PBY-5A Catalina

[pplace]

In between working on the Il-2 Sturmovik for opjose...I decided to start on a more detailed PBY-5A. The included on in G4 just doesn't do it for me (I know it was modeled after a RL model) but I'd prefer to have one with working gear, retractable wing floats etc.

Just started on this last night....here's what I've got so far.

Edit: By more detailed I'm referring to the gear and the floats just to clarify. Because the actual G4 model is really nice...has a nice cockpit and interior in it. Just a few additional things to my PBY should interest some that like the option of gear or water.

[josh0987]

Looking great!! Keep it up :D I'm loving the retractable landing gear feature.

[pilot07]

Looking great!! Keep it up :D I'm loving the retractable landing gear feature.





Everybody knows the folding floats
are way cooler. :p

I'm lovin the plane!!!!! Its beautiful!!!!

[pplace]

Stuck home today on doctors orders so I figured I'd put some spare time to good use.

Here's and update on the Cat

[nemo_uk]

Nice work (You might have overdone it a bit on the framework for the small turret on the front) Here are some pics I took of a 6A (with no turret!) if it helps ...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/telms/sets/72157600088912862/

I'm interested to see if you can get the main gear to retract properly (note the small split panel above the wheel, this forms part of the fuselage when the wheel is retracted) The long support coming down actual splits as the main wheel retracts. The wing floats should be simple if you don't model the supporting struts.

[pplace]

Nice work (You might have overdone it a bit on the framework for the small turret on the front) Here are some pics I took of a 6A (with no turret!) if it helps ...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/telms/sets/72157600088912862/

I'm interested to see if you can get the main gear to retract properly (note the small split panel above the wheel, this forms part of the fuselage when the wheel is retracted) The long support coming down actual splits as the main wheel retracts. The wing floats should be simple if you don't model the supporting struts.

Nemo you've got a good eye. I honestly forgot to mention in the first post that the nose turret is a temporary item. I just sized and tapered a cylinder so I could "carve out" and shape the recessed portion in front of the canopy.

Then when I went to render it (to post a picture here) the big blob of a cylinder looked really silly.....so I just selected all the faces and "inset" them and applied a "hole" material.

So yes eventually I will delete the "mock" turret with a more accurate one. Thanks for bringing that up though.

Thanks for the info and the details on the gear....it will be tricky to make it nice. But I think with enough time (which I take plenty of!haha) It should be possible. I might have to spare some other details on the aircraft in order to model a nice set of gear.

Edit: Thanks for the link to the great detail pics nemo.

It is interesting to see the aircraft without the nose turret.

Would the interest be there for me to leave mine out? And model it like the ones in the photos? it would save a pile of polys to put somewhere else?

I'll let the forum members decide on this one.

[willsonman]

As a current G3.5 user I would be interested in a version with more detailed gear just to be able to fly it (no turret vote). I love the work you do and love every plane of yours I fly. I would even be willing to do the Physics for G3 if you would like.

[pplace]

Okay Voting starts:

No Nose Turret (2) after seeing the pics I'm leaning this way possibly.

With Nose Turret (2)

I'll update here if there are any more opinions / votes.

[josh0987]

If the real one has a turret, then model the turret, if it doesn't then leave it out. :D

[Cowboy]

Gotta have the turret with the big cannons...hehe...love those guns!

[pplace]

If the real one has a turret, then model the turret, if it doesn't then leave it out. :D

josh0987: I think you missed the post by nemo. He attached a link of a PBY for me to look at. This certain PBY does not have the nose turret.

Below is a pic of that aircraft (no turret) and also a model of one with a turret.

[WingDude]

Make it with the turret, Military aircraft are always cooler :)

[vonfife911]

I vote no turret, it has a cleaner look to it. It's a plus so I can do the scheme of the one at my local air museum(Palm Springs)

[pplace]

I vote no turret, it has a cleaner look to it. It's a plus so I can do the scheme of the one at my local air museum(Palm Springs)

Now that one doesn't have a bomb window either! Anything will be fine with me.....I kinda like this that vonfife just posted (plust it will save me more polys again)

[dhk79]

Okay Voting starts:

No Nose Turret, With Nose Turret, or The advanced option

By that I mean, give them both. Model the turret as part of an engine to show selection.

[pplace]

Doug,

I'm not sure I quite understand? What do you mean by part of an engine?

[pplace]

Been working off and on (can't strain my eyes to much looking at the computer screen.....some of you know my situation at the moment)

But I've been able to tinker away and add more to the PBY. I've got the side blisters extruded and shaped...now I'm doing the very tedious task of creating the framing for them....tough on a tear drop shape to keep them all flowing nicely. I'm about half done with them at the moment.

Here's an updated pic.

[dhk79]

Under the engine properties there is a selection called "engine to show" (it's right under the component frame, i.e. ~CS_ENGINE1) and it is used to select which engine to display. You can have up to three engines that I know of: ~CS_2STROKE, ~CS_4STROKE, and ~CS_ELECTRIC. Only one is displayed at a time, but all three can be in the model. Many of the stock planes have more than one engine modeled, but I can't tell you off the top of my head which ones. Look at my Skybolt for an example, it has three modeled.

The neat trick is that anything you name with one of the reserved names above can be made to be selectable.

[pplace]

That's kinda what I thought you were talking about but.......

How would you change the nose section (from the cockpit forward) would you actually have the whole "chunk" named as one of the engines?

Have one "chunk" modeled with a nose turret

the other "chunk" made smooth with no turret

this way it would just install a new nose correct?

Nice idea possibly

[dhk79]

You just have to leave most of the nose as part of your fuselage, so that it doesn't screw up your physics. Then just swap out the area that differs.

[pplace]

Yep I follow you. Attached is an example of the "missing" nose. (sorry I accidently removed the bottom of the windshield frame also....so it looks a little goofy)

So in theory (and if I have extra polys) I could model two nose sections to fit in this missing area.

Doug...thinking out of the box again. I like it! I'll certainly keep this option in mind.

[dhk79]

You got it. :D

Pushing the limits a little bit is what makes this fun for me. I'm always trying to figure out ways to make RF do things the original developers didn't really have in mind.

[pplace]

I had to put some "shoes" on her to see how she'd look!

Next step: Finish "blister" frames, then get some engine nacelles started.....it truly looks silly with nothing on that simple wing.

[dhk79]

It's looking good. Don't forget how I told you to do the gear doors, it'll go a lot easier.

[pplace]

Thanks Doug,

I actually used your method a couple times. Most recently on Cowboys C-119 (I had troubles fitting the doors, so I re did them in Wings) and I also just did the Il-2 Sturmovik. Your method is quick and easy with great results

[Blade Scraper]

Glad to see this beauty! :)

[pplace]

Little more progress....the evening was kept busy with a sick son (not fun for either of us) but I did manage to rough out a pair of nacelles and also notch in the main gear bays.

The nacelles still need all the scoops, vents, cowl flaps etc modeled......I just wanted the basic shape there to help visualize the project.

Also take note that I'm not quite as fast as Doug (dhk79) he whips out a new model every 15-20 minutes.....he's a machine!!

Enjoy.....

[pilot07]

how many polys would you guess are into right now??? I was just wondering how much the fuse and wings an such took up.

