Operation Cub Killer Part 1 - The Engine 

I am 73, this year. When I was a preschooler, my Dad bought a Cub from the dealer in Medicine Hat, Alberta. I have good memories of flying with my Dad. On one trip from our farm in Orion, Alberta to Medicine Hat, I asked my dad for a toy farm set like the one I could see from way up there. There was a farm set, in a box, for me to open when we got home. In the 1950s, Dad's brother bought and flew a "V" Tail Beechcraft. Uncle Fred had a heart attack when he was landing his "V" tail in Medicine Hat. He lost his pilot license but continued to fly for the next 20 years. After the war, there were possibly hundreds of Lancaster Bombers parked around the Medicine Hat Airport. A few of the Lancaster Bombers were offered for sale to locals. Dad bought one Lancaster for interesting parts for his shop. If you Google the information on Medicine Hat and Lancaster Bombers there is lots of information. There is a picture of a farmer on his tractor towing his Lancaster to his farm behind his tractor. He had a chain around the tail wheel assembly and the other end on the tractor hitch. Most of the remaining Lancaster Bombers were flown to Great Falls Montana for their end of life. These bombers used to fly over my parent's farm on the way south. My mother would go out and wave her "T" towl at the pilots and they would rock the wings to salute Mom. I remember my parents being very upset when the airplane ferrying the young pilots back north to Medicine Hat, for another bomber flight south, crashed and killed everyone onboard. I still have a few Lancaster small parts from my Dad's estate. I had been using a large olio suspension piston cap for a pencil and pen holder. I gave this part to a friend who has aa Lancaster large size model display in his home. It is difficult for me to accept that Canada has the only air worthy Lancaster left, when there were hundreds and hundreds of them at many rural airports around Alberta and Western Canada. My brother had a Lear that came with his business. I was told that my brother made arrangements for our Father to go for a flight. Dad was in tears when he called me and tried to explain, "It took only minutes to go as far as we could in a day, in the 1940s." My Dad was into the latest and greatest electronics. Dad died in 1989. I know Dad would be fascinated with what the internet and You Tube has become. I know he would have subscribed to your channel. Thank You for your videos. They are one of the highlights of my day. I have the greatest respect for your friend Mike Patey. His WILGA is absolute magic and totally suits the owner/builder. Happy flying. I am actively looking at drones and I may buy one in the near future. You have inspired me. It is not over until it is over

"Hello, rotax motors" "You guys want me to advertise for you on my popular youtube channel to thousands of pilots/aspiring pilots for months, probably years to come?" ".....Whats the catch?" "Just a 915" 😂🤙👍

Congratulations Trent. The 915 is the Holy Grail of Rotax engines. I've been saving my lunch money for two years to buy one and that dream comes true in December. I'm planning to make a coffee table out of the engine crate and put it in my living room. Don't anyone tell my wife.

Wow .. what a fascinating story about your dad .. the Lancaster Bomb... the farm ... in Medicine Hat .... I go by Med. Hat AB. quite a lot .. being a truck driver .. I have a similar story ... flying with my dad ... after my mom passed away at an early age ... dad kept busy working at the local airport in Summerstown ONT.my dad being a WW2 airmen/mechanic with squadron 402 out of Winnipeg .. we were introduced to flying at an early age ... so flying with dad and a good friend of the family ... awesome memories .. my dad passed away in 1989 also ... THANK YOU for sharing your story /life experience ... CHEERS to you SIR 👍

The round cowl with the radial engine bumps was a bit of a gimmick to give the plane a retro look but I don't think you'll miss them. Just found this channel and it demonstrates that high adventure in aviation need not be the purview of wealthy people alone. Never understood how anyone born in the age of flight could imagine they've truly lived if they've never flown.

I am SO STOKED, Can't Wait to see the Freedom Fox flying with the Rotax 915!!

I like the shot of the "old" Freedom Fox kind of flying off into the sunset ... soon to be reborn.

