Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/08
Page Numbers: 14,15
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Worth a Closer Look

Pup and Nieuport Kits in 1/6 Scale

The 1/6-scale Sopwith Pup and Nieuport 17 fly well with an O.S. four-stroke engine or an electric power system. These models have flight characteristics similar to Balsa USA’s 1/4-scale versions: smooth, straight takeoffs; excellent maneuverability from slow, gentle flying to sport-type maneuvers; and outstanding recovery characteristics. Three-point landings are easy, and these airplanes handle scale wheel landings with ease.

The models are faithful reproductions of the early aircraft. The Pup has a 53-inch wingspan, while the Nieuport’s top wing spans 55 inches. The kits feature fallout die-cut balsa, basswood, and plywood parts. Basic hardware is included, along with two sheets of rolled plans and an instruction manual.

These smaller renditions of Balsa USA’s 1/3- and 1/4-scale models are fast to build and easy to fly, making them a good choice for today’s modeler.

  • Balsa USA: Box 164, Marinette, WI 54143; Tel.: (800) 225-7287; Web site: www.balsausa.com

Rechargeable Revolution

Eneloop rechargeable batteries can be used like any other AA or AAA cell, but unlike many consumer NiMH batteries, these are ready to use right out of the package. That provides alkaline-like instant usability with the benefits of NiMH chemistry and a long storage life: each 2,200 mAh AA cell retains about 85% of its initial charge after one year. They exhibit no memory effect and are rated for up to 1,000 charges.

Eneloop batteries are available in a variety of packages—standalone or bundled with USB or AC chargers. Adapter sets convert AA/AAA cells into larger C- and D-size batteries. An Eneloop charger is recommended.

We found these batteries work well in RTF and computer transmitters that require dry cells. Their performance in higher-load applications is less certain, but they are easy to find at department stores, home-improvement centers, or battery dealers such as Batteries America.

  • Sanyo Energy Corp.: 2600 Network Blvd., 6th Floor, Frisco, TX 75034; Tel.: (469) 362-5600; Web site: www.eneloopusa.com

MX Bearings from Boca

RC engines have become more powerful and are subjected to greater thrust loads. Nitro fuel can quickly dry stock bearing retainers, making bearings susceptible to premature failure. Boca Bearing’s MX line addresses these issues with a new internal design that increases load capability and allows bearings to perform under harsher conditions where shafts encounter excessive side and radial loads.

MX bearings are offered in a standard high-speed version with chrome steel balls and races, or as a ceramic hybrid with ceramic balls and chrome races. Chrome steel is used because it is harder than stainless steel; the races are also cryogenically processed for an even harder surface. A stronger, thicker retainer material helps the MX bearings resist high-nitro-content fuel, and Grade 10 balls provide closer tolerances for enhanced performance.

  • Boca Bearing: 755 NW 17th Ave. #107, Delray Beach, FL 33445; Tel.: (800) 332-3256; Web site: www.bocabearings.com

Cherokee .40-.56 EP ARF

After mastering a four-channel trainer, a modeler is ready to move up— the Cherokee ARF offers an ideal next step. Sized for great performance and easy transport, it excels with a two- or four-stroke glow engine and is an excellent transition to brushless electric power.

Separate standard servos control the prehinged ailerons and flaps. Flap operation requires five channels; a four-channel radio can be used without flaps. Hardware for both configurations is included. The horizontal and vertical stabilizers install quickly with screws that align them automatically—no measuring or glue required—and they can be removed easily for transport.

Final assembly takes about four to six hours to get this 60-inch-wingspan ARF flight-ready. With a five-channel radio, optional flaps add realism and allow very slow landing approaches. The entire top canopy attaches and removes with two screws for easy access to onboard gear and the Li-Poly flight pack when flying with brushless power.

  • Great Planes Model Distributors: Box 9021, Champaign, IL 61826; Tel.: (217) 398-3630; Web site: www.greatplanes.com

Adaptive Li-Poly Charger

The 550B by Chargery Power, available through BP Hobbies, combines Li-Poly charging and balancing in a single, easy-to-use device. The microprocessor-controlled unit is fully programmable—users can set charging time, current, end conditions, and more. The backlit display monitors each cell’s voltage during the charge process as the unit equalizes peak voltages.

Smart balancing conversion boards make matching pack balancing connectors simple. Conversion board CCB-8QP supports Hyperion and EnerLand/PolyQuest packs with 2.5 mm pin spacing; the CCB-8BC supports Thunder Power and FlightPower packs with 2.0 mm pin spacing. The 550B charges one to five Li-Poly or Li-Ion cells at 0.1 to 5.0 amps using a 12-volt input. An AC adapter is available separately.

Competitively priced and supported by a variety of adapters and charge leads, the 550B is an excellent choice for charging and balancing two- to five-cell Li-Poly packs.

  • BP Hobbies: 140 Ethel Rd. W., Suite J, Piscataway, NJ 08854; Tel.: (732) 287-3933; Web site: www.bphobbies.com

Full-Tilt DF Eagle

E-flite’s sport-scale F-15 Eagle DF ARF is designed to emulate the full-scale fighter’s flight characteristics and response. The versatile foam model features an Edwards AFB Safety Chase trim scheme in orange and white with preapplied custom decals.

The 36-inch-wingspan jet is built to use two E-flite Park 400 DF motors and the included ducted-fan units. Included mechanical retracts enhance flight performance; if you prefer to keep the model lighter, you can omit the retracts and the steering servo. Full-span carbon spars stiffen the wings for high-performance aerobatics—loops, rolls, and Split S maneuvers—consistent with a fighter-style model.

Made from lightweight injection-molded EPS foam that’s easy to repair, all flight control surfaces are prehinged and molded servo pockets simplify radio installation. Approximate flight duration is eight to ten minutes.

  • Horizon Hobby, Inc.: 4105 Fieldstone Rd., Champaign, IL 61822; Tel.: (217) 352-1913; Web site: www.e-fliterc.com

Instant and Safe

Modern RC models often combine several materials, and many fast-curing adhesives can be hazardous. X-1 Instant Adhesive (and X-1A Activator) is marketed as an odorless, water-based, flexible adhesive for a variety of craft applications—particularly porous materials. It’s aimed at builders of flying model aircraft, landscapes, dioramas, and similar projects, and works well with ground coatings, rubble, trees and shrubs, cardboard, particleboard, and woods such as balsa.

In tests X-1 bonded porous materials very well. It was especially useful for repairing painted parts without tape, which can peel paint. Cleanup with water was easy. The activator is essential for quick fixes; if more working time is needed, avoid the activator or use X-1 as a contact cement.

Pterodactyl RC

The 52-inch-span Marston Pterodactyl features beautiful organic lines and represents the fifth evolution of the twin electric Pterodactyl—benefiting from years of design heritage. The kit is the result of extensive research, brainstorming, and iterative building.

The kit can be built in a few weeks and includes everything except covering material, hardware, and electronics. All required wood is included, along with two full-length carbon spars and full-size rolled plans. The one-piece wing attaches to the body with two nylon screws.

Kit assembly requires intermediate building skills, two small outrunner brushless motors, one 25-amp or two 10-amp controllers, four mini servos, and a 2,000 mAh 3S Li-Poly pack.

Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.