[pplace]

how many polys would you guess are into right now??? I was just wondering how much the fuse and wings an such took up.

Not Sure....I'm sure more than I'd like though. I could check and let you know.

Edit: Just exported to 3dsMax to take a look. Right now it's right at the 7000 mark. Since my last attachments I've also started to add the wing struts (4) But I still have a TON of work left......the gear will eat up a great deal of polys.

[pplace]

Cut out the tip float mounts from the wings and rotated them down, and modeled a set of floats. At the same time I extruded the mount and the wing the same amount (so when It rotates up it's a really nice fit) There is still some "fine tuning" and shaping that I need to do on the floats and mounts...but they are done for the most part.

Started adding in the wing struts.

Finished up on the "blister" framing for the most part...will start on the gear soon.

Here's a few pics to look at (more interesting then reading I suppose)

[pplace]

Feels like I'm talking to myself in this build thread.....oh well.

Been working on the main gear. I've got all the main components in place. Now I'm working on the attachment points for each of the arms.

[Blade Scraper]

Feels like I'm talking to myself in this build thread.....oh well.

Been working on the main gear. I've got all the main components in place. Now I'm working on the attachment points for each of the arms.

If you can get all of the gear to work as a single component you may be able to make it springy.

Very nice! If you've got some extra polys left over can you add something cool in the cockpit like a dog or something? When i learn to fly full scales i want to take my dog with me. :)

I'll post a colorscheme idea in a bit.

[pplace]

If you can get all of the gear to work as a single component you may be able to make it springy.

The gear will need to be in several different components to get the movement correct.


Very nice! If you've got some extra polys left over can you add something cool in the cockpit like a dog or something? When i learn to fly full scales i want to take my dog with me. :)

I'll post a colorscheme idea in a bit.

Uh yeah just send me a picture of your girlfriend.......or did you mean the furry four legged kind? :p I'm sure extra polys won't be an issue on this model.....I'll be surprised if I have enough to finish everything I'd like.

[Blade Scraper]

The gear will need to be in several different components to get the movement correct.




Uh yeah just send me a picture of your girlfriend.......or did you mean the furry four legged kind? :p I'm sure extra polys won't be an issue on this model.....I'll be surprised if I have enough to finish everything I'd like.

I'm sure the girlfriend will tell you "you're spending too much time flying and too little time with me"! :D

Do you need a veiw from the top, bottom, left, front, bottom? It would be cool to animate him so his head moves and tail wags. :p But i have to catch him first! :p He's a quick little feller. :)

[pplace]

I think I officially went overboard on the gear now.......and I'm not finished yet! Added the twin oleo struts. I went a bit "extra" on these.....then remembered there were two for each side (4) total...that mistake will eat up some polys that I'll probably need later. Oh well it looks good at least.

Still need to make some brackets, and a mount for one of the hydraulic cylinders.

[Blade Scraper]

I've got some killer pictures. :)

[Wingman57]

Man pplace thats looking really nice. Keep up the good work :)

[pplace]

Main gear is finished....I know I wasted too many polys on it...but once I got working on it I couldn't stop (I could have done more....but I had to be somewhat realistic about my available polys) Here are several shots from the front, rear, bottom etc. (In one shot I have the shadows on....it gives it a nice effect....but also makes it harder to distinguish all the parts. So I left the shadows off for the remaining pics.

[dhk79]

Looking very good. Grab a copy of my CL-215, for a good example of how to aninmate the gear. It's gear looks about the same and I'll send you the source files too if you want them.

[pplace]

Funny you should mention that Doug, I just closed out of G4...didn't do much flying but was studying your gear setup in the editor for the CL-215. It's tough for me to visualize and get working in my head (or by looking at it) until I start the "trial and error" setup for real. I was hoping to ask you a few questions when I got to that point as well if you don't mind?

[dhk79]

Not at all. Just let me know if you want to look at the source files.

[pplace]

Added float "X" linkages, engine oil cooler vents and some other minor items. Figured I had had an "overall" shot for a bit so here's a couple.

[willsonman]

THis makes my Helldiver look like poo. I have so far to go and really look forward to being able to fly this. Thanks again for contributing to the community.

[pplace]

willsonman: Have you ever seen some of my early work? Your Helldiver is light years ahead of what I started doing. You just keep up the good work your doing and you'll be a great asset to the forums

[willsonman]

Hey thanks for that. Gave another plane in development a trial run last night... I just hope I can make the time to get to that point. Seriously... Some very talented people around these parts of the web.

[Haole]

pplace, this is a really nice job so far and I can't wait to try it out.

A few questions:


What CAD software are you using?
What is the polycount ceiling that you've referenced?
What scale will the model be? (please be big!)
How much time would you say it has taken so far?


I'm really interested in watching you complete the development of this model. Right now I am designing a 13+' span quad (an RC model) and I'd love to export my design from Rhino and turn it into a working G4 sim with all of the parameters of the actual design, then fly it before I even build it!

Of course it would be fun to share it as well.

Thanks for any input and keep up the nice work on your Cat.

Carl

[pplace]

~I use Wings3D for my basic modeling (it's a free program, easy to use) After the initial "visual" model has been created I export it over to 3ds Max 8 to finish the pivot points, hierarchy (linking) and texture mapping it.

~The poly count is 7000 (I believe) anything below 7000 will need NO collision meshes. Anything above will need collision meshes added (the collision meshes can't total over 1500) so the maximum total for a completed model (with collision meshes) is 20,000

~This PBY-5A is 1/12th scale (or 104" w.s.) at the moment....I might scale it up just a bit more...but I'll decide that in the end.

~Time frame?? I started this thread on the 27th (and started on the model the night before) but I only put in an hour or so each evening (more on the weekends possibly) then again there are days I can't touch the model.....I haven't opened the PBY file since Sunday. I would guess I'm only half done with a completed model at this point. Some modelers (dhk79) can easily whip out a complete model in a couple days...if not less. I always tend to get wrapped up in more scale details though.

As far as Rhino? There are other modelers on here that could give you better advice in that department (maxkop is a good one to ask)

Hope some of this information is useful.

[dhk79]

8000 is the poly limit for not having dedicated collision meshes.

[pplace]

8000 is the poly limit for not having dedicated collision meshes.

Aww...I had 7000-8000 in my reply...then went back and deleted the 8000, as it didn't sound right to me. I guess you should never second guess yourself!

Thanks for the correction though.

[DirtyHarry3033]

pplace, the Cat is looking fantastic! Can't wait to fly her :D It's hard to believe the detail you put in the landing gear, are you gonna model valve stems so we can check the tire pressure after a patrol?

I've got a dumb question for the modeling experts out there. I'm trying to learn how to do this and frankly looking at the mass of vertexes and edges and polys is making my brain hurt, trying to grasp what I'm looking at and translate it from a 2D screen into a 3D picture in my mind.

I guess everybody experiences this at 1st? Do any of you pro's have any tips to ease the process of making sense of what I'm looking at? Or is it just a thing you have to work thru until something "clicks" and you start seeing what's there instead of just a mass of dots and lines scattered all over the screen?

