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B-36 PEACEMAKER MUSEUM |
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B-36 PEACEMAKER MUSEUM |
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Our first fundraising activity of 2004 was hosted on 13 March 2004 by American Legion Post 379, 1245 N. Industrial Blvd. in Bedford. A cold, dark and rainy day was had by all but the event was a success not only for the funds received but for the area-wide publicity we gained from a superb article in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram by legendary feature writer Bill Fairley. CLICK HERE to read the article.
In addition to a moonwalk ride for the kids, we had many items donated for silent auctions. The show stealer was a giant-scale radio controlled B-36 being built by local supporter James Anderson of Duncanville. James has been working on his model for four years and he estimates several months remain before the beast takes flight. He hoped to have the 19-foot wingspan machine ready to fly during the May 15 air show at NAS Fort Worth JRB but will settle for flying other giant scale models with his RC club instead. He will, however, invite a fellow modeler from Houston to bring his 19-foot wingspan flying model of a Russion TU-4 "Bear" bomber for the event.
We hope you enjoy these photos of the B-36 model that is destined to be an identical replica of the Last B-36 as it looked when it retired from USAF service in 1959 (and also identical to the computer generated color pictures of the aircraft available from our giftshop).
Mr. James Anderson
James spent many days inside the Last B-36 taking measurements and photographs in preparation for building his model. Original factory drawings were used as were photographs of the Last B-36.
Powered by six 5HP engines, the model produces more thrust than its
estimated 100-pound weight.
It should be able to climb vertically under full power.
The entire model is hand made of spruce, fiberglass, aluminum, steel and composites.
All control surfaces are operated by servo tabs, just like the real aircraft. James has already run all six engines and he reports the sound is just awesome. The engines ran at full power and were all synchronized within 50 rpm.
The landing gear are hand-made exact replicas of the real McCoy. They are operated by air cylinders and feature rubber balloon tires, electric brakes, operating doors and canoes.
Excepting the tires, all parts of the landing gear were hand-made by Mr.
Anderson.
The front gear features electrically operated steering.
Jet pods, pylons and cowlings are of fiberglass. James is undecided if he will install operating jet engines. (The wheel under the front bomb bay is part of a truck parked in the distance.)
A top view of the wing reveals two fuel tanks and a compressed gas bottle for operating the landing gear.
More giant-scale models displayed at the event.
Many thanks are extended to Mr. Anderson and his friends who displayed their giant-scale models during this event. We look forward to seeing them fly during the May 15 airshow.
