RE: Perhaps the dumbest question of the month
I'll echo what many have said in that you don't "need" rudder at this stage. However, if you plan on staying in the hobby and advancing, its a good idea to "grow up" using rudder and start getting used to it as soon as you're comfortable, so that it becomes second nature to you. I've seen some pilots that never got used to rudder, and it gets to be obvious. When you first learn to fly, your mind is going a million miles a minute, so it can be overwhelming to deal with all that in the beginning. But after you can take your plane up and breathe, you might as well start using it in turns and such. In some models, as you said, it doesn't seem like it does a whole lot. But in others, especially precision, aerobatic and 3D aircraft, the effect from the rudder is much more pronounced. The good thing is, when flying, as you experiment with rudder to get used to it (you give too much or wrong direction) its probably the most forgiving of control surfaces for errors. I feel it can only help to have it...worst case scenario is you don't touch it. But at least its there if you want to use it. And if you are ever going to fly anything beyond basic circles and occasional loops and rolls that you don't really care what they look like, learning the rudder is inevitable. As was mentioned, aerobatics and 3D will certainly rely heavily on rudder skills. Good luck to you.
Posted on: 8/9/2012 8:19 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11187728

RE: 3DHS Edge 48 - Cheap Motor/ESC Recommendation
Not sure how much help I'll be as I tried to stick with the recommended set up. After much research and debate, a "cheap" set up was going to run me about a little over $300 with everything and my stuff came to just under $400, so for the price difference, I just waited another paycheck and went for it. So I just ordered a 48" Edge myself and I actually ended up getting their Omega motor. I didn't think the price horrible when you consider the other highly recommended alternatives (i.e. Hacker, Motrolfly, Torque...). I'm sure you can find a cheap motor with similar specs at HK or valuehobby. Whether it will last, or allow that plane to live up to its potential is a subject I won't even touch, since people seem to feel passionately one way or the other, and is a topic of endless debate... However, I did go with a ZTW ESC from Quantum Hobby...$45 for a 60A, quality esc is pretty good...and really, you can get away with the 50A for $38 and you'll be fine. I think HK has some in the low $20's. I got the recommended HS-65MG servos from ADC, which end up being $24.99 if you order 3+. If you're not going to abuse it and 3D the heck out of it, you'd probably be fine with the HS-65HB's which are $6 cheaper for each. Some people have set up the Edge to have the MG's on the elevator and rudder and the HB's on the ailerons to shave a couple bucks. Not sure about the other brands. Batteries I usually go with GensAce anywhere between 2200-2650mah (running a 3S setup) which I think are an awesome price. However, I will be placing on order with HK this weekend for other nonsense stuff and I'll probably pick up some nano-techs and/or zippy flightmax just for the heck of it. I know its probably not exactly what you're looking for, but I thought I'd share what I did, as I was also trying to be money-conscious as well. Good luck to you!
Posted on: 6/18/2012 9:14 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "3D Electric Flying!"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11123289

RE: Hobby King
Deleted
Posted on: 9/24/2011 12:24 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "ARF or RTF"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10730436

RE: Hobby King
[quote]ORIGINAL: rgburrill If the recommendation was just because everyone is going that way then why is this particular airplane one of the very few with that recommendation. The have many other P-51s that don't say that. Now, while I appreciate the comments I wish someone who really knows the answer would respond? BTW, remember when "everyone" was switching to narrow band? Remember that it took years for that to happen? People don't jsut throw away a $300 radio because "everyone" is switching. [/quote] My apologies for my two cents. However, if you are looking for the absolute correct answer to your 2.4 question, I'm not sure why you didn't email HK and ask them directly, instead of posting on a forum where you will most likely get a lot of personal opinion among possible facts? Since they are the ones selling the product, I'm sure they will provide you with the exact answer you are looking for, whereas posting on a forum has the possibility of yielding you bad information. You started the thread by "Anyone use Hobby King?" and I thought I'd share my experience. Please disregard my previous post and I'm sorry I wasted your time with useless information that you clearly weren't looking for.
Posted on: 9/24/2011 12:12 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "ARF or RTF"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10732090

RE: Watcha Buildin'?
[quote]ORIGINAL: airboss45 Gp23, keep building lite! it will make a world of difference at the end on that Jug of yours. dle20 must really have power. my dle20 is still in the box for the arf Waco ymf. is your wingspan on the jug around 64" ? don [/quote] Thanks Don! Yup, you got it...the P-47 I'm building is the 64" wing span. I figured because its small, the weight factor
Posted on: 9/22/2011 7:24 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10729810