DH

[Haole]

~I use Wings3D for my basic modeling (it's a free program, easy to use) After the initial "visual" model has been created I export it over to 3ds Max 8 to finish the pivot points, hierarchy (linking) and texture mapping it.

~The poly count is 7000 (I believe) anything below 7000 will need NO collision meshes. Anything above will need collision meshes added (the collision meshes can't total over 1500) so the maximum total for a completed model (with collision meshes) is 20,000

~This PBY-5A is 1/12th scale (or 104" w.s.) at the moment....I might scale it up just a bit more...but I'll decide that in the end.

~Time frame?? I started this thread on the 27th (and started on the model the night before) but I only put in an hour or so each evening (more on the weekends possibly) then again there are days I can't touch the model.....I haven't opened the PBY file since Sunday. I would guess I'm only half done with a completed model at this point. Some modelers (dhk79) can easily whip out a complete model in a couple days...if not less. I always tend to get wrapped up in more scale details though.

As far as Rhino? There are other modelers on here that could give you better advice in that department (maxkop is a good one to ask)

Hope some of this information is useful.

Thanks very much for the detailed reply. These are all helpful answers to somebody like myself who is interested in starting out with creating RealFlight aircraft models.

I don't have 3DS Max, don't feel like forking out several grand to buy it and definitely don't want to run warez on my machine, but how about open source programs such as Blender for doing the animated skeletals? Is 3DS Max a must-have for this process?

Thanks again and great job on your model. Really looking forward to flying it especially now that I know it will be BIG!

Carl

[pplace]

but how about open source programs such as Blender for doing the animated skeletals? Is 3DS Max a must-have for this process?
Carl

Actually maxkop has been plugging away with blender projects. He is the go-to man when it comes to that. So in a short answer I can answer this: YES you can do the blender route......which will be 100% free. 3dsMax is just the "easiest" way to the finish line.

Feel free to ask any modelers any questions you may have....we all try and help each other as much as possible!

[Haole]

Thanks very much and sorry for derailing your thread. I really appreciate your answers though.

Now get that sweet Catalina flying! :D

Carl

[Haole]

pplace, your Catalina will be perfect for smuggling runs at this airport that I'm making! (http://www.knifeedge.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20289)

I cannot wait to use it's amphibious goodness on this map--gonna be a blast!

[Blade Scraper]

pplace, your Catalina will be perfect for smuggling runs at this airport that I'm making! (http://www.knifeedge.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20289)

I cannot wait to use it's amphibious goodness on this map--gonna be a blast!
It looks like Honnolulu in the 1940s. :)

[willsonman]

Any updates?

[pplace]

Any updates?

Sorry but I have zero progress on the PBY (or any other model for that matter)

I've been really busy with my business....and have also put some time towards getting a couple RL models ready for spring flying.

[pplace]

Update:

I did manage to put a little time in on this project late last night. (Sorry I have no updated pics) My main focus was deleting the nose turret and modeling the other version.

I thought long and hard about dhk79's input....but had to decide against it for several reasons. The main being the lack of extra polys for this model. I wasted far too many on the gear.....and know I won't have enough to finish off other detials I'd like to do.

So the option of two different nose "variants" would eat up more polys yet.....I opted for the lower poly version (no turret obviously)

Will keep posted on more progress when it happens

[pplace]

I officially made up my mind today on the PBY version and cs that I will be using. I did delete the turret (as mentioned) but wasn't sure about the "bomb window" I decided to mimic the PBY from one of my favorite movies "Always" I'll duplicate the "Fire Eaters" PBY that John Goodman flew. I do have to do a bit of adjusting / reshaping of the nose (this is more of a pointed nose....as opposed to the flat nose I have modeled)

Below are some pics for an example......and of course when talking about this movie it's a given I have to attach this:

Always Clip....click me (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2nSRHbaEH0)

[Blade Scraper]

I officially made up my mind today on the PBY version and cs that I will be using. I did delete the turret (as mentioned) but wasn't sure about the "bomb window" I decided to mimic the PBY from one of my favorite movies "Always" I'll duplicate the "Fire Eaters" PBY that John Goodman flew. I do have to do a bit of adjusting / reshaping of the nose (this is more of a pointed nose....as opposed to the flat nose I have modeled)

Below are some pics for an example......and of course when talking about this movie it's a given I have to attach this: Always Clip....click me (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2nSRHbaEH0)
Great choice! Nice colors it looks sporty. :D

[pplace]

I'm not 100% finished with the modeling for the PBY, but I wanted to import it to see if I could get the gear and floats working properly. Big thanks to dhk79 for sending me his CL-215 3ds file. That saved me a TON of trial and error.

The gear animation I'm about 80% happy with. Still needs some fine tuning and adjusting, but I can rest knowing it will work though.

The float animation......still having a bit of trouble with that. The actual "float" animation works perfectly..I'm running into problems with the upper "X" brace moving correctly (the two ends like to poke through the top of the wing while retracting) the lower "X" brace and the "actuating" rod all work perfectly. I'll keep plugging away at it......I might have to ask for some assistance later possibly.

Here's some shots of it in G4

~Gear and floats down.

~Gear down floats retracted.

~Floating in the water with gear retracted and floats extended.

I still plan on adding some minor details to the aircraft.....but that can all be done later. For example I plan to add more scoops, vents etc. onto the engine nacelles, antennas on the fuse and so on.

[pilot07]

IT FLOATS!!!!! Good job!

[iflyinanh]

that thing is COOL. cantb whait to get it.

pplace thanks for taking the time to build this

iflyinanh

[Kmot]

Another "extreme" aircraft from pplace!! Just awesome!! :)

[dhk79]

I'm running into problems with the upper "X" brace moving correctly (the two ends like to poke through the top of the wing while retracting).Moveable pods have three positions (Min, Max, & Center) so set the animation sequence using the 3-position switch, and you can define a mid point for the rotation, and it doesn't have to be "mid" way through the whole rotation or at the same spot for all parts either. For example the X brace could swing faster during the first part of the retract cycle, so that it doesn't poke through (or slower, without seeing your animation I don't know which is needed). After you're happy, change the input back to the retract switch and it'll still cycle the same way.

It is also possible to have one part of the assembly move completely before another even starts. I did this with the gear on the C-5. That's how it was able to sequence and turn inward before swinging up.

[pplace]

Thanks for the suggestions Doug. I actually have the floats on the 3-pos switch right now, so I'll check it out and tweak it some more later tonight. If I get too lost or confused I'll probably come running to you.

Edit: I just experimented with what you mentioned. It helped a ton....but I still get the top brace poking out the tip of the wing now (much better than out the top surface) I'll keep working on it to see if I can get it perfect. Thanks again

[dhk79]

Yeah, it takes some playing with and sometimes now matter how hard you fiddle it still isn't perfect.

If you slow the retract servo speed way down on the CL-215 and zoom into watching the A-Frame retract strut, you"ll see one point where the center hinge comes apart slightly and then goes back together. I fought with that for nearly a full day, before deciding it was as good as I could get it (and no one actually flying the plane would ever be able to see it anyway).

[Haole]

Looking great!

[futuramafreak30]

Gogogogogogogogo Finish!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Naoooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[willsonman]

Fantastic work there. I have so much to learn!! I love it!

