RE: Vinyl cutter??
[quote]ORIGINAL: bps Having operated a graphics business I can tell you that the expenses add up. I might suggests checking with some local vinyl shops to see if they have a used unit they might be willing to sell. Vinyl cutting has evolved into print and cut machines now. Some of the older machines will only operate on early windows operating systems. This in many cases will obsolete the machine. Check local sales papers like The Trader, Craig's List... Sign Warehouse http://www.signwarehouse.com/cutters/main1.htm is a good source for an entry level machine that will perform well. Some of the inexpensive machines have difficulty closing letters and maintaining registration. I would suggest a 24'' machine. That should handle all you will need and you can feed 20'' vinyl rolls through it. Adjustable pinch rollers (friction feed machine) is better than a tractor feed. You can feed smaller pieces of vinyl through instead of just cutting from full width rolls. I would suggest machines that have the ability to cut directly from Corel Draw. Some of the cheap cutters require another stand alone print and cut software package. Hope this helps[:D] [/quote] +1 Cost adds up fast to get started. Some years ago, after being annoyed at the poor local cutting service, I purchased a Roland Stika 15". By the time I had a variety of colors and the other bits & pieces I had already spent almost $2000. I know it was a lot of money but have recouped the expense by doing some custom work for others. This older unit uses a parallel port but I managed to get a USB-Parallel converter and now drive this from a netbook running Windows 7. So beware of older used machines as you may have trouble getting it to operate. See some of my work here: http://bliksemseplek.com/aviation.html and here: http://bliksemseplek.com/m12.html Is it worth having your own cutter? Yes, if you have some money burning your pocket. Bliksem
Posted on: 3/14/2012 11:27 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10999920

RE: Internet Brands-Owners of RCU-Everyone Send complaint - link here
I USED to post build information and responded to questions. RCU is very low on my list of sites to visit because of the lousy experience. I only visit here when I am bored. My best guess is that in a year or so it will be history. Bliksem
Posted on: 3/6/2012 5:06 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "RC Jets"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10989195

RE: I Challenge...........
[quote]ORIGINAL: carrellh [quote]ORIGINAL: Kmot [i] You are losing members in droves. [/i] [/quote] What data do you have to support this statement? Maybe it is true but I still see the same names in the forums I read. [/quote] Look at the other sites and their daily number of new posts. Theirs have been going up vs RCU which has declined significantly. This was once the premier go-to site but the flakey performance and often nonfunctional forums have made many go elsewhere. The quality of posts have degraded due to this drain. I no long post anything about my builds as typically I cannot complete these due to systems failures. RCU is no longer my primary RC home on the web. Bliksem BTW - I had to retry 4 times to get this done
Posted on: 3/4/2012 5:10 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "The Clubhouse"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10985797

RE: Great Planes 25% Pitts M-12s 3D
AFAIK there has been no changes. I have helped a number of others with metal landing gear and modifying their aircraft with proper plywood replacement to ensure survival of props, etc. This is an awesome flying plane but has a glass jaw with stock landing gear and weak airframe in the landing gear area. GP has done themselves a disservice IMHO in trying to squeeze the last few pennies of profit from this ARF. Then again often the production products from Chinese manufacturers are inferior to the test products supplied to their customers for testing. We, the end users, are caught in a vise between the promise and the reality. My guess that GP is certain of the quality based on the prototypes but the manufacturers are doing both the contractors and end users in by supplying a sub-standard product. Would I buy another? Yes, if mine came to untimely end. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/29/2012 6:08 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - 3D & Aerobatic"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10982270

RE: SPEKTRUM Misrepresentation?
About time people realized that buying Spektrum is opting in to be a guinea pig - at YOUR expense. Off to get more popcorn as this is surely not over. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/27/2012 8:13 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10979329

RE: Where can i find 1000-2000 grit sandpaper.
I have used some of the lapping film used for finishing fiber optic terminations to polish a canopy. Here is a source:http://www.datacomtools.com/catalog/fiber-Consumables.htm Bliksem
Posted on: 2/12/2012 8:50 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Questions and Answers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10955369

RE: New (to me) internet myth
[quote]ORIGINAL: Truckracer [quote]ORIGINAL: blikseme300 Off to go make some popcorn and grab a soda. Be right back as this is going to be interesting.[:D] Bliksem [/quote] And what is that comment supposed to mean? At least this isn't another stupid oil or ethanol in gas thread. I would like to see more real technical questions and comments on this forum. But no, we'll probably
Posted on: 2/9/2012 6:12 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10952027

