Fred Bronk
May 29, 2003, 10:26 PM
<blockquote>
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<p>
The Silent Electric Flyers of San Diego (<a href="http://www.sefsd.org">www.sefsd.org</a>) have great fun fly each year
called the Mid-Winter Electric's (MWE). It has been held since 1999 in San Diego, California,
USA at their Mission Bay flying site right next to Sea World. It is held during the Presidents
Day weekend in February, giving a nice 4-day event by throwing in Friday. This year's dates were
Feb. 14<sup>th</sup>-17<sup>th</sup>. This is the 3<sup>rd</sup> year I was able to attend, and
was the best yet. It easily is the largest such event on the west coast. MWE is sponsored by
Hitec RCD, Quiet Flyer magazine and Model Airplane News.
</p>
<p>
The weather is always a big concern of any fun fly, but in San Diego this is normally of little
concern. Last year Saturday was the only good day for flying and it was touch and go this year
since it had rained most of the week. I was set to arrive on Friday morning for 4 days of fun,
but I learned that Friday was cancelled due to all the rain that week. I was
coming from the Sacramento area so I put off my departure a few hours arriving Friday afternoon.
</p>
<p>
The field was wet and parking was OK if you had a 4x4, with a few vehicles getting stuck (almost
me!) The field was so wet, in fact, members were out with a shop-vac drying the carpeting in the
pit area! The field was really improved since last year and very smooth.
I would estimate it at 75 ft wide and 500 ft long.
</p>
<p>
I checked in and was later told there were 153 registered pilots! Check in went smoothly (I
pre-registered) and was handled by Ellie Fulks and Donelle Griffin with a big smile. A nice
surprise was that Quiet Flyer Magazine had a baseball cap and magazine for all registered
pilots. Radio impound was greatly improved this year, and was handled by Lou Rosse'. My hat is
off to him as it was 10 times better than last year, but still had a bug or two.
</p>
<p>
MWE also has a great showing of vendors and almost anything can be found having to do with RC
Electric Planes. The vendors show a few new products and are also very generous with
donating prizes for the raffle held on Sunday. The Vendors row this year was a little cramped.
Next year I hope they open it up a little by going
longer vs. 3 wide again.
</p>
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<p>
Here is an overall picture of MWE to give you an idea of the size of he event. I would not have
cared to even attempt to count all the aircraft there, but with 153 pilots, 1000 planes would
not be out of line at all. (photo by Shawn Palmer)
</p>
<p>
The EZone did not have booth this year due to some miscommunications, so it let Shawn Palmer
run loose for the whole weekend. After meeting Shawn in person, I
don't think he would have lasted 5 minutes kept behind a table. Shawn did bring a few shirts for
the raffle and stickers for any and all Zoners.
</p>
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<p>
Hitec RCD, (<a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">www.hitecrcd.com</a>) one of the primary sponsors of MWE had a nice large booth
near the registration tent. I happened to catch Mike Mayberry and Glen Merritt on Saturday
morning. Hitec, as many of you know, have acquired Multiplex and were showing a speed 400 mini
Twinjet (single motor). Unfortunately it did not survive the weekend.
</p>
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<p>
Jack Dunkle of JMD Models (<a href="http://www.jmdmodels.com">www.jmdmodels.com</a>) had a nice display of micro helis (MS
Hornets) with scale fuselages and "shrunken" pod canopies that he offers. They were very
reasonably priced too, but he ran out of fuses quick which seems to happen with nice products.
The picture does not give the helis justice.
</p>
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<p>
Cavasos Model Design (now <a href="http://www.rcglider.com">www.RCGlider.com</a>) was there in force with this nice P-39 with a
Mega BL motor for power. The yellow one they flew was awesome with a roll rate that was scary!
He had all the HE cells you could want too. These Nimh cells work great in most S400
applications. You can see specs at (<a href="http://www.edogfight.com">www.eDogFight.com</a>).
</p>
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<p>
Mega Motors (<a href="http://www.megamotorusa.com">www.megamotorsusa.com</a>) was there and showed off 2 new motors. That included
a new large "outrunner" motor and the 16/7/x motor with a nice little gear-drive that bolts to a
single motor mount hole. Ken Mizell is the man behind Mega USA, and Kody Knudson was doing
great demo flights.
</p>
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<p>
The Mega Sig Rascal flew nice, but the little GWS Slow Stik with the 16/7/2 with geardrive just
floated around the field like it was tied to a balloon. Kody was torque-rolling and hovering it
with no ailerons!!
</p>
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<p>
Castle Creations (<a href="http://www.castlecreations.com">castlecreations.com</a>) was there and none other than Patrick delCastillo was
manning the booth. Besides his great ESC's and support, he was selling motor/ESC combos with
Mega, Razor, Aveox and Astro Flight motors. Patrick said there are some new upgrades coming out
for his ESC's including a PC interface and 60-80 amp Phoenix Brushless ESC's. No promise on the
interface release date, but can you imagine the ease in programming.