[pplace]

Worked some more on the motion of the X-Brace and Floats.....I'm about 93.7% satisfied with it at the moment. I have it on the 3-pos. switch (as this was the best option) plus I always see pictures of the PBY's parked with the floats partially retracted or deployed....so this will give you the option to "park" the floats halfway retracted.

There are a couple minor things I still want to improve upon for the floats....but if I am unable to improve them, I'll still be satisfied with the outcome.

Next mission is to fine tune and tweak the landing gear.

I did take a couple short recordings of the float and gear action last night...but wasn't sure how that works when others view the recording? Do they have to position the view to look at the model also? I was in "walk" mode and was standing by the model when I recorded. I went back and played my own recording last night....then standing in the pilot spawn and the model was on the other end of the runway. If anyone is interested in viewing the recordings let me know, and I'll post them here.

[pplace]

Not RF or PBY related but just wanted to show what has been taking away some time from my PBY project. Every 2 1/2 year old boy needs a matching car to their dads right?? Picked up one of those "Power Wheels" mustangs at Walmart....tore it apart and made a close match to my car. Gave it to him today so he could start to wreck it!haha

Attached are a couple pictures next to the "full scale", alone, being driven by my son......and the first (and not last) crash of the day, with my nephew watching on....and dad coming to the rescue.

[Blade Scraper]

Not RF or PBY related but just wanted to show what has been taking away some time from my PBY project. Every 2 1/2 year old boy needs a matching car to their dads right?? Picked up one of those "Power Wheels" mustangs at Walmart....tore it apart and made a close match to my car. Gave it to him today so he could start to wreck it!haha

Attached are a couple pictures next to the "full scale", alone, being driven by my son......and the first (and not last) crash of the day, with my nephew watching on....and dad coming to the rescue.
Thats cool, soon your son will want to race his dad. :D

[pplace]

Just a note to keep anyone interested updated on the progress:

I've fiddled and tweaked some more with the gear and float animations and have them pretty darn good. I've been slowly working on the actual flight physics lately...and will soon finish up the little modeling details then be ready for mapping and the CS soon. I've just been having too much fun flying and using this project "as is"

[Haole]

Looking forward to the finished model!

And, BTW that was a very cool present for your son. Nice job!

Carl

[doug schluter]

Man with all the excellent aircraft coming out i can't seem to get to flying my real RC airplanes.keep them coming i'm enjoying this,thanks pplace. Doug

[fizziksguru]

Nice job on the toy car, also. :)

[alexflyguy]

Heres my screenshot the extra is suppose to be the your plane your modelling

[pplace]

Been working on "multi-player" testing the last couple nights, to make sure everything works good with multiple aircraft around. Was in a session with AlexFLYguy tonight....and wanted to take a shot with him to post on the build thread, to help show the scale of the PBY. It does look a bit small compared to the YAK...but it's a really nice size in the sim. Much larger than the KE/G4 included catalina

I mapped the main wheels....so the plane would look a little better during "test sessions"

Edit: Sorry for the poor quality pics (very low AA) I don't have a high performance machine....so for normal flying I back the quality down. I usually try and remember to bump up the AA and such for taking screen shots (this time I forgot to)

[Haole]

Hot damn that is looking good. With so many custom models being cranked out by you guys I'm going to have difficulty in choosing which to fly!

Very nice work.

Carl

[willsonman]

Just me but the props seem a bit too far away from the nacelles. Maybe move them back in max?

[Blade Scraper]

pplace, you did a verynice job on this, i like the way the tail sits high like the real one.

[pplace]

Just me but the props seem a bit too far away from the nacelles. Maybe move them back in max?

Yeah I'll check again but they were right on the 3-view marks. I plan on redoing the spinner anyways..so moving the prop back would take 2 seconds anyways.

thanks

[willsonman]

Yeah, even just move the spinners and engine back a bit. Length pas the prop on the spinner seems fine just sticks out a bit too far, I think.

[Blade Scraper]

Just me but the props seem a bit too far away from the nacelles. Maybe move them back in max?
How dare you question the expertise of pplace! You shall be banished from computer radios and sentenced to 10 flights with a 1990 tower hobby radio! :D

[willsonman]

How dare you question the expertise of pplace! You shall be banished from computer radios and sentenced to 10 flights with a 1990 tower hobby radio! :D
If you will observe I did mention that it was my opinion. Not to mention he somewhat agreed with me. :rolleyes:

[pplace]

Just me but the props seem a bit too far away from the nacelles. Maybe move them back in max?

Consider it taken care of. (view pictures to see correction) Again I do plan on re-modeling the spinner / hub.

Also attached are a couple more "beauty shots" with the AA turned up. I can't wait to see it once the CS starts going on.

[phrank]

Oh man,
Even with the primer coat of paint, that looks beautiful Dane!

Should be absolutely gorgeous with it's clothes on.

Congrats,
Frank...

[pplace]

Thank you very much Frank. I appreciate it.

Here's a bit of information about the flight physics so far:

This is a big lumber-some aircraft (no sporty 3D here) and I was having troubles getting enough power to take off water and also fly slowly enough once airborne. I tried many things, engine size, prop size and pitch, etc. etc....then it hit me. Why not mix the throttle and the wing float retracts together!! So when the wing floats are in full down position you have 100% available throttle....once airborne and you retract the floats, the mixing only allows a lower "throttle curve" to take affect. Giving you the power when you really need it. It's really a simple idea and use of mixing....but very effective.

[willsonman]

Looks much more like I was thinking.... That is a brilliant idea! I surely would have racked myself good looking for a solution to that. Glad to hear things are coming along well. It really looks fantastic. Looking forward to learning from your landing gear setup.

[Blade Scraper]

If you will observe I did mention that it was my opinion. Not to mention he somewhat agreed with me. :rolleyes:
It was a joke willsonman. :)

[pplace]

Looking forward to learning from your landing gear setup.

Actually dhk79 sent me his 3ds file from the CL-215. I studied that to get an idea of what I needed and where to set the pivots. Then in RF editor I set it up exactly as he did the CL-215....most of the rotation amounts were close too. Obviously there was some minor tweaking and adjusting also. The only main difference is the hydraulic ram (yellow part on my PBY) Doug's CL-215 didn't have it....so setting that up was extra.

[DirtyHarry3033]

pplace that is looking SWEET! I think it looks a lot better with the props moved back a bit, like willsonman I thought they looked just a little too far forward. I found a few good side-view photos on google images today and with the change it looks spot-on now...

That was a great idea mixing the throttle curve with the floats! Now when it's released I'll just have to remember to retract the floats ;)

Hmm, that makes me think of a question - if you're taking off from land instead of water, will you have to leave the floats down to get enough power for takeoff? I wasn't there in WW2 of course but I'd think that for land ops the floats would be retracted.

Looking forward to seeing the Cat with a nice CS, and one day flying her!

DH

[pplace]

pplace that is looking SWEET! I think it looks a lot better with the props moved back a bit, like willsonman I thought they looked just a little too far forward. I found a few good side-view photos on google images today and with the change it looks spot-on now...

