3DHS 85" Katana [Archive]

feathermerchant

Oct 11, 2007, 02:06 PM

OK I'll start the ball rolling. I got one of these from Ben back in March and built away. My Blog (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=667510) has all the gory details. I started with a Power 160 then an AXI 5330/28 an dnow a Hacker A60-18M. The prop is a 22X10 for now. Since the Hacker motor is a little heavier, I may ba able to go back to 8S and a larger prop.

The production models are a little different. They include:

Carbon fiber wing and stab tubes,
Phenolic control horns,
installed firewall,
canopy attaches with nylon thunb screws,
revised wing airfoil,
revised all ply battery tray,
a few ounces lighter.

blucor basher

Oct 11, 2007, 03:40 PM

Nice dog, Feather. That's just creepy.

The production 85" Katanas are in, we're working on documentation and a few details, and we'll have them up for sale by the end of the month for $549.

Feather's airplane is an early beta-tester (which he did an excellent job with and we appreciate it much). The production models have some significant changes:

Carbon wing tube
Carbon stab tube
Phenolic/ball link hardware
Revised plywood battery tray
Pre-assembled/bolted motor box
Revised carbon tailwheel bracket
Revised cowl mounting ring
Revised airfoil (courtesy of Scott Stoops)
Thumb-screw hatch attachment

Wing area is 1340 sq., weight w/ DA50 comes in a little less than 15lbs. RTF, with typical 12S 4000-5000mah electric, a little more than 15lbs. Looking forward to someone doing one w/ A123 to get that weight.

HERE (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=753847#post8316748) is some video of Feather's and my 85" betas flying at BEST in South Texas last weekend. Both on A60M motors, CC110HV, 12S. Overall, I think the A60-18L is the best choice for the airplane, but since AeroModel was selling off the M's, they were hard to resist.

Here are some pics of the production plane, model is my lovely executive assistant/wife, Mrs. Basher, aka "most patient woman in the world".

birdie_in_texas

Oct 11, 2007, 05:35 PM

Fuhreakin' Sweet..!!! :)

feathermerchant

Oct 11, 2007, 06:41 PM

There were no pets harmed posting tha picture.
Hey Ben I see you've also added retractable landing gear to the production models!
I may have to sell something to make room for this one.

FYI Y'all won't have to substitute any hardware on this one. The hardware supplied is grade A.

sun.flyer

Oct 11, 2007, 07:18 PM

Guys I couldn't agree with you more on the FANTASTIC covering scheme and high quality hardware that Ben has included with the 3D Hobby Shop 85" Katana. It is by far some of the best that I have seen and Jim is right in saying that you definately do not need to replace any of the hardware or included parts.

Ben and I are going to use the 85" Katana for a very unique review opportunity here on RCG's that we hope will allow everyone to see the unique flexiblity that the Katana will offer those who purchase one.

More to come....... :)

Tim

redflyboy122

Oct 11, 2007, 07:55 PM

love the color scheme!

davidsons

Oct 11, 2007, 08:13 PM

love the color scheme!

2nd that....great job Ben!

blucor basher

Oct 11, 2007, 08:17 PM

I have it easy, I only have to draw it and cover one of them that way. The techs in the factory make it happen hundreds of times. It's really amazing.

I figure we'll just put as much info as possible in here:

Servos -

5 control servos. 2 aileron, 2 elevator, 1 rudder.

We recommend a large servo on the rudder. JR8611 or Hitec HS-5955TG are my favorites. A long double-sided arm (like the Hangar9 or an SWB) is required on the rudder.

You can certainly use 4 other large servos on the other controls. The airplane feels great on 4 more 8611 or 5955, and on a big vibrating gas engine this would be wise. However, on smooth electric systems, I've had good luck on much less expensive servos such as HS-645 analogs on elevators and ailerons. You will miss out on that total locked-in, on-rails feeling of 5 X 5955, though.

Props -

I'm partial to the XOAR 24x10 on this one for 3D. Very smooth acceleration without lots of noise out of hover. It's not really enough pitch speed for precision maneuvers, though. 1/2 square or more pitch is much better for that. Feather gets very impressive results out of his 22x10 setup, though.

davidsons

Oct 11, 2007, 10:02 PM

WHAT...you don't personally hand cover every ARF you sell? :eek:

blucor basher

Oct 11, 2007, 10:09 PM

<Sigh> it's true.

feathermerchant

Oct 11, 2007, 10:15 PM

He's just being modest. You should see him with a hot iron and a razor blade.

feathermerchant

Oct 11, 2007, 10:28 PM

My still pics from BEST

mpope1

Oct 11, 2007, 10:33 PM

That black and white scheme on the katana really pops....

