SLOW-STICK X Build

[jkarpy]

This is the start of the Slow Stick X Build thread. The intention of the thread is to cover both the kit and ARF version. Post number one will serve as an index to the body of this thread and other related threads. Post number one can change daily as new information and ideas are available. Relevant posts are any thing related directly to the Slow Stick X or any product that can be used with the Slow Stick X.

Slow Stick X links

Slow Stick X with Floats
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=707903
Slow Stick X in Flight
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=645923&highlight=Slow+Stick+X
Build Video Part 1 (Wing)
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=644624&highlight=Slow+Stick+X

Build Video Part 2 (Tail Feathers)
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=652409

Slow Stick X in Flight
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=630843&highlight=Slow+Stick+X

Flying indoor at Perry
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=651528


Slow Stick X Specifications

Wing Dimensions: Length trailing edge 43” leading edge 39.5” Width 12”

Wing Cord: Full symmetrical constant cord and is 2” at its widest point.

Wing Weight: without a servo installed and covered with a light model covering the wing weighs approximately 6 7/8 oz

Total Model flying weight: without a battery installed the plane weighs between 16 and 20 oz, depending on your setup. Keep it light for best performance!

Flight Characteristics: The Slow Stick X Can fly slow or fast. It has an extremely slow stall speed yet it is a fully aerobatic model. The SSX also flies well in windy conditions. Inverted flight characteristics are also excellent. When balanced properly the SSX will fly inverted as well as it does upright.
The Slow Stick X is an excellent model for novice to expert pilots. It is an extremely versatile model. On low rates the model can be docile and easy to fly. On high rates it can be an extreme stunt machine.

Motor
Sport class: 740Kv -1000Kv Brushless Outrunner with 10-3/8 APC SF prop
Extreme Flight: 4200 KV Brushless Inrunner Geared 7.6:1 with 12-6 APC SF prop or Hacker A20-22L with a 10-4.7 SF prop

Battery recommend 1320 mah 3 cell LiPO Note: other batteries will work as long as the model is balanced.
I have flown this model on the stock GWS setup using Nimh batteries with some successes. However, I do not recommend it for acrobatics.


Balancing
Always balance with the battery you will fly with. If you go to a lighter battery, you will need to rebalance. When balancing, just move the wing and plastic mounts forward or aft. The balance point is at the spar. I would also recommend placing your servos and receiver toward the tail section when the model is nose heavy. Never add weight to balance when you can just change the position of components. Keep the wing leading edge 5.5 – 6 inches from the front tip of the fuselage stick. It is also a good idea to balance the wing tip to tip.

Note: Recent testing has shown that the CG can be pushed back slightly. This will improve inverted flight and hovering. I have been balancing with the side of my fingers touching the trailing edge of the spar.

Covering

Recommended covering: Solite is the lightest. However, it punctures easily. I like to use transparent Ultracote. I use Monokote for my travel models because of its durability. The model flies well with almost any covering.

MAIN WING: Tack all four corners first; just like you are putting a sheet on a bed. Keep wrinkles to a minimum. Use low heat just in case you mess-up. This way you can pull the covering off and start over. Then tack the middle leading and trailing edge. Next tack the middle tip and middle/center of the center decking. Now turn the heat up. Run the iron up the main spar and start pulling the covering over the leading and trailing edge while ironing it down. Save the wing tips for last. I typically have about 2” of overhang on the covering when doing the wing. After you trim it off, you can use the leftover for the ailerons.

Wing Tips: I use a heat gun at high setting and divide the wrinkles evenly throughout the wing tip. I then use the heat to shrink out the wrinkles. At the same time I am pulling and stretching around the wing tip edge. I also use my fingers to brace the wing tip to prevent it from breaking. Use your thumb and index finger to grip the covering and the remaining fingers push the opposite side of the tip you are covering. If you have a hot grip glove it helps. Ultra cote is best, but you should be able to get good results with Monokote. The yellow plane below is covered with Monokote.



Slow Stick / Slow Stick X improvements
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=6987564&postcount=10

[MustangAce17]

j,let me know when u get the ARF out,It was lots of fun to fly at night at Ocala :D Kyle

[jkarpy]

j,let me know when u get the ARF out,It was lots of fun to fly at night at Ocala :D Kyle
Wow! you found this Thread quick. I just started it today. Sorry I did not make it back to Ocala Sunday. It was just too windy.

Graves will have ARF kits soon.

[MustangAce17]

no prob J,Sunday was cancelled,looks like a trip to graves will be in store soon!

[Team3D]

I want one please :D

I owned a slow stick ever since it came out. My dad, me, and my brother have taught many people on it. Right now I fly (almost) pattern and also 3D. This design really caught me be suprise. I like it very much. My dad owns a castle creation mamba and I think it would go great with this plane. I think this plane will also be a big fun-fly hit. I know I am hook on this plane and I will be watching this thread very closely for updates and ect. I am hooked thats all I can say....


Team3d

[roidspop]

I've built a wing similar to this one; it has half-span ailerons, dual servos, a sort of "booster-chair" arrangement to get the wing up high enough to clear the rudder and elevator servos. It is really astonishing what it has done for the old Stick. It is without a doubt my favorite plane now; I've got about 120 flights on it and it's the one I reach for time after time. I'd go for full-span ailerons if I were to rebuild it, and I'd probably make the airfoil thinner for a little better speed and climb, but as it is it's turned the Stick into a wonderful plane...very aerobatic, loves flying inverted, very tight turning radius, a little faster than the conventional wing, but floaty and easy to land.

