Like to see 1/4 Scale Cub Batt Hatches

[LBJ]

I have a 1/4 Scale Hangar 9 Cub. going to go with a E-Flight 110 and 2 4S 3850's. I would like to see where a hatch is cut in their model for the batts right in front of the LG. I have a general idea of what I am going to do, but might like to see someone who has done it. Looks like there is room for the two batts under the fuel tank tray. Might have to alter the former under the "instrument panel" bulkhead a bit to get them in there flat. I am sure they would go in vertical, but I like the idea of going in flat. Thanks, LBJ

[GordonTarling]

I've seen many similar-sized Cubs, but I can't recall ever seeing one with a battery hatch where you describe. Most of those I've seen tend to utilise that very handy hatch in the side, called a door. :)

[jrb]

I charge with pack installed!

Would even if I used LiPos; that is at the field -- balance charge at home out of plane.

But I actually use A123s!

Stock DeWalt, out of plastic and solder leads to tabs and shrink tube.

I fly for 15 minutes and recharge on landing in 15! Back in the air again quick, even now with skis.

Do the A123-10S2P @ 20amp via MasTech power supply

Search on me and A123 or Cub fo more; here's a couple of threads:

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=752795

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=728852

[LBJ]

The Hangar 9 or E-flight 46 size Cub has the very hatch I am talking about. Comes that way from the factory. Looks good, easy to get to, etc. See below pic. The H9 1/4 Scale Cub is different in construction, so that's why I ask. It was not built for electric from the factory. Not a tough conversion, but not designed like the E-Flight 46 size. They give it lip service in their ads, but nothing in the instruction manual.

Going thru the door is not all that convenient, IMHO. Especially with the struts and wings on the A/C.

Charging Li-Poly batts in place has possible, if rare, concerns about having them explode in the model. This malfunction would obviously make one very upset. Also, I like the idea of charging one set while you fly and changing them out afterwards.

Guess I'll have to do it and post my pics. LBJ
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/HAN4350_BatteryHatch.jpg

[jrb]

Don't need two sets of packs with A123s!

And, there no worries about chraging them in the plane.

My recharge time is so quick; I couldn't imagine doing anythin other than plugging it to the charger by just openning the stock door.

Also, don't need to worry about a LiPo "Storage" charge.

I recharge while taking mine apart; and am eady to go w/o the need for another charge till I fly again.

Mine is also set up to fly with or without the 2nd parallel pack flew maiden w/o; both since -- even with skis!

Got my two packs via eBay -- $220 shipped.

BOL!

[LBJ]

I'm comitted now! I'll get some of the larger magnets for the rear of the hatch and use a tongue hold at the front. Have to remake the hatch since the balsa split in two while removing. Prolly use plywood. Hate to buy more covering, but may do it to seal the existing covering up so it doesn't peel away. It's a start!
Got a few more things done on the hatch. The fuel tray popped right out with any damage to the other structure. Made a batt mount board from 3/32 ply. Added another hole in the hatch for cooling. Going to paint the hatch. I think it will hold up better than film. Need two big magnets for the hatch.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/Kitty571.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/Kitty575.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/Kitty581.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/Kitty584.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/Kitty588.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v228/numskin/Kitty591.jpg

[karl k]

Good work.

That looks nice. I would still cover that hatch with Ultracote, though.

It will match perfectly and, if you wrap the covering around the edges good, will not peel away any time soon.

Karl