NumbSkull

Oct 12, 2007, 01:33 AM

My wife is a real softy when it comes to stray animals. She's always feeding the little criters in the neighborhood, and they're all hanging around the house about the time I get home from work, eager to see what the misses will leave out for them that night.... Last night was no different... Well, I guess it was actually...

When I got home, there were a bunch of "kat'z" hanging out on my porch like usual, but this time... some of them weren't of the feline nature... :D And this one had no trouble finding a new home!!!!

Here's a few shots next to the ol' 47.

NumbSkull

Oct 12, 2007, 01:35 AM

Hey Ben,

I'm having a little trouble figuring out what this thing is...

NumbSkull

Oct 12, 2007, 01:36 AM

Oh... Never mind.. I figured it out...

It's the new 3DH Koolaid Cup!!!

blucor basher

Oct 12, 2007, 01:39 AM

Heh...that or it's an emergency "field relief" urine bottle...

feathermerchant

Oct 12, 2007, 07:40 AM

Don't drink the warm yellow Koolaid.

sukhoi26mx

Oct 12, 2007, 11:23 AM

Hey Ben,

I'm having a little trouble figuring out what this thing is...

Ooooh, oooh, ooooh, I know what that's for (hand shoots up) - I guess mine is going to be noisier than yours :D

Scott

sun.flyer

Oct 12, 2007, 11:33 AM

Ooooh, oooh, ooooh, I know what that's for (hand shoots up) - I guess mine is going to be noisier than yours :D

Scott

Scott,

What motor are you running (going to run) in your gas setup?

Tim

sukhoi26mx

Oct 12, 2007, 11:47 AM

Tim,

DL50 (very similar to the DA-50), 5955TG's all the way around, and A123 packs. Hopefully will come in around 15 lbs...

Scott

sun.flyer

Oct 12, 2007, 11:55 AM

Tim,

DL50 (very similar to the DA-50), 5955TG's all the way around, and A123 packs. Hopefully will come in around 15 lbs...

Scott

Sent you a pm on the A123 setup.

Tim

mexico

Oct 12, 2007, 12:50 PM

I think you are both right. I read about urine powered batts:

sun.flyer

Oct 12, 2007, 08:42 PM

The one thing I have found about building 3D Hobby Shop's larger airplanes is that they really do go together just as easy as the smaller 47" and 55" airplanes. Even the motor/esc mounting is quite easy as the motor box comes pre-installed and ready for engine mounting.

Some nice hardware that Ben has included is an all carbon fiber tailwheel bracket that is very light weight but extremely robust. It even comes with pre-installed blind nuts so that the bracket will hold up under those extreme landings (o.k. harrier landings).

The 50CC sized airplanes are a great way to get into giant scale airplanes and yet maintain the convienence that many have with there 40 sized or smaller airplanes and 3DHS's 85" Katana is definately in a league all by itself. :)

Tim

mcharles13

Oct 12, 2007, 09:58 PM

Wing area is 1340 sq., weight w/ DA50 comes in a little less than 15lbs. RTF, with typical 12S 4000-5000mah electric, a little more than 15lbs. Looking forward to someone doing one w/ A123 to get that weight.
....

I might be able to help you get one airborne as a123. I'm a small company yet but my mainstay is A123 packs. I build custom a123 packs for many different uses. My largest pack to date is an 18s5p. (for an e-bike) I only fly a123 now and want to get in the 80"+ sizes.

,mike
www.bigerc.com

blucor basher

Oct 12, 2007, 10:02 PM

Mike - PM coming.

sun.flyer

Oct 13, 2007, 07:49 AM

Thought you guys might like to see some picture of the 85" Kat ready to head out to the flying field. The Kat. has just wonderful lines and a killer covering scheme that is sure to turn heads at the field.

Here is the setup that I will be using in my 3DHS 85" Katana.

Hyperion 5035-18
CC 110HV
(4) HS-5645MG servos, 1 HS-5955 (on rudder)
Tanic 2700 mah Nimh rx pack
(3) 4s 4400 mah 3DHS battery packs
Xoar 22 x 10
AR 7000

Motor test reveals:

WOT

Amps - 75A
Watts - 3350W

Flight time is around 8 mins. with more than enough power to spare.

Tim

mexico

Oct 13, 2007, 07:54 AM

I like the checkerboard wing tips. Really nice. Not just a typical Katana scheme.

mcharles13

Oct 13, 2007, 01:34 PM

Mike - PM coming.

I replied to you and sun.flyer. :)

rthorne

Oct 13, 2007, 02:31 PM

Setting cost aside for a moment, what would you guys rather fly, large 85" planes or the 55" planes?

I like the larger ones, they seem to fly easier and track better.

Rich

blucor basher

Oct 13, 2007, 03:32 PM

I agree, but that's balanced against cost and transportability.

