RE: Futaba dropping all NiCads?
I've never had a problem finding O.S. parts. If they're out of production, I call around to a list of larger hobby shops that usually have NOS stocked. Tho I've never had a need for larger parts (engine case, crank), but have for NV, mufflers, etc.
YS on the other hand, might have great parts availability, but it's going on 2 years wait for the 115. Don't announce it if it's not tooled up & in production! & wouldn't you know I buy a 63 and 2 months later the 70 is announced. That was 1.5 years arriving too!