RE: Sig AeroKote
[quote]ORIGINAL: fix-n-fly It has to be the worst excuse for plastic covering I have ever seen. The transparent red is so thin if you look at it the wrong way it will tear, and doesn't hold to wood well. I think the new owners have figured this out as they have changed the covering on the ARFs to Ultracote. [/quote] +1
Posted on: 7/22/2012 7:18 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11165151

RE: have to share room with WIFE..........
Let her move in. Once the CA, epoxy and sawdust start flying, your problem will most likely resolve itself. I would think that sawdust would make scrap-booking in the same room very difficult. If it's not working fast enough, get some extra balsa blocks and sand on them like crazy. [8D]
Posted on: 6/7/2012 12:35 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Kit Building"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11110283

RE: New 6, 8, and 11 ch. JR radios announced - DMSS technology
[quote]ORIGINAL: mongo yer beef is not with JR, they released the DMSS tech over a year ago. blame Horizon for deciding to continue with their own spektrum tech and refusing to import/sell the JR DMSS tech. [/quote] I'm not really sure what went on behind the scenes or who exactly to blame. What I am sure of is that I invested heavily in JR equipment and I'm not happy about how this has turned out. As a long-term customer I'm just expressing my discontent in constructive manner. As a consumer, I'll respond by sending my business elsewhere, which is unfortunate. However, the numbers that feel as I do will probably be small enough to be dismissed by the JR corporate machine.
Posted on: 4/15/2012 3:40 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11043190

RE: New 6, 8, and 11 ch. JR radios announced - DMSS technology
[quote]ORIGINAL: Silent-AV8R I guess what people need to wrap their heads around is that JR is a separate company. I don't think they did this lightly. They obviously decided that it made sense for their business to separate themselves from being tied to the Spektrum technology. None of us knows what may have gone on behind the scenes between those two companies. I do not think that JR did this as any part of a ''planned obsolescence'' program or anything like that. For all we know Spektrum was the prime cause by ending their licensing deal or something like that. [/quote] I agree. We can make assumptions and speculate, but in the end most of us will probably never know the real reasons behind this move. Doesn't change my perception as a customer or the feeling that I got screwed by DSMX. I don't understand why they can't upgrade the 11X to DMSS w/ telemetry the same way they offered an upgrade from DSM2. I realize it would have to be sent in and of course there would be a cost, but it would be worth it for a lot of pilots if the cost were reasonable. To me, it appears that they were stringing along existing JR customers, giving us just enough to keep us hanging on to the brand until they were ready to release their own DMSS technology in the States. Taking full advantage of opportunities to maximize profit along the way. As always, there will be many varying opinions on this subject with each of probably right on some level. In the end, we'll each make our own choices. I will continue to use my 11X with DSMX receivers until someone else makes a high quality 9-11 channel radio with telemetry. Until then, I will only purchase Spektrum DSMX receivers for my 11X. If JR is abandoning DSMX, then I will quit buying JR DSMX products. BTW, I know that JR is still technically manufacturing, selling, and supporting DSMX receivers (for now).
Posted on: 4/15/2012 1:47 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11043058

RE: New 6, 8, and 11 ch. JR radios announced - DMSS technology
I've been a loyal JR customer for many years. I currently use an 11X and an X9303. Like a fool, I jumped into DSMX with both feet. Now that I've replaced half my receivers with DSMX I find out that to get telemetry I'll not only have to sell my 4 month old 11X (which won't be worth much anymore), buy an XG11 (which cost $100 more than my 11X), then replace all my receivers AGAIN. As I told the Horizon Hobby rep at Toledo, if I decide to replace all my receivers again, it won't be with JR. I'm done. While at the Weak Signals Show, I spent more time checking out their competitors offerings. I work in the IT industry and believe me, I understand technology advances and planned obsolescence, but this is ridiculous. You'll have a difficult time convincing me that JR didn't know they were going this route when they suckered their loyal customers into jumping on the DSMX bandwagon.
Posted on: 4/15/2012 10:43 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11042869

RE: DL-50 Reed Valve Wear Question
[quote]ORIGINAL: Tired Old Man Wouldn't hurt. One other item to check while things are open that could be causing the 5 minute run problem. Open up the carb and clean the carb screen. [/quote] Thanks for the suggestion, but that was one of the first things I checked. The screen was amazingly clean. I'm going to order a new gasket set when I order the reed valve assembly. Just curious, if I pull the jug on the DL-50 will I have any trouble getting it back together without a ring compressor? What would you recommend for torque on the head bolts? Thanks again for your help.
Posted on: 7/25/2011 8:50 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10637957