RE: Watcha Buildin'?
Here is AZ, I try and build all year as my time permits. Currently I'm working on a TF Gold P-47 that I've had on the table since April. Just finishing up the vert stab and moving on to the fuselage. I had a lot going on (bought a new house, got moved and settled, big project at work) so I've been slow...plus I'm using this build to learn how to incorporate scale details, so I'm taking my time with the planning as I try and figure out how to incorporate all the things I want to do. I'm still not sure how detailed I want to go with this one as its the 60 size and I don't want it to get too heavy. I'll power it with a DLE20, and besides the main retracts, I want to at least try and incorporate retractable tail gear as well. RCU has been an invaluable source of info for me on this build. Now that my days are clearing up a bit, I should be able to knock out the building part by the end of the year and hopefully maiden in the spring. I also have a GP Rapture that I built last year that I want to do some overhauling and modification on, and I am waiting for the Venture 60 to become available so I can pick that up...hopefully in the next few months (should've picked it up last year!). The Venture will be my "take a break" kit, and then I plan on building a giant scale...probably another Jug. Not sure if I'll go with the TF or Nick Ziroli, I guess it will depending on my budget at that time. So that should have me covered through most of next year...
Posted on: 9/22/2011 8:40 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10728869

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
[quote]ORIGINAL: stevenmax50 I have an Airtronics RDS8000. All the guys at my club fly Futabas. They all have more money than me I guess. The only features I use regularly are the servo reverse, expo, and dual rate. I often forget to turn the timer on but its nice to hear the beep every minute when I do remember. Maybe I am just not good enough yet to realize the full potential of some of the other features. SO when I do buy a new radio it will be the 10 ch Airtronics. Of course, I am the guy who has bought 6 new trucks since 1990 and they have all been Silverados. And I just traded a 2007 Prius for a 2011 Prius. I seem to always go back to what I know and like. If it doesnt work for me I will try something else. [/quote] I'm in a similar boat right now as far as usage...I am just not that experienced in my flying to fully realize the capabilities/advantages of all the mixing and programming. I'm sure I will get there one day and hopefully when I upgrade it will be my first real step in that realm (although the DX6i has some programming and I haven't played around yet with any of it). This upgrade that I will be doing in the next few months is something I plan on keeping for about the next 5 years...and after that, I'm sure it'll be time for another upgrade and I'll have the ability to more accurately assess what I will need for the following 5 years. At this time I guess I'm looking for more channels that are switch-assignable since I will be venturing into bigger gas models and will have more features. Sticking with the same brand is definitely my cheapest and most convenient and familiar option for me...so that would mean the DX8. However, I'm still not sure which direction I'll end up going. Its certainly almost impossible to get an accurate and upbiased comparison between the 3 transmitters I'm considering, and I think it might come down to timing and the best discount being offered at the time I make my purchase (although it would make things so much easier if I had one model I can go after). So it will be interesting to see what the holiday discounts will bring...
Posted on: 9/17/2011 3:38 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10721423

RE: help first time build
For engine choice, taking into consideration value and performance, I would recommend either an ST75 or OS65AX. Both would give you plenty of power for the 4* but not "overkill." You won't be disappointed with either choice. You will certainly pay less for a 2-stroke and get more power, however, 4-strokes have their own advantages (torque, sound, etc...) that make them worthwhile to many in this hobby. A somewhat cheaper 4-stroke alternative for your plane would be a Thunder Tiger F91S...they seem to be decent engines for the price. With the Tower discount you should be able to pick one up for right around $200...
Posted on: 9/8/2011 7:55 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10708109

RE: help first time build
Of course if you go digital and so on it's "better," but for a plane like in all reality it is unnecessary. You'll be fine with standard servos. At this level, almost any manufacturer will have something decent to offer. Personally, I'm a fan on Hitec servos because I think they offer the greatest value for the money. Some Hitec HS-425 servos would be good for a 4*...HS-485's even better and worth the extra $4. On a similar type of plane as yours (but 40 size) I have used $10 Airtronics servos are they are awesome... . Futaba S3004, even 3003's would be fine. Find a price point you want, and compare specs. Good luck!
Posted on: 9/8/2011 3:24 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10707699

