How to program a Gear Door Sequencer with the Futaba 18SZ

How to program a Gear Door Sequencer with the Futaba 18SZ (8 min 47 sec)

This instructional video shows you the core information of how to program a gear door sequencer with the Futaba T18SZ. This article fills in the details.

Setup Tips:

I would recommend that you set up the door(s) and gear separately, doing each in turn. I start with getting the door direction to correspond with the desired switch and switch position.

So select a switch on your 18SZ, I like to use switch SB. Decide what switch position gear down will be. I like gear down to correspond to the down position of the switch. Standard Futaba channel assignment assigns gear to channel 5. You need to decide what channels you will use for your doors.

As an example, my Hangar 9 P-47 has 2 wing electric retracts, and an electric tail retract. It has an inner door for each wing retract, and a set of doors for the tail wheel. The doors open and close with the gear. I like to have separate channels for each of the doors so that I can make easy trim adjustments to the fit of the doors. So to operate the gear and doors for this model I need 4 channels.

• CH 5 Gear
• CH 11 Door Left
• CH 12 Door Right
• CH 13 Door Tail

I will describe how to setup the gear channel (CH 5) and one door channel (CH 12), as the procedure for the rest of the door channels is the same. For this example, switch SB is used to control the gear: Up is gear up (...Continue Reading

(Click on images to enlarge)

Technical data provided by Phoenix model:

Phoenix Model Info Link

Wingspan: 2567mm (101in)
Length: 2190mm (86.2 in)
Flying weight: 11-13 kg [13 kg = 459 oz = 28.7 lb]
Wing area: 101 dm2 [1566 sq. in.]
Wing loading: 99g/dm2
Wing type: Naca airfoil
Covering type: Genuine ORACOVER®
Retract gear type: Air-retract With CNC Suspension Metal Struts (included)
Spinner size: 115mm (4.53”) (included)
Radio: 6 channel minimum (not included)
Servo: 10 standard hi-torque servo: 2 aileron; 2 flap; 2 elevator; 1 rudder;1 retract; 1 throttle; 1 steering nose. (not included)
Recommended receiver battery: 6.0V 2400/2600mAh NiMH (2) (not included)
Servo mount: 21mm x 42 mm
Propeller: suit with your engine
Engine: 50- 60 CC gas engine (two stroke) (not included)
Motor: brushless outrunner 2600-3000 W, 190 KV (not included)
Gravity CG: 141 mm (5.5 in) Back from the leading edge of the wing, at the fuselage
Control throw Ailerons: Low: 12mm up/down, 10% expo; High: 15mm up/down, 10% expo
Control throw Elevators: Low: 12mm up/down, 12% expo; High: 15mm up/down, 12% expo
Control throw Rudder: Low: 30mm right/left, 15% expo; High: 45mm right/left, 15% expo
Control throw Flaps: Mid: 25mm down; Landing: 35mm down
Experience level: Intermediate
Plane type: Scale Military

RECOMMENDED MOTOR AND BATTERY SET UP
Motor: Hacker A60 (not included)
Propeller: 22x10 E; 22x12 E APC (not included)
...Continue Reading

P-47D-40 Thunderbolt 30cc ARF by Hangar 9

(Click on any image to enlarge)

Manufacturer provided info:
Wingspan: 81.25 in (210 cm)
Length: 71.0 in (180 cm)
Wing Area: 1165 sq. in. (75.1 sq. dm.)
Weight: 16.0 - 19.0 lbs (7.30-8.60 kg)
Wing Loading: 31.7-37.6 oz/sq ft

Engine Size: 1.60-2.10 2-stroke; 1.80-2.20 4-stroke; 26-40cc gas
Motor Size: Power 160

Prop Size: 18 x 10 - 19 x 8 (Electric APC 19x8E)
Recommended Motor Battery: (2) 5000mAh 5S 18.5V 30C LiPo
Recommended Receiver Battery: 2700mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack
Retracts: Optional
Servos: 8 standard servos required (7 for EP), 1 mini servo for optional air retract; A6010, A6020, A6050
Speed Control: ICE 80-HV (80A Minimum)
Spinner Size: 1-1/2 inch P-47 style; Tru-Turn TRUTTH1500B
Flaps: Yes