</p>
<p>
Bob Boucher of Astro Flight (<a href="http://www.astroflight.com">www.astroflight.com</a>) was hanging out
there too, and told me of the new 020 Brushless motors for the JR Voyager and the LMH Corona.
Bob also told me of a new 010 gearbox that is ready for release.
</p>
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<p>
Mountain Models (<a href="http://www.mountainmodels.com">www.mountainmodels.com</a>) run by Doug Binder made
the trip over (and down) from Colorado. Doug's models include the Switchback, Dandy,
Miniflash, Cessna 180 and DuskStik. The laser cut kits come with covering and can use
GWS power systems to Brushless systems. The Switchback and Miniflash give up nothing to high-end
planes except how much it costs to set one up. The picture above is when Doug finally got a
chance to slow down and fly on Monday morning.
</p>
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<p>
Hobby People (<a href="http://www.hobbypeople.net">www.hobbypeople.net</a>) had a nice big setup with a new product or 2. This is
their Tangent, TurboHawk EDF trainer (just released) and the Mig 15 EDF. The thing that
caught my eye was the micro retracts that are in-between the GWS micro units and the .10 IC
units available now. They will also have a steerable nosewheel and should be released by the
time you read this.
</p>
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<p>
Inner Demon (<a href="http://www.innerdemon.com">www.innerdemon.com</a>) is the new kid on the block for gearboxes with the Inner
Demon and Mini-Inner Driven units. Dan Renfern who designed them said the can handle 1-2 motors
from S400 can to 50 series brushless motors. They have an integral mount system and gear changes
are easy since it uses 48p RC Car pinions. It can be mounted as shown, or the standoffs can be
removed and it can be mounted right on the firewall, with the motor inside the plane.
</p>
<p>
The closeup is a Hacker B50 in the larger Inner Demon unit that is also used to power the Little
Tiger Moth. It flew great and was very realistic.
</p>
<p>
The Model-Tech Magic above is powered by a Hacker B40-8L with 5:1 gearing. It flew for 21
minutes with a Thunder Power Lithium Polymer 4p3s pack rated at 7800ma, and had unlimited
vertical!! I already had the 8L, so I bought an Inner Demon for me for my new Magic.
</p>
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<p>
Another new product is the High-Torque outrunner style Brushless motors
(<a href="http://www.high-torque.com">www.high-torque.com</a>). They are being imported by Craig Allen in both ready to run and
kits, so you can wind the motor to your liking, or change it if the KV is not right or just to
see what happens. Craig brought several planes and I was asked to pilot for him in the noon
demonstrations on Saturday. I flew the ShoeString, which did not want to get off the ground at
first. (you can see pictures of the flight and nose-over at the SEFSD website) Later, Craig told
me a wheel was rubbing badly in the wheelpant. All the planes had plenty of power, and I have
flown them all except the GeeBee. He did have a slight charging problem on Saturday night, and a
visit from the Fire Dept. in the Motel room. Thank goodness the only casualties were the cells!
</p>
<p>
And contrary to popular rumor, I was no where around!!! And yes, I have a witness.
</p>
<p>
Speaking of the flight demonstrations, they are now limited to 12PM to 1PM on Saturday at MWE.
This was stretched a little, but it worked out fine. This is nice change from a few years back
when demos or contests were every other hour or so. MWE is a funfly, so scheduled flying and
contests are kept to a minimum now.
</p>
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<p>
SEFSD had chairs set up next to the main tent so the public and some of us could sit and watch the
action. This area was full most of the time and I think real bleachers would not be a bad idea
at all.
</p>
<p>
Steve Neu of SEFSD had this gorgeous little B-58 Hustler that took off from a RC dolly. Even
though it was not EDF, the spinners matched the intakes very well and it flew great. It was
powered by 2 S400's. (B-58 picture by Stilianos Jackson)
</p>
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<p>
The best flight demonstration though were the three 3D planes sponsored by Aero-Model, the US
distributors of Hacker motors (<a href="http://www.aero-model.com">www.aero-model.com</a>). This picture (courtesy of SEFSD
member Stilianos Jackson) is of just 2 of the 3 planes that put on a great 3D demonstration. The
Pilots were Jason Shulman, who flew the Super Diablotin, Jason Franks on the E3D (a Gary Wright
model <a href="http://www.gwmp.net">www.gwmp.net</a>) and Gary Wright on the Funtana. All 3 planes were powered with geared
Hacker motors and Thunder Power Lithium Polymer batteries. Most of the flight was within 100 ft
of each other and just a few feet off the ground, much of that in a hover. Watch for more on the
Thunder Power Lithium Polymer packs in the future.
</p>
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<p>
Although I do not have a picture of the Hacker Booth (well I did, but lost most of my Saturday
pictures!) I got this shot of the charging setup for the Hacker team. The money involved here is
more than most of us will ever spend in this hobby. This was some of the happenings behind the
RC Direct booth. The serious one (arms folded) is John Weaver, owner of RC Direct
(<a href="http://www.rc-direct.com">www.rc-direct.com</a>). He Imports the Mikado line of helis into the US, and distributes the
BERG Receivers. Gary Wright is in the white shirt and Mark Mercer (RC Direct pilot) is next to
him.