RE: DX6i switch replacement
I'm wondering (and I apologize if this is an amateur question) has anyone tried, or is it even possible, to convert that flap switch to a three position switch, instead of a two position?
Posted on: 9/7/2011 7:57 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10705590

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
I'm sure once I get a more advanced radio and the complexity and size of my models increases, I will get into programming a lot more, and looking for ways to fully exploit the capabilities of the radio. That being said, I'm getting the impression that with technology advances and computer transmitters with PC interface becoming the norm for mid-level radios, "adding" channels to an existing transmitter isn't impossible (i.e. 8FG). I wonder if the DX8 will ever have this capability to "add" more channels to its existing platform. I'm not sure if Spektrum plans on going down this road or not...but if so, I'm sold.
Posted on: 9/6/2011 10:45 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10704196

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
Honestly, at this point in time, I feel its definitely a toss up between the A9 and DX8. Both have features I really like (I've read through both manuals) and both seem insanely easy to set up and use. Obviously the DX8 is an easier upgrade for me coming from a DX6i. No need to switch receivers, and system navigation that I'm already familiar with. The A9 does seem like a better value though in terms of what you get, and receiver prices are definitely fair looking forward (I'd probably still use my DX6i for my current models instead of switching them all over ti Hitec right away). Also, the PC interface is less than $30 which is acceptable (is it just me, or does anyone else feel that you really shouldn't have to pay PC interface?). I'm not sure if the PC interface on A9 is Mac compatible (an issue for me). I believe the DX8 is all via SD card, so it may not be as big of an issue. Either way, I'd have to dig further into that aspect with the transmitters. That being said, I wasn't aware of the frsky receivers for the Futaba 8FG. They are certainly priced right and seem to work great from the little I've read. Also, very good point about the Tower purchase discount, and I'm sure once its in stock, it will have an Easy Pay option which certainly makes it easier to stomach that purchase...and for a 14-channel radio...it's hard to argue, even though I'd still be paying about $60 more. I'm sure it will be more than sufficient for my needs in the immediate future (I figure I'd be upgrading radios every 5-8 yrs), so thanks for all the feedback. I definitely have more to think about...and much more research to do as the 8FG is now on my list as well. I'm still not sure how they "added" another 6-channels and if they function any differently, but I'm an amature in that sense and the most "programming" I've done on my DX6i is D/R, Expo, end-point adjustments, and flap/elevator mix.
Posted on: 9/6/2011 10:06 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10704132

RE: What mixture do you use to clean your plane ?
I use Simple Green diluted with alcohol instead of water. We used Simple Green when I was in the Navy for everything, and one day I gave it a shot after a flying day. Works great and I've been using it with great success ever since.
Posted on: 9/3/2011 11:47 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Questions and Answers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10699751

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
[quote]ORIGINAL: ArchNemesis The SD10 has been out about 2 years now. It does have the ability to upgrade the software in it, however I have no idea if that would include any type of telemetry. To be honest, I would doubt it since there's more than just software needed to receive the information, hardware would have to be part of the package. That said, ATX has introduced telemetry this year on their new high end car radio's so like you said, it's only a matter of time. Back to the use case for it though, I've played with both and just found it to be somewhat of a fad. I'm sure it's here to stay, but I'm not sure most have found a good value for it. I use Castle controllers for my electrics and they record damn near everything, 10 times a second (RPM, Voltage, Amp Draw, Throttle setting, temps, etc etc) for download after the flight. And while battery voltage is handy, I check that before every flight, so seeing it during the flight is only valuable when the alarm goes off (which admittedly WOULD be valuable...just don't know how often and what I'd be willing to pay for that feature.) Honestly, I would suggest to try to physically see and hold each of the radio's your considering. They've each put time into their ergonomics and they are different in feel. You may find one to be much more to your liking, features aside. [/quote] Agreed...I definitely need to try and get my hands on an SD-10. One of the guys at the field has an A9 and I've held the DX8 at my LHS, but not the SD-10. The DX8 is the most familiar feel, and the newest release from my list. However, because of that, it appears to be the least "value." I can get the DX8 (Transmitter only) for $329, and the other two are about $30 more but include a 7ch receiver...and they have more channels, therefore seem to provide "more." The other side of the arguement is the DX8 IS the newest, so I won't need to worry about it going obsolete in the near future, and allows me to use all my current receivers. I think DaleD is in the same boat as me on this one, but would only be moving up one channel, so not sure if that is too little of a jump coming from a DX7.... And so it is an endless circle with me as I tend to over-analyze most of my purchases, and especially hobby-related ones....(yes, I'm the guy that stands in the cereal aisle for 15 minutes to decide which cereal to buy for the week....)
Posted on: 9/3/2011 9:40 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10699617