RE: Futaba has been busy lately.....
[quote]ORIGINAL: Dick T. A couple of newly announced S-FHSS items. Appears Futaba is also making S-Bus available in this line. Futaba 8JA 8-Channel 2.4GHz S-FHSS Air Radio System http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LNBWGR&P=G Futaba R2008SB 8-Channel 2.4GHz S-FHSS Receiver http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LNBPKN&P=G Anyone who thinks Futaba is behind any curve should think again!! [/quote] The "other" brands need to catch up with their lame TX's, never mind the RX and servo technology that they are behind with. Not talking about simple entry level TX's here alone. Futaba has been ahead of the game for many years but people don't want to accept this as the marketing "spin" about newbie products & brands have them mesmerized. You want quality you will need to pay for it, unfortunately. The toy radio units available today far exceed the capabilities of the R/C units of a decade ago so there is not much differentiation at the entry levels. The functionality of Futaba higher and high-end transmitters available today blow all their competition out of the water. This is my 2c and I don't care if there are differing opinions. This is a free country and you can make your own choices. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/8/2012 6:46 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10950587

RE: New (to me) internet myth
Off to go make some popcorn and grab a soda. Be right back as this is going to be interesting.[:D] Industrial grade is just fine by me. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/7/2012 7:07 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10948975

RE: Gasoline Rotary Engine from Thunder Tiger NEW!
Cool! Looks like it's a 50cc. Any information regarding weight and props? Bliksem
Posted on: 2/7/2012 7:04 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10948969

RE: Zenoah G-62 Run ?
Not sure of full throttle consumption but at near full throttle 30 minutes is possible. I know this because the the throttle link on my large Stick broke shortly after take-off and I had to fly it until it quit. The G-62 typically consumes a tad less than 1oz/minute. This may vary due to a number of factors such as altitude density, prop choice and airframe drag. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/6/2012 6:58 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10947310

RE: How to tell if a glow charger is working-slightly smashed in mail.
[quote]ORIGINAL: Gray Beard [quote]ORIGINAL: JohnBuckner Its just a piece of junk send it back while you still can. Any wall wort type charger that the lite does not function but still charges is going to cause grief at some point later on. On a side note I keep old cylinder heads with plugs in them in my flight box and at home this just for quick tests of glow ignitors. You paid for a functioning product, return it. John [/quote] Then just go buy one from your local hobby shop!! [/quote] What is a local hobby shop? Bliksem
Posted on: 2/3/2012 5:06 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Questions and Answers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10942544

RE: RCU's
[quote]ORIGINAL: MinnFlyer [quote]ORIGINAL: Gray Beard Close down the site and start over from scratch? [/quote] Starting from scratch is actually what was originally intended. I've heard through the grapevine that IB also owns v_bulletin, which is the forum software that RCU used back in the original days (Remember the blue logo?) and that IB's plan was to switch it back someday. So hopefully they are working on a new, scratch version [/quote] Well, in my biased opinion the quality of these forums are tied to the speed and stability of the serving platform. I have been closing stalled browsing sessions more often in the recent past and am considering abandoning RCU as a resource due to this. I know I get what I pay for, but the adds pushed into our faces, including the new pop-ups, should be enough to foot the bill. For scale building and large scale aerobatics other sites have RCU beat hands down. This was not always so. Time will tell if RCU will stay around. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/3/2012 4:54 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Questions and Answers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10942523

RE: Has anyone noticed USPS tracking service running strangely?
USPS is circling the drain financially - news articles are easy to find. This causes their service to be less than stellar. Many sorting facilities are being closed and certain areas and routes will be serviced less often. I have switched to Fedex and UPS only when I order products and items as USPS is too unreliable. Not only have shipments arrived very late, often parcels have been ruined by rough handling. Don't ever try claiming from them for losses, ask me how I know.... Bliksem
Posted on: 2/1/2012 6:56 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "The Clubhouse"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10939415

RE: Is it mandatory to mount Gas Engines Inverted?
[quote]ORIGINAL: MetallicaJunkie unfortunately it IS mandatory[8D] [/quote] Yep, and no flying inverted allowed. The engine will die a horrible death.[;)] Bliksem
Posted on: 2/1/2012 6:49 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10939402

RE: Where do you like to fly?
I fly off private property together with my friends. The local "official" clubs are too full of pompous self-important donkey rear ends so they can kiss my rear end. Flying is supposed to be fun and clubs are not supposed to be a vehicle for self-appointed Nazi's to mess with people. Pity that many "official" clubs tend to be run by such people. Life is too short to waste valuable flying time dealing with such negative people. Bliksem
Posted on: 2/1/2012 6:46 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "The Clubhouse"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10939398

RE: New Ownership...New Numbers?
[quote]ORIGINAL: bradpaul [quote]ORIGINAL: Silent-AV8R From the 2012 Safety Code: [quote]Ensure the aircraft is identified with the name and address [b]or[/b] AMA number of the owner on the inside or affixed to the outside of the model aircraft. (This does not apply to model aircraft flown indoors).[/quote] [/quote] Anybody want to guestimate what percentage of RC model aircraft antually have the AMA number, name, address posted on the inside? I quess 1% I hane never seen it on the inside of a heli for example............ Brad [/quote] Interesting question. My experience has been that the most Nazi-like enforcers of AMA rules don't abide by it themselves. Like the esteemed members of our congress that make laws that apply to everyone except themselves. Let's see how long this post lasts before it is redacted or deleted. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/31/2012 6:34 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "AMA Discussions"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10937667