</p>
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<p>
Not a 3D plane but very special on its own accord was this ј scale J-3 Cub by Mike Morgan.
An Actro 40-5 powers it on 30x2600 nimh cells. What makes the Cub special is it carries a 35mm
camera that is aimed with the aid of an on board GPS system and 2.4 ghz video link. It is used
for taking pictures of real estate, so aiming has to be accurate.
</p>
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<p>
It was onto regular open flying then, and I saw this nice little Norvel U-Can-2 built by Jim
Winters. Yes, it is a conversion, and the AF020 is hidden under the fake cylinder. It is direct
drive and has 8x1100 nimh cells.
</p>
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</p>
<p>
Here are 2 planes by Steve Neu, including the B-58 pictured above. The Coast Guard C-130 was
very clean and flew as good as it looks. The Blue Angels C-130 was flown a few times, but I
failed to find out who the owner was.
</p>
<p>
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<p>
Brian Chan (EAJ) had this ARF of the old Hobbie Hawk. It is now sold by Hobby Club
(<a href="http://hobbyclub.com">www.hobbyclub.com</a>) and is fully molded. It can be electric powered or a glider as
original. Brian comes to MWE from the San Francisco area.
</p>
<p>
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</p>
<p>
This is a typical picture of the pit area at MWE. Most pilots have several planes or and space
gets to be a premium at times. For instance, these helis belong to Mark Mercer and Jason Merkle
(LVRCflyer). There were 19 helicopters in the 2 spaces I shared with them. That did not include
the planes we brought!
</p>
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<p>
This is Ward Shelly (I got it right, guys!) with his Sportsman Aviation Super Decathlon. Ward
came down from Tracy, Ca. with Dave Roberts and they always have a Suburban filled with planes.
It is not uncommon to see a trailer behind the Suburban, like the sub isn't big enough! The
Decathlon is powered by an Actro 40-5 Brushless motor on 32x2400 nicads (gordy surplus cells).
Wingspan is 86 inches with 1245 sq. in. and a 14 lb. AUW, giving it a 30 oz. wing loading. An
18-8 prop gives 8 minute flights and 12 lbs. of thrust at 37 amps. Ward said he likes doing slow
fly buys the most and it flys great just above idle.
</p>
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<p>
Greg Gallegos (<a href="http://www.ecis.com/~cobrajet">www.ecis.com/~cobrajet</a>) flew his
Robbe Extra 300 for the first time at MWE. It is powered by a New Creations RC modified AF40 FAI
with a Superbox on 20x1700CP nicads. With an APC-E 16-14 (re-pitched 16-10) it was pulling 42
amps. It flew OK at 8 lbs. 3 ozs, but Greg was not happy with its flying as setup. We talked and
believe it needs a larger prop with less pitch, but the model really does not have the ground
clearance for that. So a 3 blade may be the next
step.
</p>
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</p>
<p>
This is Kyle Mashima (<a href="http://www.rccraze.com">www.rccraze.com</a>) about to fly his World Models 27% Extra 300 ARF.
Its span is 80 inches and it weighs 16.5 lbs. It uses the Inner Demon gearbox swinging a 20-10
APC-E prop at 5:1 with 2 Hacker B50-10XL's and 40x2600 nimh cells. There is a video floating
around which is worth seeing as this plane does fly well.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/43.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/43_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/44.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/44_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
During open flying it was not uncommon to see 6 planes in the air at once, and the helis tended
to stay near the north end of the field. There was no set rule to the helis flying there though,
it just seem to work out that way. But as you can see, we all shared the airspace with no
problems. Plus, many of the planes hovered as much as the helis! The OV-10 Bronco is the Hobby
Hanger kit (now available as an ARF) and this one belongs to Gary Wright. With retracts and 2
Hacker motors it tore up the sky. Gary made many a high-speed pass with it and it was rock
solid.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/45.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/45_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Mark Mercer of San Diego shows off his Joker with a Fury canopy. It used Lithium Polymer
batteries and is probably worth more than many of us make in a month. It is powered by an Actro
40-4 brushless motor with a matching 70-32 ESC. The main blades are 680mm SAB's and the Tail
Rotors are 105mm SAB's. Mark uses a Futaba 9z heli radio to keep it in line.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/46.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/46_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/47.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/47_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/48.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/48_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
This is Erich Stolz with his MS Hornet. It is the CP (collective pitch) version and Erich was
not shy about how to fly it. The basic heli is pretty much stock except it uses Delrin tail
rotor gears. A Hacker B20-22 powers it with 3x1020 Kokam Lithium cells. It is controlled with a
Berg 5 channel DSP receiver and 4xHS-50 Hitec servos and a Futaba GY240 gyro.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/49.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/49_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/50.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/50_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/51.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/51_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Sunday at noon was the raffle that many were waiting for. Here you see Bill Knoll (Dr. Jet) with
microphone in hand, prepping the crowd for the fun. It is always standing room only, but you
didn't have to be present to win. Brian Chan assisted Bill with handing out the prizes, and he
and Bill seemed to get their fare share of prices too. Raffle items included High-Torque, Hacker
and Aveox Motors, Shredair hats, Kits and ARF planes, battery packs and Hitec radio gear. The
sponsors as usual were very generous and many walked away with more than one item.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/52.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/52_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
After that, Dr. Jets limbo event was setup. This year it was going to be fun as you had to fly
under this wire on the table to qualify (not really, but thoughts were going in my head) This is
an All Up, Last Down event, with emphasis on the last down! Anything goes and you score points
by flying under the wire right side up or inverted and knocking other planes from the air.
