Modification Der Red Max (Screamin Mimi) Modification

Modification - Der Red Max (Screamin Mimi) {Modification}

Contributed by Frank Casey

Manufacturer: Modification

 (MODS) Estes Der Red MaxBrief:
This is a kit conversion from an Estes Screamin' Mimi to an Estes Der Big Red Max based on Der Big Red Max instructions provided by JimZ #1977.

The only change I made to the JimZ plan was to use the 24mm mount setup that came with the Screamin' Mimi kit rather than the suggested 18mm mount described in the Der Big Red Max instructions found on the JimZ site.

Construction:
Screamin' Mimi components used:

  • Estes BT-60 tube
  • Plastic nose cone
  • elastic shock cord
  • 24mm motor mount
  • 18" chute

Components added:

  • Balsa stock for 3 fins cut from Der Big Red Max fin template on JimZ site
  • Der Red Max decal set from Excelsior Rocketry

The construction was very straightforward and in fact far easier than constructing a Screamin' Mimi due to the fact that the additional fin pods and whistles don't need to be added to the rocket.

(MODS) Estes Der Red Max

Finishing:
I used Gloss Black on the nose cone and Gloss Red on the body.

The decals provided by Excelsior Rocketry were excellent and went on like a dream.

I wish I had spent a bit more time filling the wood grain on the fins, but other than the fact that you can see a bit of wood grain, everything came out as expected.

Flight:
This rocket really gets up there on a D engine. I used a D12-5 for all four flights. Drift is an issue with this rocket as it is fairly lightweight so flying on a calm day is preferable.

Recovery:
As with any small powerful rocket, this requires a long walk for recovery. It's gone past the edge of the flying field on three of the four flights so far.

I may experiment with a smaller chute or spill hole to try and keep this rocket from drifting as far as it does.

Summary:
This was a fun project and I am very pleased with the final results. The decals provided by Excelsior Rocketry really make this rocket look great.

Comments:

avatar
Bill Eichelberger (November 1, 2020)

Drift she does! First flight with mine was on a weekend when our field was hosting not only our launch, but a large kite festival on the other side of the park. I had been warned to stay away from the kite people because they didn't like us, but the DBRM paid no heed and drifted into their midst. I found them to be incredibly friendly and interested in chatting about our respective hobbies.

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