Project Torrent

Since Linda enjoys attending launches so much I thought it only fitting that she should surprise me this Christmas with a MadCow Torrent kit from Apogee Components. It features a 4.0" body tube and 38mm motor mount. The Apogee web site has a 10 part video series on how to built and paint it. I was thinking of eventually using it for a level II certification flight with a Jolly Logic Chute release system (birthday present) in April. Of course I will have to visit Animal Works for the 38mm CTI casing, enclosure and reloads.

www.apogeerockets.com/Rocket-Kits/Skill-...-Rocket-Kits/Torrent

This post goes out to our local CMASS RSO or anyone else that wants to reply.
When I raced motorcycles I would check in with the tech inspectors ahead of time to make sure a modification I was making would pass safety check and was within the rules. I thought that would be a good idea when it comes to rockets so here are my questions.

The Torrent comes with eye bolts but they are not forged eye bolts. I checked Lowes last nigh and they don't have the forged eye bolts. I watched several YouTube videos and noticed that the Torrent owners use the non forged eye bolts. The Torrent weighs in at 63 ounces (~4 lbs) with out the casing and engine.

With an eye bolt I can use a heavy duty quicklink to replace the shock cord in case I ever need to change it out. (Got the idea from John Coker ) With a U bolt I won't have the room to disconnect/connect a quick link. I do plan on purchasing shock cord protectors..

I think I heard someone from CMASS mention putting epoxy in that space on the eye bolt where the loop almost meets the bolt part.

Will I pass safety check if I use the eye bolts that come with the Torrent? Are they safe for use with a 648-J-285 engine?

I have noticed in several other videos that people are not using forged eye bolts for level two flights. Be that as it may, I will check the True Value hardware store in Winthrop. I checked Home Depot last night, no deal. The big stores all seem to carry the same thing. I was thinking of your suggestion of using J-B Weld (Original not the Kwik). I will bring the partially built kit to the January 16th meeting if any of the attendees have any suggestions concerning contruction techniques.

Happy New Years. The True Value stores near me are closed. In the mean time I applied some J-B Weld to the eye bolts. I used a file, 60 and 100 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface. Then I cleaned the area with paint thinner to remove any dirt or oil from my hands. I applied tape to protect the threads. I used a piece of paper to force some of the adhesive into the gap then applied the J-B Weld all around the area. I have a photo but I don't know if we can attache photos to Forum posts.

Attached to this post is a photo of the eye bolts like ducks in a row waiting for the J-B Weld to dry. Do you think I used enough or should I give it another application?