3DLabprint Spitfire MkIX Spinner

thingiverse

This is my custom spinner design for the 3DLabPrint Spitfire MkIX RC model aircraft. In my opinion, a well-designed spinner and propeller are crucial in achieving an authentic scale appearance of a model. Unfortunately, I was not satisfied with the spinner designs provided by 3DLabPrint models, so I decided to create my own spinners for their models. The outline and basic details of this spinner were designed using Monforton press book as a reference. Initially, it was created for Ramoser Varioprop 12C three-bladed propeller, but fellow modellers on the RCgroups forum requested modifications to fit their specific setups. As a result, I have developed different versions to accommodate various motor and propeller combinations. Currently, spinners are available for both 3- and 4-bladed propellers, including 12C and 16D varioPROP models. Additionally, I designed a spinner for Graupner 15x8 three-bladed propeller, which can be adapted to fit other conventional 3-bladed propellers. To ensure compatibility with different motor and propeller setups, various propeller shaft diameters and backplate skirt lengths are available. If none of the existing designs suit your needs, please let me know, and I will make necessary modifications to accommodate your setup. Please note that I may not be able to guarantee a timely response. If you require a specific modification, kindly provide the following measurements: - Propeller shaft diameter (to adjust the backplate hole diameter) - Distance from the front of the prop washer to the front of the fuselage (to adjust the "skirt" of the backplate) - Thickness of your propeller at the center (to adjust the location of the propeller cutouts of the cone) - Chord of your propeller blades at approximately 30 to 40 mm distance from the center (to adjust the size of the propeller cutouts of the cone) Printing and assembly: I prefer printing all spinner parts in 0.15mm layer thickness with a 0.4mm nozzle. The backplate can be printed without support or brim, but it's essential to add supports and 3 mm of brim for the spinner cone due to its critical bed adhesion requirements. Please note that there is a small area in contact with the bed, making the print prone to breaking off, especially during the initial stages. To simplify printing, I have split the backplate into two parts, which require post-printing assembly. Print both parts with their flat surfaces against the print bed and then glue them together using medium CA glue. It's crucial to align both parts on the motor shaft or another metal rod with the same diameter to ensure concentricity and prevent balance problems. The spinner cone is attached to the backplate using 3mm countersunk screws. When installing the propeller, avoid overtightening the prop nut, as this may distort or break the backplate, causing wobbling and balance issues. Simply tighten the nut securely, and everything should work fine.