I find, talking to our customers, that people tend to go back and forth between big and small airplanes as they get frustrated either with transportation issues or they miss the big plane flight performance.

The 55" size, however, is a sweet spot. A light, powerful 55" plane can handle so much like a giant scale plane that it sort of crosses the gap in performance. As a result, we get lots of feedback that people with our 55" Extra don't feel the need to pull the big planes out so often.

bigbobed

Oct 13, 2007, 03:50 PM

mexico

Oct 13, 2007, 04:01 PM

Am I missing something here?
6 3DHS 4s2200's wired as 12s2p weighs 52 oz and retails for $419.94.
The equivalent in A123's would be 17s2p at 84oz and retail for $681.
That assumes that the lipos discharge at 3.5v and the A123's hold 2.5v.
Flame suit on.

Flames from who?

Regarding A123 - key phrase is "retail". The retail prices of A123 cells are very high IMO. I just did a 74" 12 lb Yak with 14s1p A123 for $115. ($8/cell) Your example of 34 cells would cost $272. Even at $10/cell that would only cost $340. The ability to recharge in 15 minutes means one pack is more than enough to fly all day.

Pistolera

Oct 13, 2007, 04:13 PM

Tim,

DL50 (very similar to the DA-50), 5955TG's all the way around, and A123 packs. Hopefully will come in around 15 lbs...

Scott
Scott...I'll be very interested in hearing about your experience with the DL50. Still saving my pennies for the 85" Extra and will put a 50-60cc in it. Ben has commented favorably about the Brillelli 60.

Apoligies in advance for dicussing gas in an electric thread :o

Thanks...Earle

blucor basher

Oct 13, 2007, 04:27 PM

No flames here I'm aware of. If you can get a good deal on A123, they can be pretty darn inexpensive. Mex explained it all pretty well.

Earle - I'm also fond of the Brillelli 50cc, the 60 is way more than enough for a plane like this.

bigbobed

Oct 13, 2007, 04:58 PM

Flames from who?

Regarding A123 - key phrase is "retail". The retail prices of A123 cells are very high IMO. I just did a 74" 12 lb Yak with 14s1p A123 for $115. ($8/cell) Your example of 34 cells would cost $272. Even at $10/cell that would only cost $340. The ability to recharge in 15 minutes means one pack is more than enough to fly all day.

I was doing an apples to apples comparison that had been alluded to earlier in the thread. 3DHS lipos to BIGERC A123's. I realize if you shop carefully, you can get 123's in the $10 dollar range. Haven't seen any for $8 but that sure would be a good deal. My flame comment was I was hoping I wasn't goreing someones ox. I'll probably try some 1p 123's in my smaller planes when I need new batteries. What do you use to charge big packs in 15 min?
I'll shut up now and let the thread return to the original subject.

Ben if you would put out a kit as well as an ARF, I'd be a happy camper.

NumbSkull

Oct 13, 2007, 05:02 PM

Assembly is underway!!

The misses went to Wichita to see the lady that talks to the gorillas, and she took the camera with her... So photos will come later tonight.

I've always been impressed with the simplicity of a 3DH ARF build. I cant say that I've ever seen planes that can be assembled is such a short amount of time. Over the summer I had been looking for a large scale plane to convert as a flying partner to my 74" Yak, so I spent a good deal of time looking over several of the popular options. Surprisingly, almost all of them state that the build time is from 10-20 hours (depending on the model). I know that it's just a guide, and the more planes on your wall, the quicker a build goes. However... I can say that the 85" Yak will not take the average Joe that long to build.

Right now, I'm holding for epoxy to cure on the hinges. I would have to say that this could be the longest part of the build. With removable stabs, you don't have to align the tail, The vert stab is already attached, so no alignment there. The cowl uses that sweet ply ring with pre-installed blind nuts, so no cowl alignment needed. The landing gear is pre-drilled for quick fasten, the wheel pants already have the shaft holes in them. The tail wheel has pre-installed blind nuts, so no messing there either.

The only thing I think Ben could have done to make this build go any quicker would be to have the motor mounted and the servos installed for us from the factory...

My complements Ben and Scott... I don't know how you guys keep doing it, but every new bird from 3DH is a step above the last one.

sun.flyer

Oct 13, 2007, 05:52 PM

Noah,

I look forward to your build and eventually flight comments. The 85" Kat definately goes together sooooo nicely that you really don't even realize it's a giant scale airplane when you are done. :)

For those like Scott Stoops who are going to set their Katana up for gas Ben has made provisions in the fuselage to run canisters with rear exhaust pipes. I think this is a great idea and should make a very easy conversion for those thinking about switching there power setup from electric to gas. :rolleyes:

Once again just another fine example of what team Stoops/Fisher is capable of giving the r/c enthusiast.