</p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/53.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/53_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
I think this is when Shawn got really excited and was close to overload. Greg was watching the
setup and contemplating his strategy. I got Shawn to video the event, which turned out really
good.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/54.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/54_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/55.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/55_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/56.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/56_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Then came out the real limbo setup and eyebrows began to rise. A wire was strung across the
runway as per any limbo event, and a few bricks came out. Big treble hooks were attached hanging
into the flight path, and then the lighter fluid came out. Yes, they lit the bricks on fire and
the game begun! At least the razor wire was not strung across the top like last year!
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/57.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/57_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/58.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/58_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/59.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/59_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Launch was en masse and the carnage began. Right away a Sky Scooter got hooked good! It was near
the center, but the hooks were not attached to the limbo line. So the wind blew it over to one
side, taking most of the other hooks with it. It was open season from then on, but I don't
recall any mid-air take-outs. Some planes hit the wire, the ground and one even ended up on the
raffle tent after hitting the poll which spun it up and onto the tent.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/60.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/60_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/61.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/61_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/62.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/62_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
It was apparent early on though that the plane to beat was the TwinJet flown by Gary Wright with
a single High-Torque motor pushing it with authority. Gary made pass after pass inverted under
the wire and was the last one up with ease. The Twinjet was the last plane up and Gary made one
final pass (inverted of course), then landed to claim the prize.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/63.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/63_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/64.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/64_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
This is Gary with the TwinJet's owner, Craig Allen of High-Torque motors. Gary's prize was a
Zagi-Clone kit. The best crash prize (or hook, since it never hit the ground) went to Wayne
"Crash" Walker, who won a Hitec Radio. (Sky-Scooter picture by Stilianos Jackson)
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/65.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/65_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/66.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/66_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
With the events over and being Sunday afternoon many began to leave and flying time was easier
to obtain. Doug from Mountain Models let me fly his slightly used Dandy. I had lost my Magic to
radio problems on Saturday so I welcomed the flight time.
</p>
<p>
I also saw this Double Dioblotin owned by Joe McBride. It was power by 2 geared Hacker B50-13
motors with 16 cells for each motor. It was a strange site in the sky, but it flew well and had
plenty of power.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/71.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/71_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
On Sunday evening Shawn Palmer, Greg Gallegos, Mark Wood and myself had dinner. The E Zone and RC
Groups was easily the main topic, and I think you all will be happy with what you will see in
the future. It was to bad that Jim Bourke could not attend MWE, but he did buy us dinner. Thanks
Jim!!! <b>[Ed note: What?? I bought dinner!?]</b>
</p>
<p>
On Monday it really slowed up and I got to do a little more flying. It was mostly the TwinJet
that won the Limbo event. The TJ is really fast and has a roll rate of like 3 per second, so it
can really keep you on your toes. Plus with a 400-watt motor turning a 9-inch pusher, hand
launches can be fun!
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/68.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/68_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/69.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/69_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
I also spied this Eindecker that I got no info on (sorry). It had about a 40 inch wingspan and
just floated around looking great with the Mission Bay background. Then I saw this sleek little
plane that looked really familiar. It is called the Aero-Arrow was designed and built by Jack
Hix. If you look close it is the plane on the SEFSD Logo!
</p>
<p>
I also met Tim Gantz who came out Monday with these 2 nice 3D planes. One is the Mini-Diobloton
powered by a B40-8L w/4.4:1 planetary gearbox and 10xCP1700's throwing a 13-6.5. The other is
the WildStyle powered by a B50 w/6.7:1 pgb on 16x1700's and a 15-10 prop.
</p>
<p>
I know I left out a lot of information, but this just gives you more of a reason to not miss MWE
next year. If you can, MWE is worth the trip from almost anywhere. There is plenty for the
family to do also if they don't want to tag along. Hope to see more of you next year!
</p>
<p>
I want to thank Shawn Palmer and Stilianos Jackson of SEFSD for helping me out with pictures.
</p>
<p>
I also want to thank SEFSD for having MWE and letting all the guys (and Ladies) get together for
a fun weekend of flying and sharing ideas..