So 3D, GET ONE! You'll just love it.

[jkarpy]

I want one please :D

I owned a slow stick ever since it came out. My dad, me, and my brother have taught many people on it. Right now I fly (almost) pattern and also 3D. This design really caught me be suprise. I like it very much. My dad owns a castle creation mamba and I think it would go great with this plane. I think this plane will also be a big fun-fly hit. I know I am hook on this plane and I will be watching this thread very closely for updates and ect. I am hooked thats all I can say....


Team3d
Thanks for the interest, you can buy one from Millennium R/C

http://www.flyerc.com

[jkarpy]

I've built a wing similar to this one; it has half-span ailerons, dual servos, a sort of "booster-chair" arrangement to get the wing up high enough to clear the rudder and elevator servos. It is really astonishing what it has done for the old Stick. It is without a doubt my favorite plane now; I've got about 120 flights on it and it's the one I reach for time after time. I'd go for full-span ailerons if I were to rebuild it, and I'd probably make the airfoil thinner for a little better speed and climb, but as it is it's turned the Stick into a wonderful plane...very aerobatic, loves flying inverted, very tight turning radius, a little faster than the conventional wing, but floaty and easy to land.

So 3D, GET ONE! You'll just love it.

Do you have a picture?

[jkarpy]

Here are the latest Instructions for Slow Stick X wing kit.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=6970305&postcount=1

[jkarpy]

One minor design flaw in the original Slow Stick is that the rubber band posts are too short.
Using 5/32 aluminum tubing, cut 4 3/8 long pieces. Use thick CA glue and glue them to the existing rubber band posts of the original Slow Stick wing saddles. Make sure you do not leave sharp edges that can cut the rubber bands. I like to fill the tube with thick CA and leave a bead at the top of the tube. If you do not have a tubing cutter, you can use an Exacto knife in a rolling action to cut the tubing.







Return to build thread
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=646592#post6970305

[rcproptester]

I regret I didn't get to see Ryan fly this at Perry, but I was too busy helping the crew at Hodges hobbies out..... I was able to score a kit though, and I'll start my build very soon.. I'm ready to do it! That thing looked great!!!

[jkarpy]

I regret I didn't get to see Ryan fly this at Perry, but I was too busy helping the crew at Hodges hobbies out..... I was able to score a kit though, and I'll start my build very soon.. I'm ready to do it! That thing looked great!!!

Thanks, be sure to watch my build video. Here is a link to my build tread. Keep an Eye open for more stuff this week. I look forward to seeing you guys at SEFF.

[Tha Hodgehound]

I regret I didn't get to see Ryan fly this at Perry, but I was too busy helping the crew at Hodges hobbies out..... I was able to score a kit though, and I'll start my build very soon.. I'm ready to do it! That thing looked great!!!


Hey!!!! you didn't score a kit for the old original stock Slow Stick master???? Whaddup wid dat??? :( :p Might have to get one of those. Looks like a great night flyer! Hmmm...night combat???
jkarpy..will you have some kits at SEFF???

[jkarpy]

Hey!!!! you didn't score a kit for the old original stock Slow Stick master???? Whaddup wid dat??? :( :p Might have to get one of those. Looks like a great night flyer! Hmmm...night combat???
jkarpy..will you have some kits at SEFF???

This is my night flyer. I use Align rope lights that highlight the leading edge and wing tip. I also have a blinking LED on the tail and a pair of landing lights under the wing. The landing lights are switched and light up the runway nicely. I will have it at SEFF. The carbon fiber is fake, I used the Ultra cote carbon fiber look alike. I will have kits at SEFF and I am working hard to try and have my ARF kits ready for SEFF.

http://www.align.com.tw/shop/index.php?cPath=22_29&sort=2a&page=3
Horizon sells them.

[Tha Hodgehound]

cool man! Might just have to get 1 from ya!

[jkarpy]

cool man! Might just have to get 1 from ya!
Thanks! :)

[rcproptester]

Hey!!!! you didn't score a kit for the old original stock Slow Stick master???? Whaddup wid dat??? :( :p Might have to get one of those. Looks like a great night flyer! Hmmm...night combat???
jkarpy..will you have some kits at SEFF???
no night combat with this one dood!
I am considering putting glowire inside the wing on this before I cover it. If I can figure out how to connect and disconnect the wire, I will.... It'll be fantabulous..... :D




Oh yeah, as far as the scoring one for the SS master....ahem....who exactly is StickKiller? (http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/view/mb/profile/hodgeshobbies/StickKiller)

[Bayward]

Can this wing be easily built to accommodate two servos for the ailerons for flaperons ? Anyone try this ?

Bob

[rcproptester]

I was thinking of trying that when I get to building mine.... I'd like to know also

[jkarpy]

no night combat with this one dood!
I am considering putting glowire inside the wing on this before I cover it. If I can figure out how to connect and disconnect the wire, I will.... It'll be fantabulous..... :D




Oh yeah, as far as the scoring one for the SS master....ahem....who exactly is StickKiller? (http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/view/mb/profile/hodgeshobbies/StickKiller)

There is plenty of room in the middle of the wing for your lipo and glowire driver. I use standard servo wires to connect to the fuselage lights. Jus reverse male vs female so you don’t hook your light system into your receiver by accident.

