Paul and group,
 I would like to bring to everyones attention a basic tenet of engineering dialog. Just about everybody has heard of a design review. If you are a working engineer you probably look at these carp fests as the modern equivalent of the Spanish inquisition. The PROCESS is uncomfortable, the RESULT, (usually a better product)is not.
 I have the highest regard for Tracy's work, he has made it possible for many more people to build a successful rotary aircraft. What I believe the point of the previous threads was is that while the equipment is in place to make a successful aircraft how the quality of the aircraft is perceived by the public is important.

 Tracy I have been in exactly your position myself, having built a successful race car, (In fact already having won races), only to have people look at the car body off and say, "You can't do that it won't work." This was an amazing disregard for the obvious function of the vehicle!
 My point here is that while Tracy's engineering compromises work and have worked well, doesn't mean that improvements can't be made. Tracy please don't be offended when Ed K. offers to help with radiators, that is a compliment, he wants to see the plane work FLAWLESSLY. If you didn't think that improvement could be made you wouldn't have built the new diffusers either!

 I have been designing my FWF for about 2 months on and off and when it's finished I'll show it to the group and wince at every critical comment made. That doesn't mean however that I won't use some of those ideas.

 Jerry and EDs mod to the VAM muffler concept we came up with is an excellent example of how a simple solution to a problem can come from a different pair of eyes on the project. Good work guys.

 One of the needed prerequisites to being a good engineer is the EGO to think you can invent an idea out of whole cloth. We also need to be thick skinned enough to not be put off when someone thinks our idea isn't perfect. The design review process is a great way to keep your ego from running ahead of your judgment! Hang in there guys the BIG IDEA is to make safer rotory powered planes. I will be looking forward to see the next installment of Tracy's testing when MA nature permits. Thanks Tracy. I will also look forward to my own design review, hoping to ace it, but ready to listen.
Bill Jepson

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