</p>
</blockquote>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/1.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/1_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
The Silent Electric Flyers of San Diego (<a href="http://www.sefsd.org">www.sefsd.org</a>) have great fun fly each year
called the Mid-Winter Electric's (MWE). It has been held since 1999 in San Diego, California,
USA at their Mission Bay flying site right next to Sea World. It is held during the Presidents
Day weekend in February, giving a nice 4-day event by throwing in Friday. This year's dates were
Feb. 14<sup>th</sup>-17<sup>th</sup>. This is the 3<sup>rd</sup> year I was able to attend, and
was the best yet. It easily is the largest such event on the west coast. MWE is sponsored by
Hitec RCD, Quiet Flyer magazine and Model Airplane News.
</p>
<p>
The weather is always a big concern of any fun fly, but in San Diego this is normally of little
concern. Last year Saturday was the only good day for flying and it was touch and go this year
since it had rained most of the week. I was set to arrive on Friday morning for 4 days of fun,
but I learned that Friday was cancelled due to all the rain that week. I was
coming from the Sacramento area so I put off my departure a few hours arriving Friday afternoon.
</p>
<p>
The field was wet and parking was OK if you had a 4x4, with a few vehicles getting stuck (almost
me!) The field was so wet, in fact, members were out with a shop-vac drying the carpeting in the
pit area! The field was really improved since last year and very smooth.
I would estimate it at 75 ft wide and 500 ft long.
</p>
<p>
I checked in and was later told there were 153 registered pilots! Check in went smoothly (I
pre-registered) and was handled by Ellie Fulks and Donelle Griffin with a big smile. A nice
surprise was that Quiet Flyer Magazine had a baseball cap and magazine for all registered
pilots. Radio impound was greatly improved this year, and was handled by Lou Rosse'. My hat is
off to him as it was 10 times better than last year, but still had a bug or two.
</p>
<p>
MWE also has a great showing of vendors and almost anything can be found having to do with RC
Electric Planes. The vendors show a few new products and are also very generous with
donating prizes for the raffle held on Sunday. The Vendors row this year was a little cramped.
Next year I hope they open it up a little by going
longer vs. 3 wide again.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/6.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/6_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Here is an overall picture of MWE to give you an idea of the size of he event. I would not have
cared to even attempt to count all the aircraft there, but with 153 pilots, 1000 planes would
not be out of line at all. (photo by Shawn Palmer)
</p>
<p>
The EZone did not have booth this year due to some miscommunications, so it let Shawn Palmer
run loose for the whole weekend. After meeting Shawn in person, I
don't think he would have lasted 5 minutes kept behind a table. Shawn did bring a few shirts for
the raffle and stickers for any and all Zoners.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/7.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/7_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Hitec RCD, (<a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">www.hitecrcd.com</a>) one of the primary sponsors of MWE had a nice large booth
near the registration tent. I happened to catch Mike Mayberry and Glen Merritt on Saturday
morning. Hitec, as many of you know, have acquired Multiplex and were showing a speed 400 mini
Twinjet (single motor). Unfortunately it did not survive the weekend.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/8.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/8_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Jack Dunkle of JMD Models (<a href="http://www.jmdmodels.com">www.jmdmodels.com</a>) had a nice display of micro helis (MS
Hornets) with scale fuselages and "shrunken" pod canopies that he offers. They were very
reasonably priced too, but he ran out of fuses quick which seems to happen with nice products.
The picture does not give the helis justice.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/9.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/9_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/10.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/10_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Cavasos Model Design (now <a href="http://www.rcglider.com">www.RCGlider.com</a>) was there in force with this nice P-39 with a
Mega BL motor for power. The yellow one they flew was awesome with a roll rate that was scary!
He had all the HE cells you could want too. These Nimh cells work great in most S400
applications. You can see specs at (<a href="http://www.edogfight.com">www.eDogFight.com</a>).
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/11.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/11_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Mega Motors (<a href="http://www.megamotorusa.com">www.megamotorsusa.com</a>) was there and showed off 2 new motors. That included
a new large "outrunner" motor and the 16/7/x motor with a nice little gear-drive that bolts to a
single motor mount hole. Ken Mizell is the man behind Mega USA, and Kody Knudson was doing
great demo flights.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/12.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/12_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/13.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/13_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
The Mega Sig Rascal flew nice, but the little GWS Slow Stik with the 16/7/2 with geardrive just
floated around the field like it was tied to a balloon. Kody was torque-rolling and hovering it
with no ailerons!!
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/14.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/14_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Castle Creations (<a href="http://www.castlecreations.com">castlecreations.com</a>) was there and none other than Patrick delCastillo was
manning the booth. Besides his great ESC's and support, he was selling motor/ESC combos with
Mega, Razor, Aveox and Astro Flight motors. Patrick said there are some new upgrades coming out
for his ESC's including a PC interface and 60-80 amp Phoenix Brushless ESC's. No promise on the
interface release date, but can you imagine the ease in programming.
</p>
<p>
Bob Boucher of Astro Flight (<a href="http://www.astroflight.com">www.astroflight.com</a>) was hanging out
there too, and told me of the new 020 Brushless motors for the JR Voyager and the LMH Corona.