My Build: (Electric)

>> Updated to new receiver / transmitter (Futaba 18SZ) June 2017, details noted below:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Tacon Bigfoot 1.60 245Kv
ESC: Turnigy dLux 110A, Updated Castle Edge 120, June 2017.
Motor Batteries: Two Haiyin 5S 5000mAh 30C in series for 10S.
Receiver Battery: LiFePo4 (A123), 2S (6.6 volt) Hobbico LiFe 2200mAh battery
Retract Battery: LiFePo4 (A123), 2S (6.6 volt) Hobbico LiFe 1100mAh battery

Propeller: Xoar 19x8 Electric Propeller and APC 19x8E

Servos:
Hitec HS-5645MG; Flaps (2), Rudder (1)
Hitec HS-5625MG; Ailerons (2), Elevator (2)
Hitec HS-5065MG; Gear Doors (2), Hitec HS-...Continue Reading

Lotsa Watts Plan built RC Sport Twin by Designer Dick Sarpolus
August 2007 Model Aviation Magazine Article; Plan Number 1005


(click on images to enlarge)

From the Designer:
Wingspan: 82 inches
Length: 60 inches
Wing Area: 1266 sq in
Weight: 7.5 lbs. w/o batteries, 9.75 lbs. Ready to fly
Wing Loading (ready to fly): 21 ounces/square foot
Motor: Welgard C50/55/06 brushless outrunner (628 kV, 4-6S, 60A cont., 1000W max, 800W cont., 301g / 10.6oz, 8mm shaft)
Engine: ---
Propeller: APC Electric Propeller, 12 x 8E
Power: Castle Creations Phoenix 50 to 80-amp ESC, two five-cell 3850 mAh Lipo batteries
Draw: 42 amps/motor
Output: 750 watts/motor
Watts/pound: 150
Servos: four standard
Flaps: No
Retracts: No
Spinner: No
Construction: Built-up balsa and plywood
Covering/finish: MonoKote or similar film

This plane was built from plans and flown by a friend of mine. It is an impressive flyer and gets a lot of attention at the field. He had it set up with two RimFire 0.55 motors, Great Planes Silver Series 60A Brushless ESC, 6S 5000 mAh Lipo, and Xoar 14x7E props. He recently sold it to me. I did not care for the lack of ground clearance and he had a slight mishap because of the large props.

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motors (two): Cobra 4120/16, 610 RPM per Volt
ESC (two): Turnigy Plush 60A Brushless Speed Controller
Motor Battery (two): Two Haiyin 6S 5000mAh 25-35C Lipo
Receiver Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 1450mAh (A123)
...Continue Reading

How-To Connect a Conventional Receiver to High-Voltage Servos … and eliminate “Y” connectors.

When you connect a battery to a conventional receiver, the power delivered is also distributed on a bus inside the receiver that allows you to conveniently connect servos to each channel without having to worry about providing a separate way to power the servos. This is good, but if you want to connect high-voltage (HV) servos to the same receiver, using high-voltage, you now have a problem: how do you separate the receiver power from the HV servos you want to add?

Why discard a perfectly good conventional receiver, to use HV servos? This article will show the advanced modeler how to have more control of your airplane electronics system. To do this, I will discuss some basics, and then present a break-out board solution that will not only eliminate “Y” connectors but also give you the ability to use one, two, or even three batteries to power servos, receivers, and gear. As a plus, you now have a convenient way of injecting power from a Lipo battery into your receiver, instead of having to make adapter cables. The board is highly versatile, and can be adapted for use in many situations.

Another application that has recently come to my attention is the addition of certain low cost add-on devices like the Hitec HG3XA 3-Axis Airplane Stabilization Gyro System. This very low cost (~ $30) stabilizer requires 5 to 6 volts. That would make it unusable for High-voltage (8.4 volt) servo...Continue Reading

Hangar 9 Valiant 30cc ARF
(click on images to enlarge)