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
[quote]ORIGINAL: ArchNemesis As a team Airtronics guy I have a bias, but wanted to throw out that you'd find the SD10 an extremely capable radio and with price as a huge factor, please note the Rx prices and that they also sell the Atx Rx's in 3 and 5 packs for even more value. You're correct in that ATX SD10 does not offer telemetry. It is very strong for the Heli and especially strong for the sailplanes, but that says more about how the others don't cater to those groups than the fact that we do. The airplane side is extremely robust (13 of 27 pilots at the last pattern contest I attended were all flying SD10's) Bottom line though is that you're considering a very good group of radio's. You'll be happy regardless. I'd be curious what you want to do with telemetry? It's got a lot of "neat" factor, but I haven't truly found it to be of much real value yet. [/quote] Thanks for the input on Airtronics. Its definitely on my list and I haven't discounted it. I did see the Rx prices and that was another big factor which put the SD-10 on my list. I would assume that since all the other manufacturers are going with telemetry, Airtronics wouldn't be too far behind. My concern would be if the SD-10G would be compatible once they roll it out...or will they release a whole new transmitter? Again, I'm not as familiar, and I don't know how long the SD-10G has been out and what is their cycle for upgrading each model. Regarding telemetry, you are correct...there is a lot of "neat" factor to it, and its certainly a luxury at this point (until the hobby evolves to the point where "you can't fly without it"). Also, realistically, I can't imagine myself constantly looking down at my radio to see what my engine rpm's are, or something trivial like that. However, our field is now strict on the good old 400' ceiling (we're close to an airport), so the altimeter would be beneficial, even for my spotter to glance at occasionally and make sure I'm good. Another value-added for me is receiver battery voltage, which I know Hitec has without additional purchases, not sure about Airtronics. The rest, such as speed, rpms, temp and so on, would be cool to know, but something I'd want to record and see after the flight. And the telemetry package does end up costing more money. I believe the full telemetry pack for Hitec is about $225...and for me, at this point in my life, and at that price...its something I can definitely live without.
Posted on: 9/2/2011 9:53 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10698409

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
[quote]ORIGINAL: BuschBarber [quote]ORIGINAL: GP23 Yes, I was definitely going to use separate servos for the tail gear. I am building the 60 size and mainly using it to learn how to make modifications for scale detail. I think the retractable tail gear is going to be my biggest challenge out of all the mods I plan on doing. A matchbox would be perfect for the tail gear application, thanks
Posted on: 9/2/2011 9:30 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10698382

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
Yes, I was definitely going to use separate servos for the tail gear. I am building the 60 size and mainly using it to learn how to make modifications for scale detail. I think the retractable tail gear is going to be my biggest challenge out of all the mods I plan on doing. A matchbox would be perfect for the tail gear application, thanks for the suggestion. And I agree that for my purposes they present a better value when needed, instead of having everything run off separate channels. I probably won't need more than 9 channels but it certainly wouldn't hurt if I ended up with more. I am a huge fan telemetry also and I don't think the Airtronics has it, which is what keeps me going back to the A9...
Posted on: 9/1/2011 8:33 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10697758

RE: Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
That's exactly why I figured I'd need more than 7-channels for my P-47. I plan on having the main landing gear doors scale so I'll probably need at least two separate channels to open the inboards first, the drop the LG. I also plan on incorporating a retractable tailwheel as well. Suffice to say, my DX6i definitely cannot support all that plus flaps and optical kill switch. Before I posted here, I was real back and forth between the DX8 and Hitec A9. However, the Airtronics seems like an excellent value and a solid product as well, I just wish I was more familiar with it. Thanks for the input...perhaps given my goals, the more channels the better, so the toss up may go between A9 and SD-10G. I'm certainly not opposed to Futaba, and I looked at that new 8FG that goes up to 14 channels. After all the number crunching I feel that I will end up spending more in the short and long run with Futaba. Not an insane difference, but with so many other options, I can't imagine why I would go that route besides brand loyalty (of which I have none at this time). I also wonder if 14 channels isn't overkill...but I guess it can't hurt.
Posted on: 9/1/2011 6:01 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10697553