That was a great idea mixing the throttle curve with the floats! Now when it's released I'll just have to remember to retract the floats ;)

Hmm, that makes me think of a question - if you're taking off from land instead of water, will you have to leave the floats down to get enough power for takeoff? I wasn't there in WW2 of course but I'd think that for land ops the floats would be retracted.

Looking forward to seeing the Cat with a nice CS, and one day flying her!

DH

It takes off land just fine with the floats retracted (up) and the "lower throttle curve" active.

[smwpuck19]

pplace, just wanted to say that your models that you've been crankin out absolutely ROCK

awesome job

[pplace]

pplace, just wanted to say that your models that you've been crankin out absolutely ROCK

awesome job

I appreciate that very much, and always have to THANK YOU...even more than you know!! :)

[pplace]

I picked up a new prop for a future r/c project today........Now the challenging part: Finding an aircraft that it will work on!!haha (see attached pic)

Actually I was doing the dreaded task of cleaning my paint booth today....and every 5 years or so I also need to crawl into the depths of the exhaust system to remove all the old dried on paint. (only about 3/4" think worth...which amounted to a 40 gallon barrel of dried paint "dust") I have to remove the 33" 6 bladed exhaust fan in order to gain access to the exhaust stack.

I figured I'd take a picture of the fan after cleaning it (there was also about a 1/2" built up on the entire fan)

For those curious: It's solid cast aluminum

[Blade Scraper]

I picked up a new prop for a future r/c project today........Now the challenging part: Finding an aircraft that it will work on!!haha (see attached pic)

Actually I was doing the dreaded task of cleaning my paint booth today....and every 5 years or so I also need to crawl into the depths of the exhaust system to remove all the old dried on paint. (only about 3/4" think worth...which amounted to a 40 gallon barrel of dried paint "dust") I have to remove the 33" 6 bladed exhaust fan in order to gain access to the exhaust stack.

I figured I'd take a picture of the fan after cleaning it (there was also about a 1/2" built up on the entire fan)

For those curious: It's solid cast aluminum
The world's next lawnmower blade! :D

Maybe a homebuilt hovercraft?

[jeffpn]

I picked up a new prop for a future r/c project today........Now the challenging part: Finding an aircraft that it will work on!!haha (see attached pic)


At one of our club meetings there was a guy that brought in a wing that he had built. Not covered, and 6 feet long. People asked him what it was going to be. He said he didn't know yet. Mind you, he would have needed to build another wing, also. Talk about a huge plane.

[DirtyHarry3033]

I picked up a new prop for a future r/c project today........Now the challenging part: Finding an aircraft that it will work on!!haha (see attached pic)

Helluva prop :eek: :eek: :eek:

Make sure you carry a length of telephone pole to use for a chicken stick, in case your starter motor dies ;)

DH

[Kmot]

That's an awesome looking 'Stang. The two-tone is custom I assume? And the paint job on the Wally car is spectacular. Are you a pro body shop painter?

[pplace]

That's an awesome looking 'Stang. The two-tone is custom I assume? And the paint job on the Wally car is spectacular. Are you a pro body shop painter?

Thank you,

Correct on all parts:

It is a custom job on the full size (and small version also) When I ordered the car I had them drop it off at my shop instead of going to the dealer first. I tore the car apart and redid it before I ever drove it (6 miles were on the odometer)

I do own my own shop. It's a family shop my parents started 40 years ago...and I've carried on with the shop myself. We do everything from collision repair...to the high end customs and street rods are more of our specialty

[pplace]

Interesting PBY pic....had to post it. Now I know mine can land on snow and take off and be "scale"

[DirtyHarry3033]

Nice pics! Puts me in mind of one of the chapters in Ernest K. Gann's "Fate Is The Hunter", he was searching for a downed B-24 during WW2 in Newfoundland I think. He finally found it crash-landed on a frozen lake, I think it was like 5 - 10 days after the plane went missing and they were about given up on.

Supplies were dropped, and after several days of the survivors clearing away snow to make a landing strip, planes were able to land on the ice and take the survivors out.

That's a fantastic book BTW for anyone that loves flying. 100% true from Mr Gann's flight logs as a commercial and wartime military transport pilot. I've got a 1st edition copy I've read at least 8 times and plan to read 8 more times before I die :)

DH

PS Sorry, 100% OT I know, but that's the 1st thing I thought of when I saw the pics. That B-24 crew stranded on the frozen lake and the effort that went into rescuing them.

[Blade Scraper]

Here are some videos to help out( if not too late) on the physical model. ;)
The PBYs in the videos are the same model as yours.
From the video, you should have the engines aid in ground handling.

Consolidated PBY Catalina Vid 1 (http://flightlevel350.com/Aircraft_Consolidated_PBY_Catalina-Airline_Private_Aviation_Video-8822.html)
Video 2 (http://flightlevel350.com/Aircraft_Consolidated_PBY_Catalina-Airline_Private_Aviation_Video-5487.html)

[pplace]

It's been a while since I've really been able to put some time into the PBY project (yes I do plan on posting it....no matter what I might have said in another thread)

Anyways I started laying out the basic cs for the fuse so far. Remember I am going with the "Fire Eaters" PBY from the movie Always. I was able to pull the logo off of a picture, do a little skewing, stretching, etc.....but it turned out pretty good. I will do the complete CS and then plan to add panel lines, dirt, grime etc. I plan to make this look like an over used and abused working fire bomber!!

I'm always shocked that how a little bit of color really transforms any project.

[Blade Scraper]

It's been a while since I've really been able to put some time into the PBY project (yes I do plan on posting it....no matter what I might have said in another thread)

Anyways I started laying out the basic cs for the fuse so far. Remember I am going with the "Fire Eaters" PBY from the movie Always. I was able to pull the logo off of a picture, do a little skewing, stretching, etc.....but it turned out pretty good. I will do the complete CS and then plan to add panel lines, dirt, grime etc. I plan to make this look like an over used and abused working fire bomber!!

I'm always shocked that how a little bit of color really transforms any project.
Were are the screenshots? :rolleyes:

[pplace]

Were are the screenshots? :rolleyes:

Huh?

[Blade Scraper]

Huh?
It was a compliment as i couldn't tell the diffrerence between the real and 3D. :)

[pplace]

It was a compliment as i couldn't tell the diffrerence between the real and 3D. :)
Oh!hehe Thanks....I thought for some reason they didn't attach correctly! Thanks Blade

[phrank]

The PBY looks great!

The fake "I'm leaving" left the kid blind? :confused:

[Blade Scraper]

The PBY looks great!

The fake "I'm leaving" left the kid blind? :confused:
No, pplace's modeling simply filtered what i can and can't see! :D

[Blade Scraper]

pplace, the PBY your modeling is not the PBY-5A Catalina, it's actually the Consolidated PBY-5A Super Catalina. You might want to change that in the naming when you want to export the final version.

[pplace]

pplace, the PBY your modeling is not the PBY-5A Catalina, it's actually the Consolidated PBY-5A Super Catalina. You might want to change that in the naming when you want to export the final version.

I know I changed my mind half way through the project.....It really doesn't make a difference to me the name. I have it named and will export it as "PBY-5A Catalina" which is only missing the "Consolidated" and "Super"...thanks for the suggestion, but it's not a big issue in my mind.