Trent... Missing your videos. Where are you? Lol. There's a bunch of us looking for you over here in RU-vid land. Hope you're well. I want to thank you for sparking my interest in flying again but this time in a whole new way. I began flying lessons as a 13yr old and head been flying since I was a young child with my dad in his 172 and later his 210s. Life happens and dad sold the plane and the opportunity to continue to fly disappeared. Flash forward, I'm approaching 42 and my life is spread over half the country and a plane makes more and more sense to me. Not only because it's more efficient than driving but I miss that feeling of flying a small aircraft. Low and slow and land anywhere really interests me as much as get there-itis is the thing you saw might be dangerous... I do too. I see this style of flying as a great path to get in the air and do it affordablely and with maximum enjoyment! Thanks for introducing me to the world of low and slow!

Pretty sweet Trent! Can’t wait to see how well she performs with such a monster motor!

I found this guy watching hard landings of big planes. The vid that came up was his bouncer while flying with Draco. This dude is really cool. I grew up around pilots and so many of them just love life. Always have great stories and knowledge. My stepdad was a crop duster in the 80's. He also rented an AT-6 and P-51 out of Hollister Ca. It was awesome. He had a Super Cub that he put on floats with no wheels. We set the Cub on a flatbed trailer, drove it down the strip behind a large diesel and he took off from the trailer. I'll never forget it. Can't wait to see this guys new horsepower.

Aw man, love the round cowl look.

So Kitfox gave you that motor and board for advertising their company and that motor they gave you?! That is freaking awesome! You gotta love RU-vid!

Awesome! Can't wait to see some vids with the new motor and parts! Due to various issues I must fly vicariously through channels like yours. I was at Stead back in 2009 for the air races, what a blast that was. Looks like a beautiful area to fly in. Love what you do man, keep it up!

I am not a pilot but I am hooked on these planes. Bucket list is to become a Flying Cowboy

Time for me to binge Trent Palmer videos, starting with the Operation Cub Killer! MERICA FAWK YEAH! 🤠🇺🇲

I’m gonna miss that “old” engine cowling. Remember this: With Greater Power comes Greater Responsibilities

I'm no plane guy, but I know a beauty when I see it and the 915 is it. Press on, have fun, and stay cool. Cheers, Mark ***************************

Can’t wait to see the finished product. I flew the Sling 4 TSi in South Africa just over a week ago. These new engines are amazing, 5300’ airfield on a 31dec C day... they just pull like a rocket ship.

Its so awesome you have some great companies and organizations helping you out with this engine. KitFox guys apparently are awesome and the Rotax Safety Club are awesome. Couldn't happen to a better channel.

I love watching what rich people are up to on RU-vid. Makes my day. Beautiful motor brotha.

Screw your privacy Trent! We need daily vlogs about your Kitfox, your new home and your life in general. Don't keep us in the dark!

I think we all knew Trent wanted the 915 especially after seeing it’s performance on the other kitfox. Glad to see him get one!

We have a RANS S6S that we also love very much and are preparing to "upgrade" to big tires and wheels for "Grass Hopping". Doing VG's too and may look at a larger prop if the beautiful wooden prop proves inadequate to our needs. We do not have the high elevations in South Carolina that you have Trent but we do have some high density altitudes with which to deal. Very much looking forward to seeing the improvements you get with the new engine.

The time that it takes to finish this little upspec job will be just a distant memory once it's back in the air again. Take the time, do it right, fly forever.

Awesome !!! We get a new Engine !!!!!!!! Can't wait to fly with you in that Turbo Monster......

Awesome news mate, so happy for you Trent!!!

Awesome - I'm happy for you! I can't wait to see the Freedom Fox all new and shiny. The 915 is such a beautiful engine and the blue fits your plane perfectly. So: back to work 💪🏻 😉

Congratulations on scoring that upgrade.

Hey man. Go get those Cubs! I have always been a Cub fan since I was a kid(47 now). My Grandfather was an A&P and cfi and I grew up around it but took my interests in different directions. Fast forward to the present, I fly RC and took a ride with one of my Grandpas old students last year ( I was his 1st passenger when he got his license) and between watching your videos , Corey, Mike , and your brothers, I have begun to start the task of trying to find a decent cfi in my area to go back and get my license and maybe my grandfather will be able to finally Rest In Peace 😉. Love you guys videos! Keep it up man! Fair winds and landings you can walk away from my friend.

I am soo very happy for you Trent!! I can't wait...........

ooh, can't wait to see how the new engine make you plane perform!

