"E" SERIES ECONOMY MODELS
We've been manufacturing our folding model FLP-36 launch pads for a good number of years now, and they have evolved over time into what they are today. But there was a time back in the early days when they were even simpler in design than they are now. Things like the T Handle rail holder tightening bolts and the angled blast deflectors were features that got added over the years to satisfy customers who asked for these things, but these extra bells and whistles also added more manufacturing time and thus more cost to this model. So, with the economy being in the shape that it's now in with inflation running high and many of you having to really watch what you spend, I'm bringing back the FLP-36 in it's original form - with a flat blast deflector and without the T-Bolt. This will allow me to sell these at a lower cost but you'll still have basically the same sturdy launch pad that works just as well. I'm planning to offer the FLP-42 in the "E" version as well. I'll add photos of that one as soon as I'm able to get a prototype made to take photos of.
The FLP-36-E model is now available for cost conscious customers. $249.99 shipped.
One of the main differences in the FLP-36 and the FLP-36-E is the lack of the welded T-Bolt for tightening the rail holder in the upright position. The "E" model is supplied with a 1/2" hex bolt that you'll have to use a wrench to tighten, but you'll get a lot more tightening leverage with the longer handle of the wrench that you will with the short welded handle on the T-Bolt anyway.
The other main difference in the FLP-36 and the FLP-36-E is the flat 8 x 8 blast deflector that simply slides down over a 1" 1010 series rail. These are much simpler to make (and install) and do the job just fine. Economy version 1010 rail perches coming soon.
The rail holder is designed to hold 1" rails which are held in place with the 3/8 thumb screw on the corner. But, it will also hold a 1/4" launch rod in the corner that opposes the thumb screw. That's the whole reason we go to the extra trouble of welding the nut to the corner in the first place is so that you can also use a rod in it. We'll have a blast deflector with a 1/4" hole for launch rods that will also come with a longer thumb screw available for this pad soon. The thick rail holder pivot tab is offset to one side so as to center the rail holder in the dead center of the pad's base.
Wing nut under lower base arm locks the arms in place when folded open. Folded closed, the pad is easy to transport.
The FLP-36-E model is available from Knight MFG in red or blue for $249.99 shipped.
