RCU Forums - View Single Post - New SPAD Combat Class
View Single Post
Old 07-30-2014 | 05:56 PM
  #65  
Tom Nied's Avatar
Tom Nied
 
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 2,233
Received 22 Likes on 21 Posts
From: Queen Creek, Arizona
Default

Well, got to admit, new throttle servo and now I know how it should fly without servo jitter. I flew 6 or 7 flights today, never broke a prop, landed on the flying field each time. Engine ran great. Now I get it. I was telling a guy at the field that I wanted something I could hand launch and was fairly durable and easy to build. The Spad Gnat is both of those and economical. I run 10 minute flights and probably only burn just a little over 3 oz. of fuel with the Magnum XLS .15. Easy to start, seemingly plenty of power for the plane, spinning a MA 7-4 prop. It's not a big plane, nor incredibly powerful, but I'd feel ok launching in 12 mph winds. With the engine running strong, a good toss into the wind and it does fine. I've got to add more graphics, it's easy to get disorientated. When disoriented, do a hard loop, usually you'll get it back. Also I want to work on some kind of launching knob or handle. When you're ready launch and the .15 is screaming, would be nice to have a good grip on the plane. I launch by myself and I've got the technique down, just would like a better grip at the CG. Haven't tried a discus type launch and not sure if its necessary. If anybody is reading this thread, my advice would be put plenty of bright graphics on it, make sure your servos are NOT jittering. I almost think the next size bigger servos might be more appropriate.