Beyond The Sprues

Modelling => Ideas & Inspiration => Aero-space => Topic started by: GTX_Admin on December 31, 2011, 03:17:26 AM

Title: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on December 31, 2011, 03:17:26 AM
Hi folks,

A thread dedicated to your "Able Dog" Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration.

To start with, one that just popped into my mind...a Free Poland Skyraider.  Don't ask me how or why, but I just have an image of a Skyraider in Polish markings. :yarr:

Regards,

Greg
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on December 31, 2011, 03:27:40 AM
A different sort of turbo-propped Skyraider:

(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/C387-1.jpg)

Regards,

Greg
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Maverick on December 31, 2011, 06:42:10 AM
To start with, one that just popped into my mind...a Free Poland Skyraider.  Don't ask me how or why, but I just have an image of a Skyraider in Polish markings. :yarr:


Mayhaps because of this:

(http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s101/Maverick65au/Other%20European/A-120.jpg)

Regards,

John
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on December 31, 2011, 07:40:29 AM
A different sort of turbo-propped Skyraider:

([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/C387-1.jpg[/url])


Depending on the scale for your hybrid, that could become a very expensive project.  Still looks reasonably possible to mate the front of the Wyvern to a Skyraider and still have enough room in the fuselage for the exhaust to vent somewhere near the dive brakes. 

Of course the question now is what would the inverse of your Wyvern/Skyraider look like?  Using the Skyraider engine/propeller on the Wyvern fuselage.
Title: Douglas Decimator---the "Revenge of Torpedo 8"
Post by: sequoiaranger on January 01, 2012, 01:48:52 AM
I did this tribute build a while back: The Douglas Decimator, precursor to the Skyraider, with a Douglas TBD cockpit/canopy and painted like a Midway torpedo bomber in June 1944 at the Philippine Sea battle. The three crewmembers of the original 8-T-1 get to wreak revenge with this three-torpedo monster. (Jay Manning, the gunner killed at Midway, is represented by a Navy blanket soaked in his blood.) As they did at Midway, extra fake gunports are painted on the wings. My Decimator has the 5" rocket guns tested on some Skyraiders as well as two 20-mm wing cannon. "Bert" Earnest (now commander of the new CV-10 Hornet's air group) is piloting it, and Harry Ferrier is manning the twin .50 cals.

(http://i681.photobucket.com/albums/vv173/sequoiaranger/DecimatorFinished3-m-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Cliffy B on January 04, 2012, 11:02:00 AM
One word; FLOATPLANE!!!

(http://www.combatreform.org/seahawk3inflightrightsidetn.jpg)

Had to bring back this one.  I know we've all seen it on the net before but its too good not re-post.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ChernayaAkula on January 04, 2012, 12:12:28 PM
A different sort of turbo-propped Skyraider:

([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/C387-1.jpg[/url])


Whoa, look at that! (http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m309/ChernayaAkula/Emoticons/w00t.gif) Combining parts of two aircraft that, as cool as they were, looked like they both hit a branch or two when falling out of the ugly tree and making something utterly awesome out of them! (http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m309/ChernayaAkula/Emoticons/woo.gif)

And as big as the Skyraider was, you could easily make it a tandem-twin seater. And maybe some big old EO turret in the belly to make it a Vietnam trail interdictor.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Stargazer2006 on January 04, 2012, 06:20:32 PM
One word; FLOATPLANE!!!
Had to bring back this one.  I know we've all seen it on the net before but its too good not re-post.

Well, I for one hadn't... and it's absolutely AWESOME!!
Paint and decals leave something to be desired but the concept is brilliant.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 06, 2012, 06:14:56 PM
How about a A-1 with fixed landing gear in Spats or trousers?

How about a bi-plane variant...

...maybe I shouldn't post ideas whilst drinking...
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Stargazer2006 on January 06, 2012, 06:18:04 PM
How about a A-1 with fixed landing gear in Spats or trousers?

How about a bi-plane variant...

...maybe I shouldn't post ideas whilst drinking...

Hey, admin, I love it when you drink!!
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Cliffy B on January 06, 2012, 11:16:39 PM
Well they did earn the nickname of "SPAD" so a bi-plane and/or retro finish would suite them well.
Title: "Spad"??
Post by: sequoiaranger on January 07, 2012, 12:25:22 AM
Yeah! Make one with those white-centered American cocades from the First World War!!
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Weaver on January 07, 2012, 10:04:20 AM
Since I bought a Revellogram 1/72nd AD-5 with the intention of nicking the 4-seater canopy for something else, I intend (one day) to use the rest of it as a "pimped" open-topped version, with the interior from a German staff car, exposed and chromed engine, fat tires etc....
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 16, 2012, 05:26:04 PM
How about a floatplane version?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on January 17, 2012, 03:08:00 AM
Incorporate the engine installation/propeller system of the D-557C turboprop project
but retain the canopy arrangement of the AD/A-1 series.