RE: DL-50 Reed Valve Wear Question
[quote]ORIGINAL: Tired Old Man The noted wear is typical of aging reeds, but not the engine stop problem. Look towards the ignition. It does indeed sound heat related, but related to hot electrical components. 45-50 inch pounds will do for the screw torque on the carb. [/quote] Thanks for the reply. I'm assuming I should go ahead and replace these?
Posted on: 7/25/2011 12:31 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10637501

DL-50 Reed Valve Wear Question
I have an original DL-50 that I purchased from DLUSA a couple years back. I haven't flown it a ton...about 7 gallons. It's been a great engine from day one: starts easy, runs strong and been just about perfect in every way...until last weekend. I was flying my 30% Yak at the AMA 75th Anniversary fly-in. Several flights on Thursday and most of the day Friday when late afternoon it happeneddead stick about five minutes into the flight. After some basic checks on the ignition, ign battery, fuel system, etc... I went back up. Engine ran great for about five minutes, then quit like the fuel was shut off. I flew it one more time and the exact same thing...a dead stick about five minutes into the flight. It seems to be heat-related, but whatever it was started all the sudden. I flew 10-12 minutes flights in the same weather/temperature with no issue for two days straight before this started happening. When I got home pulled the engine and started looking through the engine. The only thing I've found so far is this odd wear on the reed valves (see pics). 1. Has anyone seen this before? 2. What causes it? 3. Could it possibly cause the problems I'm having? 4. Does anyone have torque specs for these engines? I have a tendency to over-tighten everything I touch. If I could torque the carb/insulator block bolts with a torque wrench it sure would make me feel better. Thanks!
Posted on: 7/24/2011 9:46 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10637386

RE: Hitec Optima 9 Receiver
If it's a Hitec 2.4Ghz module, it should work with the Optima 9. Otherwise, no.
Posted on: 7/19/2011 2:52 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10629126

RCM Cloud Dancer 1.20 CG
I'm trying to do final set up a kit-built Cloud Dancer 1.20 Unfortunately, I don't have the plans and I'm wondering if someone can share the recommended CG range for this plane. It's the 86" version. Thanks!
Posted on: 7/12/2011 7:27 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Sport Flying"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10617654

RE: Looking for a switch
I've never used or even seen one of these in person, but they look pretty cool. [b]Booma RC Intelliswitch[/b] http://www.boomarc.com/products/162-booma-rc-intelliswitch.aspx [image]http://www.boomarc.com/images/thumbs/0000291_300.jpeg[/image]
Posted on: 5/20/2011 6:37 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10530841

RE: Aurora 9 relinking problem
[quote]ORIGINAL: 3dsky Thanks for your help I will have to go back and reread. Do I have to setup the TX to be in NORMAL mode first before I bind to a RX. All I am doing is pushing the button thun on the TX then push the RX button add RX power then turn off and restart both. [/quote] I haven't actually done it, but I assume that the TX has to be switched to Normal mode first. See below: 3. Normal / Scan Mode - Switch: Press and hold the Spectra 2.4Ghz Module button for six seconds. Once two continuous beeps are heard, release the button immediately.(Refer Module LED Status Indicator attached) (Transceivers to be used will also then need to be relinked (rebound).)
Posted on: 4/28/2011 10:15 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10490856

RE: Aurora 9 relinking problem
Also, after you switch modes, I think you'll need to re-bind all your receivers.
Posted on: 4/28/2011 9:37 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10490820

RE: Aurora 9 relinking problem
Are you familiar with this thread? [link=http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1141715]http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1141715[/link] Lots of great information in one place.
Posted on: 4/28/2011 9:29 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10490815

RE: Aurora 9 relinking problem
[quote]ORIGINAL: 3dsky The TX display is NORMAL, can the RX be in SCAN mode and the TX in Normal and still work?? All my lights are solid on both the TX & RX. [/quote] Check the LED status reference card. If both red and blue LEDs are solid...you're in Scan Mode. That explains the inability to reconnect after the TX is turned off.
Posted on: 4/28/2011 9:27 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10490813

RE: Aurora 9 relinking problem
I'm not sure then. I just checked mine a few minutes ago. It's an A9, v1.08 (normal mode), Spectra v2.0, Optima 7 w/ F/W v2.0. If I turn the TX off and back on it reconnects about 1 sec after pressing "Yes" to transmit.
Posted on: 4/28/2011 9:14 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10490797

