Thanks for all the input. I think the ACT may have been interfering with what I perceived was a range issue. Because the ACT was activated I couldn't punch it out of an incoming stall due to it cutting off throttle power.

I'll reglue everything back together and try another flight w/o ACT. The very first time I flown it with ACT off it flew behind a building a good 300 feet away and landed itself on the other side...luckily no damage! So that means the radio should be okay.

Since the plane is 9 months old, and I have no receipt since it was a gift does HZ still honor their warranty?

I couldn't find an expiration date on warranty for electronics...