(http://photos.smugmug.com/OLDPB/i-wDDjrPP/0/0c3aab20/O/D-557C_01.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on June 02, 2012, 02:09:13 AM
With Allison V.3420. Suggested by Evan

(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/a1_V3420.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on June 06, 2012, 02:43:22 AM
Tricycles

(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/skyraider_tricy.jpg)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/a1_V3420_tricy.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Daryl J. on April 13, 2013, 02:38:51 PM
South American markings, heavily faded.   Nape tanks whereever possible and used for burning coca fields in the early war against drugs.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on April 13, 2013, 03:12:57 PM
Oh yeah!  Love the idea of some Sth American A-1s.  Maybe updated later in their lives with something such as a PT6C.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: raafif on April 14, 2013, 09:46:11 AM
 :D
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on April 14, 2013, 09:54:12 AM
How about a twinned version ala F-82?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: raafif on April 14, 2013, 02:37:33 PM
How about a twinned version ala F-82?

I can do better but not as fast :icon_ninja:
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on April 14, 2013, 04:41:41 PM
 :)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Kerick on April 14, 2013, 09:22:01 PM
I love the twin Skyraider! After all the money the Marine Corp has spent on the V-22 could you see their faces if they had to use something that even looked like an old Skyraider to escort it? I'd like to be a fly on the wall for that meeting!
Who makes the best 1/72nd kit, I may just have to build it.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Diavel on April 17, 2013, 11:44:28 PM
Here is a couple of Skyraider based aircraft I did a few years back
http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,26932.0.html (http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,26932.0.html)
http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,31435.0.html (http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,31435.0.html)
The first one is a STOL, clandestine insertion/extraction aircraft, the second a butt ugly electronic surveillance aircraft.
I have another 4 seater in the stash waiting to have a Gannet engine and props put on it, it will probably be a transport aircraft or a forward air control bird.
Chris.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on April 28, 2013, 07:43:58 AM
Random idea:  Swedish attack version
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on April 28, 2013, 10:30:50 AM
A turboprop modification to the A-1, both single- and multi-seat versions along the lines of the proposed XAT-28F conversion, a solid nose with armament and avionics options and two  turboprops on the wings.  For such a conversion for the A-1, I could see either OV-1 T53 nacelles or larger nacelles with T55's; the first, of course, being easier to model.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Daryl J. on June 16, 2013, 09:34:35 AM
Khemed markings might bring a few smiles to show tables.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on June 18, 2013, 02:42:24 AM
Executive aircraft like the prewar A-17A based Model DT-202 proposal.
Use an AD-5/A-1E as the basis. Think Spartan Executive on steroids.
 ;D

(http://photos.smugmug.com/OLDPB/i-GL4C3Bd/0/abc931a0/O/DT202_01.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on June 18, 2013, 02:43:37 AM
I like your thinking...
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on November 23, 2013, 04:20:38 AM
Learnt a new thing today:  I never knew the Skyraider was used as a refueling tanker.

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRLVdbB3jio/UlMC28rxQsI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/nlw9Q56KJrU/s640/AD+400+and+A4D+150+gallon+tanks.jpg)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIuHm2GS-Ok/UlGpsDmYN9I/AAAAAAAAF4k/EtDZnULK1Us/s640/AD+and+F8U-1+from+left+web.jpg)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ubszz4w_Czs/UlGqm_DBkiI/AAAAAAAAF4s/IiLuaPMchqc/s640/AD+with+F3H+410AC+and+106AC+Sara+8May59+web.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: PR19_Kit on November 23, 2013, 08:37:07 AM
They must have had separate fuel tanks for the offload and for flying!

I love the difference in the angle of attack of the jets vis a vis the Skyraider.  The F-8 has its wing up and the Demon has its droops full out, and even then it looks like it's about to stall.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on December 20, 2013, 12:03:00 PM
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/a1_V3420_adv01.jpg) (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/Drawing/a1_V3420_adv01.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on December 20, 2013, 12:05:03 PM
Executive aircraft like the prewar A-17A based Model DT-202 proposal.
Use an AD-5/A-1E as the basis. Think Spartan Executive on steroids.
 ;D

([url]http://photos.smugmug.com/OLDPB/i-GL4C3Bd/0/abc931a0/O/DT202_01.jpg[/url])


Love this, thanks for posting
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Weaver on December 20, 2013, 08:27:01 PM
They must have had separate fuel tanks for the offload and for flying!