RE: Aurora 9 relinking problem
Are you in normal mode or scan mode? If you turn off the TX while in scan mode, it won't reconnect. Extract from Aurora manual: "Normal Mode - In this mode the receiver/transmitter uses the frequencies which selected at the time it was initially set-up. - After the initial set-up, the everyday start-up is quicker in the Normal Mode. In 90% of cases the Normal Mode is preferred by users. - In the Normal mode, if the transmitter or receiver loses power, then power is restored, the system will re-link and function normally. - The factory default setup is Normal Mode. Scan Mode - In ScanMode the receiver/transmitter will scan all available channels every time you turn it on. It will then choose the cleanest frequencies to use. ScanMode is preferable to use when flying in a crowded 2.4GHz environment. [b]- While in ScanMode if the transmitter loses power it will not rebind to the receiver, if the receiver loses power it will take longer to re-bind than when in Normal Mode. [/b]- In all cases the ScanMode binding function will take longer than in Normal Mode when you boot-up the system."
Posted on: 4/28/2011 7:51 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10490613

RE: HITEC AURORA 9 OPTIMA BODA CHECK
Check out this thread. [link=http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13661941&postcount=11]http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13661941&postcount=11[/link]
Posted on: 4/26/2011 11:44 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10486175

RE: Gyro For Rudder
[quote]ORIGINAL: sgillmore [quote]ORIGINAL: MX240 Quote, ...I haven't flown a tail-dragger that I can handle after some practice, but I have a couple that sure are challenging...especially on paved runways. That one crackes me up: I guess after fifty some years of flying these things I am still learning. :) When I started flying some nice warbirds years ago I started useing gyros
Posted on: 4/14/2011 12:44 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10462642

RE: Gyro For Rudder
[quote]ORIGINAL: MX240 Quote, ...I haven't flown a tail-dragger that I can handle after some practice, but I have a couple that sure are challenging...especially on paved runways. That one crackes me up: I guess after fifty some years of flying these things I am still learning. :) When I started flying some nice warbirds years ago I started useing gyros on the rudder. It helps on takeoffs and landings of a person's hi-dollar investment. Am I a big chicken.....nope I just embrace technology when available. I have used JR gyros from their very early two piece ones to the latest JR G370 3D. No, I do not use heading hold...I want nothing to do with that! I use a 3-position switch ...off...mid...on...to set the gyro gain. Even at the highest setting for takeoff and landing I only set the gain at around 25%. On some warbides it stops the tail wiggle in rough air at the mid switch setting. I am now useing the same gyro's JR 500-550-370 with my new Futaba radios and all is fine. If you want to learn about gyros go to the Jet forum as their you will learn everything you need to find out. Just try not to use too much over 5.6 volts to them. Jim [/quote] Don't get me wrong...I'm sure there are plenty of planes out there that I can't handle. I didn't mean for it sound like I'm bragging. That should have read "I haven't flown a tail-dragger [b]yet[/b]..." with an emphasis on "yet". I've only owned a handful of scale civilian and warbirds. [8D]
Posted on: 4/14/2011 12:43 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10462639

RE: Gyro For Rudder
I've never used a gyro on a rudder before, but I've been considering it. I haven't flown a tail-dragger that I can handle after some practice, but I have a couple that sure are challenging...especially on paved runways. I'm currently putting together a 1/4-scale Clip Wing Monocoupe that has a reputation for being tough to handle on take-off. I also have a spare GY-401 laying around and to be honest, it just sounds like a fun experiment. I have a project ahead of this one, but I'm getting close to working on it again. I'll be keeping an eye on the thread and let you know how the GY-401 works out.
Posted on: 4/14/2011 11:02 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10462470

RE: Hitec 645 MG Servo Failure?
I've had a bunch of 625, 645, 5625 and 5645 servos and never had a single failure. The 5645s don't center real well, but I've never had one fail. Never heard of one failing around here either.
Posted on: 3/4/2011 9:40 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10379738

RE: How do you keep the antenna sticking out straight on the receivers
[quote]ORIGINAL: scooterinvegas [quote]ORIGINAL: sgillmore Here's a picture of it installed on an AR6100 in a small electric. Sorry, I know it's hard to see, but it's the best picture I have access to at the moment. [/quote] Can you tell me a little about your set up in that pulse?? Two battery packs? How are you getting your CG worked out with them so far back? [/quote
Posted on: 3/4/2011 9:21 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10379716

RE: How do you keep the antenna sticking out straight on the receivers
Small Fuel tubing works great. It's a snug press-fit over the nipple on the Spektrum receivers...no glue required. I've been using it for years on electric, glow and gas setups and I've never had it come off. I like it because it still has some flexibility but it keeps the antenna straight and prevents it from being kinked at the base. This is what I use: [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXBWK8&P=7]Sullivan 1/2A Silicon Glow Fuel Line 3'[/link] Here's a picture of it installed on an AR6100 in a small electric. Sorry, I know it's hard to see, but it's the best picture I have access to at the moment.
Posted on: 3/3/2011 12:35 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10376890