At first i was thinking why are they cutting the throttle cable and then i saw the panel wires being and then OHHH!!!!. Blessed.

Congratulations, you deserved it. Your coverage of Bush flying and light aviation makes you the right recipient of such prized engine. Please continue the excellent work.

I loved the light in the box shot when you opened the crate, nice touch.

OUCH! Just saw the price of the Rotax 915 Turbo. You have real nice friends...Grandpa

Looking forward to seeing the plane!

Excited to see the new panel.

Awesome!!! Look forward to seeing it all come together.

Awesome. Congrats to you Trent. I'm happy for you that it's working out. Can't wait to see you flying around with more power.

Anxious to see how this goes. Thanks for the update.

Ever since I’ve come across your channel I am so eager to get my bush pilots license. 22 years young and driven! Thanks Trent! Love your content man! Keep doing you!

Can't wait to see the finished product in action! Very happy for you.

I love how humble Trent always is. That combined with an obvious love for what he does and wonderful shooting and editing make his videos a joy to watch. He makes me want to get back into flying.

Good luck with a smooth run for your project build! Can't wait to see the upgrade.

Congrats on all the new items being added to your Kitfox. Patience, grasshopper, and you will soon be flying high and fast. But first make sure YOU have a large sign engraved on your new panel that says "Have YOU checked your fuel caps".

Been chatting a lil bit with Sneed!! Says you are working hard to get yur bird air worthy and ready!! Good luck Trent!! Cory on his way!! The boys will all be in attendance soon!! Good luck with everything you have going on!! I will be watching y’all Fly Low,,, Fly Safe,,, G -Man

Haha, 4:14 is perfect, Trent...opening the magic box!!!

Congrats!!! All your brilliant efforts with the VLOG have pulled through - can't wait to see your new engine in action!

Good on Kitfox for setting you up. You're your and awesome brand ambassador for them.

So cool for you, can’t wait to see further install. Hope to see a clean instrument panel as well😊 Have fun🔧

Awesome!!!! Look forward to the finished PIREP!!!!!

Hi Mr. Palmer, Thanks for your videos. Your Low and Slow to Oshkosh was fantastic. I hope the turbo works out but I'll miss the bumps.

Congratulations Trent. I am so happy for You. 915is is a beast!

Nice to hear about the new project Trent.

Awesome Trent. Really happy for you. I look forward to following your progress.

I knew it were just a matter of time since that kitfox tryout, cant wait to see this one rollin

Congratulations mr. Palmer it's awesome that you turn that giddy smile into a beautiful new engine. fly safe

That's one hell of a sponsorship! Your sponsors are legends!

OMG!!! You have a 915 IS hung- THAT ROCKS!!! I'm so friggin' psyched for you (and all of us who watch your videos!). Cub Crusher De-lite- All you have to do now is take $100Gs and throw it in the bonfire at the upcoming fly in party weekend- then, you & the Cubs will be more equal. Good luck with that- please make a video when you do. But, DON'T let Kevin, or, Cory help- they could try to pocket some! Super pumped for you, so glad that you had some help from KitFox & Rotax, cuz, it's an expensive proposition even selling your ready to be overhauled motor...Gosh, I wish I lived closer, I would offer to assist in any way possible. But, I'm sure that there are lots of subscribers in your area, and, you do have some awesome friends (Flying Cowboys & others)- who I know will help in any way needed. I have no idea how you kept this under wraps- I would've been too excited about it NOT to share! Can't wait to see what the performance is with your wing and body series, what happens to the CG, and, how much you're going to have to change technique...That center, rear mounted Osmo camera really gives a tremendous amount of visual insight. Jealous, but- so happy for you at the same time, Trent? Odd combo...it's gonna be awesome!

Congrats... Can't wait to see it flying. Good Luck

I think I’m as stoked as Trent. Congrats getting the extra ponies!

My wife teased me when I said “I haven’t heard from Trent lately”. “Who’s Trent” she says, “My friend Trent, you know”. She says “Trent from RU-vid?” I said “nope, Trent one of the flying cowboys”. “Don’t you watch them on RU-vid?” She asked. Love the video blog, I perform weddings and started putting together a video blog. I say started, because it’s a pain in the ass. That’s long hard work, and I’m lazy. Keep up the great work, and my wife asked if my friend was coming over for dinner tonight.

