Thursday, September 17, 2020

Mercury Engineering 3" Diam. School Rocket Build, Part 6, Chrome Trim Fins, Comparison

Here's an old post that never got, well . . . posted!
This shows the difference when adding some Monokote chrome trim.
While Bill at BMS wanted a red, white and blue catalog picture, I added chrome trim after the pictures were sent out.
I have a little history with this kit, I drew up the instructions for the 3" School Rocket versions.

This 3" diameter, 28" tall model is one of the best values out there at $23.95 for the 24mm version.
BMS has also added a 29mm version with an optional payload section.
To see the 3" diameter School Rocket,
CLICK HERE - Look for the School rocket listing along the top. Go to the 3" diameter 24mm or 29 mm versions.


The fins got two tapered strips, on just one side of the fins.
Simply a judgement call, I though strips on both sides would be too much.






Here's the before and after the chrome was added.
Both schemes work, but the chrome trim really sets it off.
NOTE: The very tips of the chrome stars want to lift. The stars won't come off, but you can feel them with your fingers.

I remember the Centuri catalog from 1973. Simple bands of chrome added a lot to the Flutter-By, Groove Tube and Bandito models.

3 comments:

  1. Chrome trim not only augments the decor of the rocket, it also helps you track it at high altitudes.

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  2. Man! Your fin shape and paint in the fillet area look beautiful! I am so jealous. No matter how hard I try, mine look nothing like that.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Bill,
      For clean mask lines you've should have smooth fillets. any bubbles or dips won't allow the tape to adhere in the recesses.
      After the first shot of filler/primer, the fillets are sanded down a bit, leaving the filler/primer in any dips or divots. Repeat if needed before color shots.
      I tend to use Scotch tape for masking. The rounded leading edge mask requires about eight small pieces of
      tape set around the curve.

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