I love the difference in the angle of attack of the jets vis a vis the Skyraider.  The F-8 has its wing up and the Demon has its droops full out, and even then it looks like it's about to stall.

The Demon's bloody close to the Skyraider too!  :o
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on January 10, 2014, 01:14:38 PM
What if Heineman designed fighters derived from Skyraider?

(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/skyraider_fighter.jpg) (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/Drawing/skyraider_fighter.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Kerick on January 11, 2014, 10:33:35 AM
Anyone know where a guy could get some modern turbo prop nacelles resembling what appears in the photos to be a large PT-6? These would look great on a number of aircraft updates.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on January 11, 2014, 02:39:04 PM
Anyone know where a guy could get some modern turbo prop nacelles resembling what appears in the photos to be a large PT-6? These would look great on a number of aircraft updates.
Doesn't someone make conversions for Turbo-Otter models?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on January 11, 2014, 03:30:05 PM
Anyone know where a guy could get some modern turbo prop nacelles resembling what appears in the photos to be a large PT-6? These would look great on a number of aircraft updates.
Doesn't someone make conversions for Turbo-Otter models?


If you are referring to the PWC PT-6 powered DHC Otter that is on ARC.  This was built by Chris Parsons' and he did create master for a resin conversion for the 1:48 Hobby Craft Canada DHC-3 Otter (http://www.arcair.com/Gal6/5901-6000/gal5927_Otter_Parsons/00.shtm). 

Chris also built several other turbo Otters:

Hobbycraft DHC-3 Otter- Turbo Otter (May 26 2011) (http://www.arcair.com/Gal11/10701-10800/gal10785-Otter-Parsons/00.shtm)

DHC-3 (turbo) Otter (March 28 2012) (http://www.arcair.com/Gal12/11401-11500/gal11477-Otter-Parsons/00.shtm)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on January 11, 2014, 03:35:54 PM
I could've sworn I've seen a conversion offered, but I could be mistaken.  Conceivably, you could use the engine installation from a Beech T-6 "Texan II", from the firewall forward, but it would be a problem matching it with the A-1 firewall shape.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Rickshaw on January 11, 2014, 10:20:55 PM
Nothing some PSR wouldn't fix...  ;D
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: kitnut617 on January 11, 2014, 11:33:19 PM
Anyone know where a guy could get some modern turbo prop nacelles resembling what appears in the photos to be a large PT-6? These would look great on a number of aircraft updates.

Depends on the scale, but you could look at a 1/72 Canadair CL-415.  I've been thinking about making some castings of these and sticking them on a DC-6.

Have a look at the Heritage Aviation offerings to, they do two DC-3 conversions (Dart and PT-6).  Or any Transall or Atlantique for Tynes ---
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: kitnut617 on January 11, 2014, 11:36:13 PM
I could've sworn I've seen a conversion offered, but I could be mistaken.  Conceivably, you could use the engine installation from a Beech T-6 "Texan II", from the firewall forward, but it would be a problem matching it with the A-1 firewall shape.


Khee-Kha does a 1/72 set Evan --

http://www.coopersmodels.com/catalog/item/4378990/8120395.htm (http://www.coopersmodels.com/catalog/item/4378990/8120395.htm)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 12, 2014, 03:38:21 AM
modern turbo prop nacelles resembling what appears in the photos to be a large PT-6?


What exactly do you mean by "resembling what appears...to be a large PT-6"?  Are you meaning aPT-6 or something bigger?  Pehaps if you post an image of what you mean.

That aside, another source for PT-6 Nacelles etc is the 1/48 Red Bear Resins Basler BT-67 Conversion (http://www.hyperscale.com/2012/reviews/accessories/redbearresin48003reviewpp_1.htm).   Vitaliy Repin, the proprietor of Red Bear Resins, is a member here.  Here is an image of one of the nacelles:

(http://www.hyperscale.com/2012/reviews/accessories/p7hg_img_54/fullsize/2_fs.jpg)

Given it is designed to fit into the place of the DC-3s normal radials, it might be an easier choice for the transition area.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Kerick on January 12, 2014, 04:12:32 AM
:D

http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=222.0;attach=6332;image (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=222.0;attach=6332;image)

