Radios for Scale modelers are typically mid- to high-end systems designed for a multitude of aircraft. When considering a new radio system, we typically first consider the reliability and investment, then the features and getting our hands on one to get a feel for the radio. This past year I checked out several radio systems and purchased one that I hope will take care of my flying needs for several years.
After I purchase a new radio I take the back off of it to check out the electronics and the battery compartment. In most of the radios I’ve purchased during the past 10 years, I’ve tightened the screws for the stick tension. I don’t like sticks that flop around. I want some tension on them and this has made me fly better. No, really, it has!
When it comes to Scale radio features, the best one I’ve seen is the JR PCM10. This system came out in the mid-1980s and although the price was high, I purchased one. It’s just a wallflower now, but I can’t sell it or toss it.
One feature I liked about the system was that there were switches or sliders on the upper sides of the case. They were great for flaps or retracts.
I hate taking my finger or thumb off of the throttle or elevator to operate a switch or knob to operate retracts or flaps. Then you have to consider activating the bomb drop and maybe a tank drop and, well, you get the picture. Often, a pilot must give up control to operate a switch or option. To my knowledge, there are no radio systems designed exclusively for Scale models—especially an eight-channel with slider switches on the sides. If anyone knows of one, please let me know! Many computer radios now have complete programs for Pattern, sailplanes, helicopters, and other specialties.
Two years ago, I purchased a Futaba T7C and currently use it with a Great Planes Mister Mulligan and several other aircraft. One aspect I don’t like about the T7C is that to operate the flaps, you either must use a three-position switch above the elevator/aileron stick or use the dial above the same stick. You also have to reach over with your left hand for the dial. The T7C has four two-position switches. This appears to be common on most six- to eight-channel radios. I wish they had a slider on the left side of the case.
The tension on the sticks was good and firm. When I began looking for a radio system that could take care of more complicated models and had sliders on the sides of the case, I went back to Futaba and talked with Frank Noll at the Toledo R/C Expo. Frank and I discussed the benefits of the Futaba T14SG with regard to the features, programming, and price. It looked like a great deal and Frank said they were selling like hotcakes.
I typically procrastinate and did so with this item. Approximately three months later I finally bit the bullet and purchased one. The system has all the features that one would need for a Scale model. The T14SG also has a good, solid feel to it when you pick it up. I will still use my old transmitter tray when I use this radio system or any other at Scale fly-ins or competitions.
Pietenpol Air Camper Update
The Pietenpol Air Camper has taken much longer than it should and I blame myself. I’ve recently changed jobs within the company I work for and I’m feeling more rested and have more time to play in the shop now. No more coming home every day feeling like all the blood has been drained from my body. I look forward to finishing this model and getting started on my Cessna C-165 Airmaster. I’ve purchased all of the electronics, the engine, the balsa, the plywood, and the hardware. It’s on hold until I have a free workbench to start it on.
Sharing the Love of Aeromodeling
If you have kids or grandkids, I hope they like going to your shop as much as our grandkids do. My balsa stash started diminishing and I made a box for each of them so they would have their own wood to work with. Several of the balsa suppliers have specials on a “box of balsa and bag of sticks” and every Christmas this is one of their presents.
I was recently caught off guard when my oldest grandson said, “Papa, you have three workbenches and I don’t have any.” So guess what? We now have four in the shop and I’m hoping I don’t have to give one up! Yes, it’s great to have kids who mind you and want to be in the shop with you, too!
Dolly Wischer Passes
Dolly Wischer passed away in October 2013 at the age of 94. Bob and Dolly Wischer were fixtures in the Scale competition community for decades. Bob was the only FAI team member from the US to win the Scale World Championships. He also won regional and national competitions.
After Bob passed away, Dolly kept busy making her signature Dolly bears from scraps collected from mills and factories throughout Wisconsin. She was always at the AMA or the National Association of Scale Aeromodelers (NASA) booth at the Toledo R/C Expo selling her bears. All of the proceeds were donated to AMA.
Dolly helped organizations, including NASA, at the Scale Nats and did whatever she was asked. Fiercely independent, with a quick, dry wit, always a smile, and a hug, and even a snack if you needed one, she was always glad to see you. She’ll be missed by everyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting her, let alone those who got to know her well.
Fair skies and tail winds.
