Hi, I'm building an EZI-65 with 4 inch airframe and when it arrived in the mail I noticed that the airframe was apparently slightly crushed at some point. It is not very noticeable and the tube appears to be round since a coupler can easily slide down the entire length. The only noticeable thing is that there is a very slight crease on the outer paper covering and maybe the tube is a little more flexible than it should be. I have never worked on a 4 inch diameter tube so it's hard to judge if the tube is too flimsy. I'd rather not go to the time and trouble of returning the merchandise if possible. Is there a way to strengthen the tube and ensure that its structural integrity is sound? I intend to prime and paint the rocket on completion and I am willing to experiment with composites if this is practical. I noticed the bulkhead had a similar defect which is slightly more obvious, but before I notice the airframe also had a problem I ordered a replacement bulkhead. Also, what do you all think of the phenolic tubes and the unfortunately named "Stiffy". This rocket will be used for L1 certification so I need it to be dependable and not to far from specs since I already ordered the 38/240 rms. Thanks, Laura
- posted
17 years ago