This was the pic I was thinking of. Perhaps a P-40 or P-51 nose with a scratch built scoop under it. Exhaust would be some metal tubing. Trick would be mating it to the large diameter Skyraider fuselage. A long transition piece may be required.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Daryl J. on January 12, 2014, 04:42:51 AM
S.American and Central American cammo & markings.   FAG for instance because decals are available for the Mustang and would look about right size-wise on the Skyraider.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Gingie on January 20, 2014, 12:36:39 AM
Not a huge leap beyond the sprues, just a new spinner and some RCN decals...
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8281781631_f63b257fa4_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: PR19_Kit on January 20, 2014, 12:51:35 AM
Not a huge leap beyond the sprues, just a new spinner and some RCN decals...

But VERY smart indeed and wholly believable too.  :)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 20, 2014, 02:01:23 AM
Very nice work.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on January 20, 2014, 02:24:45 AM
Superb!  :) :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Daryl J. on January 20, 2014, 02:39:16 AM
Two thumbs up.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Weaver on January 20, 2014, 11:14:44 AM
That looks excellent - nice one!  :)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: gogs007 on June 13, 2014, 06:04:37 AM
Guys I am looking to make a 2014 skyraider, I am looking to arm it with lgb, brimstone and or jdam. What I am stuck on are the cannon, do I stick with 20mm or change it. Can I have some suggestions .
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: kitnut617 on June 13, 2014, 06:53:51 AM
Just say they're 25mm or 30mm.  Mind you, you could replace them with a 20mm M61 Vulcan in each wing ---   8)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Old Wombat on June 13, 2014, 08:52:43 AM
Guys I am looking to make a 2014 skyraider, I am looking to arm it with lgb, brimstone and or jdam. What I am stuck on are the cannon, do I stick with 20mm or change it. Can I have some suggestions .

What about using the Rheinmetall (ex-Mauser) BK-27, 27mm cannon?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Weaver on June 13, 2014, 10:25:46 AM
Guys I am looking to make a 2014 skyraider, I am looking to arm it with lgb, brimstone and or jdam. What I am stuck on are the cannon, do I stick with 20mm or change it. Can I have some suggestions .

I'd say leave them. 20x110mm ammo is still available, they're as good as anything else against targets that can't shoot back effectively, and against targets that can (i.e. that have MANPADS) you'll want to stay so far out of range that any kind of cannon will be useless.

If 20x110mm ammo is difficult or undesirable, one possible option might be to replace them with M39 cannons (same as on the F-5) which fire the same 20x102mm round as the Vulcan.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on June 13, 2014, 10:35:30 AM
-Doh, M3 not Mk.12, don't rely on memory always go to the bookshelf.-

The wing-mounted M3 cannon used in the AD-1 are basically the HS 404, any of the later cannon (ADEN, DEFA, BK 27, M-61 etc.) are much too large to fit in the same envelope as the M3. Weight is also an issue, i.e. 45 kilos for a M3, 100 kilos for a BK 27. The M39 is closed in general size, but is still much 'thicker' and would not fit within the wing. I suppose you could bulge the wing above and below and say it has M39s (one per wing), but it wouldn't do much for the aerodynamics.

As Harold sez, stick with the 20mm, but now that I've corrected my goof, swap out the M3 for the Mk.12,
it used the much more powerful M100 series ammo and had a higher rate of fire than the M3. Externally
you'd see no difference.
 :icon_fsm:
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Rickshaw on June 13, 2014, 11:30:37 AM
BK27 ammo is also expensive and ASIUI no longer in production.  Trying to put a Vulcan in the wing, that far out would cause all sorts of problems with inertia, loads, etc.  I agree with Weaver, the existing cannot are quite good enough.   If you want more firepower, hang a cannon pod on it.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Weaver on June 13, 2014, 12:02:29 PM
I thought Rheinmetall were selling 27mm naval guns? In that case, the the ammo must still be in production, unless they've changed the spec so much that it's no longer compatible with the aircraft guns....?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on June 13, 2014, 12:03:43 PM
reduce the number of guns to two and make them 25mm or 30mm Bushmasters :)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on June 13, 2014, 12:52:38 PM
Jeff, originally the AD only had two guns, mounted in the inner wing, the outer panel
guns were added during the AD-4 production run. Fatigue problems led to structural
mods that came in with the AD-6.

The problem is still available space, you'd be hard pressed to fit the 25mm Bushmaster,
let alone the 30mm, and the increased weight and force would lead to more structural
problems. The hot 100 series 20X110 used by the Mk.12 would be more than ample.

