Balsa Nova 120 Conversion

[edavis]

Hi Folks,

I'm interested in building an IMAA legal electric sport plane. I've seen the Morris Hobbies Balsa Nova 120 fly in a glow version and think it is terrific. Is this a good candidate for electric conversion? It's an 9-11 lb plane with an 80 inch wing. If so, what would be a good electric power system for this plane. What type of batteries should I use (I'm open to either NIMH or Li Po's). I would like to get at least 9 minutes run time on the batteries and be able to charge them with a car battery if possible (I'm trying to avoid the generators I've seen some people use for charging larger batteries). Also, are the new Cell Pro LiPos a good possibility and does anybody have much experience with quick charging these batteries. I've flown the 40 size electric planes with Axi 2600 series motors and 3 cell LiPo's and have had a lot of fun. I just don't have the experience with the bigger stuff and need advice.

[Ed Lyerly]

edavis,
I bought one of these a while back (the ARF). It appears to be an excellent candidate for conversion. It is built very light and will be no problem coming in at 10.5 lbs at 8S and 11 lbs at 10S. The top hatch is big enough for battery access. The wing (one piece) will be a an issue for some folks (transport wise).
I'm considering two power options. An AXI 5330/18 on Thunder Power 8S 2P 4000's, and a Hacker 14XL+6.7:1 on 10S 4000's. You should get 9-10 minutes on 4000's. At the expense of a little weight, you could use TP 5300's and get 12-15 minutes flying time.
Get your Lipos as 4S or 5S sticks and use a wiring harness to connect them in series to your ESC (I would use a Jeti 90). You can charge these from your car battery, but don't count on more than a couple charges for a 10S pack. An option would be to get a deep cycle marine battery, and take that along.
Ed

PS.... fill out your user profile, so we can see your location.

[kepople]

I owned the Glow .46 one, and it flew great. I have thought about getting the ARF for conversion so I would be looking forward to seeing how the big one does.
yes, the 1 piece wing is a pain even on the .46.

Kirby