[Blade Scraper]

I know I changed my mind half way through the project.....It really doesn't make a difference to me the name. I have it named and will export it as "PBY-5A Catalina" which is only missing the "Consolidated" and "Super"...thanks for the suggestion, but it's not a big issue in my mind.
Yea but it needs a cape to be the super catalina!!! :D

[pplace]

I've got the majority of the "basic" scheme laid out and in place. I can now start adding the lettering, and weathering. These are the last shots for the night.

[Blade Scraper]

My ideas, screenshot #1 where the gear doors are at maybe a little paint or wear where they slide.
Screenie #2, maybe some dirt and dust in there from the wheels attracting dust.
Screenie# 3, maybe some dust or dirt spay there kicked up by the the nose wheel because the PBY's landed on dirt strips.
Screenie# 4, maybe some wear and tear on the paint because of friction from the retracting of floats.

Just my ideas, looks too good already. How does FPS look?

[gooseman]

How do you build ypur own aircraft, Do you need a program? good work so far

[ponchato]

Which modeling/texturing programs are you using? 3Ds Max and Photoshop?

[Blade Scraper]

How do you build ypur own aircraft, Do you need a program? good work so far
Visit wings3d.com, it's a very easy program to use, just go through some of the tutorials and look at some of the stickies. :)

[Blade Scraper]

Which modeling/texturing programs are you using? 3Ds Max and Photoshop?
He is using Wings 3D.

[pplace]

My ideas, screenshot #1 where the gear doors are at maybe a little paint or wear where they slide.
Screenie #2, maybe some dirt and dust in there from the wheels attracting dust.
Screenie# 3, maybe some dust or dirt spay there kicked up by the the nose wheel because the PBY's landed on dirt strips.
Screenie# 4, maybe some wear and tear on the paint because of friction from the retracting of floats.

Just my ideas, looks too good already. How does FPS look?

I've got the majority of the "basic" scheme laid out and in place. I can now start adding the lettering, and weathering. These are the last shots for the night.

Blade....it's far from over. I stated in the quote I need to "weather it" and also back in post #106 I stated I want the look of a used and abused firebomber.

Also I haven't encountered any drastic or noticeable fps drops while testing on my computer....which isn't the best setup. (single and in multi)

Which modeling/texturing programs are you using? 3Ds Max and Photoshop?

I rough out my models in Wings 3D, then export to 3dsMax 8 for pivots, hierarchy and mapping. Lastly I create my CS's using Corel Photo Paint.

[DirtyHarry3033]

pplace I'm sure glad to hear you're gonna be releasing the Cat despite the recent unpleasantness in another thread. It's looking fantastic and will be a worthy addition to the swaps :D

DH

[pplace]

Finally had a chance to work on the PBY project again tonight. Added the tail markings and also added the panel lines for the fuse and the wings. Still need to add panel lines for the nacelles, h-stabs, elevators, and the fuse pylon (center wing support) Then comes the part where I have to make it look bad....the weathering!

Here's a couple shots to show that I have been working on it.

[doug schluter]

That looks excellent can't wait for this one to come on the swaps,guess i have to,you had me worried for a while you weren't putting it on the swaps.Don't let the few wreck it for the majority,all the effort you put into the aircraft is unreal, thanks Doug

[Haole]

Holy cow that is looking so perfectly scale! Way to go and thanks for all of the hard work.

Carl

[willsonman]

Looking great. Another masterpiece!

[dklehn]

Finally had a chance to work on the PBY project again tonight. Added the tail markings and also added the panel lines for the fuse and the wings. Still need to add panel lines for the nacelles, h-stabs, elevators, and the fuse pylon (center wing support) Then comes the part where I have to make it look bad....the weathering!

Here's a couple shots to show that I have been working on it.

How about releasing the plane in new condition and then releasing the weathered version as a variant? That plane is gorgeous just the way it is. :)

[pplace]

How about releasing the plane in new condition and then releasing the weathered version as a variant? That plane is gorgeous just the way it is. :)

'Spose I could. That's not a bad idea. I would still wait to release the EA until both versions of the CS are finished.

[Jimmy Newton]

Yes, I second the motion to release a new and weathered version. With an unweathered version, it will be easier to make other color schemes for it.
BTW; it's looking awesome.

[josh0987]

Yes, I second the motion to release a new and weathered version. With an unweathered version, it will be easier to make other color schemes for it.
BTW; it's looking awesome.I second that!

[pplace]

It appears nobody wants a weathered version!haha Too bad I do....so it'll have the weathered CS as the main CS included with the EA download. The "clean" and new CS will be uploaded to the swaps as a CS when the time comes.

[BigGuyJT]

It appears nobody wants a weathered version!haha Too bad I do....so it'll have the weathered CS as the main CS included with the EA download. The "clean" and new CS will be uploaded to the swaps as a CS when the time comes.
I would prefer a weathered version but I dont have G4.

[pplace]

I would prefer a weathered version but I dont have G4.

Hmmm......I guess it never crossed my mind to have it available for G3.5 also. (I still have G3.5 also) It would be quite a conversion, many movable parts and pieces to set up. Unless opjose chimes in with a good conversion?!?

I'll certainly think about it....It would be fairly usable in G3.5 with the gear I guess.

[doug schluter]

I like the weathered look i see it every day in the mirror haha.

[phrank]

I like the weathered look i see it every day in the mirror haha.

ba-da bom ! :D

Author's choice really. We would love it any way you share it with us.

[DirtyHarry3033]

Agree with phrank! I'm glad to have anything that you want to offer us but in truth I'm looking forward to the weathered CS. I checked out a few pics of the SLAFCO PBY's on airliners.net, they were looking pretty beat up, and FANTASTIC!!!

Weathered is definitely the way to go :D

DH

[BigGuyJT]

Hmmm......I guess it never crossed my mind to have it available for G3.5 also. (I still have G3.5 also) It would be quite a conversion, many movable parts and pieces to set up. Unless opjose chimes in with a good conversion?!?

I'll certainly think about it....It would be fairly usable in G3.5 with the gear I guess.
That would really be great if you could. Although one day I will step up. (It might be a while though).

[pplace]

Update: "New and Clean" CS is 100% finished. Now I've been in the process of making the "Old, Dirty and Weathered" CS. I MIGHT just get this on the swaps tonight?!? If so it would be late.

[WingDude]

Sweet!!!!
I'm gona stay up late!

[pplace]

Sweet!!!!
I'm gona stay up late!

I didn't or can't guarantee it. It all depends how much time I can put towards it this evening. I want to....but can't guarantee it.

[WingDude]

Well i am anyway! :D
Just in case!

[Haole]

I'm very much looking forward to its release as well. Thanks for all of the hard work!

Carl

[pplace]

I'm done enough with this project! All I need to do is capture some screen shots, add a description in the editor and upload to the swaps. Watch for it in a short while.

[pplace]

The PBY-5A EA and additional CS are now available on the G4 swaps.

I could go on for weeks and weeks (maybe months) and never be officially finished with this project. So I'm saying enough is enough and I'm satisfied with this model! I need to move onto other projects also! I hope everyone enjoys this model.

There isn't too much difference between the "New" and the "Weathered" (weathered is included with EA download) I didn't go as drastic as I first planned to with the weathering.