Bob also told me of a new 010 gearbox that is ready for release.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/15.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/15_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/16.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/16_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Mountain Models (<a href="http://www.mountainmodels.com">www.mountainmodels.com</a>) run by Doug Binder made
the trip over (and down) from Colorado. Doug's models include the Switchback, Dandy,
Miniflash, Cessna 180 and DuskStik. The laser cut kits come with covering and can use
GWS power systems to Brushless systems. The Switchback and Miniflash give up nothing to high-end
planes except how much it costs to set one up. The picture above is when Doug finally got a
chance to slow down and fly on Monday morning.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/17.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/17_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/18.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/18_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Hobby People (<a href="http://www.hobbypeople.net">www.hobbypeople.net</a>) had a nice big setup with a new product or 2. This is
their Tangent, TurboHawk EDF trainer (just released) and the Mig 15 EDF. The thing that
caught my eye was the micro retracts that are in-between the GWS micro units and the .10 IC
units available now. They will also have a steerable nosewheel and should be released by the
time you read this.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/19.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/19_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/20.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/20_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/21.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/21_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/22.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/22_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Inner Demon (<a href="http://www.innerdemon.com">www.innerdemon.com</a>) is the new kid on the block for gearboxes with the Inner
Demon and Mini-Inner Driven units. Dan Renfern who designed them said the can handle 1-2 motors
from S400 can to 50 series brushless motors. They have an integral mount system and gear changes
are easy since it uses 48p RC Car pinions. It can be mounted as shown, or the standoffs can be
removed and it can be mounted right on the firewall, with the motor inside the plane.
</p>
<p>
The closeup is a Hacker B50 in the larger Inner Demon unit that is also used to power the Little
Tiger Moth. It flew great and was very realistic.
</p>
<p>
The Model-Tech Magic above is powered by a Hacker B40-8L with 5:1 gearing. It flew for 21
minutes with a Thunder Power Lithium Polymer 4p3s pack rated at 7800ma, and had unlimited
vertical!! I already had the 8L, so I bought an Inner Demon for me for my new Magic.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/23.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/23_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/24.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/24_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/25.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/25_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Another new product is the High-Torque outrunner style Brushless motors
(<a href="http://www.high-torque.com">www.high-torque.com</a>). They are being imported by Craig Allen in both ready to run and
kits, so you can wind the motor to your liking, or change it if the KV is not right or just to
see what happens. Craig brought several planes and I was asked to pilot for him in the noon
demonstrations on Saturday. I flew the ShoeString, which did not want to get off the ground at
first. (you can see pictures of the flight and nose-over at the SEFSD website) Later, Craig told
me a wheel was rubbing badly in the wheelpant. All the planes had plenty of power, and I have
flown them all except the GeeBee. He did have a slight charging problem on Saturday night, and a
visit from the Fire Dept. in the Motel room. Thank goodness the only casualties were the cells!
</p>
<p>
And contrary to popular rumor, I was no where around!!! And yes, I have a witness.
</p>
<p>
Speaking of the flight demonstrations, they are now limited to 12PM to 1PM on Saturday at MWE.
This was stretched a little, but it worked out fine. This is nice change from a few years back
when demos or contests were every other hour or so. MWE is a funfly, so scheduled flying and
contests are kept to a minimum now.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/26.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/26_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/27.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/27_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
SEFSD had chairs set up next to the main tent so the public and some of us could sit and watch the
action. This area was full most of the time and I think real bleachers would not be a bad idea
at all.
</p>
<p>
Steve Neu of SEFSD had this gorgeous little B-58 Hustler that took off from a RC dolly. Even
though it was not EDF, the spinners matched the intakes very well and it flew great. It was
powered by 2 S400's. (B-58 picture by Stilianos Jackson)
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/28.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/28_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/31.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/31_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
The best flight demonstration though were the three 3D planes sponsored by Aero-Model, the US
distributors of Hacker motors (<a href="http://www.aero-model.com">www.aero-model.com</a>). This picture (courtesy of SEFSD
member Stilianos Jackson) is of just 2 of the 3 planes that put on a great 3D demonstration. The
Pilots were Jason Shulman, who flew the Super Diablotin, Jason Franks on the E3D (a Gary Wright
model <a href="http://www.gwmp.net">www.gwmp.net</a>) and Gary Wright on the Funtana. All 3 planes were powered with geared
Hacker motors and Thunder Power Lithium Polymer batteries. Most of the flight was within 100 ft
of each other and just a few feet off the ground, much of that in a hover. Watch for more on the
Thunder Power Lithium Polymer packs in the future.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/33.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/33_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/33a.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/33a_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Although I do not have a picture of the Hacker Booth (well I did, but lost most of my Saturday
pictures!) I got this shot of the charging setup for the Hacker team. The money involved here is
more than most of us will ever spend in this hobby. This was some of the happenings behind the
RC Direct booth. The serious one (arms folded) is John Weaver, owner of RC Direct
(<a href="http://www.rc-direct.com">www.rc-direct.com</a>). He Imports the Mikado line of helis into the US, and distributes the
BERG Receivers. Gary Wright is in the white shirt and Mark Mercer (RC Direct pilot) is next to
him.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/29.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/29_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/30.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/30_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Not a 3D plane but very special on its own accord was this ј scale J-3 Cub by Mike Morgan.