Upgrading Transmitter...looking for feedback
Hi everyone. So as much as I've tried to extend this, I have decided that before the end of the year, I will need to upgrade my transmitter. My three considerations are: Hitec Aurora 9, Spektrum DX8, or Airtronics SD-10G. The primary reason I'm throwing Spektrum in here is the fact that I'll be coming off a DX6i, so I'd still be able to use all my receivers. I hit the wall as far as channels go and the kit I'm currently building (TF P-47 Gold) will require at least 7-channels since I'm going gas. I figured since I'll have to upgrade my radio (I did consider the new DX7s), I might as well get something "more" than my current needs that I can keep for a few years and not run into this situation in the near future. Price is a big consideration for me, hence Futaba is out of the question at this point...I know they are great products and I'm not trying to start the debate "what's another $200" when it comes to your primary equipment, but the reality is why spend extra when I can get a legitimately solid product that reliably meets all my needs for much less. I have read through the forums about all 3 of these transmitters and have seen all but the Airtronics in action (so its the one I'm least familiar with). From what I've read on that, the Airtronics seems to cater a lot to Sailplanes and Heli's (although of course you can use it for anything)...not sure how much that holds up. I do mostly fixed wing sport/aerobatic flying and I'm slowly moving towards giant scale, gas models. I do have a small heli that I mess with once in a while, and I can see myself picking up another as well, but I can't see getting too serious with that aspect as my passion is with airplanes. For the next 5 years, my outlook is adding about one maybe two (depending on building time and finances) giant scale planes a year....aerobatic and warbirds. I haven't played with programming too much as of yet, but as my skills progress, I can see an advantage and will probably want to at least explore those capabilities. So, taking into account that I'm coming from Spektrum...I'd like to hear what you guys have to say about those choices. I'm chasing reliability, value (including receiver cost), features, and complete fulfillment of all my rc needs for at least the next 5 years. I was actually pretty set on Hitec before I started reading pretty seriously about the Airtronics (and I saw the price is about the same).... Thanks in advance for any feeback...
Posted on: 9/1/2011 3:24 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10697285

RE: Easy, first kit build?
[quote]ORIGINAL: mesaflyer I have built a few kits, Tiger 60, 4 Star 120, TF Sea Fury, MOJO 40, and a few ARFS. This is just a suggestion for you. You can go on Tower's web site and look at the available kits. Pick one, and you can then see the manuals that come with the kits. Take the time to read a few manuals from different manufacturers. You will get a pretty good idea of whats required to build a kit. Most of them are pretty easy to build. Most manufacturers web sites contain a link to the manuals. I was just suggesting Tower as it contains several manufacturers. Good luck, and always remember that these guys on here will help you out if you get stuck. [/quote] This is an excellent suggestion that I typically do myself when deciding on my next kit. Looking at the manual will give you an idea of how easy/involved the build will be, what to expect, and even what tools you will need. The Sig 4* is no doubt a favorite among most, so you definitely won't go wrong with that or the Tiger. If you're not in a rush, you may consider waiting for the Venture 60 to become available from Bruce Tharpe Engineering (http://www.btemodels.com/). He designed the original 4*, and from what I have read, the Venture 60 is an improved version of it. It's definitely on the top of my list...
Posted on: 8/22/2011 1:11 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10682071

RE: Easy, first kit build?
Taking into consideration what Gray Beard said about the 4* being not enough plane for you (it would still be fun flying and great building experience to learn from), I would also recommend checking out a Great Planes Ultra Sport 60 or Goldberg Super Chipmunk kits. Another one I've thought about adding to my own list is the Great Planes Extra 300S kit. The build on these shouldn't be too bad and they will give you a plane you can enjoy for many years to come... Good luck!
Posted on: 8/19/2011 1:11 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10677718

