FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (Full Version)

All Forums >> [Electric Aircraft Universe] >> Electric RC Jets



Message

b16a2sir -> FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/18/2009 4:17 PM)

Hello all. I have been playing with 3d planes lately, heli's before that, and trucks all through out! I have been sucked into the EDF scene now because of the high rpm's and speed!!

So after some looking around, I wanted a larger sized plane and something that is going to cruise. I found this one on Ebay, however it is available online from Century-rc.comwww.century-rc.com

Specification: (From above website)

Wingspan: 1080mm (40 inch)
Overall Length: 1500mm (60 inch)
Flying Weight: 1700g
Drive System: Powerful Brushless Inrunner motor with 90mm* electric ducted fans

I included the above * because the kit is not 90mm, appears to be only 62-64mm.

The bad:
- incorrect EDF size on specs.
- Single ESC incl. 45A supposed to run 2 motors (I tried, no success)
- Kit missing wing stiffener's shown in manual
- small photos and little detail in manual
- Price may be high since not 90mm
- Short one servo, no extensions included

The good:
- Air retract system with shock on front wheel with servo installed for steering - Works great on my initial tests.
- Included servos seem smooth, fast and fit perfect.
- 4200Kv motors limit you to run 3S, but scream and sound smooth.
- the included fans are an original design, include spare fans, and I was surprised how much thrust one makes.
- Aileron, elevator and rudder included in kit with smooth original hinges
- Incl. 3s lipo's seem to be of good quality, 30c-50c (have yet to use them)
- Looks great with incl missiles and scale look
- good fit on most/all parts
- colour manual, just small and short


Photos and vids to come!



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/18/2009 4:26 PM)

Photos:

Tried thumbnails, didn't quite work.....

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3597.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3599.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3600.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3602.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3603.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3604.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3606.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3607.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3609.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3618.jpg[/IMG]




matoran629 -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/19/2009 3:52 AM)

Oh my God that's beautiful. THANKS!!!!!!!!!



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/22/2009 7:57 AM)

Finally got around to working on this.

Air retract test:


Twin fan test:


Assembly pics: Note my homemade stiffeners!

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3627.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3626.jpg[/IMG]

sucked up a small bad of servo arms and screws...... OOPS!
[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3629.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3631.jpg[/IMG]
installed stiffener after wing
[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3633.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3634.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3635.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3636.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3637.jpg[/IMG]

Note extra hole for intake:
[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3638.jpg[/IMG]

Shot with strake installed:
[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3639.jpg[/IMG]

I was able to get the nose cone on and rudders, but battery died in camera. Hope to give maiden flight tomorrow!!
Notice something? please comment!



gunradd -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/22/2009 1:40 PM)

Man that thing is pretty nice. Good luck on the flight :)



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/22/2009 8:05 PM)

very cool



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/23/2009 12:39 AM)

Thanks for the comments.

Here are the final assembly photos:

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3649.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3652.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3653.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3654.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3655.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3657.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3660.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3662.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3663.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3664.jpg[/IMG]



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/23/2009 1:12 AM)

OK, And here are 2 more vids, one of the maiden flight.

First off, there is NO wind, but it is cloudy and slightly raining. That wasn't going to stop me though.

So here is the control surfaces:



And the maiden flight:




b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/23/2009 1:19 AM)

Unfortunately I don't have a video camera, just my point and shoot.
I am glad the plane made it back in one peice and working condition. I made it short because that was the first use of the batteries and I didn't want to push them yet.

I expected more speed, alot more speed. However it does fly smooth, didn't use any trim and the balance felt spot on. The control is good, and would be better with more speed! this thing looks scale flying to me, with the missiles and tanks, the look is awsome in the air. It may not be as fast as I hoped, it is still satisfying to fly. I wonder if I could try 6S configuration with these motors? is 4200kv too high for 6S??

I hope I have done a decent job in showing of this kit, it's downfalls and its positives. I think anyone looking for a scale, large size, electric jet will be happy with this kit.

Please ask any questions and comments!!



gunradd -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/23/2009 1:30 AM)

Well she's no speed demon lol nut she flies great and looks good in the air looks easy to fly and will fly very slow if you want it to. That would be a perfect plane for my son's first EDF. How do you like it?



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/23/2009 4:08 AM)

I remember the flight video from an original Ebay seller about 2 or 3 years ago . I felt the same thing , good moderate speed in the straight away but the turns seem to border on stalls or a wierd glide (tail slide )

Overall i think it looks excellant and it looks to be a joy to fly .
can the stock set up be modified before assembly ?
Did you use your own servos or after market



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/23/2009 8:02 AM)

I used most of the servos included (emax branded) and 2 hs-55 on the rudder. I am using a bec at 6v off a 2s lipo also for the retracts. The fan assemble can be accessed, couple screws and carefully remove a panel in back (where motor wires come through) I didn't bother because I have nothing better to put in!

the fans are only 4 blades. I am sure there is a correct size, high performance fan that can make this thing fast out there somewhere. If it lasts a few more flights, I will look into it!



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/24/2009 5:53 PM)

I had my second flight yesterday. the landing gear I assume was damaged in assembly. It failed as soon as I tried to turn the jet around. So again I just pinned it and flew. It seemed a bit faster this time, I think because the batteries now had a good cycle on them. All was good, climbed too steep once and stalled it, but recovered no problem.