An Actro 40-5 powers it on 30x2600 nimh cells. What makes the Cub special is it carries a 35mm
camera that is aimed with the aid of an on board GPS system and 2.4 ghz video link. It is used
for taking pictures of real estate, so aiming has to be accurate.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/32.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/32_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
It was onto regular open flying then, and I saw this nice little Norvel U-Can-2 built by Jim
Winters. Yes, it is a conversion, and the AF020 is hidden under the fake cylinder. It is direct
drive and has 8x1100 nimh cells.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/34.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/34_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/35.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/35_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Here are 2 planes by Steve Neu, including the B-58 pictured above. The Coast Guard C-130 was
very clean and flew as good as it looks. The Blue Angels C-130 was flown a few times, but I
failed to find out who the owner was.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/36.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/36_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Brian Chan (EAJ) had this ARF of the old Hobbie Hawk. It is now sold by Hobby Club
(<a href="http://hobbyclub.com">www.hobbyclub.com</a>) and is fully molded. It can be electric powered or a glider as
original. Brian comes to MWE from the San Francisco area.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/37.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/37_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/38.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/38_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
This is a typical picture of the pit area at MWE. Most pilots have several planes or and space
gets to be a premium at times. For instance, these helis belong to Mark Mercer and Jason Merkle
(LVRCflyer). There were 19 helicopters in the 2 spaces I shared with them. That did not include
the planes we brought!
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/39.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/39_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/40.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/40_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
This is Ward Shelly (I got it right, guys!) with his Sportsman Aviation Super Decathlon. Ward
came down from Tracy, Ca. with Dave Roberts and they always have a Suburban filled with planes.
It is not uncommon to see a trailer behind the Suburban, like the sub isn't big enough! The
Decathlon is powered by an Actro 40-5 Brushless motor on 32x2400 nicads (gordy surplus cells).
Wingspan is 86 inches with 1245 sq. in. and a 14 lb. AUW, giving it a 30 oz. wing loading. An
18-8 prop gives 8 minute flights and 12 lbs. of thrust at 37 amps. Ward said he likes doing slow
fly buys the most and it flys great just above idle.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/41.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/41_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Greg Gallegos (<a href="http://www.ecis.com/~cobrajet">www.ecis.com/~cobrajet</a>) flew his
Robbe Extra 300 for the first time at MWE. It is powered by a New Creations RC modified AF40 FAI
with a Superbox on 20x1700CP nicads. With an APC-E 16-14 (re-pitched 16-10) it was pulling 42
amps. It flew OK at 8 lbs. 3 ozs, but Greg was not happy with its flying as setup. We talked and
believe it needs a larger prop with less pitch, but the model really does not have the ground
clearance for that. So a 3 blade may be the next
step.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/42.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/42_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
This is Kyle Mashima (<a href="http://www.rccraze.com">www.rccraze.com</a>) about to fly his World Models 27% Extra 300 ARF.
Its span is 80 inches and it weighs 16.5 lbs. It uses the Inner Demon gearbox swinging a 20-10
APC-E prop at 5:1 with 2 Hacker B50-10XL's and 40x2600 nimh cells. There is a video floating
around which is worth seeing as this plane does fly well.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/43.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/43_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/44.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/44_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
During open flying it was not uncommon to see 6 planes in the air at once, and the helis tended
to stay near the north end of the field. There was no set rule to the helis flying there though,
it just seem to work out that way. But as you can see, we all shared the airspace with no
problems. Plus, many of the planes hovered as much as the helis! The OV-10 Bronco is the Hobby
Hanger kit (now available as an ARF) and this one belongs to Gary Wright. With retracts and 2
Hacker motors it tore up the sky. Gary made many a high-speed pass with it and it was rock
solid.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/45.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/45_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Mark Mercer of San Diego shows off his Joker with a Fury canopy. It used Lithium Polymer
batteries and is probably worth more than many of us make in a month. It is powered by an Actro
40-4 brushless motor with a matching 70-32 ESC. The main blades are 680mm SAB's and the Tail
Rotors are 105mm SAB's. Mark uses a Futaba 9z heli radio to keep it in line.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/46.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/46_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/47.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/47_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/48.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/48_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
This is Erich Stolz with his MS Hornet. It is the CP (collective pitch) version and Erich was
not shy about how to fly it. The basic heli is pretty much stock except it uses Delrin tail
rotor gears. A Hacker B20-22 powers it with 3x1020 Kokam Lithium cells. It is controlled with a
Berg 5 channel DSP receiver and 4xHS-50 Hitec servos and a Futaba GY240 gyro.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/49.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/49_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/50.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/50_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/51.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/51_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Sunday at noon was the raffle that many were waiting for. Here you see Bill Knoll (Dr. Jet) with
microphone in hand, prepping the crowd for the fun. It is always standing room only, but you
didn't have to be present to win. Brian Chan assisted Bill with handing out the prizes, and he
and Bill seemed to get their fare share of prices too. Raffle items included High-Torque, Hacker
and Aveox Motors, Shredair hats, Kits and ARF planes, battery packs and Hitec radio gear. The
sponsors as usual were very generous and many walked away with more than one item.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/52.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/52_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
After that, Dr. Jets limbo event was setup. This year it was going to be fun as you had to fly
under this wire on the table to qualify (not really, but thoughts were going in my head) This is
an All Up, Last Down event, with emphasis on the last down! Anything goes and you score points
by flying under the wire right side up or inverted and knocking other planes from the air.