Tim

Pistolera

Oct 13, 2007, 05:58 PM

Assembly is underway!!

The only thing I think Ben could have done to make this build go any quicker would be to have the motor mounted and the servos installed for us from the factory...
Yea...that Ben...what a slacker :p
Earle

sukhoi26mx

Oct 13, 2007, 06:11 PM

Scott...I'll be very interested in hearing about your experience with the DL50. Still saving my pennies for the 85" Extra and will put a 50-60cc in it. Ben has commented favorably about the Brillelli 60.

Apoligies in advance for dicussing gas in an electric thread :o

Thanks...Earle

I'll keep you in the loop on it, Earle. So far, it is definately more industrial than the DA, but the quality seems to be reasonable. For the price, if it performs well it is pretty hard to beat. Happy with the Brillelli 60 as well. Expect a maiden when I get back from my 4-day trip (start tomorrow), so late next week.

Scott

sukhoi26mx

Oct 13, 2007, 06:13 PM

Right now, I'm holding for epoxy to cure on the hinges. I would have to say that this could be the longest part of the build. With removable stabs, you don't have to align the tail, The vert stab is already attached, so no alignment there. The cowl uses that sweet ply ring with pre-installed blind nuts, so no cowl alignment needed. The landing gear is pre-drilled for quick fasten, the wheel pants already have the shaft holes in them. The tail wheel has pre-installed blind nuts, so no messing there either.

Try Sumo on the hinges next time. Incredible stuff. I hate mixing Resin and dripping it into the hole, so squirting Sumo from the bottle was a blessing. Also dramatically less clean up than Gorilla glue, but the same really solid adhesion...

Scott

NumbSkull

Oct 13, 2007, 06:48 PM

How long does sumo take to setup?

I still have the wing hinges to do. I ran out of epoxy. I had a new box of 30 min. stuff, but when I opened it, it looks like one of the bottles didn't get sealed very well... It's extremely thick and white instead of the usual clear. I mixed some up, and tried some, but it's not setting up.... So off to the store I go, I might try out that Sumo.

mexico

Oct 13, 2007, 07:02 PM

Try Sumo on the hinges next time. Incredible stuff. I hate mixing Resin and dripping it into the hole, so squirting Sumo from the bottle was a blessing. Also dramatically less clean up than Gorilla glue, but the same really solid adhesion...

Scott

Scott - I tried Sumo recently too. At first I was impressed. Less foaming, much faster cure time. But over the course of a few months I have come to find I am not happy with it. I do not feel it gets as hard as Gorilla and nowhere near as hard as epoxy.

Numbskull's comments about the details taken care of by 3DHS in the kit are VERY impressive. I especially love to hear that there is no drilling to be done on the LG and preinstalled blind nuts for the cowl? Get out of town. My Yak's cowl has more holes than scews - let's leave it at that - :rolleyes:

sukhoi26mx

Oct 13, 2007, 07:12 PM

Scott - I tried Sumo recently too. At first I was impressed. Less foaming, much faster cure time. But over the course of a few months I have come to find I am not happy with it. I do not feel it gets as hard as Gorilla and nowhere near as hard as epoxy.

Numbskull's comments about the details taken care of by 3DHS in the kit are VERY impressive. I especially love to hear that there is no drilling to be done on the LG and preinstalled blind nuts for the cowl? Get out of town. My Yak's cowl has more holes than scews - let's leave it at that - :rolleyes:

Hmmm. I have access to the inner most hinge point on a surface, and for me at least (dry climate?) it is hard as a rock.

Mike Parsons

Oct 13, 2007, 07:21 PM

Great covering scheme! Good job once again guys. Looking forward to some video.

mexico

Oct 13, 2007, 07:54 PM

Hmmm. I have access to the inner most hinge point on a surface, and for me at least (dry climate?) it is hard as a rock.

That is strange. I used it on the LG plate of my AJX. Weeks later I could pull it off with my fingers.

feathermerchant

Oct 13, 2007, 08:30 PM

I used Gorilla on my 85" with no water added. It foams a little but cures just fine. Actually I used the Elmers Gorilla imitation. ~1/2 the cost.
I used a toothpick to apply a drop of Marvel Mystery oil to each hinge first so the glue won't gum up the hinges.

NumbSkull

Oct 13, 2007, 09:30 PM

I went looking for some Sumo, but couldn't find any. Almost picked up some gorilla glue, but decided not to in the end. I picked up more 30 min epoxy, and getting ready to go back at it.

sun.flyer

Oct 13, 2007, 09:49 PM

I picked up more 30 min epoxy, and getting ready to go back at it.

