RE: Travel Air 6000
AA5BY - Agree! After 3yrs of work, my '5' is (about) ready for paint (Nelson's PC10 color mix). All sheet and metal fittings primed, etc. Will be applying stain to bottom of flying surfaces this weekend, then move on to painting, then will mount/assemble all the smaller pieces, etc. (i.e. if I can remember where they all go [;)]) When I initially started my build I didn't plan doing everything I've done, but one thing just led to another...to another... to another, etc. It's been a l-o-n-g build! [:)] I see you are a ham. Great! My call is W4KHV 73... Dick
Posted on: 11/20/2009 1:33 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9267745

RE: Travel Air 6000
Beautiful!!! That sure would make a great scale project. Makes me want to stop my SE5 work [:)] Dick
Posted on: 11/20/2009 12:04 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9267612

RE: Giant Nieuport Flight video
Thanks 'summerwind' (I like that name [8D]). Glad no one got hurt; others have not been so fortunate. Take care, and watch out for that other guy [;)]... Dick
Posted on: 8/9/2009 11:46 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9001949

RE: Giant Nieuport Flight video
Thanks 'summerwind' for your thoughtful comments. Guess my concern for safty isn't always shared by others,...and, that may be understandable. Perhaps my background, experience and association with others over the years have taught me to always expect the unexpected; runawy planes/engines can be messy. There's an old saying that says: 'There are bold pilots, and there are old pilots. But there are no old bold pilots'. I think I've come full circle[;)] Best regards, Dick
Posted on: 8/9/2009 9:02 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9001637

RE: Giant Nieuport Flight video
Well, I was hoping you wouldn't take offense to my comment but apparently you have...so, please accept my apologies. I didn't mean to step on anyone's toes or ego. My only concern was for safety - i.e. safe starting procedures. But, as you said, you 'know' your equipment, so will leave it at that. I wish you well, my friend.... Best regards, Dick
Posted on: 8/8/2009 9:45 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8999562

RE: Giant Nieuport Flight video
Nice plane and video! But, I can't help commenting about the way you started your engine etc. To start the engine the way you did (and such a large engine, too), without someone (or something) restraining the plane, and then reaching down for your Tx after it starts, is just outright, [u][b]unsafe[/b][/u]. It's an 'accident waiting to happen'. Please do yourself and your fine plane a favor: always have someone (or something) hold your plane when starting your engine'. In the long run, flying will be so much more enjoyable. Best regards, Dick
Posted on: 8/7/2009 8:36 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8998556

RE: Prop choice for Q-35
Your Q35 might be a marine version as the head seems to have a provision for a water cooling attachment. As for the type of spark plug, the 'original' Q35 instructions (late 1970s, early '80s) called for a RCJ8 or RCJ6. They later changed this and recommended the Champion RCJ-7Y, or equivalent. This is what I use use, with excellent results. If your engine was being used in marine applications I can't suggest what plug might have been used or how it might now perform in an a/c environment with this plug. Prop size selection might also need more thought, too, depending on how it was runs. The tab on the magneto coil is for your grounding switch wiring. Dick
Posted on: 8/6/2009 4:08 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8995493

RE: RCDECALS.COM (Cutting Edge Graphics)
Good news ... Just heard from Nora (Stan's wife) that Cutting Edge Graphics is still in business! Here's what she wrote: "Yes we are still running the Business just making some adjustments , the server that hosts our sight was hacked and they are working to make their business more secure, We should have it back up in a week or so. You can order by using this email or you can call us at 864-227-9214. I'm here working most of the day but if I happen to be out just leave a message and I will return your call. You can pass this information on to people that need to order and I will be glad to help them. Sorry for the inconvenience but hackers cause everyone problems. " Hope this helps... Dick
Posted on: 8/6/2009 8:49 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8994431

RE: RCDECALS.COM (Cutting Edge Graphics)
Yes, they did nice work. Reasonable $ , too. Soon as I hear anything I'll advise...
Posted on: 8/5/2009 1:02 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8992226

RE: RCDECALS.COM (Cutting Edge Graphics)
Let me check. I know Stan and his wife, and have done business with him but not recently. I'll see what I can find out and get back later.
Posted on: 8/5/2009 12:16 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8992105

RE: Prop choice for Q-35
Bill, I've found that a 20-6/10 works best for me on my Stinson (23lbs). Does a great job. Have also used other sizes over the years(18-8, 18-6/10, 20-6). Bought my engine in back 1979; 'updated/overhauled' it in '99. For your Nosen, I'd use a 20-6 or a 20 6/10. Good luck... Dick
Posted on: 7/10/2009 1:36 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - General"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8921915