Love your videos man, thanks for being such an inspiration, hopefully I’m up and flying on my own by summer!

Thanks so much Trent love the stuff you put out so inspiring!

So awesome, can't wait to see the performance differences! Congrats!

Dude! I’m totes jealous! Can’t wait to see how that 915 works out for ya. I’m considering that for my build this coming year.

Congrats! Know how much you have been looking forward to flying a plane with a boost gauge in the panel. Blue skies to you and all involved! Kind regards from South Africa, Duncan

Congratulations Trent! Little bummed to see the round cowling go it really gave it a classic look especially with the paint scheme.

As drone owner and aviation fan I really appreciate your channel! Good job Mr Palmer! You made me watch almost all of your videos with real pleasure 😁

Congratulations Trent. Looking forward to new videos featuring "The Cub Killer" in full flying action.

Right on Trent, can't wait to see the results!!!

Awesome, Trent! Fuel cap secured (great to see you owning this...you just have to have fun at your own expense sometimes); a teaser on your new home; and, a new POWERplant for the FreedomFox. I’m looking forward to hearing about your plans for a hanger once you get moved into the new house.

Congratulations, hope it all goes to the timeline, looking fwd to seeing it take to the skies

Congratulations on the new motor. I can’t wait to see the performance.

First we got Draco, now we have Cubkiller. Go the Bush Cowboys!!!

Sweet brother. The 915is is a beast. FreedomFox will be a speed demon for your short trips

The fuel injection and turbo with the constant speed prop will be sweet. The extra 80 horsepower at altitude will be nice.

Wow, congrats on the new motor. She's purrrty!! Can't wait to see you fly it.

Great news! Congratulations--can't wait to see it.

Yes!!!!! Looking forward to seeing the cub killer airborne with her new heart 👍

Can’t wait for the test flight stats. Fingers crossed for all to go as smooth as it can. Good luck.

Trent first off thank you so much for the time an effort you put into your videos I could literally watch the intro alone on repeat I love how much you capture and how awesome it feels just to watch keep the awesome footage coming and I’ll be sure to continue smashing that 👍🏻 button!!!!!

I can't wait for the first short field take off! Keep us posted.

Perfect! the electronics of the smart turbo motor will be a great reveal. Looking forward to it. Congrats!

KNEW IT. Getting that hawt freshness. So excited to see this soaring.

Congrats on the new engine.. Can't wait to see that thing fly!..

This is awesome Trent! I was really hoping you could swing a deal for at least the 914 - and here you managed the 915!! I’m so excited for you and to see the difference IRL

Good move on that 915is ; YOU'LL love it .

Super excited to see the fox with its new motor! Awesome news Trent

A good RU-vid channel on airplane work is not easy to find love the build videos keep them coming.

Good Luck with the "upgrade", Trent. I can't wait to see what you do with it!

Congratulations! Just an excellent story, Sir! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

So happy for you man, you deserve it. It’s going to be so much fun watching this all play out! Personally love the music in this one.

Can't wait to see you fly this New BEAST , Cool and god bless and happy landings to all of you .

One rad engine, good things coming your way, congrats!

Hi Trent Palmer, love your videos. An easy fix for the engine weight change is a tail wheel upgrade. A more durable fatter tail wheel may be the ticket for a number of reasons. Maybe even a stronger mounting also. Less drag on soft deck such as sand making takeoff easier. Less ballast needed if used to balance aircraft in any other place. Not a flyer yet myself and at my age, not likely to ever see that life long dream at 60 years of age now. If I do get into the sky, it will likely be with a one off sport class autogyro. Been a gyro copter fan for 5 decades and even got to spend time with Dr Egor Benson of Benson aircraft Corp. Told me stories about some of the hole driller's he built over the years. Man lived in a time that bad designs and designers eliminated each other. ;)

I think you need to make the round a round cowl that works. You can’t get rid of it. It’s iconic now.

This makes me want a Rotax-powered Kitfox.

That’s awesome Trent... I will see you at High Sierra, my wife and I are heading out from NC

#CubKiller SWEET ENGINE TRENT! I love the look of the Freedom Fox!