Balsa USA Phaeton 90

[IH8VTEC]

I know there are a couple converted ones out there. I'll be building one this summer and I'm curious to know what it takes to balance. I have an Eflight Power 110 and 160 to choose from to fly it. The 110 should almost give it 1:1 thrust to weight assuming it comes out around 11lbs or less balanced. The 160 is said to 3D up to 15lbs. The only problem is the recommended glow engines are much heavier than either of these motors. I assume the batts will be pretty forward. The 110 can use 8s or 9s and the 160 can use 9s-10s. Going 9s will let me try both motors. If nothing else, once built I can bolt up both motors and see how much weight is needed and where, and then buy lipos. I'm planning on using CC HV 85 and Zippy packs. I wouldn't mind seeing other setups used in this plane, also which BEC/regulator to go with?

[IH8VTEC]

I have the kit and will start the build soon. I'm putting together a larger work space for this plane. What size servo is recommended, oz in torque?

[KOMET 44]

Two words,"TAIL HEAVY!!" Do what you can to make the tail lite!!.A friend of mine built this plane.He had to change from a glow to a gas engine to get the nose to come over.Even with the gas engine he need to add lead weight in the nose to balance the plane.So becareful when building.As for servos,I'd go for at least 60 in oz torque servos.On rudder I'd go with 80 in oz servo.Also with the more powerful servo's ,you should think about using 6volt receiver pack instead of the standard 4.8 volt pack.My 2cents.
KOMET44

[IH8VTEC]

I started looking over the plans for places to lighten, I'm going to try and do as much at I can to lighten the tail. Any tips on what I can omit or cut out or is it just a matter of using lighter wood? I'm afraid to build too weak.



Both motors I have (power 110, 160) should be more than enough for this plane, I'll make the decision when I see what I need for balancing. I'm guessing the 160 and 10s



For servos I have the DS821 that came with my DX-7. They are rated 72oz-in, seems that should be enough. I have started researching using power boxes and BECs at this power level, this will be new to me.



My grandfather is building a Phaeton also, he is going glow, he bought me mine and hopefully we can get them together and do some flying. Nice to have this thread.