V versus Conventional Tail
08-07-2005, 10:12 AM
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V versus Conventional Tail
Alright guys, because of my great respect (seriously) for the many participants of the 1/2 Forum, I got a question. What, if any, are the advantages or disadvantages of using a V-tail versus conventional?[sm=confused.gif]
I actually went out and bought a kit - the Lanier Dominator 200. As is the case for all the Dominator series, it can be built both ways. I may use it for racing or combat. Power will be supplied by either a product engine, Killer Bee, or a Blackwidow (most likely choice). Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated.[8D]
I actually went out and bought a kit - the Lanier Dominator 200. As is the case for all the Dominator series, it can be built both ways. I may use it for racing or combat. Power will be supplied by either a product engine, Killer Bee, or a Blackwidow (most likely choice). Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated.[8D]
08-07-2005, 10:31 AM
#2
RE: V versus Conventional Tail
HI FS! The VTAIL is specialized for racing. I had to buy a radio that had ruddervator mixing [channels 2 and 4] to fly my PREDATOR. It works beautifully, and I intend to use the VTAIL on a future SWR. I suppose that for a 1/2A racer, the tail can be hooked up elevator only. The linkage will be more difficult to conceal, so if you can't accomplish that, then the VTAIL has MORE drag than a conventional tail with hidden linkage. I still think that a fixed vertical fin with a stabilator for pitch is the lowest drag tail. The VTAIL has that MASERATI look to it though.
08-07-2005, 10:14 PM
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RE: V versus Conventional Tail
df:
The plans don't include a nose-on (or tail-on) view. However, the instructions state the v-tail is 110 degrees just as mg10 says.
cp:
You are right, the v-tail is the sportier look. A fellow at the field today said he had flown both styles of Dominators and could not tell a great deal of difference between them. I think you are right though about the drag. The key is to keep the horns and the pushrods out of the flow. If I can pretty much do that (i.e., run it out the rear), then I will opt for the v-tail.
The plans don't include a nose-on (or tail-on) view. However, the instructions state the v-tail is 110 degrees just as mg10 says.
cp:
You are right, the v-tail is the sportier look. A fellow at the field today said he had flown both styles of Dominators and could not tell a great deal of difference between them. I think you are right though about the drag. The key is to keep the horns and the pushrods out of the flow. If I can pretty much do that (i.e., run it out the rear), then I will opt for the v-tail.
