Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

I am getting back in the hobby and have been flying some parkzone electrics. I am now building a BaslaUSA SE5a and checked into the pricing on making that electric and it is very expensive -more than gas, glow (2 or 4 stroke) and even some radials. So, I am trying to get up to speed on the differences, drawbacks and benifits. When last I was in the hobby some 13 years ago, I was all glow in the .46 to .60 range. I didn't know anybody who had ga, electric or even a 4 stroke and certainly no radials. All of these now seem to be realistic options. I'll cross post this in glow in case that draws a different crowd.

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RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

Try this for electrics.
rchotdeals.com

Costs less and everything I got from him has been first class

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

If the SE5a is larger than a .90 size, give gas serious consideration. It will likely need the extra nose weight and gas engines have evolved just as electrics have. Electronic ignitions make them easy to hand prop. They are clean and fuel is cheap.

If you enjoy long flights, they have a significant advantage as gas engines consume considerably less fuel than does glow.

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

From the specs I found online it sounds like a perfect candidate for a DLE-30. No way I'd want a bird that size and weight with anything but a gasser unless it was only for display.

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

After reading that link I may try this electric motor on a 10 LB airplane I have. First I will read a lot more about them.

Best Regards Capt,n http://www.rchotdeals.com/Products/r...or/A41308.html

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

IMHO, flying a electric plane is kind off like driving an electric car. Yea, they both accelerate when you step on the throttle, but the electric is just missing the "feel" you get with an Internal combustion engine, not to mention the associated exhaust note. If you want to try electrics, go drive a electric golf cart, then try a gas cart at a pay per ride track....which do you like better?

I own & fly both glow, gas, & electric...I favor engines over motors for my planes.

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

Captin,

If you are new to electric, I'd suggest trying something smaller first. Get your feet wet with something less powerful then you will be much more prepared for the larger motors. Large batteries, ESCs and motors can be intimidating for those who have not used them before. Just like the larger gassers, starting small and working up is probably the best approach.

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

Note that the weight of the motor is 14 oz. This is roughly the same weight of a .60 glow engine.
You will have to be careful of the battery you choose in order to keep it the same weight of the glow fuel or you will make it a dog to fly. Perhaps a next smaller motor would be a better choice. Then make sure you don't exceed the maximum power rating.
There are many more variables when working with electrics. I have found motocalc to be very helpful.
You can get it at motocalc.com Its free for 30 days and only costs $40 to buy. Its well worth the money.

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

I got 2 electric airplanes and have learned they can hurt you if not carefull. A small electric motor with a prop can hurt you right now...if your not carefull. I still do not trust Lipo batteries when charging. All things you do has to be done with caution. The real big electric motors that fly 15-20 pound planes must be a finger chopper. The wrong move is going to be bad! That is my opinion anyway. Capt,n PS, my Cap 232 is 4 years old...still in one piece.

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

We're looking at a model that builds to 18-20Lb. Unless the OP has a lot of experience with higher power electric systems, the recommended 30-35cc gasoline engine is a clear winner. For glow, a 4 stroke in the 1.6ci size would be nice, but more expensive when you factor in the ongoing cost of fuel.
Pete

RE: Primer on Gas versu glow?
 

Here is my 30cc Gas winner! Capt,n