RE: R/C Report 2.4 GHz Radio Test
Have the magazine but haven't read the article yet (but will in the next few days). Looks like it will be a great read. Yes, RC Report will be missed! Sad...
Posted on: 2/6/2009 3:54 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8445911

RE: URGENT: JR Century VII manual
Yeah, it's NET-N127M
Posted on: 1/27/2009 7:14 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8409138

RE: Question about crystal compatibility
Each radio manufacturer's crystals are ground to meet tolerances for [u]their[/u] equipment's operaton . While some some crystal manufacturers claim their crystals will work in this or that radio, be aware that while their claims may be correct, their crystals may not (and probably don't) always fall within the [u]complete[/u] frequency specs of the OEM radio - which could leave you open to outside interference(s). Why take the risk? Use your OEM's radio crystals...
Posted on: 12/15/2008 11:00 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8247630

RE: BUSA SE 5-a
harve202 - That's what I have in mine. It's fully cowled. Haven't run it yet, though. Dick
Posted on: 11/19/2008 2:10 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - 3D & Aerobatic"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=8163044

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
Thanks for the input Mike. I think you have answered a big question many of us have had: Rx failures will [u]not[/u] occur when flying - only when radios are turned on (when pairing should occur).
Posted on: 8/8/2008 1:27 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7824002

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
Has there been any response from Airtronics about the Tx/Rx failures (i.e. losing their pairing settings, etc)? My Tx and Rx paired easily but am reluctant to flight test my new RDS system until I know more about the problem. The manual's pairing instructions (page 16) caught my attention and I think they are somewhat confusing. First, they say that once the Tx and Rx are paired, settings are remembered; then, it goes on to say that "under some circumstances" (what are they?) the Rx may not operate(!) and the pairing operation must be repeated. Sounds like the Rx is the problem ... but the wording is ambiguous. While exchanging Txs and Rxs is a nice customer gesture, and may be appropriate in some instances, it doesn't solve or resolve the problem. Anyway, I hope we find out what's going on before too much time passes...
Posted on: 8/7/2008 3:04 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7820305

RE: is this realy reasonable???
Well, my first reaction is : that's a lot of $$$... collector or not. If you did buy it, would you be building and flying it? I built/flew one back in '74 and it was a great flyer - fast (heavy) and very aerobatic. Wood was OK but not the greatest. There are better planes available today that fly better and which I think you would be happier with, unless, of course, you are a 'collector, have the $ ..... or, just plain want it! [:)]. Not being able to open the box is a joke. Kit/boxes were shipped un-sealed/wrapped. Hobby shops normally permit prospective buyers to inspect kits before buying. So, if this (hobby shop's) kit is, indeed, wrapped it was done by someone along the way to where it now rests. 'Let the buyer beware'... [;)] Side note: I knew Lou (personally), and once while visiting him (at his shop) watched as he packed a recent production run of Trainermasters and Aeromasters kits. Amazing how everything fitted into the boxes. Dick
Posted on: 8/2/2008 9:15 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Scale Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7799594

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
Thanks Mike. Your thoughtful comments are apprecriated. Coming from a manufacturing engineering marketing background, my instincts tend to pick up on things like this, and while they might sound trivial to others (as some seem to indicate), they could later become a problem. Your positive comments and actions here are most welcomed. Thanks for keeping us tuned in. Dick
Posted on: 7/12/2008 8:42 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7722058

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
We'll hope it is an isolated case, that's for sure. But, experience is something worth learning from and knowing. Nope..., don't own one (yet) but planning to shortly.
Posted on: 7/11/2008 2:35 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7719415

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
Hi Zippi! Thanks for the pics. Your fuel line fix looks good and should last until Airtronics corrects their design and supplies you with a new one. Also, good to read Mike G will be following up with Airtronics. Mike G.: Would you get back with everyone on this as to what Airtronics plans to/will do - and when? For everyone's peace of mind I'm sure we'd all like to know what Airtronics action is taking. Thanks... Your pics tend to confirm my thoughts that perhaps one of the reasons the RDS8000 is so price competitive is because Airtronics peobably used existing RD8000 tooling for their RDS8000 case design thereby eliminating new tooling (mold) costs. Makes sense; many companies frequently take this approach to save costs - but it doesn't always go smoothly. What you found out, though - and what others might, too - is that when the RD8000's collapsible metal antenna was removed and the older case design is used, only the thin plastic molded wall (around it) is left, and this - by itself - is not strong enough to fully support the 2.4 wire antenna cover extending above the case, which, when being assembled, or when being handled during normal use, the thin wall plastic would be subject to breakage. Anyway, good to read you are back in business. One question, though: would you recommend everyone place something solid and supportive - like fuel line, as you did - around their antenna wire to fill the space that space that now exists (between the antenna wire and the plastic) ? Sounds like it might be a good move. Thanks again, Zippi, for bringing this problem to everyone's attention... Dick
Posted on: 7/11/2008 11:17 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7718776