The M230 is the only one of the common chain-guns that could possibly be made to fit,
m/v and rate of fire are both much lower than the Mk.12.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Rickshaw on June 13, 2014, 01:29:06 PM
I thought Rheinmetall were selling 27mm naval guns? In that case, the the ammo must still be in production, unless they've changed the spec so much that it's no longer compatible with the aircraft guns....?

I think the air guns fire different rounds to the naval weapons.  The lack of manufacture may refer to UK manufacture - this was during the time when the RAF Typhoons weren't/were going to have guns fitted/used/ignored/used as ballast/etc.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on June 13, 2014, 01:35:45 PM
Jeff, originally the AD only had two guns, mounted in the inner wing, the outer panel guns were added during the AD-4 production run. Fatigue problems led to structural mods that came in with the AD-6.

The problem is still available space, you'd be hard pressed to fit the 25mm Bushmaster, let alone the 30mm, and the increased weight and force would lead to more structural problems. The hot 100 series 20X110 used by the Mk.12 would be more than ample.  The M230 is the only one of the common chain-guns that could possibly be made to fit, m/v and rate of fire are both much lower than the Mk.12.
I recall the changes from two to four guns, never paid much attention to the hows and whys behind it all.  Amping it up to a pair of 30mm M230s would certainly create more destruction per shot fired which might make up for the lower muzzle velocities for attacking ground or surface targets.  I suppose you could get around the lack of internal space in the wings and emulate the Spitfire by adding bumps over the guns receiver sections.  That might actually look pretty nice if done right.  :)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on December 07, 2015, 03:04:28 AM
I am sure most of you have heard/read about the Skyraider mission that dropped a toilet:

(http://www.midwaysailor.com/midwayva25bomb/va25specbomb-0001b.jpg)

But did you know that there was an earlier one that dropped the Kitchen Sink?

(http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/netouyonews/imgs/5/d/5da1580c.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on December 15, 2015, 03:16:11 AM
Years ago I drew this:


([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/C387-1.jpg[/url])



Now look what turns up:

(http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p110/GTX_Christmas/AD-1%20Type%20with%20GE%20TG110%20Turbine%20Artwork%20-%201.jpg)
(http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p110/GTX_Christmas/AD-1%20Type%20with%20Alternate%20Engines.jpg)

I'm seeing somewhat of a similarity with the first picture
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: kitnut617 on December 15, 2015, 09:29:36 AM
Interesting find Greg,  but then they ended up doing this
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on February 14, 2016, 05:39:50 AM
After seeing another VX-4 F-14 in all gloss black with the Bunny on the tail I had this brilliant idea for a VX-1 VX-4 Skyraider in all gloss black with a bunny on the tail. 

So why not!? 

It would be perfect for a what if and an excellent wind up tool on the display tables :)





*VX-4, not VX-1 :P
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on February 14, 2016, 07:35:49 PM
Yes. No reason not to build it Jeff.   ;) 

The current VX-4 was established in 1952 so the all black Black Bunny scheme could have come into existence much sooner.  What not go big with a P-3?  ;)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: KiwiZac on February 17, 2016, 03:38:17 AM
Executive aircraft like the prewar A-17A based Model DT-202 proposal.
Use an AD-5/A-1E as the basis. Think Spartan Executive on steroids.
 ;D

([url]http://i729.photobucket.com/albums/ww291/joncarrfarrelly/DT202_01.jpg~original[/url])

Yeah, I think I have to do something with this. Gorgeous!
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on February 17, 2016, 03:59:12 AM
Cool. The wings look like they are from a SBD Dauntless.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on February 17, 2016, 06:45:22 AM
Cool. The wings look like they are from a SBD Dauntless.
Considering that the SBD evolved out of the A-17, that's hardly surprising.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on February 18, 2016, 02:17:13 AM
Cool. The wings look like they are from a SBD Dauntless.

Considering that the SBD evolved out of the A-17, that's hardly surprising.


Yep, and the basic wing design goes all the way back to the Northrop Gamma.

(http://www.skytamer.com/1.2/Northrop/Northrop_Gamma_2D(3-view,AYB).jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: M.A.D on February 19, 2016, 05:21:19 PM
What if Heineman designed fighters derived from Skyraider?

([url]http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/skyraider_fighter.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/Drawing/skyraider_fighter.jpg.html[/url])


So it would have been more akin to a competitor to the Boeing XF8B (Model 400)?