[jkarpy]

Can this wing be easily built to accommodate two servos for the ailerons for flaperons ? Anyone try this ?

Bob

The servo Deck is designed to hold one or two servos mounted side by side.

[Heatboxer]

I cant wait for a arf of this. I will snatch it up SO quick.

[jkarpy]

Can this wing be easily built to accommodate two servos for the ailerons for flaperons ? Anyone try this ?

Bob
The servo Deck is designed to hold one or two servos mounted side by side.

[jkarpy]

I cant wait for a arf of this. I will snatch it up SO quick.

I can't wait to sell you one. :D I spent the better part of today building the wing jig. ARFs are comming!

[Bayward]

The X wing is about six inches shorter in span than the oem SS wing, correct ? How does this affect flight ? Faster, more maneuverable or what? Note that I am a novice RC pilot that is learning with a SS.

What is the weight compared to a stock SS ? What motor do you recommend with the X wing setup ?

Sorry for all the questions, but I am going to order your wing and just want to know what else to get and what to expect.

Bob

[jkarpy]

The X wing is about six inches shorter in span than the oem SS wing, correct ? How does this affect flight ? Faster, more maneuverable or what? Note that I am a novice RC pilot that is learning with a SS.

What is the weight compared to a stock SS ? What motor do you recommend with the X wing setup ?

Sorry for all the questions, but I am going to order your wing and just want to know what else to get and what to expect.

Bob

I think you will find that the SSX is an excellent second plane. I added some details at the top of this thread. I hope it helps.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=6970305&postcount=1

[Tha Hodgehound]

no night combat with this one dood!
I am considering putting glowire inside the wing on this before I cover it. If I can figure out how to connect and disconnect the wire, I will.... It'll be fantabulous..... :D




Oh yeah, as far as the scoring one for the SS master....ahem....who exactly is StickKiller? (http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/view/mb/profile/hodgeshobbies/StickKiller)



Uh...that would be me DOOD!!!!!!!

[rcproptester]

exactly....I don't want you killing my SSX

[jkarpy]

exactly....I don't want you killing my SSX

Ok for me if he kills it! :D I can sell you a new one. :p

[Tha Hodgehound]

LOL....I only kill Tiger Sticks!!!! :p I've got the oldest slo stick in SW Ga.!!! lol Looks like I'm gonna have to retire it and morph it into a SSX after SEFF though. jkarpy...hang onto one for me! Kit will be fine...have never actually built a wing before. The SSX looks like a good start!!! JStone...you ever seen me kill anybody elses plane????? Do I look like Jay Lee????? :p

[jkarpy]

LOL....I only kill Tiger Sticks!!!! :p I've got the oldest slo stick in SW Ga.!!! lol Looks like I'm gonna have to retire it and morph it into a SSX after SEFF though. jkarpy...hang onto one for me! Kit will be fine...have never actually built a wing before. The SSX looks like a good start!!! JStone...you ever seen me kill anybody elses plane????? Do I look like Jay Lee????? :p

I am taking plenty of flyable “Demo Planes” with me to SEFF. Make sure you stop by and try one. I will have kits and ARF planes with me as well.

[rcproptester]

Ok for me if he kills it! :D I can sell you a new one. :p
As long as you sell it for free.... I'm there dood :D

[kave_man]

Jeff,
Did you start that wing yet? You plan to put lights on it? I think I will wait until you get yours finished before I get one.

Kenny

[rcproptester]

No, I have to finish my boy's new room so I can move my RC shop into their old one.... If you want to come help, I'll be happy to let you......

[MustangAce17]

J,I'll be at SEFF just not sure with what yet. The last 4 nights were just sitting at the comp basically.

[jkarpy]

J,I'll be at SEFF just not sure with what yet. The last 4 nights were just sitting at the comp basically.

Move away from the computer and start building.












What are you doing here still? :p

[jkarpy]

Jeff,
Did you start that wing yet? You plan to put lights on it? I think I will wait until you get yours finished before I get one.

Kenny

icrashedthecub, man that should be my screen name. I have a Sig 1/6 scale cub I built and crashed, repaired and crashed and repaired and crashed and now I am repairing again for conversion to electric. Love cubs anyway! :D

[Tha Hodgehound]

He almost had a chance to change it to icrashedthetigermoth a while back, but some high weeds saved it! LOL I told you not to fly to the East early in the morning, Kenny!!! :p

[jkarpy]

Is anyone building an SSX now? I am looking for feedback. Are the build videos helping? Does anyone want a covering video?

[Bayward]

Is anyone building an SSX now? I am looking for feedback. Are the build videos helping? Does anyone want a covering video?

Not right now, but in a day or two- time permitting. My kit just a few minutes ago showed up via Fedex from Graves. I have not opened the plastic wrap but everything looks good from what I can see through the plastic.

I have not watched the build videos. I have downloaded them though and will watch them and leave some feedback.