From the Manufacturer:
Wingspan: 108.3 in, 9 feet, (275 cm, 2.75 meters)
Length: 78.2 in (199 cm)
Wing Area: 1663.0 sq in (107.3 dm2)
Weight: 16.5–17.5 lb (7.48–7.94 kg)
Wing Loading: --
Motor: E-flitePower 160
Engine: 2-Stroke Gas 30cc
Propeller: APC Electric Propeller, 19 x 10E, APC19100E
Servos: (8) Spektrum A6180 Digital Aircraft Servo
Flaps: Yes
Retracts: No
Spinner: 3 1/4 inch Aluminum Spinner P-51 (HAN99005) [not included]
Options:

EP Mount Set: Valiant 30cc HAN506012,
3-1/4" Aluminum Spinner P51 HAN99005,
Landing Gear: 1/4 Super Cub HAN454008,
Landing Gear Strut Covers 1/4 Super Cub HAN454015 (Use with optional Landing Gear),
25% J-3 Cub Axles and Hardware HAN4572(Use with optional Landing Gear),
1/4-Scale Cub Floats HAN4580,

Info Link: Hangar 9 Valiant HAN5060

My overall impression of the ARF is excellent. The construction is good and the part fit is very good. The hardware is quality 4-40. The covering came out the box without any wrinkles and was well adhered. The plane was well packed and protected, I had no shipping damage issues.

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Tacon Bigfoot 1.60 Outrunner Brushless Motor
ESC: Turnigy dlux 120A HV Brushless Speed Controller (OPTO)
Motor Battery: Two Haiyin 5S 5000mAh 25-35C Lipo (in series - 10S total)
Receiver Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 2100mAh (A123)
Fan Battery: 3S 1000mAh Lipo
Propeller: Xoar 18x8 PJN...Continue Reading

(Click on image to enlarge)
From the Manufacturer:
Wingspan: 60" (1520mm)
Length: 46" (1170mm)
Wing Area: 606 sq in (39 sq dm)
Weight: 6.75 - 7.25 lb (3060 - 3290g)
Wing Loading: 26 – 28 oz/ft2 [79 – 85g/dm2]
Motor: Rimfire .32 42-50-800 Outrunner Brushless
Engine:.40-.46 (7 - 7.5cc) 2-stroke OR .52 - .56 (8.5 - 9.2cc) 4-stroke
Propeller: APC 10" x 5 electric propeller or APC 11" x 5.5 electric propeller.
Servos: four to seven standard servos (Futaba® S3003 Servo Standard (FUTM0031) or Futaba S9001 Servo Aircraft Coreless BB (optional, FUTM0075)
Flaps: Yes
Retracts: No

Link to Cherokee on Tower website

When I opened the box, I was happy to see how nice the covering looked. Not a wrinkle in sight. I did go over the covering with an iron and hot air gun to better fixate the covering to the airframe.

My overall impression of the ARF is very good. The construction is very good and the part fit is very good. The access compartment is large, but there is not a lot of room to move the motor battery fore and aft. The canopy has a simple pilot, and is solid, but the plastic is a bit thin. The hardware is good. The control rod were packaged together, and one of the longer 2-56 control rods had to be replaced due to corrosion in the bag.

ALL the control surfaces are hinged and glued for you; ailerons, flaps, elevators and rudder. I pulled on the control surfaces like mad, and they are firmly factory glued. They also moved through their...Continue Reading

From the Manufacturer:
Wingspan: 61.4" (1560mm)
Length: 46" (1170mm)
Wing Area: 663 sq in (42.77 sq dm)
Weight: 7.05 lb (3.2 Kg) will vary with equipment
Wing Loading: 24.5 oz/sq in (74.82g /sq dm) will vary with equipment
Motor: HP-G-91 or G46 (unclear)
Propeller: 14x6 or 13x6 (unclear)
Servos: 4 standard for EP, 2 mini (?)
Flaps: Yes
Retracts: Optional

Global AFR by Vinh Quang R/C Models VQA095 info link

UPDATE: (October 2017) VQ Models has a newer version of this airplane called the "VQ T-34C TURBO MENTOR 61″ WINGSPAN". It appears to be essentially the same air-frame as the old model with a change in livery and some cosmetic changes for the "Turbo" version. I like the old model, and I would not hesitate to buy the new one. I really like the new livery! Plus, you can get electric retracts and struts for the model. The November 2017 issue of Model Aviation magazine has a review of the new Turbo Mentor.

