RE: intro to turbines
 

I've also recently joined the jet crowd and am reading to prepare myself for a great 2013 flying season!

Consider a "used" jet that has been flown by a reputable jet modeler. Often you can find jet trainers for 60-70% of their original cost, for sale here on RCU.

A used jet will allow you to see one assembled that worked for the guy who flew it...always good to check things over and really learn about these jets before flying them.

Read up on "jet specific" hardware in your spare time.

http://www.dreamworksrc.com/catalog/index.php

http://www.sincityjets.com/

Also, jet specific forum...could be active, just need new guys like us sparking the fire a bit:

http://www.rcjetaddiction.com/

Read the forum posts on the Kingtech turbines if you're determined to use one of them, there are a lot of informative posts out there. Service seems to be good and accessible.

Safety: You'll need to purchase a CO2 or Halon fire extinguisher, a jet fuel container/pump system (hand crank is fine).

RE: intro to turbines
 

Thanks tiger for that advice and info.

RE: intro to turbines
 

Check out the official Jet Pilot's Organization (JPO). They are an advocate for all RC models and have worked with AMA and the FAA to secure our priviledge to fly RC aircraft without the restrictions of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS).

I joined for 2013, so I'm not sure if you have to be a member or if they are free, but in the left side bar, mouse over "Members" then click on "Contrails" for a TON of informative turbine articles. There's also a "Knowledge Bank" on there and some other good reading like "Saftey" and "Insurance" considerations. I found it all very informative...I'm not involved in the "politics" of jet flying yet, but I'm sure some will poo-poo the organization...don't listen to them, use it for the info right now and the chips will fall where they may down the road.

www.jetpilots.org


Other turbine links I've saved...

I'm getting these videos to watch them while I'm down for the Winter. Ali seems to be a pretty accomplished jet turbine pilot and successful with his set ups.

They are made for new turbine pilots and look like a great resource. These could make a GREAT addition to a "club library." I'm sure watching them once or twice will give you all the info you need, but it couldn't hurt to share them with other turbine pilots you meet down the road or at a club meeting for something different and to educate the club members where you'll be flying so they all understand the safety and discipline of a jet turbine modeler.


Ali and Jet Pilot Magazine has produced a couple of RC Jet instruction videos as well.

http://www.sksvideo.com/dbID/242.html;

http://www.sksvideo.com/dbID/304.html;

Maybe cheaper here as a set...check shipping costs:

http://www.trapletshop.com/us/search?q=Jet+Pilot


And, believe it or not, YouTube has some informative jet turbine videos.

Jet Central ECU start up (all turbines go through the same stages of starting, but might have different ECU setups):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8-kovpJk-4


Seals for making things like fod screens from sink drains found at hardware stores:

Rocket seals - http://rocketseals.com/


Another retailer...

USA RC Jets:

5 gal Blue Fuel Jug/Pump: http://www.usarcjets.com/cgi-bin/shop/pid_91.htm

For mixing and storing jet fuel, before refilling a smaller 2.5 gal pump jug for the flightline:

Space saver 5 gal fuel jugs: http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...cessories.aspx

Share your favorite jet info links...I need more reading too!

RE: intro to turbines
 

Links to jet arf's?

RE: intro to turbines
 

hello there...there are many great jets out there to start with ...depending on your skill level most people start with a boomerang..i find this to be the best...light wieght big wing and floats well off power...i would rcomend one of the newer turbines with fast throttle response....jetcat makes many wonderful engines...a shok jet is fine but you will get very bored quick with that model...you want to get something with retracts so you can get the real jet feel...stay away from warbird jets and anything heavy at first..they make great 3 and 4th jets...take your time and get a good intructor...dont hurry yourself...and have fun....please pm me if you need any help with anything...have a safe trip......pat

RE: intro to turbines
 

Thanks pat for the help. I appreciate it. It's good to here several people and their advice and tips. It could come to a point where I would just rather but a scale jet, maybe because of a good deal, and if someone says buy it but don't fly it first, rather just fly something that's more trainer like. Bottom line is I appreciate everyone's advice, and tips and experience. Putting this amount of money and time into a plane isn't something I want to crash my first time flying a turbine. Thanks guys, any and all words of wisdom is welcome and appreciated

RE: intro to turbines
 

your very welcome.....i started flying jets 5 years ago and what a fun its been....take care...pat

RE: intro to turbines
 

Links to jet ARFs....

While there are many different jet "ARFs" available today like the Boomerang series, etc. there is one ARF that stands out as revolutionary. Modellbau Tornado V3. Make sure to look at version three, it has all the "upgrades" and is ready to go.

http://www.modellbauusa.com/Tornado.html

I don't have one of these yet, but if you're looking to start from scratch, with your first jet, this looks to be the way to go. Modellbau has capitalized on the advanced technology of the most recent 3D ARFs by using carbon rods infused in the balsa wings and tail booms. The composite fuselage looks to be of good quality.

Check out build threads here on RCU for more info.

Paired with a 100 sized turbine this combo looks to be a jet that will grow with your abilities...can fly fast, lands slow...reinforced from the factory and designed for a turbine from the start...but priced very reasonably.

Dreamworks markets immaculate trailing link landing gear with integrated brakes...pricey, but will probably last forever:

http://dreamworksrc.com/catalog/mode...bo-p-2533.html

Depending on if you have servos, a receiver and a 2000mah (minimum) receiver battery laying around that is in good condition, you might be able to get this jet in the air for around $3000... A new turbine or one with a lifetime warranty is highly recommended, as the cost of refurbishing an older one that's been sitting around is a risk you take with used ones that have been sitting (bearings, glow plugs, etc.).

I've learned that a solid set up to begin with will save you money in the long run! There are lots of choices out there, this is the one that keeps coming up as a balance between a pusher conversion from Nitro Models and a real-no-kidding-turbine model with a decent price tag. You can always pay more! :)

RE: intro to turbines
 

Great thread. Following with interest as I'm also considering getting into the jets. As far as airframes, what about one of the Deltas like the Rafale or the CARF Eurofight sport jet? These seem like they would be easier to land due to the delta wing and relatively simple to build due to only 3 control surfaces with rudder.

Sgt Shay - I don't know how simple the LG can get. You will need brakes at a minimum. May as well go for retracts at that point.

RE: intro to turbines
 

Sgt , An event you will want to go to is called Kentucky Jets it is a must see event ! held in July and is the best of the best in my humble opinion. Also there is an outfit called Dreamworks ran by Linda and Todd those folks will take care of you and all your Jet needs for sure, check them out. Stay safe over there , hopefully we will see you at some jet rallys in the future !