Bob

[jkarpy]

Not right now, but in a day or two- time permitting. My kit just a few minutes ago showed up via Fedex from Graves. I have not opened the plastic wrap but everything looks good from what I can see through the plastic.

I have not watched the build videos. I have downloaded them though and will watch them and leave some feedback.

Bob

Congratulations you are the first to buy a kit online from Graves. It has only been available online for a few weeks. Let me know how your build goes. I would like to see pictures if you don’t mind. Please feel free to ask as many questions as you like.

James Karpy
CEO Millennium R/C

[Bayward]

Is anyone building an SSX now? I am looking for feedback. Are the build videos helping? Does anyone want a covering video?

I started another thread showing my build. My feedback is all positive at this point. The kit is very well done. The parts fit is superb. I watched your build videos, very good. You do need better lighting though. The vids were a little dark on my monitor. I would like to see a covering video.

How about the Slow Stick X logo you show on your wings ? Do you custom do each one, or did you have some made up ? I want to do something to the top of my wing for aesthetics and for visual orientation while flying.

Bob

[jkarpy]

I started another thread showing my build. My feedback is all positive at this point. The kit is very well done. The parts fit is superb. I watched your build videos, very good. You do need better lighting though. The vids were a little dark on my monitor. I would like to see a covering video.

How about the Slow Stick X logo you show on your wings ? Do you custom do each one, or did you have some made up ? I want to do something to the top of my wing for aesthetics and for visual orientation while flying.

Bob
Thanks for the positive feedback!

The covering video is in the works for this week. I need to build some samples to send to China for ARF production and plan to video tape the process. I will try and improve the lighting. I can give you a PDF or DXF of the logo. I am having more decals cut this week. They cost about $5.00 each for the large set. At least that is what he charged me last time. I can ship one to you. Let me know what color you need. If you are good at covering I have some laser cut Monokote logos cut already. They only work well when you use them on top of Monokote. You can e-mail me directly for details on shipping.

Saw your build thread, good job! How long did it take? Those are not mistakes you made, they are “variations”. E-mail me directly through Millenniumrc.com. We can talk about the decal.

For those interested in seeing Bayward’s build, here is the link.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=655514

[LandCruiser]

This is my night flyer.

Which E-flite Park outrunner is that?

[MustangAce17]

if i remember right the motor on his night flier is a park 450,I had a blast flying it and could even barely hover

[jkarpy]

Which E-flite Park outrunner is that?
It is the 450.

[LandCruiser]

It is the 450.

I just happen to have a spare 450 but was concerned that it would be too much motor for the Stick.

[rcproptester]

you can never have too much motor on a stick

[duckalliance]

lol - how much will the stock wing take exactly?

i had a little accident with a 400 brushless with the stock wing - model is fine as the motor took the brunt of it, but from the 15-20 meters of that short flight i'm pretty sure the stock wing wouldn't take full bore! :eek:

i guess this is the slow stick 'x' thread so bit off-topic ;)

[rcproptester]

I was having problems with my mini ultra stick having a mind of its own, So in trying to determine what the problem was, I put the motor, ESC, battery, receiver, and servos on the Slow stick. I had the stock wing on it, and it took the power of the 450. In a power dive, the wing would flutter, but it was surprisingly tough. It had unlimited vertical with about 1/3 throttle....way cool!!!! :D

[jkarpy]

I was having problems with my mini ultra stick having a mind of its own, So in trying to determine what the problem was, I put the motor, ESC, battery, receiver, and servos on the Slow stick. I had the stock wing on it, and it took the power of the 450. In a power dive, the wing would flutter, but it was surprisingly tough. It had unlimited vertical with about 1/3 throttle....way cool!!!! :D

I ran the 450 on a slow stick and hated the wing flutter problem. That’s when I came up with the idea for the SSX. The e-flite 450 is a perfect motor for the SSX. I am planning to test a 480 after SEFF. How is your SSX build coming?

[duckalliance]

Can anyone post a pic of the wing cross-section/aerofoil thingy on the SSX? :D

[jkarpy]

Can anyone post a pic of the wing cross-section/aerofoil thingy on the SSX? :D
You can see a cross-section in the assembly instructions.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=6985923&postcount=9

[rcproptester]

I ran the 450 on a slow stick and hated the wing flutter problem. That’s when I came up with the idea for the SSX. The e-flite 450 is a perfect motor for the SSX. I am planning to test a 480 after SEFF. How is your SSX build coming?
Well, I have made progress, but it isn't with the wing... :o I did get the laminate laid in my boy's room, and all I have to do is get the trim done. Then I can get the boys moved into it. When that happens, I can take over the upstairs and get to some building. Right now, all my stuff is scattered throughout the house.

I WILL have it built before SEFF, even if I have to do it on the kitchen table. ;) :D

[jkarpy]

Well, I have made progress, but it isn't with the wing... :o I did get the laminate laid in my boy's room, and all I have to do is get the trim done. Then I can get the boys moved into it. When that happens, I can take over the upstairs and get to some building. Right now, all my stuff is scattered throughout the house.

I WILL have it built before SEFF, even if I have to do it on the kitchen table. ;) :D
I will have a decal for you. I have red blue and yellow. Let me know what color to set aside.