RE: is there a plane similar to Sig four star 60
Ditto on the H9 Pulse series and the Great Planes Escapade.... . I would also echo what was said about a kit: If you are not opposed, and are willing to put in a little time, just buy the 4* kit from Sig (available now), or the Venture 60 when it is finally available (my choice). Building this type of kit is very straight forward and you get a tremendous sense of satisfaction when its finished...not to mention all the things you will learn. I do feel like there is one more plane that wasn't mentioned that falls into this category, but I can't think of it. If you are set on an ARF, you can't go wrong with the Pulse. Yes, its a little more than the Escapade, but I feel like the build quality is a tad better. I have flown both, in the 60 size, and I like the way the Pulse flies over the Escapade...but that's just personal preference.
Posted on: 8/19/2011 12:39 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10677672

RE: Pre-flight and log book
Hi guys...so after reading this thread I went searching for some type of log book. And there are certainly a number of tools to be found online, which I guess is kind of expected. However, I was pretty excited when I saw one available for android-based smartphones. If you have an android smartphone, this may be worth checking out. In the market, do a search for "rc flight log" and it will come up. The app is called "T3chDad RC Flight Log." Currently its $2.99, which is definitely fair. It seems to be an excellent flight log, however I was a little disappointed that you couldn't track maintenance/inspections on it. I contacted the developer and he was very friendly and receptive to my feedback and indicated that he will keep it in mind for future updates. Besides that, the flight log seems very convenient and easy to use at the field. I purchased it and will be trying it out for the next few months to see how I like it. Hope this helps....
Posted on: 7/26/2011 7:31 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Tips & Techniques"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10640592

RE: DLE20 Engine
I would second the GP Revolver 70, and add the H9 Funtana 125 for that type of exciting flying....and the GP Giant Super Sportster and H9 Pulse 125 for something a little more relaxed...all depending on what type of flying you want....
Posted on: 7/26/2011 5:26 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10640352

RE: Escapade .40 a good second plane?
The small Escapade is a great plane, but I would echo what a few others mentioned about the quality of the build. Unfortunately, that extends into areas that are covered (such as the rudder), so if you go that route please do an intergrity check on every inch...as you should with any plane really. Another reasonable option for you is a Great Planes Super Sportster 40...a little pricier (about $45 more) but certainly a more popular model that seems to be in-line with your parameters. I believe the Escapade might build a little faster, if that matters to you. Just throwing something else out there.... Good luck in your search!
Posted on: 7/26/2011 5:15 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10640324

RE: great planes fuel tanks
I did hear from a hobby shop I visited while out of town that they are no longer making them. However, this was only rumor, and hopefully not true. The fact that Tower still has them listed may mean they will return in a few weeks/months.
Posted on: 1/14/2011 5:33 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10264039

RE: Hangar 9 p-51d mkII pts rtf....trainer?
I have this plane and started off on it as my first model. Its a great plane and I love it, however, I have to agree with most, there probably are better planes to start with out there. The overall package is a great value, the engine is awesome, and the overall quality is impressive. For me, it was really easy to fly with all the training stuff on it. It has really good characteristics for its underlying sport personality. Changing the prop makes a difference. I changed to a 10x7 3-blade, which was great, and after experimenting (and reading RCU) settled on 11x5 2-blade. The BIGGEST change with this plane was removing the leading edge droops....really changes the character. Personally, I think mine came off too fast... (after a rough landing I smacked the right wing in one of poles holding the safety net and the droop on that wing broke, I decided to not purchase another set of droops and just took the other off). I don't know of any other RTF kits that come with a radio as good as the DX6i. It really is a good value and a huge improvement over the DX5e (bought one of those to use as my buddy box). If I had to do it over again, I know for sure that I wouldn't have removed the training gear that quickly, but realistically and knowing what I know now, I probably would have started with another model. The good news is, if you learn to fly on this, as it grows with you, I believe you can fly most models with no major issues. Best of luck to you.
Posted on: 12/2/2010 7:29 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10172956

RE: OS 55AX keeps cutting out in mid-range
Thank you both for the suggestions. I will try it out again this Sunday and hopefully some progress will be made. My idle has actually been somewhat high (I have to hold the plane otherwise it will start taxiing on idle). Bax, for the break-in, the first tank was per the manual: Full throttle alternating between 4-stroke/2-stroke for 10 secs each until the tank ran out. Second tank was full throttle with the HSN just out of the four-stroke as it starts to run in 2-stroke mode. Subsequent tanks were progressively leaner. But I still don't think that I'm at the point where its running at "optimal" lean setting. The engine is installed in a Great Planes Rapture 40 kit, so no cowl. Fuel tank location shouldn't be a problem either. And the fuel lines were fine initially but I replaced them with brand new ones anyway, still the same (I'm definitely not using the vent line as the fuel line...its a two line set up and the vent line comes out at a different location than the fuel line). Clunk is about 5/8" from the bottom. I will run it again, richer on the high end, and keep trying. I won't send it back yet unless there's unanimous agreement that there is a serious issue. If the problem still persists I'll post back on here. Thanks again for the suggestions.
Posted on: 11/18/2010 9:43 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "O.S. Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10144373