RE: Boda antenna
I've used these antennas to lighten two different Optima 6 receivers and both work flawlessly. They have the Ultra Miniature Coaxial Plugs on both ends so you can simply (but carefully) unplug the stock BODA antenna and replace it with one of these. You basically cut one of the connectors off leaving something like a 6" antenna and then strip the outer sheath off about 1" of the tip. I can get you the exact measurements if you're interested. I replace the antenna and shrink-wrap the RX. Digi-Key Part #: A36229-ND [link]http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?lang=en&site=US&WT.z_homepage_link=hp_go_button&KeyWords=a36229-nd&x=0&y=0[/link] I've only used these on foamies and they've been rock solid to the distance I can see/fly a foamy. I wouldn't recommend this modification for a full-range application.
Posted on: 3/1/2011 10:54 AM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10372203

RE: Boda antenna
I've made two lightweight Optima 6 RXs for foamy use. I removed the case, replaced the BODA antenna and shrink-wrapped the RX. You can actually purchased a package of three wires with the correct plug on the end to replace the existing antenna so you don't have to chop up the original. I don't have the info with me right now, but if no one else replies before tomorrow evening, I can get you the antenna source and measurements used and add a picture of my conversion.
Posted on: 2/21/2011 10:41 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10354542

RE: JR 9503 $75 to upgrade
[quote]ORIGINAL: Zeeb [quote]ORIGINAL: sgillmore [quote]ORIGINAL: Mitchell-RCU Why would JR charge $75 to upgrade a 9503 transmitter that five months old? Looks like it would be covered by the three year warranty. Its not like they didn't know this was coming. It looks like its sell all you can and then screw the consumer with this upgrade. MItchell [/quote] I happen to agree
Posted on: 2/21/2011 4:10 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10353671

RE: JR 9503 $75 to upgrade
[quote]ORIGINAL: Mitchell-RCU Why would JR charge $75 to upgrade a 9503 transmitter that five months old? Looks like it would be covered by the three year warranty. Its not like they didn't know this was coming. It looks like its sell all you can and then screw the consumer with this upgrade. MItchell [/quote] I happen to agree with you to a point, but I think you'll find yourself in the minority. Let's face it...JR is the Micro$oft of the R/C world. They make a great product and dominate when it comes to market share. Unfortunately, their arrogance leads them to take advantage of the fact that it's a very unpleasant prospect to switch all your planes or helis over to another manufacturer. This is just my humble opinion, but one that I'm free to have. If it bothers you enough, start switching your gear over to Hitec or Futaba. That's what I'm doing. I've been using JR and more recently Spektrum gear since entering the hobby many years ago. Never had a problem, but last year I became very frustrated with JR's marketing and release decisions. I mean come on, the X9503 was a cruel joke. Three lousy features and it's less expensive than it's predecessor? I know some 12X users that weren't too happy about the 11X either. Many will defend JR all day long and praise these upgrades as innovation and that's [i]their[/i] right. I however, chose to purchase a Hitec Aurora 9 and start sending my hard-earning cash to a company that listens to it's customers and I couldn't be happier with the decision. If you're [i]really[/i] upset about the DSMX situation, you have choices.
Posted on: 2/20/2011 10:11 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10351855

RE: JR 2.4ghz conversion question
[quote]ORIGINAL: crashland 73 Howdy, Ive got a JR 9303 & want to convert it to the 2.4, would it eliminate glitches for gas engines? Im running fm & have some glitch probs even with pcm. So im wondering if this transformation would fix it? [/quote] 2.4Ghz systems are not 100% immune to the interference generated by electronic ignitions, but they are pretty darn close. To answer your question, I suspect that your problem will indeed be masked by the upgrade. By this I mean that it will appear to go away, however whatever is causing the interference will still be there. I wouldn't be surprised if you receive a handful of recommendations to find whatever is causing the glitch before you make the upgrade.
Posted on: 2/13/2011 8:02 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10334318

RE: Using Dual Receivers with Hitec 2.4Ghz AFHSS
[quote]ORIGINAL: Brendan Lugo There shouldn't be any problems using two receivers. Bind and use them in normal mode. The receiver you turn on first is the one you will get the battery voltage from on the display. [/quote] Thanks Brendan. I'm also planning to use a sensor station for head temps and RPM. If I plug it into the Optima 9 and always turn the Optima 9 on first, will I receive telemetry data as normal? Thanks.
Posted on: 2/12/2011 10:32 PM by Author "sgillmore" in the forum "Hitec/MultiPlex Radios- Ask Hitec Customer Service"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=10332050