</p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/53.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/53_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
I think this is when Shawn got really excited and was close to overload. Greg was watching the
setup and contemplating his strategy. I got Shawn to video the event, which turned out really
good.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/54.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/54_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/55.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/55_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/56.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/56_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Then came out the real limbo setup and eyebrows began to rise. A wire was strung across the
runway as per any limbo event, and a few bricks came out. Big treble hooks were attached hanging
into the flight path, and then the lighter fluid came out. Yes, they lit the bricks on fire and
the game begun! At least the razor wire was not strung across the top like last year!
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/57.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/57_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/58.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/58_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/59.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/59_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
Launch was en masse and the carnage began. Right away a Sky Scooter got hooked good! It was near
the center, but the hooks were not attached to the limbo line. So the wind blew it over to one
side, taking most of the other hooks with it. It was open season from then on, but I don't
recall any mid-air take-outs. Some planes hit the wire, the ground and one even ended up on the
raffle tent after hitting the poll which spun it up and onto the tent.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/60.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/60_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
<td align="center" width="50%">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/61.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/61_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="100%" colspan="2">
<a href="/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/62.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/2003/jun/mwe/62_t.jpg"></a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<p>
It was apparent early on though that the plane to beat was the TwinJet flown by Gary Wright with
a single High-Torque motor pushing it with authority. Gary made pass after pass inverted under
the wire and was the last one up with ease. The Twinjet was the last plane up and Gary made one
final pass (inverted of course), then landed to claim the prize.
</p>
<p>
<table align="center" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="4" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="center" width="50%">
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</p>
<p>
This is Gary with the TwinJet's owner, Craig Allen of High-Torque motors. Gary's prize was a
Zagi-Clone kit. The best crash prize (or hook, since it never hit the ground) went to Wayne
"Crash" Walker, who won a Hitec Radio. (Sky-Scooter picture by Stilianos Jackson)
</p>
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</p>
<p>
With the events over and being Sunday afternoon many began to leave and flying time was easier
to obtain. Doug from Mountain Models let me fly his slightly used Dandy. I had lost my Magic to
radio problems on Saturday so I welcomed the flight time.
</p>
<p>
I also saw this Double Dioblotin owned by Joe McBride. It was power by 2 geared Hacker B50-13
motors with 16 cells for each motor. It was a strange site in the sky, but it flew well and had
plenty of power.
</p>
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<p>
On Sunday evening Shawn Palmer, Greg Gallegos, Mark Wood and myself had dinner. The E Zone and RC
Groups was easily the main topic, and I think you all will be happy with what you will see in
the future. It was to bad that Jim Bourke could not attend MWE, but he did buy us dinner. Thanks
Jim!!! <b>[Ed note: What?? I bought dinner!?]</b>
</p>
<p>
On Monday it really slowed up and I got to do a little more flying. It was mostly the TwinJet
that won the Limbo event. The TJ is really fast and has a roll rate of like 3 per second, so it
can really keep you on your toes. Plus with a 400-watt motor turning a 9-inch pusher, hand
launches can be fun!
</p>
<p>
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</p>
<p>
I also spied this Eindecker that I got no info on (sorry). It had about a 40 inch wingspan and
just floated around looking great with the Mission Bay background. Then I saw this sleek little
plane that looked really familiar. It is called the Aero-Arrow was designed and built by Jack
Hix. If you look close it is the plane on the SEFSD Logo!
</p>
<p>
I also met Tim Gantz who came out Monday with these 2 nice 3D planes. One is the Mini-Diobloton
powered by a B40-8L w/4.4:1 planetary gearbox and 10xCP1700's throwing a 13-6.5. The other is
the WildStyle powered by a B50 w/6.7:1 pgb on 16x1700's and a 15-10 prop.
</p>
<p>
I know I left out a lot of information, but this just gives you more of a reason to not miss MWE
next year. If you can, MWE is worth the trip from almost anywhere. There is plenty for the
family to do also if they don't want to tag along. Hope to see more of you next year!
</p>
<p>
I want to thank Shawn Palmer and Stilianos Jackson of SEFSD for helping me out with pictures.
</p>
<p>
I also want to thank SEFSD for having MWE and letting all the guys (and Ladies) get together for
a fun weekend of flying and sharing ideas..
</p>
</blockquote>