(Original Model)
My experience with the E-Flite T-34 Mentor has been so good that when I saw this slightly larger T-34 by VQ Models, I wanted to give it a try. This larger model can accommodate retracts so that helped convince me to purchase it. I'm not really crazy about the "printed" covering, so I thought that when I purchased it, if I didn't like it, I could recover the plane in a scheme that I did like.

When I opened the box, I was very surprised to see how well the covering was adhered to the plane. Not a wrinkle in...Continue Reading

Wingspan: 57"
Length: 57"
Wing Area: 680 sq in
Weight: 4.5 - 5.5 lb
Wing Loading: N/A
Flaps: No
Retracts: No
Spinner Size: None

3DHS Info Link

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Motrolfly 4315 714 Kv
ESC: Castle Creations Talon 90 (BEC set for 8 volts)
Motor Battery: 4S 4000
Propeller: Xoar 15x8 Electric Prop
Servos: Hitec HS-7245MH Digital Hi-Voltage/Torque MG Mini Servo
Spinner Size: 2-1/4"

Futaba R6106HFC 6-Channel 2.4GHz High Voltage FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without batteries: 1753g = 61.8 oz = 3.9 lbs
Weight with 4S 4000: 2205g = 77.7 oz = 4.8 lbs

Wing Loading = 16.5 oz/sq ft = 50.2 g/dm2
Wing Cube Loading (WCL) = 7.6

Modifications and Notes:

Easiest ARF I've ever put together. The only thing I replaced was the stock ball-links with Dubro links and control rods. I originally set the plane up for sport flying with a motor from another plane.

I decided I really liked the plane, so I went all out with the servo's, Motrolfly motor, and Talon 90 ESC.

Maiden Flight:

August 7, 2013, 5:30 am: Air calm and temp about 82 degrees. Fantastic maiden. 2 clicks aileron, one click down. Fly's like a champ! Did four flights. All perfect. De-lighted.

Power Figures (Stock System):

Wide Open Throttle (WOT): with 4S Haiyin 4000 mAh 30C Lipo, Xoar 15x8PNJ and Motrolfly 4315 714Kv, and Talon 90 ESC:
14.72 V, 82.24 A, 1230.3 W (battery 16.71 V initially)
1.1.2014

(Click on image to enlarge)

Manufacturer provided info:

Engine Required: 2c 0.46 cu in x2 (Not included)
Radio Required: 5-channels, 9 servos (Not included)

Wingspan: 81in / 2060mm
Length: 62 in / 1570 mm
Wing Area: 1085 sq in / 70 sq dm
Weight: 10lb / 4540g
Wing Loading: Not specified
Flaps: Yes

My Build: (Glow to Electric Power)

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: One Turnigy G46 670kV, One Tacon .46 670kV.
ESC: Two Hobbyking Plush 80 Motor Battery: Haiyin 4S 5000mAh 30C
Receiver Battery: One 2100mAh LiFe

Propeller: APC 13x10E, and APC 13x8EP (pusher)

Servos:
Hitec HS-325HB Standard Karbonite Gear BB Servo : Ailerons (2), Elevator (2), Flaps (2)
Power HD, HD-1501MG : Nose gear steering (1)

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System (Flaps are variable on this system)

Weight with two 5000mAh 4S lipo (AUW): 13lbs. 0 oz. lb = 208 oz = 5897g

Introduction:
The Cessna 337 is a very distinct plane because of having one engine in the front of the aircraft, and another in the rear of the aircraft.

Modifications and Notes:

The most serious problem with this kit is the way that the wing mounts to the fuselage. It is pinned in the front and uses T-bolts aft to hold the wing on. Very traditional. The problem is that the rear cowl has an over-hanging intake, that makes it impossible to attach or remove the wing without having to remove the rear prop and cowl. Just plain dumb.

Fortunately, the fix is to move the...Continue Reading

NAMC YS-11 Twin TurboProp Fiberglass ARF



Wingspan: 47.2 in (1200 mm)
Length: 38 in (965 mm)
Wing Area: 279 in² = 1.94 ft² = 18 dm²
Weight: 2.9 lb = 45.9 oz = 1300g
Wing Loading: Not specified
Motor: Two,Not specified, 26~28 size, 1600+kV
ESC: Two 30A ESC
Propeller: Not specified
Batteries: "about" 2200mah, not specified directly but 3S assumed.
Servos: Five 9g servos
Flaps: No
Retracts: No
Radio System: Not specified
Special Notes: None


My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Two Turnigy D2826-10 1400kv
ESC: Two Hobbyking Plush 40
Motor Battery: Haiyin 3S 2200mAh 30C 190 grams
Receiver Battery: None, power from one ESC.