Edit: I will try my best to get a G3.5 version out also. I talked with opjose and he gave me a couple ideas to simplify the process.

Model Info:

PBY-5A Super Catalina.....from the movie "Always"

The movie "Always", which stars Richard Dreyfuss, John Goodman, and Holly Hunter. "Always" is a remake of the 1943 movie "A Guy Named Joe".

In the movie, Dreyfuss and Goodman play hotshot firebomber pilots. Dreyfuss ("Pete" in the movie) flies a modified B-26C "Invader", and Goodman ("Al" in the movie) flies a modified PBY-5A "Catalina".

Flight controls:
Retracts: Right Toggle Switch
Wing Floats: 3 pos. Switch (Away = Down, Middle = partially up and Near = Fully up)
Also take note that when wing floats are in full down position there is a greater throttle curve for water takeoffs. Once airborne and floats are retracted....engine will go into lower throttle curve for more scale flight.

3D Model: pplace
Color Scheme: pplace
Flight Physics: pplace

[pplace]

Just wanted to thank Haole for his compliments and comments on the PBY (on the swaps) He mentioned the throttle curve was "weird" and hard to get used to. "Could have been done without with just adding a bit more thrust...."

I really wish I could have gotten it by doing that....but truly it is such a fine line. I could get it to get "on the step" but the takeoff run was Sooooo long on the water. Then once airborne it had way too much power. Not a problem for me because I was flying around at 3/4 - 1/2 throttle for more scale. But if I were to bump any parameters down a bit.....it just wouldn't lift off? So this was the best idea I came up with to solve that issue.

Again, thanks for the comments. I hope everyone enjoys the model.

[futuramafreak30]

Does this model have the turret/no turret option like you and DHK Were Discussing?

[pplace]

Does this model have the turret/no turret option like you and DHK Were Discussing?

Unfortunately no. Due to limited polys that I had available I couldn't make it possible. Plus after I decided on the "Fire Eaters" CS I was more for that version anyways.

[futuramafreak30]

Ah, i see, Well, Still a frikin Awsome model anyway!

[BigGuyJT]

Truley amazing pplace!!! Any thoughts on doing the A-26 to go along with it?

[pplace]

Truley amazing pplace!!! Any thoughts on doing the A-26 to go along with it?

Thanks...That would make for an interesting pair!?! I certainly would think about it, but for now want to focus my attention on the Cessna Bobcat "Bamboo Bomber" for a bit.

Also for you I will work on getting the PBY-5A converted over for G3.5.

[Haole]

Hey,

I'd like to reiterate that you did a fantastic job on this model. My comments about the throttle curves were because I am used to managing the left stick per the needs of the plane that I'm flying and rarely use WOT in real life unless I'm climbing out a glider.

Scenario: I was having trouble keeping a steady approach with a slow near-stall airspeed on final and then dropping the sponsons. The increase in revs was a touch unfamiliar and kept pushing me out of my approach lane because I wasn't reacting fast enough to the thrust increase.

Your PBY will hang on a stall very nicely once settled into that approach so the solution is to drop the tip sponsons before making final, that way you don't have to fight the sudden climb that comes with lowering the water gear.

Carl

[BigGuyJT]

Thanks...That would make for an interesting pair!?! I certainly would think about it, but for now want to focus my attention on the Cessna Bobcat "Bamboo Bomber" for a bit.

Also for you I will work on getting the PBY-5A converted over for G3.5.
Right on thank you very much!!!

[pplace]

Thanks to a great "walk through" from opjose I was able to get the G4 PBY-5A converted into G3.5

Only problem.....I dug my interlink out of storage only to find the 3 pos. switch busted out of it. I had to reverse the retract switch, the dual rates were fine, (no flab knob to worry about) so mainly I just wanted to know at what position the 3 pos. is in when the flaps are in the up, middle and down position. I have to send the G3X. file to someone to test it. Preferably someone with G4 also...so they can compare each version to make sure they are pretty similar in flight and controls.

I'll post it to the G3.5 swaps as soon as I can.

[pplace]

I would love to test it, i still have G3.5 installed on my computer. Great work!

Send me your e-mail in a pm and I'll get it off to you with an explination of what I want checked over.

[DirtyHarry3033]

pplace, the Cat is a beaut :D Thanks for the effort you put into it, she's fantastic!

If I ever get my Spad done, I may try to model an A-26 for my next attempt, I've always liked that plane and was thinking about trying it for RF. BTW, you've got me interested in the movie now, I may have to go out and get the DVD.

Also if you want to fix your busted 3-pos switch in the 3.5 interlink, I imagine all you need is a SPDT center-off switch from Radio Shack, soldering iron and some solder, and less than 10 minutes. Just make a note of which color wire is at the "top" of the switch and which is at the "bottom", and duplicate that. Should work fine :)

DH

[pplace]

Thank you very much DH. This was a fun project to work on....although it did drag on and get a bit tedious at times.

Have you seen the movie "Always" it's a pretty good flick.....except the had to go and ruin it by throwing in a "love story"haha

That's what I was planning to do with the 3 pos. switch. No need to send it in for something that minor.

Keep up the good work on your spad!

[pplace]

Blade backed out on testing the PBY in G3.5 I sent it to him and then he said he couldn't get at it for a few days.

Someone else interested and knowledgeable in setups please let me know. So I can get this posted for the G3 - G3.5 users

[DirtyHarry3033]

Have you seen the movie "Always" it's a pretty good flick.....except the had to go and ruin it by throwing in a "love story"haha

Nah, but I will! And yeah, they tend to ruin good movies by tossing in a "love story". James Cameron's "Titanic" for instance would have been a FANTASTIC movie if they'd just left out the bit about Jack & Rose boffing each other's brains out and stuck to the historical story.

DH

[iflyinanh]

pplace, first off the model is great, and i made a cs for it, but when i drop the gear is there a drop in the throttel curve?

[pplace]

pplace, first off the model is great, and i made a cs for it, but when i drop the gear is there a drop in the throttel curve?

Did you read the model description? The throttle curve change is with the float retraction.

[iflyinanh]

i read it, it seems to decrese when i drop the landing gear (to land on land) maybee ut is just extra drag?

[pplace]

Got a 3 veiw of the A-26 and the B-26, both are very detailed.
Wich picture has the B-26 from the movie? I'm guessing the red.

Nope it was more like this.......

[pplace]

Good news.....got my G3.5 interlink fixed this morning so I'm back in business. Will send off the G3.5 PBY file to Big Guy JT at lunch for him to look over.

[willsonman]

Just wanted to ask here before I rate... was it intended to have the spinners wobble a tad?

[pplace]

Just wanted to ask here before I rate... was it intended to have the spinners wobble a tad?

Umm......err....geee.....Yes!!

That spinner wobble caused trouble from the first time I imported it into G4. I re-made the spinners several times, adjusted the pivots countless times.....for some reason I can not get it to spin perfect. The problem has to come from the engines, nacelles and the spinner being at a 3 degree angle....something must be a tad off center...and all the adjusting and re-doing I did, couldn't solve it. It's better than it was. But I figure those big radials have some "vibrations" built into them!

