Hey everybody, I have been on the verge of buying the HL FA-18 ARF for a while now, but with that 20% off, I did it!



Few things right away:

How's the stock motor? I tend to be a speed demon, so if I put a different motor/esc combo, what would take it to the next level?

Also, that paint job.... I might leave it that way for the maiden, put I think I am going to have to paint it aircraft gray. The blue angels are cool and all, but that paint job says "Hey, look at my new Wal-Mart toy!" I want to make it look like a serious jet.

Anyone own the plane? Any suggestions?

Here's a paint job I'm considering:

So, nobody has any advice or info about this jet I should know? At least a hint to a faster motor/esc combo? I'm going to keep it on 3S.

Hey whats up man - Check out this thread. There is TONS of answers on it..

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=746975

While you're at it, fill the nose cone with that spray foam stuff, or glass it. You WILL crumple it eventually.

Originally Posted by kelberts

While you're at it, fill the nose cone with that spray foam stuff, or glass it. You WILL crumple it eventually.

I was thinking of lining the inside with epoxy. Will that work?

I read the whole review thread. The only thing I got from it was whining about the paint and the ESC cutting out on some people.

BTW, where did you go to get the 20% discount ? I want to get one of these. Thanks in advance

Marcusg

Hobby-lobby main page. Click on the discount link. You have to put the 20% off in the basket along with the kit. I never would have bought it if it wasn't for the email with the 20% off add.....

Thanks bro. Much appreciated. Merry X-mas

Marcusg

No problem. Let me know how you like it. I have a feeling you will have better flying weather before me....

Originally Posted by woody429924

I was thinking of lining the inside with epoxy. Will that work?

Maybe, except I think it will end up brittle. You could also just line the inside with strapping tape, which will protect it from landing angle mishaps, but not nose-plants.

If I had one, I'd just carve a foam blank and then lay up a real fiberglass cone. Also, I'm willing to bet the fiberglass nose of the HET F-18 would fit pretty closely - Almost the exact same dimensions - They have them at warbirds-rc.com for $8.50

http://www.warbirds-rc.com/Store/fa-18g.html

Originally Posted by woody429924

I read the whole review thread. The only thing I got from it was whining about the paint and the ESC cutting out on some people.

Don't like that thread? Try this one....
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=725206

Here it is! Ready for maiden flight tomorrow, major painting is done. I still have some decals to print.

How does she look guys?

Here's the bottom. I painted the wings black underneath for visual aid.