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
Hi Zippi - Ugh! Sounds like one could have a potential loss of signal if the antenna isn't firmly in place. Your experience wouldn't make too happy, either. Thanks for sharing the info. Good news is, though, it sounds like Mike G. will warrant the radio, so I'd sure stay with him - not Tower. Bottom line - such things shouldn't happen - the antenna or the response(s) you recieved. Will be interesting to see if others have/had a 'problem' with their antenna. But, your experience clearly shows that the antenna - or mount - [b]is fragile[/b], and needs to be fixed. Apparently, Airtronics, in adaptatng their original (lower freq) 8000's case to the 2.4 RDS8000, they overlooked/under engineered the antenna and mounting. For everyone's benefit, I hope they get it fixed. Stay tuned.... Dick
Posted on: 7/10/2008 7:12 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7716415

RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*
Interesting observation about your antenna's base, Zippi. Did you mean the antenna doesn't remain positioned properly/correctly while flying (e.g. droops down, doesn't stay put, etc)? Is there something that can be tightened to ensure it stays positioned properly (although I wouldn't think something like that should be necessary)? I'm about to jump on the 2.4 bandwagon and have been considering the RDS8000 (vs. Secktrum or JR), but now, like you, am wondering just how durable the RDS TX will be in the long run. From all I've read the RDS8000 is an excellent system, and is priced right. I currently fly JR8103 on 6m and 72mhz, but am looking for more piece of mind (interference-wise) as the planes I now fly are mostly large detailed scale planes (along with some some electrics, of course[;)] ). Dick
Posted on: 7/10/2008 3:35 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7715680

RE: E-flite Taylorcraft
Try King RC in King, NC - www.kingRC.com I bought mine there last month. They had two at the time...
Posted on: 6/18/2008 7:19 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Electric Aerobatic & Sport Planes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7634948

RE: 1/3 Scale SE5a Scratch Build
Hi Steve! Great work! Much thanks for sharing your insights and progress w/us all. Interesting comment about the ballooning. Looks like the lower wing has more alright. I would guess the ballooning is attributed to airflow over the wings, pressure differentials, incidence, etc. Anyway, good info. Sure envy you with all that good stuff from Shuttleworth. I'm still working on my BUSA SE5 (not too recognizeable as a kit plane now), making progress (slowly). I've done full stitching on my surfaces, and other than taking more time to do, I think it looks more authentic and adds to it overall. Well worth the time. Look forward to all your posts. Regards, Dick
Posted on: 5/14/2008 1:09 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Scale Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7495276

RE: SE5a 1/6 Scale Scratch Build
I thought it was a the actual plane [;)] BEAUTIFUL !!! Can wait to see what details you add next. Dick
Posted on: 8/28/2007 7:53 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Scale Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6299986

RE: SE5a 1/6 Scale Scratch Build
Great bracket info, Steve, Thanks! Has given me some good ideas to work with in adapting them to the kit's strut/wing attachment. Didn't think about using tin, and that should be easier, too. Dick
Posted on: 8/14/2007 9:20 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Scale Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6236539

RE: SE5a 1/6 Scale Scratch Build
Hi Steve! Great looking details! Sure look authentic. Can't wait to see you engine details. Since I'm currently doing sone small details myself for my BUSA '5a', I'd be interested in reading about how you made your wing struct brackets (i.e. the black ones, with holes in them). I've been playing around with some brass stock but it has been tedious, and I'm sure there must be an easier way [;)] BTW, my gear assy. came out great. Thanks for your help/info you sent. Dick
Posted on: 8/13/2007 9:21 AM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "RC Scale Aircraft"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6231660

RE: SE5a 1/6 Scale
[b]CONGRATULATIONS!!![/b] That's no small achievement. An [b]OUTSTANDING[/b] model! Looking forward to seeing some pics. What 'details' are still left? How did it handle in the air? Dick
Posted on: 8/5/2007 6:33 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "Control Lines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6200063

JR8103 Flap to elevator mixing instructions
In trying to set up my controls here in the 'shop', I have tried programing my 8103 TX such that the elevators lower (slightly) whenever I lower flaps for landing (to minimize a/c pitch up). The (Tx) programming screen shows that I have programmed +5 'down' elevator (which is what I want to try first), so I would think this is the defection I should see when I rotate the Tx flap knob. However, the elevators don't move. The instructions I find in the instruction manual refer to 'elevator to flap' mixing - not 'flap to elevator', which this is. Although I don't have the flaps connected into the rx, I would think the elevators would deflect when turning the flap knob. The flap switch is in the up (On) position. Is there something I've missed? Thanks...
Posted on: 7/29/2007 3:29 PM by Author "MaineBear" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6170697