I used just 30 min. epoxy, works great and easy to find. :)

Tim

mcharles13

Oct 13, 2007, 10:11 PM

I was doing an apples to apples comparison that had been alluded to earlier in the thread. 3DHS lipos to BIGERC A123's. I realize if you shop carefully, you can get 123's in the $10 dollar range. Haven't seen any for $8 but that sure would be a good deal. My flame comment was I was hoping I wasn't goreing someones ox. I'll probably try some 1p 123's in my smaller planes when I need new batteries. What do you use to charge big packs in 15 min?
I'll shut up now and let the thread return to the original subject.

Ben if you would put out a kit as well as an ARF, I'd be a happy camper.

Keep in mind that the cell and pack prices on my site are the required MAP prices. Those are what we are forced to display. The RCG discount is significantly lower. So it was not a direct apples to apples comparison.

Clark Warfel

Oct 14, 2007, 07:54 PM

well, just got back from the field and saw a maiden flight of a 85" Katana WOW what a great plane. Ben this plane looks great hopefully I will get my hands on one soon. I am still working with my 47". Oh by the way there is video to come.

sun.flyer

Oct 15, 2007, 12:01 AM

Well I wasn't sure if I was going to get the maiden in this weekend as the weather around here turned kind of gray but the rain held off and all I can say is I'm glad it did. I took the Katana out to the field where our club was having a family day cook out so it was kind of cool that close to 30 people were going to witness the maiden flight. :)

First Impressions:

You guys are in for a HUGE treat with this airplane. I'm sure that most have seen the video of Ben and Jim flying their Katana's and how smooth the plane flew in HA harriers and how easy it looked to hover. Well I'm here to say that this plane is all that and a bag of Doritos. :D Immediately after takeoff the plane just felt right on the sticks. Do you guys know what I mean by that? I'm sure that most of us have had a plane that just felt right right from the minute we started flying it. I know I have, but NEVER with a 85" giant scale airplane before. I flew Ben's (beta) 85" Extra 260 and while it was a great flying airplane the Katana just flies sooooo much better. The "Stoops Wing" really is a thing of beauty on this airplane. The Katana felt so light on the wing in HA flight such as harriers and while doing rollers. It is not often that I fly low on a maiden but with the Katana there was NO FEAR. It really is just that solid showing little to no wing rock in upright or inverted harrier flight.

The Katana is a tremendous tumbler (see video) and with my setup the Katana waterfalls incredibly well (see video). The Katana showed minimal coupling in KE flight and will work on my cg before looking into putting any mix in the tx. My starting cg was right on the middle of the wing tube (8 3/16") and I really like the feel of the Katana at this location. At this cg the Katana flies at what I call the "Ben Fisher CG", that is it climbed slightly. :) Also at this cg the Katana is capable of doing the most scale looking blenders into a beautiful flat spin (see video).

I was suprised at how well the the Katana floats during landing. On my first landing I landed a little long because I under estimated how well the Katana just wants to keep flying. It will be nice landing the Katana as slow (or slower) as many trainers on the market today.

I was also able to get a flight with the Katana on a 10s2p setup and have to say that the Katana handled the extra weight (11oz.) quite well. This setup will be great for me as I continue to learn the IMAC sequences as this setup provides between 10-12mins. of pattern type flying. It 3D's the Katana alright but requires quite a bit of throttle to maintain a hover with little in reserve. The 12s setup is the ticket for hard core 3D junkies like me. :D

I have included a video (sorry about the length) from todays maiden flight. I am usually not one for video taping my maiden flights as a plane usually has to be trimmed out but the Katana only needed two clicks of right aileron and it was flying hands off. Now that is SWEEEET!! :)

Great job Ben and Scott for producing yet another great airplane. You guys are going to love this plane!!

85" Katana Maiden (http://media.putfile.com/The-new-3D-Hobby-Shop-85--Katana-)

Tim

BTW - My RTF weight on my 85" Katana on 12s came in at 15lbs. 14oz.!! :cool:

NumbSkull

Oct 15, 2007, 12:16 AM

Great video Tim!!! Looks great in the air! She does tumble nice, and looks light on it's wing!

blucor basher

Oct 15, 2007, 12:18 AM

Great vid, Tim! Now that's how you fly a maiden!

The plane is just super-easy to 3D, isn't it? It's so friendly.

sun.flyer

Oct 15, 2007, 12:29 AM

Great vid, Tim! Now that's how you fly a maiden!

The plane is just super-easy to 3D, isn't it? It's so friendly.

You should rename it the "85" "Katana Friendly". :D It really does fly incredibly light at this weight. What is better yet is there is more weight savings to be had for those looking for it. I couldn't be happier however with the way it flies though.

