The Estes Black Brant II kit was available from 1986 - 1998.
This model was the second design from the Canadian sounding rocket program.
I always thought it was a clean, classic look with a very interesting roll pattern.
BT-55 based and D engine powered. Recovery was an 18" parachute.
Estes brought back their BT-50 based Black Brant III kit last year.
Somewhere along the way I picked up two Estes Black Brant II kits. These were obviously from different kit runs and different years. The earlier kit on the left had water slide decals and a parachute you had to assemble. The kit on the right had stick-on decals and a assembled parachute. The instructions were different in both kits. All other parts were the same.
Interesting to note the Skill Level was "3" was on the older kit with the water slide decals. The Skill Level 4 was the rating on the sticker version.I actually started this build last year and set it aside. There were some concerns with the tail cone, fin fit and antennas. I doubt the toothpick antennas would stay on the after the first launch. There was some trouble shooting on this build.
Hi Chris: I was given an original Black Brant kit ('96-'98) to assemble. It is missing a couple critical parts: the plastic coupler and the nose cone. I do have the tail cone. Can this kit be successfully built without the coupler (i.e., leaving it out and adjusting the engine tube and engine block accordingly to accept the "D" engine? Also, my research shows I need nose cone #071044, as indicated in the instructions for the later kit. Any suggestions for finding one? Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteHi Unknown,
DeleteThe nose cone is available from Estes or Apogee in a BT-55 fit four pack: https://www.apogeerockets.com/Building_Supplies/Nose_Cones/Nose_Cone_Assortments/NC-55_Nose_Cone_4-Pak
I don't know what you mean about adapting for use with a D engine, the kit was designed for a D engine launch.
If you mean you are missing the recessed ring above the tail cone assembly - you can certainly add a coupler and adjust the length under the two segments of BT-55. No one will ever notice the difference.
Good luck with your build - hope the blog build helps out.
Thanks for the tip about the nose cone package Chris! Sorry for the miscommunication--I'm missing the plastic coupler (the one that comes attached to the tail cone and must be cut apart from it). It looks like I might be able to leave it out and simply make a few adjustments so the engine (correct, a "D") will fit correctly. Thanks again for the quick response. Regards, Craig Astler
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