RE: CR123A
[quote]ORIGINAL: pilotpete2 CR123A cells are primary batteries, they may not be recharged. These are for electronic cameras and other consumer devices. Pete [/quote] +1
Posted on: 1/17/2012 2:10 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Batteries & Chargers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10913977

What Kolbenschmidt-based single is this?
I acquired this engine some time ago and all indications is that it is a 5.8ci Kolbenschmidt-based Sach's 5.8ci. The ignition is an older CH unit and the engine is outfitted with a mechanical advance. The carb is a Tillotson. Anybody here with more information about this engine? The stickers on the engine and ignition contain: Tom W. Perry, Melbourne, FL32935, (407)259-9114 Ralph (Antique) posted casting numbers some time ago, but the last digit is different so I am unsure of the size. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/16/2012 6:19 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10912467

RE: My experience with xheli
I have ordered and received items from Xheli 3 times now with absolutely no problems. Is there more than meets the eye with your problem? Bliksem
Posted on: 1/12/2012 8:56 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "XHeli.com Support Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10906182

RE: Bipe versus mono at altitude
Where in SA is Zebula? I don't know these new names. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/9/2012 6:35 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "RC Pattern Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10900883

RE: Best Propellar for DLE-30?
I use a 18x8 Xoar and it runs well. As pointed out the manufacturer recommends this size. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/9/2012 6:22 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Questions and Answers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10900860

RE: Gasoline Fuel tank Stoppers
I have been using Du-Bro tanks and their gas stoppers for many years without a problem. Currently I have a number of installations that are more than 7 years old without any leaks or other problems. The Tygon tube is still original and there has been no need to replace this every year as some contend. Yes, the fuel here in Texas does contain Ethanol but no problems with fuel stoppers, Tygon or carburettors have been encountered. BTW - I use the Walbro felt clunks in all my tanks. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/9/2012 6:19 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10900858

RE: Great Planes Extra 330L
Yep, the tube looks familiar. Are you going to strengthen the tube to spars connection? I wrapped Kevlar tow around the assembly before I fitted the skins. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/8/2012 7:23 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "3D Flying!"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10897693

RE: Analog vs. Digital
Why is it that only Hitec recommend twisting the leads? None of the other major manufacturers need this treatment to make their servos work right. Just a thought. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/7/2012 11:13 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "RC Warbirds and Warplanes"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10896460

RE: Great Planes Extra 330L
The Giles is coming along fine. Last week I was on vacation and the weather gods smiled and gave us a whole week of flying weather. Needless to say, not much building occurred. For those who are not aware I fly here in deep south Texas and the weather is usually lousy. If you are not willing to fly in hot & windy conditions then this is not a place to be. I did not do the built-up wing, stab or rudder. I cut foam cores and sheeted using 1/16" contest balsa. The flying surfaces are now all done and final assembly will start this week end. So far the Giles should be coming in at around 10lbs AUW. This should be a nice flying plane. The Extra will follow after this project but I am seriously considering doing foam wings, stabs, rudder and decks using foam & balsa skin. BTW - I am often asked, "Don't you have enough planes?" I point out that a shrink will cost more than my planes ever will. I call it "Sanity Therapy." Live to Fly, Fly to Live. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/7/2012 11:07 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "3D Flying!"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10896454

RE: Reed Valve question
Turning over the reed will work for a while. The reed is on it's way out once it has distorted. Replacing reeds is cheap compared to glow plugs, IMHO. You can do it the hard way by cutting your own from good material from Boyesen. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/5/2012 5:19 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10893794

RE: Gas RC was a mistake !!!!
[quote]ORIGINAL: YearningtoFly Trained on the sim extensively.  Feel confident. Started with parkflyers.  No issues. Decided to get a gas trainer,  look at clubs and an instructor. Instructor tells me...no rudder.....you wont even touch the rudder when you fly with me.  Most guys and instructors dont use the rudder out here.  Want to buy a gas trainer and radio ? Park is where it is at for me. [/quote] Sorry about your lousy experience. Most likely the "instructor" can't even fly using the rudder. Too often such blow-hards destroy the desires of new comers to become involved with R/C flying. My suggestion is to find another instructor who can help you with your quest. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/5/2012 10:28 AM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Beginners"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10893036

RE: DLE 20 Ignition & life4 battery question?
If current capacity is a concern simply put 2 or more in parallel. I have switched to all A123's on board my planes, including ignition packs. The ignitions are a mix of Rcxcel single & twins, Falkon single & twins, 3W twins & CH ignitions single & twins. Be aware that voltage drop across the diode is proportional to current flow so simply using a volt meter is of no value. The 1N400x series are fine for ignition applications. The difference between numbers is the reverse voltage. I would not recommend using diodes for the RX and servos. Bliksem
Posted on: 1/1/2012 1:16 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10886336

RE: Why are Futaba Servos so expensive?
With servos you get what you pay for. Bliksem
Posted on: 12/31/2011 9:48 PM by Author "blikseme300" in the forum "Questions and Answers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10885510