When you talk about easy 3D many will say that the 47" Extra SHP is easy, and it is for a plane in that size range. Same is true for the 55" Extra SHP, once again very easy to hover for a plane in that size range. The Katana is definately sooooooo easy to 3D and hover for a 50CC sized airplane. It really makes taking this size of plane down low quite comfortable with very few flights under your belt (o.k. maybe a maiden flight). :p

Tim

- Is it just me or does my avatar seem bigger today. It must be because my Buckeyes are ranked #1. Hehe :p

mexico

Oct 15, 2007, 08:45 AM

Nicely done. I think I saw you add the clicks of aileron trim between roll 3 and 4 on takeoff... :rolleyes:

sun.flyer

Oct 15, 2007, 08:47 AM

Nicely done. I think I saw you add the clicks of aileron trim between roll 3 and 4 on takeoff... :rolleyes:

I didn't think anyone would notice. :p

Tim

G.P.

Oct 15, 2007, 10:58 AM

Scott...I'll be very interested in hearing about your experience with the DL50. Still saving my pennies for the 85" Extra and will put a 50-60cc in it. I just saw a DL at the field last week and I was really impressed with it. The guy that owned it couldn't say anything bad about it and preferred it to his DA. He even said that DA owners are putting the DL carbs on their engines to make them run better in the mid range!

Anyways, the affordability of the DL has me trying to think of ways that I can justify a plane of this size:D I really like Katana's in general, but the color scheme, thick wing roots and general 3DH quality really make this one stand out! Can someone in-the-know please tell me the length of this one? I need to see if it will fit in my Explorer!

Great job Ben & Scott! -Greg

feathermerchant

Oct 15, 2007, 12:01 PM

With prop and spinner mine is just a fit into my 6.5' pickup bed. There's a little more room if the rudder is turned.

mexico

Oct 15, 2007, 12:03 PM

delete

G.P.

Oct 15, 2007, 02:20 PM

Thanks FM. My Ultra RC Giles is 73 inches and it has a little room to spare. Looks like it might just be able to squeeze in :D :D :D

sukhoi26mx

Oct 15, 2007, 02:31 PM

Great flying Tim! and congrats!! Loved the waterfall. Where is your CG?

Scott

sun.flyer

Oct 15, 2007, 03:31 PM

Great flying Tim! and congrats!! Loved the waterfall. Where is your CG?

Scott

Scott,

I have it right on the middle of the wing tube (8 3/16"). I am really liking it there.

Tim

sukhoi26mx

Oct 18, 2007, 04:46 PM

Just finishing mine up... Not electric, but I figured I was still welcome here :)

Specs:

85" 3D Hobby Shop Katana
(5) Hitec 5955TG servos
Smart-Fly Power Expander
Smart-Fly Optical Ignition
A123 2300 mAh receiver pack
4-cell 1500 NiMh ignition pack
stock fuel tank
Dubro gas fuel valve

DL-50 gas engine
Stock muffler
Stock standoffs
Mejzlik 22x8 propeller
Tru-Turn spinner

AUW - 14 lbs 9 oz :) Lightest true 50cc model I've owned

Hopefully, the wind will die down (currently getting 40 mph gusts) so I can get some outdoor photos and run the engine.

Overall, the build was very simple. No issues installing the DL, and fit and finish of the entire model is quite good. I'm actually a bit surprised about the weight, as it is a very long model.

More as I test fly and get the engine going...

sun.flyer

Oct 18, 2007, 04:47 PM

I was able to get out and puts some more flights on the Big Kat yesterday. This plane continues to impress me with its rock solid stability and very gentle handling qualities. Inverted harrier flight down low with a giant scale plane use to worry me some but with the extra power in reserve on the 12s setup I find myself getting lower and lower with every pass. :cool:

The visual orientation of the Katana is as good in the sky as it is on the ground. I really like the fact that Ben and Scott went with the large checker pattern on the bottom as it makes it extremely easy to track the Kat. I am finding that I am using very little rudder to coordinate my HA rollers and elevator and aileron is provides for very axial rolls. I find that it is extremely easy to transport the Katana as I do not need to remove the horizontal stab/elevator in order to take it out to the field (using a Ford Escape). It goes together just as quickly at the field as some of my other airplanes.

Tim

sun.flyer

Oct 18, 2007, 04:51 PM

sukhoi26mx

Oct 18, 2007, 05:44 PM

Scott,

WOW great to hear!! Where will your RTF weight fall with a full tank of fuel? I look forward to hearing your thoughts after the maiden. :)

Tim

Tim,

The tank is 550cc, which is .145 gallons. Fuel runs in the 6.2 pounds per gallon, so I'll add around 14.2 oz in fuel. With that, I'll be around 15.5 pounds.

Scott

sun.flyer

Oct 18, 2007, 05:47 PM

Tim,

The tank is 550cc, which is .145 gallons. Fuel runs in the 6.2 pounds per gallon, so I'll add around 14.2 oz in fuel. With that, I'll be around 15.5 pounds.