[Tha Hodgehound]

jkarpy....puullleeeeze set a kit aside for me! I'll definately be gettin one! The stock SS is getting old really fast (like every time I read on this thread) and I got everything I need to convert it! Hell, I might even get it built during SEFF!!!!! Could be night flying on Sat. night with it! :eek:

[jkarpy]

jkarpy....puullleeeeze set a kit aside for me! I'll definately be gettin one! The stock SS is getting old really fast (like every time I read on this thread) and I got everything I need to convert it! Hell, I might even get it built during SEFF!!!!! Could be night flying on Sat. night with it! :eek:
I am trying to get some ARF kits ready for SEFF but it does not look good. I will definitely have a kit and maybe some ready to cover wings.

[Tha Hodgehound]

KEWL!!! Kit is fine with me! But if ya got a ARC when I find you I'll get that!

[rcproptester]

I will have a decal for you. I have red blue and yellow. Let me know what color to set aside.
All right!
I'd like a blue one please.

[Bayward]

I just finished installing my SS X decal and it looks terrifiic on my transparent flourescent yellow wing. It is too late to get the camera out and take pictures, y'all will just have to take my word for it. :p

With that said, I am glad jkarpy did not send me two of them. I would have been up all night trying to get two of them on the wing straight. I have never applied vinyl lettering before this and I can now confirm that I will not be seeking work in that field anytime soon. Maybe with practice it would be easier.

What is the trick to getting that cool looking X off the backing sheet ? That is, without sticking it to itself and everything else in the house while trying to not stretch the thing out of shape ?

Bob

[jkarpy]

I just finished installing my SS X decal and it looks terrifiic on my transparent flourescent yellow wing. It is too late to get the camera out and take pictures, y'all will just have to take my word for it. :p

With that said, I am glad jkarpy did not send me two of them. I would have been up all night trying to get two of them on the wing straight. I have never applied vinyl lettering before this and I can now confirm that I will not be seeking work in that field anytime soon. Maybe with practice it would be easier.

What is the trick to getting that cool looking X off the backing sheet ? That is, without sticking it to itself and everything else in the house while trying to not stretch the thing out of shape ?

Bob The decal has a contact sheet that sticks to the none-sticky side of the decal. This holds everything in place while you apply the decal.

[jkarpy]

All right!
I'd like a blue one please.
You got it!

[Bayward]

The decal has a contact sheet that sticks to the none-sticky side of the decal. This holds everything in place while you apply the decal.

I wish I would have asked before I put my decal on. My way was a real :censored: . It looked to me like the contact sheet adhesive would adhere to the SSX covering like the decal is supposed to. Oh well, next time I will know better.

Here is a picture of my SSX kit complete with decal.

http://photos.imageevent.com/bayward/radiocontrol/websize/SS-X%20build%20023.jpg

Bob

[jkarpy]

I wish I would have asked before I put my decal on. My way was a real :censored: . It looked to me like the contact sheet adhesive would adhere to the SSX covering like the decal is supposed to. Oh well, next time I will know better.

Here is a picture of my SSX kit complete with decal.


Bob That looks great! It will fly much better with that decal! :D

[duckalliance]

Bayward,

What engine is that on your SSX? Looks great! (Jealous)

[Bayward]

The motor is an Axi 2217/16. Supposed to be good for sport flyers in the 21 to 42 ounce weight range. My SSX AUW is between 26 and 27 ounces so the motor should not have to work that hard to keep the plane moving.

Bob

[Bayward]

Good news, mine will fly ! :D Not only will she fly, she flies terrific and fast , at least fast for this novice RC pilot.

Remember, I have never flown a plane with ailerons prior to this and I have very little recent RC flying experience. My only recent experience ( in the last ~30 years ) is with a standard brushless Slow Stick.

It was perfect this morning. Cool for South Florida at 66°, sunny and so calm you could hear dogs barking over a mile away. I burned up a battery in my standard SS and started to put my second battery in the SS when I thought, "No better time than now". So the second battery went in the SSX.

I put the SSX on the ground and did a pre-flight. Everything checked out good so I pushed the throttle about 1/2 forward. Off the SSX goes like a shot. A tiny bit of up elevator and up it goes. A little right aileron and she rolls hard right, sensitive. I am not ready or accustomed to that amount of sensitivity and over correct to the left. Whoa, heart is racing I can't crash this soon. :censored: Okay, I get her leveled out, I am way too close to mother earth, no mistake altitude left. A little up elevator, too much :censored: , she is almost straight up. I relax my thumbs and get her flattened out. I am now thinking I should have brought extra underwear with me this morning. :p

I finally get the hang of the amount of stick I have to use to make gentle movements. Still flying in a circular pattern afraid to try a figure eight. Finally get enough courage and confidence to do some figure eights and an accidental tight loop. :eek: In hind sight I probably should have set up dual rates on the DX7.

The thought comes to me that I will have to land this thing at some point and better now than dead stick. I bring her in and once again use too much up elevator trying to flair and cause a little porpoise inches above the deck. No harm done. Whew ! I am ready for more. I give her throttle again, the SSX goes about three feet and the motor stops dead. Wow, I was that close to running out of battery. Someone was watching over me a few minutes earlier.