Propeller: APC 7x5E, and APC 7x5EP (pusher)

Servos:
Towerpro 9g SG90 Sub Micro: 2 Aileron, 2 Elevator, 1 Rudder (total of 5)
Towerpro 14g MG90 Metal Gear: Nose gear steering (1)

OrangeRx Futaba FASST Compatible 8Ch 2.4Ghz Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without batteries: 3 lbs 1.7 oz lbs = 49.7oz = 1409g
Weight with 2200mAh 3S 190g lipo (AUW): 3lbs. 8.4 oz. lb = 56.4 oz = 1599g

Introduction:

The Nihon Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation produced the full size 60 passenger YS-11 from 1962 to 1974. 182 were built. For the most part, this little fiberglass fuselage ARF goes together well, and is very inexpensive. Probably the same ARF as the discontinued Kyosho YS-11.

Modifications and Notes:

HobbyKing 7075 Alloy Shock Absorbing Strut Set was used in place of the corny...Continue Reading

Seagull Piper Twin Comanche 46 ARF



Wing span: 76.4in (194cm).
Wing area: 830.8sq.in (53.6sq dm).
Weight: 10.6-11lbs (4.8-5kg).
Length: 51.3in (130.3cm).

Seagull Info Link

My Build:

UPDATE September 2018 (still flying great):

I recently purchased a Futaba 18SZ transmitter; this transmitter has 16 proportional channels. The extra channels will allow me to eliminate the Assan Sequencer, and control the gear doors separately via programming on the 18SZ. I have used FrSky FASST compatible receivers before, and the TFR8SB is perfect for this application. I can have all 16 proportional channels available through the TFR8SB's S.Bus connection. The gear doors are now programmed through a program mix on the 18SZ. This plane flies better lighter: I removed one LiFe battery for the retracts, and changed the 2 main Lipo batteries to 4S 4000 mAh packs.

Motors: Emax BL3526/04 860 kV Brushless Motor
ESC's: Hobbyking Plush 80, BEC's are not connected.
Motor Batteries: Two (2) Haiyin 4S 5000 25C 545 grams each, (19.2oz), 145 mm x 55mm x 35mm.
Receiver Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 1100mAh (A123)
Retract Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 1100mAh (A123) (battery removed, and system rewired September 2018)
Propeller: APC 11x7E
Servos:
Hitec HS-485HB : Ailerons, Elevator, Rudder (4)
Hitec HS-485HB : Flaps (2)
Hitec HS-485HB : Nose gear steering (1)
Micro Blue generic Servo: Nose Gear Door Operators (2)


Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver (removed September 2018)
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System...Continue Reading

E-flite Carbon-Z Scimitar PNP




Brief Specs:

Wingspan: 42.6 in (1080mm)
Overall Length: 35.0 in (889mm)
Wing Area: 565 sq. in. (36.5 sq. dm.)
Flying Weight: 4.40 lb (2.0 kg)
Motor Size: 32-size 1010Kv Brushless Outrunner (installed)
Prop: 10 x 8 Electric Propeller with Ears: C-Z Scimitar by E-flite (EFLP1008E)

Manufacturer's Info Page (full info here).

Maiden Flight:

December 26, 2011. A bit gusty. Although the plane was carefully balanced at the mid-point of the stated CG with the stock setup, the plane flew like it was tail-heavy. It was a bit uncomfortable to fly. My landing was good up until the point at which the nose suddenly bounced back up, resulting in a slightly bent nose-gear on final contact. I did notice as it was taxiing that it seemed to be jumping up a bit, like it needed more weight in the nose, but thought I would go by the manual (lesson learned). Adding about 2 ounces of nose weight was needed. I suppose this plane is really hungry for bigger batteries, which it looks like it can handle.

Overall a very neat plane. Looking forward to getting out and using the thrust vectoring.