M.A.D
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on December 07, 2016, 02:25:37 AM
What about a RAF Skyraider in classic grey/green scheme ala below:

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0c/Typhoon_rearming.jpg)

Maybe have it that not long after retiring the Hawker Typhoons in 1945, the RAF decides it does need a heavy ground attack platform after all and thus make a purchase of Skyraiders...
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on October 26, 2017, 02:30:21 AM
Was there ever a 2 seat Skyraider with two crew in tandem?

I know there were the side-by-side seating (both 2 and 4 seat).
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: KiwiZac on October 26, 2017, 03:51:35 AM
I don't think I've ever seen a tandem one, the closest would be the (I think) Royal Navy ones with a big canopy that wasn't the same as the AD-5/A-1E.

I like the RAF idea. I just don't want to do silver...

If someone could recover the executive version I was so in love with (no extension downloading at work) I'd be very grateful. Never mind, I see it.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on October 26, 2017, 04:16:16 AM
From the book of: "1,000s of great ideas which most likely never reach the build stage" is a 1/72 Monogram A-1E to be rebuilt as the "A-1K Scythe".

The Scythe is an A-1 Gunship. A filler between the AH-1 Cobras and AC-47/AC-119 Spooky/Spectre. Also inspiration from the Super Avenger profiles (IE the turret)

Standard loadout:
2x Suu-16/A 20mm gun pods from the F-4D.
4x Suu-11/A 7.62 guns pods from the AH-1G
4x LAU-10 with 5" Zuni Rockets (yes, I know this was a Navy only weapon but I think it is cool).
4x 20mm wings cannons
1 or 2 B-29 .50 Cal turret mounted on the top/bottom in the rear cockpits area for self defence. Operated by the GIBs (guys-in-the-back)
Drop tanks
Painted in SEA Technical Order 1-1-4
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: tankmodeler on October 27, 2017, 04:37:21 AM
From the book of: "1,000s of great ideas which most likely never reach the build stage" is a 1/72 Monogram A-1E to be rebuilt as the "A-1K Scythe".

The Scythe is an A-1 Gunship. A filler between the AH-1 Cobras and AC-47/AC-119 Spooky/Spectre. Also inspiration from the Super Avenger profiles (IE the turret)

Standard loadout:
2x Suu-16/A 20mm gun pods from the F-4D.
4x Suu-11/A 7.62 guns pods from the AH-1G
4x LAU-10 with 5" Zuni Rockets (yes, I know this was a Navy only weapon but I think it is cool).
4x 20mm wings cannons
1 or 2 B-29 .50 Cal turret mounted on the top/bottom in the rear cockpits area for self defence. Operated by the GIBs (guys-in-the-back)
Drop tanks
Painted in SEA Technical Order 1-1-4
With the all the gun pods, you could probably do away with the wing canons.  ;D


All those slung weapons pretty much max out the old Spad, leaving no payload capability for a drop tank, so range would be pretty short.

To stay within the 8000 lb payload capability, how about:

2 x 100 gal tank under inner wings
SUU-16 on the centerline station
then the various Zuni and Minigun pods

The rear turrets are out, I'm afraid. Just too heavy.  :o

The Beech Grizzly had the B-29 turret arrangement you suggest, but flew on two of the Skyraider's R-3350 engines.

Just reality poking in it's awkward head. Feel free to ignore at any point.  :smiley:

Paul
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Kelmola on October 27, 2017, 05:18:37 AM
SUU-16 on the centerline station
Good luck synchronizing the Vulcan...
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on October 27, 2017, 07:06:38 AM
From the book of: "1,000s of great ideas which most likely never reach the build stage" is a 1/72 Monogram A-1E to be rebuilt as the "A-1K Scythe".

The Scythe is an A-1 Gunship. A filler between the AH-1 Cobras and AC-47/AC-119 Spooky/Spectre. Also inspiration from the Super Avenger profiles (IE the turret)

Standard loadout:
2x Suu-16/A 20mm gun pods from the F-4D.
4x Suu-11/A 7.62 guns pods from the AH-1G
4x LAU-10 with 5" Zuni Rockets (yes, I know this was a Navy only weapon but I think it is cool).
4x 20mm wings cannons
1 or 2 B-29 .50 Cal turret mounted on the top/bottom in the rear cockpits area for self defence. Operated by the GIBs (guys-in-the-back)
Drop tanks
Painted in SEA Technical Order 1-1-4
With the all the gun pods, you could probably do away with the wing canons.  ;D


All those slung weapons pretty much max out the old Spad, leaving no payload capability for a drop tank, so range would be pretty short.