I think the battery went down very quick. I say I think because I did not look at my watch and really have no clue how long I was up. It seemed quite short, in the ten minute or so range. When I first started flying the standard SS I thought run times were too short until I put a timer on them. I was flying over thirty minutes on a battery ! So my mind may have been playing tricks on me again with the SSX.

The SSX did not even require any trim. It flew great right off the bench, so to speak. Once I become accustomed to the amount of stick to use this will be a lot of fun to fly.

Bob

[jkarpy]

Good news, mine will fly ! :D Not only will she fly, she flies terrific and fast , at least fast for this novice RC pilot.

Remember, I have never flown a plane with ailerons prior to this and I have very little recent RC flying experience. My only recent experience ( in the last ~30 years ) is with a standard brushless Slow Stick.

It was perfect this morning. Cool for South Florida at 66°, sunny and so calm you could hear dogs barking over a mile away. I burned up a battery in my standard SS and started to put my second battery in the SS when I thought, "No better time than now". So the second battery went in the SSX.

I put the SSX on the ground and did a pre-flight. Everything checked out good so I pushed the throttle about 1/2 forward. Off the SSX goes like a shot. A tiny bit of up elevator and up it goes. A little right aileron and she rolls hard right, sensitive. I am not ready or accustomed to that amount of sensitivity and over correct to the left. Whoa, heart is racing I can't crash this soon. :censored: Okay, I get her leveled out, I am way too close to mother earth, no mistake altitude left. A little up elevator, too much :censored: , she is almost straight up. I relax my thumbs and get her flattened out. I am now thinking I should have brought extra underwear with me this morning. :p

I finally get the hang of the amount of stick I have to use to make gentle movements. Still flying in a circular pattern afraid to try a figure eight. Finally get enough courage and confidence to do some figure eights and an accidental tight loop. :eek: In hind sight I probably should have set up dual rates on the DX7.

The thought comes to me that I will have to land this thing at some point and better now than dead stick. I bring her in and once again use too much up elevator trying to flair and cause a little porpoise inches above the deck. No harm done. Whew ! I am ready for more. I give her throttle again, the SSX goes about three feet and the motor stops dead. Wow, I was that close to running out of battery. Someone was watching over me a few minutes earlier.

I think the battery went down very quick. I say I think because I did not look at my watch and really have no clue how long I was up. It seemed quite short, in the ten minute or so range. When I first started flying the standard SS I thought run times were too short until I put a timer on them. I was flying over thirty minutes on a battery ! So my mind may have been playing tricks on me again with the SSX.

The SSX did not even require any trim. It flew great right off the bench, so to speak. Once I become accustomed to the amount of stick to use this will be a lot of fun to fly.

BobDual rates and little expo may be in order here. It sounds like the plane is flying on the heavy side and has a little more power than usual. You may want to try flying the SSX without all the mods you made. My heaviest model yet only weighs 21 oz. When landing a correct weighted SSX it should be able to float in like a Stock Slow Stick.

[MustangAce17]

James,let me know if u'll have the wing and tail u fixed for me ready at SEFF. I have a 180 watt motor i'd like to try on one of these. Thanks

[DGrant]

What does the kit for this plane consist of ? I already have the SS in total stock form flying good... but am interested in this upgrade...
Nice job there guys... it looks great! :D

[jkarpy]

What does the kit for this plane consist of ? I already have the SS in total stock form flying good... but am interested in this upgrade...
Nice job there guys... it looks great! :D
The kit consists of all the laser cut parts to build the wing and tail section. The kit also includes balsa sheeting and basswood spars. The only piece of hardware that is needed and not part of the Slow Stick hardware is the control arms for the ailerons. All other hardware is from the Slow Stick.

Slow Stick hardware deeded:
Control arms (Rudder and Elevator)
4 Control Horns
Landing gear (front and rear)
Wing mounts front and back
Servo mounts
Battery holders
Control arm guide
Misc. screws

Additional items:
Motor and speed controller
Motor mount
3 or 4 sub micro servos
Receiver
Battery


This is the link to buy the kit online.
http://www.gravesrc.com/MRC_SLOW_STICK_X_KIT_p/mrcssx.htm

[jkarpy]

James,let me know if u'll have the wing and tail u fixed for me ready at SEFF. I have a 180 watt motor i'd like to try on one of these. Thanks


I will bring it to SEFF. it is fixed. Just bring your Slow Stick Fuselage and an aileron servo.

[MustangAce17]

ok cool. Thanks,PM with what $ i owe u so i can bring it with me set aside

[Bayward]

Dual rates and little expo may be in order here. It sounds like the plane is flying on the heavy side and has a little more power than usual. You may want to try flying the SSX without all the mods you made. My heaviest model yet only weighs 21 oz. When landing a correct weighted SSX it should be able to float in like a Stock Slow Stick.

James, nothing wrong with the SSX in my opinion. My inexperience is what is causing the SSX to do what it did.

The plane would float in for a landing if I would let it and were able to keep it precisely lined up between the rows of pallets of stone. My flying field is a huge storage yard of pallets of stone. The adjoining truck parking lot is my "airport". I was nervous flying the SSX for the first time to boot. On the advice of another very experienced RC'er I am going to put about -65 expo on the sticks for the next flight. Although I bet if I just continued on with no changes I would have the SSX doing mild aerobatics in three of four more flights. The SSX is a good plane.

