Rocketry Planet

Every so often, a new product comes out that really creates some excitement. This product release from Aero Pack (email: This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it ) is one of those. The idea is so simple that it screams KISS and yet is just complicated enough that the average rocketeer couldn't construct a similar unit without significant cost.

As you will notice in the pictures to the left, the unit itself — a threaded machined aluminum collar — is attached directly to the motor mount tube using that strong-as-steel substance, JB Weld.

The new units also feature a larger 1-1/2 turn threads for quicker on-off motor changes.

Once installed, the system use can't get any simpler. You slide the motor into the tube, screw the threaded retainer collar on, and you are done.

In the photo to the right you can see an AeroTech 38mm RMS motor being inserted into a 3 inch diameter rocket equipped with the Motor Retainer.

Designed to fit both LOC/Precision and PML motor tubes, the Motor Retainer is an easy retrofit on your existing rockets if you have a sufficient amount of motor tube extending beyond the rear centering ring for attachment of the inner collar.

 In the photo to the left, it's easy to see the motor's aft closure slips completely inside the inner threaded collar.

Single use motors would need a ring of 1/4" to 3/8" masking tape applied to act as a thrust ring.

The recommended single use procedure is to epoxy a section of coupler tubing in the forward end of the motor tube aligned with where the longest motor would fit and then use short, precut sections of coupler tubing to act as spacers for shorter motors.

To install, you would need 1/4" to 1/2" of motor tube exposed depending on what size motor mount you have.

All that is left to do is thread on the outer retainer ring and it's ready to fly! Designed in 29mm, 38mm, 54mm, 75mm and 98mm sizes, this is one cool product.

Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and hard anodized satin black to military specs, this product should be a welcome addition to any flyer's construction kit.

If you want to order any of the five sizes of Motor Retainers, you can visit their website at: http://www.aeropack.net/

Their products are definitely a welcome addition to hobby rocketry.