Hi guys!

Say, I was reading your post and may have the same plane! I bought mine for $50 in a hobby shop about 15 years ago. I have no idea if it's a Royal (Marutaka) Zero or not. The wing is 52 inches long, the fuse is 40 inches long, elevator is 22 inches long and the rudder is 10 inches high. The cowl is NOT aluminum and instead is constructed of balsa...just seems like a rounded extension of the fuse, minus some cutaways to accomodate the engine.

Here's my questions: I've not flown in 15 years and even then only logged about 5 flights after my solo. I'm going to get back into this hobby and retrain on my trainer 40. Once I build my confidence and skills, would the Zero be a decent next choice? If no, what would be a good transition plane? If yes, can any of you tell me if the info I've given can positively identify this plane as a Royal or other kit and what engine it should take/some advice on how to handle this bird? I'd also like to sharpen it up a little bit once I get it flying and add an aluminum or equiv. cowl, scale spinner, and some fresh monokote and detailing. And advice?

Thanks in advance!

-Rob