Bob

[jkarpy]

James, nothing wrong with the SSX in my opinion. My inexperience is what is causing the SSX to do what it did.

The plane would float in for a landing if I would let it and were able to keep it precisely lined up between the rows of pallets of stone. My flying field is a huge storage yard of pallets of stone. The adjoining truck parking lot is my "airport". I was nervous flying the SSX for the first time to boot. On the advice of another very experienced RC'er I am going to put about -65 expo on the sticks for the next flight. Although I bet if I just continued on with no changes I would have the SSX doing mild aerobatics in three of four more flights. The SSX is a good plane.

Bob Pallets of Stone ! :eek:

[Bayward]

Pallets of Stone !

Yes, and you can take my word that a standard SS cannot move a two ton pallet of stone, regardless of how fast the SS is going. ;)

Bob

[Tha Hodgehound]

can hardly wait for seff to get my ssx! Got $$$ tucked away in my wallet just for it! woo hoo!!!

[rcproptester]

Well, we spent all day Saturday getting the room ready for my boys to move in. It is only 95% done, but at least I can get my RC stuff out of the corner of the living room.

I started the build of the SSX tonite. Look in my blog for a build log if interested.

James, I will say, I have had a couple of minor difficulties in starting this. However it IS my 1st attempt at building something other than an ARF.
I'll compile a list and give it at the end of the build.....

I know I'll be ready for SEFF now!!!!!

[jkarpy]

Well, we spent all day Saturday getting the room ready for my boys to move in. It is only 95% done, but at least I can get my RC stuff out of the corner of the living room.

I started the build of the SSX tonite. Look in my blog for a build log if interested.

James, I will say, I have had a couple of minor difficulties in starting this. However it IS my 1st attempt at building something other than an ARF.
I'll compile a list and give it at the end of the build.....

I know I'll be ready for SEFF now!!!!!Just in case you did not notice, I have some supplemental instruction sheets added at the beginning of this thread. Looks like you figured out the ribs. Step 8 indicates that the end ribs are Parts H1.

[Excogitate]

yeah I think i am going to need one of these!!!!!!!

[rcproptester]

Just in case you did not notice, I have some supplemental instruction sheets added at the beginning of this thread. Looks like you figured out the ribs. Step 8 indicates that the end ribs are Parts H1.
I haven't re read the original pages since I first heard of this thread. I'll go back and re read it tonight before I do any more constructing.

I'm so excited, aside from SEFF, this is all I've thought of all day :D It made it very difficult to concentrate on work...

[jkarpy]

I will have a limited supply of pre-built kits for sale at SEFF. If you bring your Slow Stick parts, motor and radio to SEFF, I will have all the tools to get it ready to fly.
You can also take one of my demo models for a spin. I am using Spectrum so it should be easy to get some stick time.

[Tha Hodgehound]

I will have a limited supply of pre-built kits for sale at SEFF. If you bring your Slow Stick parts, motor and radio to SEFF, I will have all the tools to get it ready to fly.
You can also take one of my demo models for a spin. I am using Spectrum so it should be easy to get some stick time.


plz hold one for tha hound!!!!! :) The $$ is burning a hole in my wallets "secret compartment"! :D

[jkarpy]

plz hold one for tha hound!!!!! :) The $$ is burning a hole in my wallets "secret compartment"! :D Pick one!
:D

[Tha Hodgehound]

Kewl man...just what I need for a new, full fledged night flyer! I'll be there waitin' on ya to show up to be sure I get one!!! :D

[Tram]

Hey guys-

I've recently built one of these up and gave it a lil' touch of my own..

After I covered the wing, I thought - "man, that is a nice looking wing, sure hate to stick a servo in the top of it..."

So, I set out to find a way to make the wing stay purdy.. :)

I mentioned my mod to James and he asked me to post it here..

So the next few posts, I am reserving for the Aileron Servo Mod..


Jeff
www.CommonSenseRC.com

[Tram]

Ok..

Well, I wanted to make sure that if I did this mod, James would be ok with it - and I thought, I might as well make it so that when you get the kit, everything you need is included..

First, what I did was find some suitable wood out of the pile..

Pic 1 - Being a servo mount, it needed to be stiff, but not rock solid.. I wound up with the 1/8" sheet.. I picked the piece as it was nice and solid and with the way the parts had fallen out of it, looked to be about and 1/8" taller than my servo - this is good.. You want to use a piece of wood that will allow your servo mounting ears to sit flush with the top, and have room at the bottom to have a "base plate" for the servo.

Pic 2 - After I picked the wood for the mount, I picked up the servo and laid it out on the chosen wood. Make sure you lay the servo on the wood in a manner that allows both the mounting tabs to have wood underneath them. All you need to do is lay the servo on the wood and mark the length of the servo.

Pic 3 - After doing this, cut out said piece of marked wood..

Pic 4 - Now we need to make some tabs for the servo's mounting ears to attach to. I took the opposite end of the 1/8" sheet I was working with and cut 2 lengths of wood..

Pic 5 - I then took my servo, laid it on the wood from pic 2 and 3 and then took the pieces I just cut from pic 4 and laid them underneath the mounting ears on the servo. Make sure you have a nice flush fit and CA them on..