[willsonman]

I figured it was something along those lines. I know that in some models with spinners like that its hard to see that it is actually spinning unless a unique texture is applied in the CS. I wanted to make sure it was not an oversight before I gave a rating.

[pplace]

Trying to do an FPS friendly GS varient. Knifeedge should really get an easier way to get the gear rotating correctly.

What do you plan on changing or removing? It won't work with any of the moveable pods removed (the gear, wing floats etc.) Or does the G.S. change and affect the FPS?

[pplace]

As far as I can tell the PBY-5A is converted over to G3.5! I had Big Guy JT test it out. He noticed the retracts were backwards compared to what he was used to. He described them exact opposite of what I was seeing with the same file on my computer??? So I re-did the retract switch..so hopefully it's correct now. (If not just reverse it)

I also removed the different throttle curves that were mixed with the float location. Since G3.5 does not have water fields....I didn't find it necessary to need the extra "boost"

Download it now and I hope you all enjoy it.

[pplace]

I have posted the varients with no, limited, and maximum removal of movable pod components on the swap pages. The gear sill rotates up with no change in motion.

I don't know how that's possible? Each pod did a specific rotation that affected the visual component?

[pplace]

I just took a little time to go fly the G3.5 version PBY around. I'm very amazed at how much difference there is between the G3.5 and G4 flight physics. The only physics I adjusted (quickly) was reducing the engine size...as I felt it was flying too fast in G3.5. Tonight I was doing some landing approaches and it seems you really have to smoke this baby in or it'll drop out of the sky. In G4 I feel it had a nice glide (while still feeling like a heavy aircraft) you could control your final with the throttle and settle it down nice and easy.

Mainly I just wanted to comment to the down loaders of the G3.5 version...that the physics might have to be tweaked (more so than the G4 version) to suit your needs. Mainly I just converted it straight over without changing any parameters.

[pplace]

....

[willsonman]

I'll 2nd that... and 3rd it too... all last night

[Law]

Do I understand correctly that you're complaining about a couple of ratings below a 10?

As pplace pointed out the physics for the PBY aren't the same from G4 to G3.5 and they'll have to be tweaked. That fact alone indicates a rating someplace below a 10, doesn't it?

All of these models, the ones done by pplace and the ones done by willsonman are great models. Why be concerned about a few people who don't think they're perfect? Perfection should always be an unachievable goal anyway. A goal to strive for but never quite achieve. Because once you achieve it there is no more reason to strive for it, no more reason for improvement.

I just downloaded the G3.5 version of the PBY yesterday and changed the engines and props. It does seem to drop pretty fast without power. But, since I don't own one, I don't know if this can be considered normal behavior. It seems to fly very scale and looks great in the air. I'll take a closer look at some of the weights and such and see if anything looks out of pace - if not I'll consider the behavior normal until someone else points out that it's not.

It's too bad we don't have catagories to rate the different models. I'd love to be able to give the PBY a 9 for modelling expertise, an 8 for physics, a 9 for colorsheme ... and a 10 for effort ... etc. Instead we have to give the EA one rating for all of those factors. And then you have the issue of criteria. What judging criteria do we use to determine a 10, 9 , 8, etc? Because obviously not everyone uses the same criteria.

[pplace]

Law,

I don't worry or get disappointed by a rating below 10, all of my models have below 10 ratings. I was just pointing out that a particular rater is active again. In the past the rater always left a 1, but since KE made mandatory comments on any rating below a 5......the rater now rates 5's as his low figure. I just find it ironic that his ratings are always on the lowest possible.....without being "uncovered" (i.e rate a 4 and he'd have to leave a comment...thus revealing his screen name)

As far as the physics. I've never flown a PBY, never seen a model of one fly, never built anything similar in my life.....so I just "fudge" the physics so it flies "scale like" in the air. I've always admitted that my physics unfortunately aren't dependable.....more so I set them up as a good flier (a lot of people like how my aircraft fly, but I don't feel they could be a "stand in" for a real world model? Maybe close...but not exact) Lastly like I explained in Junkboy's Citabria thread.....I think getting the EA (visual 3D model) out is more important....then the AV "smart people" can have at it.

As far as different categories to rate in.....good idea as it would help with more "feedback" but unfortunately it would making rating more of a task and would only lower the already low number of raters.

[Law]

Thanks, pplace for the explanaition on the five ratings. I can understand a little frustration on your part just because you'er having to put up with this jerk. But, you make excellent models. And you have no reason to feel slighted by some kid playing games. Don't let it bother you.

Your models speak for themselves and without exception they are up there with the best that's ever been produces - and if anyone on these forums knows me, it would be you - I seldom hand out compliments - even minor ones.

I don't find it unusual that the PBY requires a bit of power on the landing approach. Most scale airplanes that I've flown need that little bit of power for landing. I've never flown a PBY, or even a twin for that matter, but your model flies very scale and you should be proud of your efforts. Like I've said elsewhere on these forums I still prefer the physics in G3.5 over those of G4 and I think that your PBY actually flies better in G3.5 then it does in G4. I don't think you should see the floating on that particular model that we see in G4 ... but that's just my opinion.

[pplace]

Thanks Law I appreciate the compliment.

The rating (misuse) can be a bit frustrating at times...I am pretty confident I make some pretty nice models.....but when a rater is allowed to do that (especially for the extended period of time it's been going on) I feel he thinks he's always getting the last laugh and needle in. Nothing has really been done to really get him out of the "fox hole" he hides in.

Thanks again

[josh0987]

Thanks Law I appreciate the compliment.

The rating (misuse) can be a bit frustrating at times...I am pretty confident I make some pretty nice models.....but when a rater is allowed to do that (especially for the extended period of time it's been going on) I feel he thinks he's always getting the last laugh and needle in. Nothing has really been done to really get him out of the "fox hole" he hides in.

Thanks againWhy not just make comments mandatory with ratings. From any number, 1 to 10 ect.

[pplace]

Why not just make comments mandatory with ratings. From any number, 1 to 10 ect.

I don't want to start anything and bring up this topic again (and wreck my PBY build thread)

But mandatory comments are too over the top. I've always thought visible screen name to any person that leaves a rating would be nice. For instance on a public poll....you can see how each member voted, carry that concept over to the ratings. I would suggest only having the "member list" visible to the file up loader.

i.e. Currently if I upload my PBY and josh0987 rates it a 5 (and leaves no comment) I don't know who left the 5.

but

If member names were visible: I upload by PBY file and josh rates it a 5 (and leaves no comment) I (only me, because I uploaded the file) can click and view who has left ratings.

[josh0987]

I don't want to start anything and bring up this topic again (and wreck my PBY build thread)

But mandatory comments are too over the top. I've always thought visible screen name to any person that leaves a rating would be nice. For instance on a public poll....you can see how each member voted, carry that concept over to the ratings. I would suggest only having the "member list" visible to the file up loader.

i.e. Currently if I upload my PBY and josh0987 rates it a 5 (and leaves no comment) I don't know who left the 5.

but

If member names were visible: I upload by PBY file and josh rates it a 5 (and leaves no comment) I (only me, because I uploaded the file) can click and view who has left ratings.Yes, that is a lot better than requiring a comment for every rating.