Builds By Baz - Full scale MKII Colonial Viper

[BuildsByBaz]

Starting the ejector seat configuration with a spacer box underneath to raise it and provide a base to build the rest of the unit from. I also cut the top of the seat off as they did with the original prop to allow for the headrest and integrated systems in the top of the seat. The padded cover just gets folded back and stitched behind the seat to dress it off.

Building the sides and top was tricky and a bit of trail and error. I only really had three half-decent photos to work from at different angles, but they were difficult to translate into shape and size with such limited views and details. I made a frame out of plywood which was pretty basic to back the seat and hug it's contours. Then I started from the top, as the pictures I have are of it are best from there. Working my way down, it was a bit of improvisation with limited materials, but I managed to find a happy approximation.

Again, I found it a big money saver to use cardboard first to freehand the shapes and fit, then transfer to half inch plywood once I had established the form. I'll add in small details later, but that's the main construction finished. It was quite a challenge.

Full story here >> Mk II Viper cockpit interior fit-out.

 

[BuildsByBaz]

Cockpit construction complete. Just a bit of gap filling and some paint left now.

 

[BuildsByBaz]

My friends Andrew W and David M have both been working hard with the graphic design, re-formatting and installing into the electronic equipment to go into the cockpit. I't's been an exciting day and we've got a lot done!

Full story here. >> Viper DRADIS and weapon systems screens

 

[Dirtdives2424]

I really 1/2 expect this thing to fly in the end!!!! Are you sure you'r not a ship designer for NASA?

 

[BuildsByBaz]

I really 1/2 expect this thing to fly in the end!!!! Are you sure you'r not a ship designer for NASA?

I'll take the job if it's on offer....

 

[BuildsByBaz]

Modules 4 & 5, main engine block.

Starting behind the cockpit firewall and continuing for another 3 metres, is the last parts of the fuselage that the three main engines will attach to. Again, I am using plywood formers, spaced and supported on a rigid welded steel frame.

 

[Dirtdives2424]

This is probably where the majority of the weight is going to be.......I recall hearing stories about the original series and that the vipers had a tendency of tilting backwards because the landing legs were too close together and too far forward so be careful.

 

[BuildsByBaz]

This is probably where the majority of the weight is going to be.......I recall hearing stories about the original series and that the vipers had a tendency of tilting backwards because the landing legs were too close together and too far forward so be careful.

Duly noted. Thanks mate. Nothing a good counterweight wouldn't fix.

Baz.

 

[Dirtdives2424]

Just giving my knowledge......and showing my age......

 

[Lieutenant Jaku]

Just giving my knowledge......and showing my age......

you don't have to be old to know original Battlestar Galactica (you just have to know what shows were good). I'm sure I'm at least 2 decades younger than you but I've watched all the original show episodes about 5 times. Still haven't finished Galactica 1980 though.

Modules 4 & 5, main engine block.

Starting behind the cockpit firewall and continuing for another 3 metres, is the last parts of the fuselage that the three main engines will attach to. Again, I am using plywood formers, spaced and supported on a rigid welded steel frame.

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Looking nice, exited to see how you handle the back section.

 

[BuildsByBaz]

Module 4 now has a rigid steel frame welded inside and is attached to the rear firewall of the cockpit. Starting to skin it now.

 

[Dirtdives2424]

What are you going to use to fill the gaps between the foam plates with?

 

[BuildsByBaz]

Once glued in with expanding foam adhesive, they will be sanded down to shape then coated in fibreglass mat.

 

[BuildsByBaz]

My anonymous benefactor in the States has just made me feel like a kid again!!

The genuine fabric for the Viper Pilot flight suit is amazing. Nothing like what I imagined. So glad I didn't try to source a near enough alternative in Australia, just guessing from photos. Every photo I've seen of it looks different. It is made by Sommers and hasn't been in production for years. It is over $50USD a yard but for them to make it again, they require a minimum order of 250 yards.

So privileged and blessed to get the four yards I need for the flight suit. For the cost of postage. Not only that, he has included some of the materials for the vest and some samples of the original material that can no-longer be sources, but I can use these to find alternatives at Spotlight, Lincraft and other such fabric stores.

He's even gone to the trouble to trace out the entire pattern for me.

Totally blown away by such kindness.

Full story on flight-suit here. Viper Pilot flight suit

 

[Dirtdives2424]

Happy Birthday!!!!

 

[BuildsByBaz]

Happy Birthday!!!!

Errr... it's not my birthday.... unless of course there's presents....

Edit: D'oh! Yes I'm slow. I get it now...

 

[Dirtdives2424]

well its not your birthday per say......but you got gifts right?

 

[BuildsByBaz]

Working on the front landing gear and skid. outer cladding with steel section support within. Welded rigid.

 

[BuildsByBaz]

I have indeed been blessed with a group of people who have gone above and beyond to help me with this full-sized viper build. My good friend Andrew W has been working tirelessly, hour after hour, night after night to send me test videos as he works towards the final draft, and here it is! Bloody brilliant job Andrew!

 

[Dirtdives2424]

I would sit in the cockpit and admire everything and push buttons for hours!!!!