To stay within the 8000 lb payload capability, how about:

2 x 100 gal tank under inner wings
SUU-16 on the centerline station
then the various Zuni and Minigun pods

The rear turrets are out, I'm afraid. Just too heavy.  :o

The Beech Grizzly had the B-29 turret arrangement you suggest, but flew on two of the Skyraider's R-3350 engines.

Just reality poking in it's awkward head. Feel free to ignore at any point.  :smiley:

Paul

Oh mom!!  I want my A-1 to carry an external load which is more than 8,000 Lbs.  :icon_fsm:

Let me re-balance reality vs psuedo-reality.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on October 27, 2017, 08:05:35 AM
SUU-16 on the centerline station
Good luck synchronizing the Vulcan...

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on October 27, 2017, 09:40:42 AM
KA-1 Skyraider tanker with dedicated HDU mounted in place of the lower dive brake and three fuel tanks. 
Something like the feature found on the KA-6D Intruder. 
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on October 27, 2017, 10:23:02 AM
How about a CA-1 COD aircraft based on the basic airframe from the AEW version?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: jcf on October 30, 2017, 03:25:49 AM
Centaurus, Sea Fury-esque cowling.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on October 30, 2017, 04:43:39 AM
How about a CA-1 COD aircraft based on the basic airframe from the AEW version?


The utility AD-5 was delivered with various kits that provided for four passengers in the cabin, four stretchers and thus could be considered a COD variant:

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_wI-DdPSXymk/SxlEISbPAYI/AAAAAAAAAh8/cJoXd53Ogno/s1600-h/AD-5+COD+01.jpg)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_wI-DdPSXymk/SxlE5Zm57ZI/AAAAAAAAAiE/lgnMHUWbauk/s1600-h/AD-5+Litter.jpg)

See here (http://tailspintopics.blogspot.com/2009/12/widebody-skyraider.html)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: tankmodeler on November 08, 2017, 03:41:35 AM
SUU-16 on the centerline station
Good luck synchronizing the Vulcan...
For ground attack you could angle the pod so it shoots below the prop, but, yeah, it's a fair cop.

200 gal tank on one side and SUU-16 on the other inner pylon. A bit asymmetric when firing, mind.

Maybe an extendable pod on the CL? Swings down below the prop to fire and swings back up for landing and take off? Complicated, but certainly doable.

Still a bit of a kluge, of course.

Paul
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Kelmola on November 08, 2017, 07:35:19 AM
Even with an extendable pod, you would probably want to use the SUU-23 with its electric motor instead, considering the SUU-16 required 300 mph of airspeed to provide enough power for its ram-air turbine for firing at full RPM (and was optimized for 400+ mph)... ;)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on November 08, 2017, 10:11:38 AM
2x SUU-23 on inboard pylons, drop tank on centerline; other ordnance as desired on other hardpoints.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on November 12, 2017, 04:35:59 AM
Even with an extendable pod, you would probably want to use the SUU-23 with its electric motor instead, considering the SUU-16 required 300 mph of airspeed to provide enough power for its ram-air turbine for firing at full RPM (and was optimized for 400+ mph)... ;)

Busted!!! I was hoping no one would know about the minimum airspeed requirement.
SUU-23 it is.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on July 16, 2018, 08:25:18 PM
How a Griffon powered Spad?

A gratuitous grafting of Griffons on gaggle of gung-ho Ganders. (new aircraft name)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1828/29573758868_c5e3a2b075_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/M4kfbh)
RCAF-A-1G-02 (https://flic.kr/p/M4kfbh) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1810/29573758738_787e9988fa_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/M4kf93)
RCAF-A-1G-07 (https://flic.kr/p/M4kf93) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr

I've done the dry fits on both the 1/72 Airfix A-1J and Monogram A-1E and it will work will minimum amount of effort. 

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1767/43444861711_41912a54c4_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29c5gMR)
Skyraider-AS.2-02 (https://flic.kr/p/29c5gMR) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1763/43396933682_f8f69e1863_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/297QCsw)Skyraider-AS.1-02 (https://flic.kr/p/297QCsw) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: tankmodeler on July 17, 2018, 01:02:32 AM
How a Griffon powered Spad?
Really going to hurt load carrying and top speed as the Griffon, at best, has 500 HP less than the R-3350.

Paul
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on July 17, 2018, 01:47:40 AM
How a Griffon powered Spad?
Really going to hurt load carrying and top speed as the Griffon, at best, has 500 HP less than the R-3350.

