I finally got started on this Arf that I had purchased over the winter and I have a few comments.

1. The linkages for the ailerons and the elevator are of concern to me. Both need significant force to move the control surfaces. I was only planning on using 1 elevator servo, but I may need to modify that plan. I even lubed up the plastic pushrod with Crisco Shortning befor I slipped it in the pushrod housing. This helped immensely, but it is still pretty stiff IMO. I sure hope the Futaba 3004 BB standard servos are enough.

2. I glued the provided CA hinges into the surfaces, putting 2-3 drops per side, per hinge and let dry. After about 10 minutes, I gave them the pull test, and at least one hinge on each surface came loose. I have never had this happen before, not sure if it is the hinge material, or the wood within. I added a couple more drops to each side, and am still waiting to see if I am confident to trust them. I checked my thin CA on a hinge type (sonic tronics) that I normally use, and it is rock solid, so I'm pretty confident its not my glue.

3. I'm not sure of what type of covering was used on this ARF, but they did do a very nice job with it. Very few wrinkles, and the seams are good and tight. I have a couple spots where it looks like there is debris (dirt?) under the covering, but overall it is very good.

4. My last concern would be transporting this plane. Even though the wing is relatively small (52" I believe) I can tell I'm going to have a tough time getting this thing in the car. With all of the servos, y-harnesses, and extensions, I would really like to keep the wing attached, but I just don't think that is going to work. If I take the wing off, the Nacelles will be unsupported, especially with the gear on each one. I assume I will have to transport it upside down? However, this worries me, because the only thing keeping the two nacelles attached is the Horizontal Stab. I guess I will need to make some sort of cradle for it.

5. I only put about 5 hours into this over the weekend, and the assembly is going very fast. I hope to mount the engines tonight (a nice pair of O.S. .25FXs).

Any comments to anything I've mentioned would be greatly appreciated. I attached most of the pieces and layed it out on the middle of the garage, and this is one sharp looking plane. I can't wait to get it in the air.

TIA