HOVEY “WHING-DING II”€

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • This biplane is characterized by its extreme lightness (310 lbs gross weight) and simple design, powered by a 15-hp McCulloch go-kart engine.
  • It utilizes unconventional and cost-effective materials for its construction, including Styrofoam art board, craft paper, and foam-filled aluminum and plywood structures.
  • Performance specifications indicate a very low-speed aircraft, with a top and cruise speed of 45 mph and a limited range of 22 miles.
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STANDARD DATA: Gross wt. 310. Empty wt. 122. Fuel capacity 1/2 gallon. Wingspan 16’4″. Length 12’11”.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 45. Cruise mph 45. Stall mph 26. Climb rate 200. Takeoff run (50′) 300. Landing run (50′) 300. Range 22.

This 15-hp, 300-pound gross-weight biplane is the ultimate in lightness and simplicity. The tail surfaces are constructed from 1/2-inch-thick Styrofoam art board faced with high-strength craft paper on both sides; the critical areas are reinforced with 1/8-inch plywood gussets. The tail boom is a 3-inch aluminum pipe filled with foam to resist buckling. The fuselage is basically a 6-inch wide box of plywood filled with foam that serves as an engine mount and a mast support for the wings. The prop is chain driven from a 15-hp McCulloch, twocycle, go-kart engine. The wings have two spars and are fabric covered.

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