Paul

Agreed. But being from a country with a "surplus" of trees I am sure we can come up with some lighter papyrus bomb designs!
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on July 17, 2018, 02:59:31 AM
No loss of power thanks to the secret Canadian water-methanol-maple syrup injection systems that boosted performance.  :)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on July 17, 2018, 02:59:47 AM
I'm thinking of modeling an A2D-2 with an Allison T54 (uses two T56 gas generators driving a common gearbox) and simplifying the canopy with a AD-1 bubble canopy.  Any problems that I missed?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on July 17, 2018, 03:06:19 AM
No loss of power thanks to the secret Canadian water-methanol-maple syrup injection systems that boosted performance.  :)

Thanks Jeff for blabbing to everyone about the "secret sauce".  Because of that I've had to reduced your security clearance from "Syrupy Secret" to "Sitka Spruce Secret"   :P
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on July 17, 2018, 03:16:00 AM
Don' t mind the downgrade as long as I am still cleared for *VICRUMINT with special access to Gossip. 









*VICious RUMour INTelligence
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on July 21, 2018, 05:53:45 AM
Might be a bit underpowered
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Twiddle on September 23, 2018, 02:40:17 PM
Main landing gear that retracts into fuselage ?

Frees up space for more wing pylons for ordnance  >:D
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Twiddle on September 30, 2018, 02:18:09 PM
VTOL jet powered Skyraider
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 19, 2019, 03:35:28 AM
Whilst discussing Aeroplanedriver's superb F4F as a Naval Ordnance Test Station Sidewinder testbed (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=8340.0) and referencing the fact that this was actually inspired by the real world AD-4 involved in the early AIM-9 development, I was left wondering if the Skyraider ever flew operationally with a AIM-9.  Any ideas?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on January 19, 2019, 07:53:47 AM
As far as I know the Skyraider was not cleared for Sidewinder but, it was cleared for the AGM-12 Bullpup AGM.  Mind you this would have been the later models of the Skyraider (AD-5/A-1E, AD-6/A-1H, and AD-7/A-1J) only.  But, being cleared/authorized to carry is one thing.  Actual missions where Bullpup was used operationally has to the best of my knowledge never been documented.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: The Big Gimper on January 19, 2019, 09:24:57 AM
But what about high drag, low impact toilets? They were cleared for carriage and release. 
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 20, 2019, 02:18:02 AM
But what about high drag, low impact toilets? They were cleared for carriage and release.


Please refer to the correct designation:  "code name Sani-flush".

(https://www.eugeneleeslover.com/Images/Toiletbomb/toilet1a.jpg)
(https://www.eugeneleeslover.com/Images/Toiletbomb/toilet5.jpg)

You know that you can actually get this in kit form:

(http://www.brengun.cz/photos/catalog/BRL32012.jpg)

See here (http://www.brengun.cz/search?sq=toilet&x=0&y=0)

Kind of tempted to get a bunch to develop the "Royal Flush" load out... ;D
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: Kerick on January 20, 2019, 12:38:58 PM
Have to wonder if they yanked that toilet from the officers head or the enlisteds?
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 21, 2019, 01:25:25 AM
Wish someone would do the Kitchen sink option:

(http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/netouyonews/imgs/5/d/5da1580c.jpg)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: GTX_Admin on January 21, 2019, 01:36:28 AM
Have to wonder if they yanked that toilet from the officers head or the enlisteds?

The toilet was a damaged toilet, which was going to be thrown overboard.  you can see more here (https://www.midwaysailor.com/midwayva25bomb/) and here (https://theaviationgeekclub.com/time-u-s-navy-1h-skyraider-dropped-toilet-bomb-north-vietnam/) including videos of the real thing.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: elmayerle on January 21, 2019, 03:42:08 AM
Well, they did throw it away, just not right over the side of the ship.
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on February 07, 2023, 03:16:47 AM
Super Skyraider powered by Pratt & Whitney XR-4360-10 28 cylinder four-row :o  8)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/SuperSkyraider.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/SuperSkyraider.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: finsrin on February 07, 2023, 03:40:20 AM
Logical progression of A-1   :smiley:
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: ysi_maniac on February 13, 2023, 04:01:31 AM
Cargo Skyraider

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/CargoSkyraider_3MtYh6PXo3pq9XFARXk7rJ.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (http://"http://"https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/CargoSkyraider_3MtYh6PXo3pq9XFARXk7rJ.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds"")
Title: Re: Douglas A-1 Skyraider Ideas and Inspiration
Post by: finsrin on February 13, 2023, 04:52:01 AM
Liking this.  :smiley:   Someone should build it.