OS 55AX keeps cutting out in mid-range
Hi, This is my final attempt at getting help before I send in my engine to get checked out. I have about 10 or so tanks through it, about 4 on the ground. I did the "run-in" exactly as per the manual. First tank was rough, but this is expected. Ran the second through and by the third, it smoothed out enough to where it was acceptable to take to the field. Long-story short, the next few tanks where getting the HSN and Idle valve adjustments as right as they can get for this point in the engine's life. First three flights were all dead-sticks. These cut out about 5 mins into flight, but they seemed due to throttle transition, and the Idle adjustments fixed the transition issues. More flights, all dead-stick landings. Thought maybe it was too lean, but I was following the manual, and I'm pretty confident that wasn't the case, if anything I was a tad on the rich side. Then tried different plugs, swapped the #8 that came with it for a Hangar 9 Four stroke, and then an OS F plug and another #8. Nothing changed due to the plugs. Rechecked entire fuel system and replaced all fuel line, then took it back up for a couple of flights...all dead sticks. Basically what is happening, the engine is cutting out 2-5 minutes into flight. I'm usually cruising around at about 40% throttle when this happens. Took at back home and I can duplicate it on the ground...starts fine, idles fine, full throttle is fine, even quick transitions up and down are fine. But when I set the throttle to a little less than half, it'll run like it should for a few mins and all of a sudden just die. I'm watching the fuel line and it doesn't seem like there is a fuel interruption (and I'm not running out of fuel, I had plenty left when engine cuts out). It also doesn't seem like it's overheating. Myself and everyone at the field are scratching our heads at this one. Realistically, I'm inclined to think it's something I'm doing (or not), but I don't know where to go from here. I've done searches on RCU, and browsing through the threads, I really didn't find anything to help me out with my issue. I'm using the stock exhaust, 10% Omega with an additional 1oz Caster added to the Gallon, and I'm very particular and detailed about caring for my RC stuff (follow the manual to the letter, use after-run oil, etc...). I feel like I'm clearly missing something, and I'm still not at the point where I think its a manufacturing/warranty issue, but I have no idea what else to do. I've tried a bunch of other things that I haven't mentioned as well, and finally I called the hobby services number for technical questions. After describing everything, I was told to send the engine in to get checked out. I would hate to send it in just to get it back with a note containing a nice way of saying "you're an idiot; it ran fine for us" explanation. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. If it comes down to it, I have no problems sending the engine in, I just wasn't sure if this is a unique issue for me, or it has happened before and there is something else that I haven't thought of. Thanks in advance for any assistance. -GP
Posted on: 11/18/2010 12:15 AM by Author "GP23" in the forum "O.S. Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10142607

RE: Trainers
I believe currently the Tower Trainer RTF combo is out of stock (pretty sure due to the engine...those haven't been in stock for a few months). Another good option for you is the Alpha 40 RTF by Hangar 9. Comes with a 5-channel Spektrum transmitter and receiver. Priced pretty close to the Tower trainer, and Hangar 9 makes an excellent plane thats ready to go in 20 minutes. The engine on it is awesome...very beginner friendly. The only caveat with this plane is you want to make sure your instructor also has a Spektrum radio (or you can pick up another 5-channel transmitter for $50 or even cheaper on ebay). If you want a little more "building" experience, get the Tower Trainer ARF with an OS 46LA or Thunder Tiger Pro 46 (my choice) to keep costs minimal. Top it all off with a 4-6channel Futaba and you're good to go. Otherwise, as was already mentioned....definitely try to find a used trainer first (Craigslist maybe). I'm not sure about your area, but they definitely pop up every few weeks around here. That really is your best option because hopefully you'll be ready to move on to something else within a few months... Lots of luck to you!
Posted on: 9/13/2010 11:42 PM by Author "GP23" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10000495