Power Figures: (stock system)

Wide Open Throttle (WOT): with 4S GForce 3300 mAh 30C Lipo:
With Stock Prop: 13.81V, 51.0A, 710W (battery 16.6 V initially)

...Continued in next section, Futaba 7C programming for the Scimitar and more, click here.

Philip Workshop RC B-17F Memphis Belle

Wingspan: 81 in (2057 mm) (1:16 scale)
Length: 63 in (1600 mm)
Wing Area: Not specified
Weight: 11.9 lb = 190.5 oz = 5400g
Wing Loading: Not specified
Motor: Four PW-RC B17 (950KV, 370W, 32A, with 3S 5000mAh, 9x6 3-blade - Thrust 1300g each motor (2.87 lbs ea.))
ESC: 40A ESC
Propeller: PW 9x6, 3-blade, custom.
Batteries: Two 11.1V 5000mah 25C lipo batteries, 4.8V NICD/NIMH receiver battery
Servos: Four standard servos (Ailerons, Flaps) and Five mini servos (2-Elevators, Rudder, Steering, Air Retract)
Flaps: Yes, split.
Retracts: Yes, Optional Air
Radio System: 6-8 CH radio system
Special Notes: The ARF comes with two pilots, and all power wiring and servo connectors!

Philip Workshop RC Info Link (This airplane has been discontinued)

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: PW-RC B17
ESC: Hobbyking Plush 40
Motor Batteries: Turnigy 3S 5000mAh 30C
Receiver Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 2100mAh (A123)
Retract Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 2100mAh (A123)
Propeller: Custom PW 3 blade Electric Props
Servos:
Hitec HS-635-HB : Ailerons, Elevator, Rudder (4)
Hitec HS-425BB : Flaps (2)
Hitec HS-65MG : Tail gear steering (1)
Hitec HS-5085MG Programmable Digital Servo: Tail retract operator (1)
Hitec HS-7775MG Digital Low Profile Metal Gear: Mains retract operator (2)

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight with two 5000mAh 3S lipo's and one A123 batteries: 13.5 lb

Twin Otter


Wingspan: 82.0 in (2080mm)
Length: 65.0 in (1650mm)
Wing Area: 738 sq in (47.61 sq dm)
Weight: 11.5–13.2 lb (5.2–6.0 kg)
Wing Loading: N/A
Motor: E-flite Power 25 BL Outrunner Motor
Propeller: 12X8E
Servos: A6000 and MC35
Flaps: Yes
Retracts: No
Spinner Size: 2-1/4"

Hangar 9 Info Link

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Two E-flite Power 25 BL (Later on, upgraded to two Tacon 32 motors, see text below)
ESC: HobbyKing Plush 60
Motor Battery: Gforce 3S 3300mAh 40C, 289 grams (10.1oz) and Turnigy 3S 5000mAh 40C, 449g (15.8oz)
Receiver Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v 2100mAh (A123)
Propeller: APC 12x8E Electric Prop
Servos: Hitec HS-5485HB Programmable Digital Servo: Aileron, Flaps, Rudder
Hitec HS-5085MG Programmable Digital Servo: Elevator (2 required)
Hitec HS-645MG : Nose gear steering

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without batteries: 10.08 lbs = 161.2 oz = 4569.9g
Weight with two 3300mAh 3S lipo's and A123 batteries: 11.7 lb = 187.2 oz = 5307.0g
Wing Loading with 3300mAh 3S and A123 batteries: 36.6 oz/sq ft (111.5 g/sq dm)
Wing Cube Loading (WCL) = 16.1

Modifications and Notes:

I really didn't want to have to plug and un-plug six connectors every time I put on the wings on, so I used a breadboard (shown below) to make what I call a "Y-Board". This made the "Y" connections to the ailerons, flaps, and throttle easy,...Continue Reading

Manufacturers Info:
Wingspan: 52.0 in (1320mm)
Length: 45.5 in (1160mm)
Wing Area: 460 sq in = 3.194 sq ft = (29.7 sq dm)
Weight: 5.25 - 6.00 lb (2.40 - 2.70 kg)
Wing Loading: N/A
Motor: E-flite Power 32
Propeller: 13x6.5E
Servos: MC35
Flaps: Yes
Retracts: Yes
Spinner Size: 3 inch P-51 shape

