Finishing Touches
The finishing touches on your first model rocket include the attachment of the launch lug and shock chord, the supporting of joints, and painting.
- PARTS: launch lug and shock cord
- MATERIALS: plastic cement and wood glue
First, the launch lug is glued next to one of the fins using wood glue or white glue. For more information about launch lugs, go to the Designing Your Own Rocket Launch Lug Page.
Second, apply extra glue to the jointed areas of the rocket.
TIP: This step is very important in terms of the aerodynamics of the rocket. The reinforcements, or fillets, should be sleek and not bulky. In order to assure that the fillet is smooth and adequately sized, the rounded edge of a paperclip can be used. By running the paperclip, sized according to the size of the rocket, along the body tube and fin, the excess glue will be removed as well as creating a more pleasing rocket.
Third, the shock cord is attached to the shock cord mount with white glue. A more detailed look at shock cords is available at the Designing Your Own Rocket Pages..
Fourth, the shock cord mount is mounted inside the nose end of the body tube.
TIP: The shock chord should be attached 1 inch deep into the body tube or it will interfere with the insertion of the nose cone.
Fourth, the nose cone is inserted into the body tube.
Fifth, the rocket, although not necessary, can be painted and decorated.