Upon landing, i came in too slow and it ended up "falling" from about 4-5 feet. both rear landing gear took a hit, lost both wheels and one retract broken at the hinge point. Although relatively minor, the gear is all plastic, would have been nice to have them a bit stronger, as to replace them is going to be tough! So I will see if I can make the rear static and continue flying it!

My friend lost a jet after 30seconds of flight, I am tempted to put the edf and tube onto my f-18 and see if 3 motors are enough!!! his is a nicer 5-blade edf. Or I may just try running 6cell lipo and see if the motors and fans can handle it!!

BTW. If anyone has one of these, I have a box full of fans and the mounts used in this, so I can help ya out if needed!



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/24/2009 8:08 PM)

I would assume its 64 Mill , 70 millemeter ducted fans , to slow for twin 90ties .
For the cost it seems worth the tweeking , I was looking at the Bannana Hobbies F18 , but this seems much larger .
You can get retracts and spring structs for very reasonable at Hobby King on line , even can use the medal gear retracts with the spring shocks



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/25/2009 6:42 AM)

I think they are 64 mm. I will start looking for different landing gear and EDF units. I want this thing to be fast and screaming!

Any sugestions on a screaming 64mm unit? for3S or 6S lipo! I want the most power I can get!!



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/26/2009 1:08 AM)

I would suggest hobby lobby for the ducted fans and engines and or Jet tech ,
for the air retracts , jet tech sells them , and hobby king sells the sping struts very cheap



tevans55 -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/26/2009 3:27 PM)

Go to Hoffman Magnetics, Inc. for EDF's. If yours are 70mm get the Storm 70's...if yours are 64mm get the Mighty Mite or Wild Mighty Mite. (Hoffmanmagnetics.com)

Sapac America also has 70mm and 64mm five blade EDF's which will substantially increase your thrust and not as expensive as Hoffman. (Sapacamerica.com)

Can't miss either way. Any time you see a four blade fan especially in a jet as large as yours it is time to upgrade!



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/26/2009 6:35 PM)

Hoffman has very nice stuff. Too nice for my current pocketbook!

I went with some from hobbyking/hobbycity. 64mm 7blade for $17 ea
[image]http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbycity/store/catalog/HY003-00108-7B.jpg[/image]


user review people getting 700gr thrust and higher! up to 1200gr!! So I ordered 2!



sharam -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/26/2009 11:11 PM)

The hoffman units are 50% off! Great deal. I just picked up a 70mm Storm unit for $100 plus shipping. Well worth it.



tevans55 -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/27/2009 2:52 PM)

Got one!!![:D]

Thanks for the heads-up...great price.



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/31/2009 12:15 PM)

So do you think the Hoffman 70 mil will fit this plane , we need two correct ?



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/31/2009 12:26 PM)

I just noticed this on the Century site , it was there all the time this plane takes 90 mill fans , they are much larger then the 64 and or 70 menthioned in the post for replacements
Specification:

Wingspan: 1080mm (40 inch)
Overall Length: 1500mm (60 inch)
Flying Weight: 1700g
Drive System: Powerful Brushless Inrunner motor with 90mm electric ducted fans
INCLUDE:

EMAX ES08A Servo X 5pcs
Air Retracts System X1set
ESC: 45A Brushless Speed Controller X1
Brushless Motor X2
V-Plus XP 3S1P 11.1V 2200mAh 30C-50C Battery X2



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/31/2009 3:37 PM)

I know it SAYS 90mm fans, ans thats what 'I had expected. However they must be measuring th intake duct because the fans are actually 64mm. (in my first or 2nd post)

For some reason, I got a box full of fans and mounts for this plane. I will take a photo with a fan and measuring device!!! I hope so now that I ordered some new 64mm fans, the extras included measured 64mm.

My fans should be hear Wednesday of the coming week, so I should have it ready for next weekend!



LDM -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/31/2009 8:17 PM)

THanks buddy , sound great , did you get the 64mills from Hobby King ? and did they come complete with the hardware for motor installation



b16a2sir -> RE: FAMOUS F-18 twin EDF w/air retracts build/review - LOTS of pics (10/31/2009 8:42 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: LDM

THanks buddy , sound great , did you get the 64mills from Hobby King ? and did they come complete with the hardware for motor installation


HK fans will be here wed or thurs. I sure hope they come with all the hardware, because I didnt order any(they didnt have proper size adapter for my motor anyway 3.17 i think, found adapters AFTER I placed my order :( )

Here are some photos of the fan/intake

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3698.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3699.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3700.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3701.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i723.photobucket.com/albums/ww234/Jgazzard/Remote%20Controls/RC%20F-18%20EDF/CIMG3702.jpg[/IMG]


When I inquired with century about the size different from advertised, They stated that the specs are from the manufacturer and not them. It still flew on the stock setup, so I am not totally pissed, only somewhat.

I am tempted to push 4S lipo and see how the motors take it (incl motors are 4200Kv- I'm not sure the size), and the thrust change at all. If that goes OK, I may try 6S and see if it can hold the power. I also forgot to program my ESC's prior to my flights, I don't know how much inpact this can have on the power.



Page: [1] 2   next >   >>  

Valid CSS!




SITE MAP!   : :   FORUM RULES

© 2001 - 2007 24-7 RC, LLC, all rights reserved.
0.4824219