Scott

Excellent!! Thanks Scott!! ;)

Tim

mexico

Oct 18, 2007, 08:01 PM

I'm actually a bit surprised about the weight, as it is a very long model.

I always thought Katanas were pretty short in relation to span---No??

sukhoi26mx

Oct 18, 2007, 09:32 PM

I always thought Katanas were pretty short in relation to span---No??

Lenny, this one is a little longer than scale for better tracking. Check out the video (and hopefully my photos soon!) It's definately longer than most Kats.

Scott

sukhoi26mx

Oct 18, 2007, 09:35 PM

Tim,

Here's that photo of the throttle servo install you asked for. It could also be mounted on the side of the motor box (inside). The geometry on the DL worked better mounted as seen for me.

Scott

NumbSkull

Oct 18, 2007, 10:04 PM

Looking good Scott. I cant wait to hear how it flies with that noise maker on the front of it... :D

Honestly.. I considered trying out a gas motor on mine, but in the end, I figured I would stick a big ol' hacker on the front of it. I like to fly with some music blasting in my ears, and all I need is for the motor to stall out on me, and not hear it stop... I loose enough planes on my own, I don't need a flame out to help me any... :D

I got my new servo arms yesterday. The landing gear is installed, electronics are now in, all that's left is to mount the motor and charge some lipos. It's been raining and blowing like crazy the last few days here, so I've been taking my time one the build. I know I wont get to fly it tomorrow, but if the weather holds up for Saturday, I should have a flight report, and hopefully some video...

feathermerchant

Oct 18, 2007, 10:33 PM

Oh so that's what that little box is for..... To hold the throttle servo.

sun.flyer

Oct 19, 2007, 07:27 AM

sukhoi26mx

Oct 19, 2007, 02:21 PM

No maiden yet... but I did get to run the engine. Easy to start, and pulls quite hard. Should be fun.

Here are a couple of glamour shots.

Scott

sun.flyer

Oct 19, 2007, 02:45 PM

No maiden yet... but I did get to run the engine. Easy to start, and pulls quite hard. Should be fun.

Here are a couple of glamour shots.

Scott

Sweet Scott!! Looking forward to your thoughts after the maiden on both the Katana and DL setup. :)

Tim

Pistolera

Oct 19, 2007, 09:26 PM

Sweet Scott!! Looking forward to your thoughts after the maiden on both the Katana and DL setup. :)

Tim
Me too :) :) and that's an awesome color scheme....should look great on the big SHP as well :D

Earle

NumbSkull

Oct 20, 2007, 01:12 AM

Just a friendly little reminder.... This hobby is one to take serious.

Every now and then, we read about friends loosing fingers to props, and houses to lipo fires. Thankfully, neither happened to me tonight, but a close call with a lipo reminded me of risk we take.

I was tired of waiting for an adapter to be delivered so that I can balance charge a new 6S lipo pack that has two taps for balancing (Thunder Power), so I decided to try and wire one up myself. Being one that has dabbled in electronics for many years (long before this hobby) my confidence and my haste allowed me to mistakenly wire the two taps in the wrong order (cell one on the 4 pin tap, not the 6 pin tap). Anyway, to make a long story short, I turned a new lipo and a new LBA10 into a nice sparkler show for me and the dogs.

Thankfully a small burn on my thumb and a burnt connector are the only sacrifices for this lesson, but a lesson it still is.... All the equipment and myself came out okay, but the dogs are still hiding under the bed....

Keep this in mind next time you start to rush, or you think of those five famouse words... "It wont happen to me"... It can happen to anyone... Be safe..

blucor basher

Oct 20, 2007, 01:51 AM

Good advice. Glad you're OK.

Always Broke

Oct 20, 2007, 06:09 AM

So now I am unsure which model to get .
The Extreme flight Yak or this Katana.
I have the 12s set up with a Hacker motor and CC 110hv.
I am so pleased with my Extreme flight 74" yak I thought there was no contest but after reading these posts I am not so sure.
Your thoughts would be appreciated
Simon

mexico

Oct 20, 2007, 07:31 AM

Simon - you already have an EF Yak 54 and you are on the 3DHS Katana thread. I wonder what opinion might say about which to get....

Always Broke

Oct 20, 2007, 08:36 AM

True but I was hoping for some honest opinions with the pros and cons!!

BoneDoc

Oct 20, 2007, 11:43 AM

Ben can chime in on how the two flies... he has both :D.

blucor basher

Oct 20, 2007, 07:25 PM

That's actually an easy comparison. Both are premium-quality 3D airplanes...but they aren't even remotely the same size.

