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Sunday, January 5, 2020

Estes Sidekick #7287, Build Part 1, Parts






Estes hasn't produced a cluster kit in a while.
This one is different, two parallel tubes and two streamers for recovery.

Estes does recommend using their Pro Series II Launch Controller for reliable cluster ignition.
The fins on this one have a large surface area. This might help with a vertical launch if only one engine ignites.




Parts look good! It's a little like two 2 fin nose cone models side by side.
Pictured above is a pre-production kit. Everything was fine, except the orange in the decals was a bit light. The decal register was also a little off. Estes has improved decals coming for the kit release. 


Lots of figure eight centering rings. Note the small holes near the center of the "8". These are used in place of launch lugs, sliding right down the launch rod.

Two of the new screw-on engine retaining rings
Two shiny chrome streamers.

6 comments:

  1. Those screw-on retainers really do open up some possibilities for 18mm motored minimum diameter designs. This one is on my future buy list so thanks for the build Chris. Also I’m thinking I’ll need more than one since it looks like a great source for strap on style boosters.

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  2. Fun and creative kit!

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  3. That face card design makes me think it might be a hobby lobby exclusive kit.it certainly has the same basic layout as the other two hobby lobby kits I have.

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    1. It’s been included on Estes “upcoming products” poster from trade shows so I’d say it’s a general release kit.

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    2. Hi Lester,
      It's a general release kit, now on the Estes website in the "New" products listing.

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  4. oooooooohhh.......been waiting for this one....I like the concept. Screams all black with white details/panel lines.....

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