From: Ken DeLacy (lukke_at_sprynet.com)
Date: 03/17/98
Message-ID: <350E38DC.5A7C@sprynet.com> Date: Tue, 17 Mar 1998 00:48:29 -0800 From: Ken DeLacy <lukke_at_sprynet.com> Subject: Re: Helios: LETS GO!
Greetings all,
Just wanted to repost the needs list.
Chris_McCoy_at_sigmanet.com wrote:
>
> I will hopefully have my ultralight ready by September. I will be able to
> build the frame and bag by myself.
> The problem at this point will be about 4-5 items.
>
> 1. I will need a propane burner to heat the bag. A single or double unit,
> even in less than perfect shape would be perfect.
> If any of you know where I could get my hands on one cheap, I would really
> apprecciate it.
I've contacted the newsgroup rec.aviation.balloon and received a
classifieds of balloon stuff and check it regularualy for a burner
system but no luck yet.
> 2. I am looking at 2x17HP engines from the Spruce and specialty catalog.
> They are single cylinder oil/gas burners.
> If anyone has an idea about where could get something similar for less than
> $900.00 a piece, let me know.
>
> 3. I now know what my airbag needs to be like, but I would like some help
> with sewing it. If anyone could give me some
> verbal expertise via phone or internet, it would be greatly apprecciated.
Chris I assume your getting help from the Experimental Balloon Builders.
> 4. I think I can make it under the ultra-light limit, but it will be close.
> My question is, I am not experienced enough to do
> more than a few test hops to start out. I know that ultralight doesn't
> require it, but I would like a certified pilot
> (VFR, IFR if possible) to help me with the airworthiness and
> insturmentation stage. Also, the 250 weight limit is weighed
> static, without passenger of fuel, does that mean the bag can be "hot"? If
> that is the case, any LTA craft on
> the ground would qualify. I have seen some of the hot-air blimps, and cant
> believe that bag, gondola, and fuel/engine
> weigh less than 250. Anyone have the definitive answer?
>
> 5. My intention for this ship has not been money. I want a ship that Josh,
> Mike, Me, or anyone in the group
> can build cheaply, or borrow to demonstrate what these ships can do. I like
> what Ken had to say, and
> it's nice to see someone as enthused as I by this whole idea.
>
> Please post your input here so we can try to coordinate this. I can't
> guarantee completion by September, as I am
> pretty-much a one-man show right now, but if you could help me with the
> above list, I will be that much closer.
>
> By the way, Any "loaners" (i.e. burners or engines) will be returned as I
> can replace them with purchased materials.
>
> Thanks
>
> Chris McCoy
Best of luck Chris I wish I could assist more.
Ken