Pic 6 and 7 - No we need to make the "base plate" I spoke of in Pic 1. Again, using the 1/8" I marked and cut a plate to my desired length..

Pic 8 - Take the freshly cut base plate, butt it up with the previously joined structure and it should look like Pic 8.. CA this down, being careful not to glue your servo to the structure.

Pic 9 - Just a top view of the piece you created in Pic 8.

Pic 10 and 11 - Now we have a basic servo mount.. What we need to do is strengthen it up, this is out aileron servo mount and we don't want it to fail - however, we also don't want to make it too heavy.. I found some thin 1/16" sheet from the kit and basically made 2 external gussets with it. I had previously marked where my servo tabs sat so I used these marks for the gussets.

Pic 12 - After the sheet is glued, trim it down to look like the pics.

Pic 13 - Slide the servo back in, make sure it is a nice snug fit.

Pic 14 - Trim off any excess wood.. I just took my Zona saw and went right down the side of the servo.

Pic 15 - Now you need to drill your holes for your servo screws.

Now you have a nice looking servo mount, which can be CA'd into the airplane..

In the center fuse, you will see the laser etched wood for the aileron servo. I used this as a guide as to where to put my servo..

Pic 16 - Using this as a guide - line the servo up with the laser eteched marks and CA the mount into the INSIDE of the wing..

Voila.. You are done.. :)

Pics 17 and 18 are pictures of the installation..

Now, for those of you who may be worried about the strength, don't be.. My SSX went in today and the servo mount is still intact.. :)

Also, it will look like it is going to rub/bump the elevator/rudder servo's.. I was able to achieve a balance and keep them from rubbing.. :)

If you have any questions - I'll be glad to help..

Jeff
www.CommonSenseRC.com

[Tram]

yyyy

[dleviner]

What happened Jeff???

[tallflyer]

Cool I just found this link I'm hooked again!

[jkarpy]

Cool I just found this link I'm hooked again!

Do you like to build or assemble ARF's?

[Tram]

What happened Jeff???

I either took a hit or the RX just quit working.. I was cruising along on a photo pass and it went full throttle and straight in..

She's fixed.. I flew her today.. :D

[tallflyer]

Do you like to build or assemble ARF's?

ARF'S!

You can buy rtf Slow-Stick X Kits.

[jkarpy]

ARF'S!

You can buy rtf Slow-Stick X Kits.

RTF/ plug and play models will not be available until mid to late June. They are in production now. Kits are available now and I have a limited quantity of pre built kits that I am selling. If you are interested, please contact me through my web site. http://www.millenniumrc.com If you are going to SEFF, you can buy one at SEFF.

[USAPatriot]

RTF/ plug and play models will not be available until mid to late June. They are in production now. Kits are available now and I have a limited quantity of pre built kits that I am selling. If you are interested, please contact me through my web site. http://www.millenniumrc.com If you are going to SEFF, you can buy one at SEFF.

Hi,

Is this the complete kit, fuse and all or just an upgrade from the ARF?
The gravesrc page says "Upgrade your GWS Slow Stick Electric ARF Park Flyer Airplane to the Slow Stick X".
I've got one in my cart...I just need to know what I'm getting. Will there be a manual in the box? Thx! -Rod-

[Tram]

Rod-

If you get the same thing I got - it will be an upgrade using all the slow stick hardware, minus the wing and tail..

I think James may sell fuses, etc, but do not quote me on that, as I am not sure..

Jeff

[USAPatriot]

Rod-

If you get the same thing I got - it will be an upgrade using all the slow stick hardware, minus the wing and tail..

I think James may sell fuses, etc, but do not quote me on that, as I am not sure..

Jeff

Okay. Let me get ahold of him and see what's what. I'd hate to have to essentially buy two planes and come out with just one. -Rod-

[jkarpy]

Hi,

Is this the complete kit, fuse and all or just an upgrade from the ARF?
The gravesrc page says "Upgrade your GWS Slow Stick Electric ARF Park Flyer Airplane to the Slow Stick X".
I've got one in my cart...I just need to know what I'm getting. Will there be a manual in the box? Thx! -Rod-

The Kit includes all the wood/ laser cut parts to build the wing and tail section. No Slow Stick parts are included. I don’t sell the parts for the Slow Stick yet. They are available on the net. You need the two plastic parts trees, fuselage and landing gear. You can bend your own landing gear and buy other wheels. You will also need to make the 4 push rods. The kit includes the manual.

[USAPatriot]

The Kit includes all the wood/ laser cut parts to build the wing and tail section. No Slow Stick parts are included. I don’t sell the parts for the Slow Stick yet. They are available on the net. You need the two plastic parts trees, fuselage and landing gear. You can bend your own landing gear and buy other wheels. You will also need to make the 4 push rods. The kit includes the manual.

Thanks. It's a nice plane. I'll figure something out, I'm sure. -Rod-

[Tha Hodgehound]

James...it was good to meet you and the fam at SEFF! Thanks for the SSX! I know you didn't have to do it. Thanks for letting us fly both! They both fly great, and I can hardly wait to get mine done up with the lights and covered. When I do I'll email ya some pics and you can show it off for advertising or line the bathroom trash can with them or something! LOL Keep an eye on the Hodges Hobbies calendar and come fly with us sometime!