E-flite Info Link

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: E-flite Power 32
ESC: Phoenix Ice 75 with Quick Connect
Motor Battery: Gforce 4S 3300mAh 30C 386 grams (13.7oz)
Receiver Battery: LiFe 2S 6.6v (A123)
Propeller: APC 13x6.5E Electric Prop
Servos: JR MC35
Electric Retracts: E-Flite 25 - 46 85-Degree Main (EFLG310)

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without battery: 5.27 lbs = 84.27 oz = 2389g
Weight with 3300mAh 4S and A123 batteries: 6.25 lb = 100 oz = 2835g
Wing Loading with 3300mAh 4S and A123 batteries: 31.3 oz/sq ft (95.5 g/sq dm)

Modifications and Notes:

I originally wanted to put in HiTec HS-85's servos, but some slight trimming would be needed, so I bought the MC35's thinking that they would be a perfect fit. Turns out I had to trim the MC35's anyway. It would have been better to buy the HS-85's as they cost only slightly more than the MC35's and the HS-85's are ball bearing. Won't do that again.

Robart 122 Mini tail retract installed. This is an E-flite option (the tail wheel mount is designed for the Robart 122) that does not work so well (see "Maiden Flight" comment below). Forget this...Continue Reading

Manufacturers Info:
Wingspan: 63.8" (1620mm)
Length: 43.7 in (1110 mm)
Wing Area: 806 sq/in = 5.5972 sq/ft (52 sq dm)
Weight: 120 oz = 7.5 lbs = 3400g
Wing Loading: 23 oz/sq ft (65.4 g/sq dm)
Engine: 60-75 (2C)
Propeller: Not Specified
Servos: Not specified
Flaps: No
Retracts: No
Spinner Size: No

RichModel Info Link

My Build: (Glow to Electric conversion)

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Great Planes Rimfire .60 50-55-650
ESC: Phoenix Ice 75 with Quick Connect
Motor Battery: 6S 5000mAh 30C, 795 g = 28 oz = 1.75 lb's
Receiver Battery: A123 2S 6.6v 1100mAh cylinder pack
Fan Battery: A123 2S 6.6v c1100mAh cylinder pack
Propeller: APC 13x4.5 Pusher Electric Prop
Servos: Three Futaba S3004 Servo's (2 Ailerons, 1 elevator), two HS-85BB for Rudders, one Tower Hobbies TS-53 for nose-gear steering. Power HD HD-1501MG for brake.
Braking System: Fults Dual Strut Nose Gear with Brake (see mods section below)

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without battery: 6 lbs 14.6 oz = 110.6 oz = 3135g
Weight with 5000mAh 6S and A123 batteries: 9 Lbs 1.9 oz = 145.9 oz = 4137g
Wing Loading with 5000mAh 6S and A123 batteries: 26.1 oz/sq ft (79.6 g/sq dm)
Wing Cube Loading (WCL) = 11

Modifications and Notes:

Before assembly, I did a rough fit of everything to make sure that all was OK in the kit. Since the model has been in storage for awhile (its been years since they were manufactured) I was...Continue Reading

Manufacturers Info:
Wingspan: 70" (1780mm)
Length: 58.5 in (1460 mm)
Wing Area: 832 sq in (53.7 sq dm)
Weight AUW: 8.5 - 9.25lb (3850 - 4190g)
Wing Loading: 24 - 26 oz/sq ft (73 - 79 g/sq dm)
Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Great Planes Rimfire .80 50-55-500
ESC: 60A Brushless ESC
Battery: Two 3200mAh (3S) 11.1V LiPo in series (6S)
Propeller: APC15x7E (APCQ1830)
Servos: Five 50 oz.-in. [3.6 kg-cm] minimum standard servos; such as Futaba S9001
Flaps: No
Retracts: No
Spinner Size: 3-1/4" (83mm) diameter aluminum

Great Planes Info Link

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Great Planes Rimfire .80 50-55-500
ESC: Phoenix Ice 75 with Quick Connect
Motor Battery: 6S 5000mAh Lipo
Receiver Battery: A123 2S 6.6v 1300mAh cylinder pack
Propeller: APC 15x7E electric prop
Servos: Three Futaba S3152 Servo Digital Standard High-Torque (Ailerons, elevator), One Futaba S3305 High-Torque Standard Servo w/Metal Gears for Rudder

