At last years Nats I was very interested in Seeing Brenner Sharp's Contra-drive fly. I watched it fly and I talked with him at length. I have always been interested in contra-drive systems. When I was invited to my first TOC in 1982 at the urgings of my good friend Harry Roe, I designed and built a twin engine contra system. I didn't get everything working reliably enough to use it at the TOC, and then I never did get back on the idea. But with electric and the engineering skill of Brenner it is now very possible. Of course, it has been used successfully by others, but Brenner's system brings it to a possibility for more of us.

Brenner was kind enough to send me a unit to try and I installed it in my Onas. After about 25 - 30 flights so far, I have to say this is the only way to fly! Brenner sent me several different gear ratios and two different size prop sets. I have settled in on the 9.8 to 1 ratio and the 22x20 props. It has taken some changes to the trim settings and throws on the model, but the way the model flies so absolutely symmetrical has to be felt to be believed. Just about everything has improved. This set-up has incredible vertical power, but the horizontal speed is easily controlled. The downline braking, even without the use of ESC braking, is excellent. Snaps are improved. Vertical rolls are like they are on a string. Stall turns are much easier and cleaner.

I am still working on set-up, and time will tell about the final success. But these recent flights have just sort of been a dream since 1982 finally realized. I wish I had the engineering skill and the fortitude to have worked it out a long time ago. My discussions with Brenner have shown me how smart and driven he has been to bring this unit to life. It is soo very neat for me to see such a wonderful piece of engineering for the hobby come with a "Made in the USA" sticker!

Here are a few pics of my Onas. This is the same one I used at last years Nats.