The Katana can be built with a typical 12S outrunner system at 15lbs. - 15.5 lbs. (Gasoline in the 14-15lb range)

The Yak is *much bigger* and about 3-3.5 lbs. heavier. Park them next to each other, the Yak is just freaking huge. I have a Brillelli 366GT (60CC) in my Yak, and I'm wishing for more.

They both fly very, very well, but have different personalities. Between the extra weight and big huge cowl, the Yak requires another kilowatt more than the Kat (at least).

desert_flyer

Oct 20, 2007, 08:51 PM

Simon, I have the big EF Yak with a Neumotor BAM2215. I was really pushing my 12S evolite 5350s but it was still marginal on power. Ended up moving to 14S by adding a 2S pack. Had to get a new Kontronic ESC (to handle the 14S) and with this monster (7oz) and the extra battery (8oz), it has become a bit of a pig. Overall, not so happy. Will probably get the Katana and go back to 12S. As for the Yak, I gaze into the crystal ball and see a gas engine in its future.

So, I just wanted to point out that 12S is something of a watershed. Not a simple upgrade if you want more power...

blucor basher

Oct 20, 2007, 10:20 PM

Desert - I think I see a ZDZ80 in the future of my Yak. That or one of those unobtainium composite tuned pipes for the 60CC. I heard a great quote about Yaks the other day, they "have a large built-in headwind".

:D

birdie_in_texas

Oct 20, 2007, 10:59 PM

dude zdz's are big ole heavy clunkers..why not a DA-85...light and twice the grunt!

call Desert Dave and see about getting an "in-store demo" model..he is a superb gentleman...somewhat like you! :)

sukhoi26mx

Oct 20, 2007, 11:09 PM

I'd like a DA-85 as well, but the ZDZ 80 Super is a really strong engine. It yanks my 75cc AeroWorks Yak (23 lbs.) with authority at my altitude on a Pitts muffler.

Scott

blucor basher

Oct 20, 2007, 11:23 PM

I know that DA has excellent service, we just haven't actually seen any of it yet. That plus the $ for a new 85 has me thinking in some other directions.

Always Broke

Oct 21, 2007, 04:11 AM

sun.flyer

Oct 21, 2007, 09:54 AM

Thanks for the replies.
It sounds like my 12s set up is not going to power the Yak but will fit nicely in the Katana.
I had the 12s set up for my 74" Yak but I much prefer it flying lighter on 10s with a A60-22S
The lighter wing loading I think will suit me a lot better.
Thanks Simon

Broke,

What is your 12s setup? I am really liking my 12s setup in the 85" Kat and I have plenty of power at the RTF weight of my Kat.

Tim

Always Broke

Oct 21, 2007, 01:09 PM

5300 FP cells with a Hacker A60-18M with CC 110hv.
So what are you using in yours.

sun.flyer

Oct 21, 2007, 02:26 PM

5300 FP cells with a Hacker A60-18M with CC 110hv.
So what are you using in yours.

Those are very good cells. Also your power setup would be PERFECT in the Katana.

Here is what I am running in my 85" Katana:

Hyperion 5035-18
CC 110HV
(3) 3D Hobby Shop 4s 4400mah packs wired in series (12s 4400mah)
Xoar 22 x 10
Tanic 2700mah Nimh rx pack

This setup will be changing however......more to come. :)

Tim

NumbSkull

Oct 21, 2007, 11:56 PM

Well... The wind just wont cooperate with me. I took it out to the field for a maiden, but way to much wind.

So, instead of a flight report.. I'll post some back dated build pics....

blucor basher

Oct 22, 2007, 12:04 AM

Looks great. Anxious to hear about your maiden when the weather co-operates.

mexico

Oct 23, 2007, 08:38 AM

Ben - Any chance we could see a 10s/12 lb version of the Katana or Extra in the future? 74-78 inch span?

blucor basher

Oct 23, 2007, 10:23 AM

We don't have any planes in-progress in that size. That appears to be the most difficult size to market, currently.

G.P.

Oct 23, 2007, 10:34 AM

We don't have any planes in-progress in that size. That appears to be the most difficult size to market, currently.Really? That's the size that I've currently gotten into and I thought that there seems to be a lack of good choices. I really like this size compared to the bigger 50cc planes because they transport easier, are WAY cheaper to set up (less servos, smaller rx batteries, dual control system not necessary, can go glow for a really cheap setup) and still present well in the air. Currently the only planes that I have found in this range that fly great, are well built, reasonably priced and light for their size are from Ultra RC and EF. Now that Ultra RC is done I don't really see much competition in the market. Sure Great Planes and a lot of the big players make planes of this size, but they all weigh 2-4 pounds more.

The new DL50 is the only reason that I am even considering a plane of this size, so I hope that Scott's turns out well.