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without battery: 7 Lbs 7 oz = 119 oz = 3374g
Weight with 5000mAh 6S and A123 Receiver battery: 9 Lbs 8 oz = 152 oz = 4309g
Wing Loading with 5000mAh 6S and A123 Receiver battery: 26.3 oz/sq ft

Modifications and Notes:

I installed the elevator servo so that the swing of the arm would be in line with the movement of both elevator halves. This prevents any kind of unwanted differential due to the swing of the arm of a perpendicular mounted servo. I didn't feel...Continue Reading

E-flite Beechcraft Bonanza 15e

Manufacturers Info:
Wingspan: 48.0 in (1220mm)
Length: 41.9 in (1065mm
Wing Area: 410 in² (26.4 dm²)
Weight AUW: 4.20–4.50 lb (1.9–2.0 kg)
Wing Loading: 19-23 oz/ft² (58-70 g/dm²)
Brushless Outrunner electric motor: Power 15
ESC: 40-amp
Battery: 3S 3200mAh Li-Po
Propeller: APC 11x8E electric prop
Servos: 7 micro servos; JR MC35
Flaps: Yes
Retracts: Optional
Spinner Size: 1.75 in
E-flite Info Link

My Build:

Brushless Outrunner electric motor: E-flite Power 25 (see update to Rimfire 15 below)
ESC: Phoenix Ice 50 with Quick Connect
Battery: GForce 3S 3300mAh 30C Lipo
Propeller: APC 11x7E electric prop (see update to Rimfire 15 below)
Servos: Six Hitec HS-85BB servos, one Hitec HS-85MG for nose steering
Other Option: Retracts: 10 - 15 Size Tricycle Electric Retracts by E-flite
Other Option: Spinner: 1.75" Aluminum Spinner
Other Option: Cockpit Kit
Other Option: V-Tail

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System (Flaps are variable on this system)

Weight without battery: 60 oz (1701g) = 3.75 Lbs

Modifications and Notes:

I like the fact that the flaps have hidden linkages. The ailerons and flaps were pre-hinged too.

Not mentioned in the manual, but included in my kit was a pull-pull kit for the nose gear and the appropriate cutouts in the plane. I was not happy with the push-pull nose gear arrangement as it suffers from slop due to the long cable run, this was a great solution.

The pull-pull...Continue Reading

Great Planes Cirrus SR22 "Misty"
(Click on image to enlarge)
Manufacturers Info:
Wingspan: 50.5" (1285mm)
Length: 36 in (915 mm)
Weight AUW: 2.5-3lb (40-48 oz) (1134-1360g)
Wing Area: 305 in² (19.7 dm²)
Wing Loading: 19-23 oz/ft² (58-70 g/dm²)
Brushless Outrunner electric motor: RimFire .10
ESC: 35A
Battery: 1500-3350mAh 3S LiPo
Propeller: APC 10x7E
Servos: Four nano,

Great Planes Info Link

My Build:

RimFire .10
TURNIGY Plush 40amp Speed Controller
FlightMax 3S 2200 mAh LiPo, or GForce 3S 3300mAh 30C Lipo
Servos: one HS-65HB (rudder, steering), three JR DS285 Digital Sub-Micro
E-flite 1.75" Aluminum Spinner with 4mm collet.

Futaba R617FS 7-Channel 2.4GHz FASST Receiver
Futaba 7C 2.4GHz Radio System

Weight without battery: 38 oz (1077g) = 2.375 Lbs

Modifications and Notes:

I used three very nice JR digital servos because I had them on hand. I was not impressed with the recommended Electrifly servos.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bajora
If you have a less than perfect landing where the nose gear takes an excessive impact or even hit a rock or piece of debris on takeoff, the entire nose gear assembly can spin 180 internally by flexing the steering push rod to the point where it flops the steering arm to the other side of the assembly.

Well on the 4th takeoff my prop suddenly hit our paved runway.The nose gear did what was described above. I thought maybe the grub screw came loose, but I had used...Continue Reading