a repository of our DR-1 construction experiences. Any tips, tricks, frustrations, epiphanies, discovered resources.... are all welcome.

A few things to think about and share with us:

1 - Photos of your project- especially some of the details. We aren't judging your welds, but it was helpful to me to see Fokker210's use of non-stick surfaces in his rib jig!

2 - Photos of your shop. What tools you found really helpful- sources/prices.

3 - Work Flow- let's face it, one rib a day takes a long time! Jigs, bracing, when to invite extra sets of hands to help out.... I think all of us would love a time-saving tip or two.

4 - Sources of great stuff. I have a lead from a builder-friend here in CT on some wheels that really look the part- smooth, no tread! Instruments, Engines sources would be great. Even if it sometimes costs too much, it's great to know period or period-looking equipment is out there!

5 - Don't be embarrassed to ask ANY question!

This is for starters!

Jim Bruton

Fokker210 · 18 August 2004, 09:07 AM

Besides myself and Jim Bruton, are there any other active forumites here that are contemplating, currently building or have completed a Sands triplane ? I know of several people across the US that are building but I'm not sure if they are active here.

worldcrusier · 18 August 2004, 11:33 AM

I'm working on a Sands/Redfern Dr1. Have all the Ribs 90 % done and the top spar 75% done. I'm going to the sportair TIG workshop in Sept. I tend to lurk and travel a lot so progress is erratic.

Fokker210 · 18 August 2004, 11:45 AM

Worldcruiser,
I attended the Sportair TIG workshop about eight months ago - cant say enough good things about it ! Which location are you going to ?

worldcrusier · 18 August 2004, 11:46 AM

The one in Griffin, GA

Jim Bruton · 18 August 2004, 11:49 AM

WorldCruiser,

Post some photos! How long has it taken you to make your ribs? Did you make more than 1 jig? I am thinking to also make it to one of EAA's welding classes one of these days. What state do you live in?

Fokker210 · 18 August 2004, 02:56 PM

Worldcruiser,
I live about 30 miles North of Griffin ! Maybe you would want to meet and say hello - It would be nice to finally meet a fellow tripe builder in person !
They have a nice welding shop there and I'm sure you will enjoy it !

Best of luck !

Rex · 18 August 2004, 05:58 PM

I am looking for a couple of items for my project. If you know where to find them please let me know.

10 coil type ferrules

Harley Davidson wheel - part number 43509-74

The Harley wheel is from a 1974 XL (Sportster). I think any wheel from 1974-77 will work.

Rex · 18 August 2004, 06:02 PM

Check with McMaster-Carr (www.mcmaster.com) for some of the unusual part and pieces you will need such as stainless steel spring wire for the crossbracing.

Fokker210 · 18 August 2004, 06:44 PM

My initial shipment of rib materials from Wick's. You can see my rib jig with sample rib in place in the background. I had already made a few rib pieces as trial runs before placing a big materials order. Hard to believe this pile of plywood and strips would become a set of triplane ribs !