Originally posted by TrickyT
Hello everyone,
I am new to these forums but have read the other threads posted here. Tons of great information, a very valuable resource indeed!
I currently fly a raptor 30 with the JR8103 and have just recently purchased a ultra stick 40 with Saito 72 that will also be controlled with the 8103. I have read many mods and tid bits of advice on various techniques involved with the US40 scattered about the threads. Does anyone have a list of what I need to do to make my US40 iron clad out of the gate?
Should I reinforce the firewall? If so, how?
Yes! I only used epoxy but some of the other ideas here sound good. Also reinforce the landing gear area with epoxy.
While you're at it reinforce the holes that the wing dowels fit into. I've had to redo mine two times already because they seem to widen after several flights which causes the wing to have play in it. I did this by removing the ultracoat covering on the top of the fuse in front of the wing saddle (only a few inches back) and epoxying a fiberglass strip around the top and down over the dowel holes.
If I don't use the stock tank(I am using a low profile sullivan 11 oz.) what is the best way to seal the hole in the firewall around the fuel lines?
I used a 12 oz. Sulivan (I think) tank whose neck fit perfectly into the hole in the firewall. I run an OS 70 four stoke and can easily fly 15 to 20 minutes (your mileage may vary).
Should I go ahead and purchase the nylon motor mount?
I just used the stock one, with your engine the weight won't hurt other than making it nose heavy.
Did anyone cross the cable guides going back to the rudder and elevator to create less friction for the metal pushrods? Install the servos in the tail?
I suggest putting the servos in the rear with your engine. I would do this if I had to do it over again. Since I didn't do this I had to cut a hatch in the rear of the fuse and place my battery and about 3+ ounces of lead in the tail. By changing the motor mount this could be reduced, but why bother? The Saito 72 will yank this plane out of sight even with the motor mount and extra lead in the tail!
Use nylon screws in the gear mount?
I didn't, but it's up to you (depends on how well you land
)
Also, any other thoughts, suggestions, or ideas would be greatly appreciated!
Definitely do the quad flaps, it's really cool!
To do a knife edge without a lot of control coupling you'll need to add some mixes to your radio (if you have a computer radio). Start off with the following:
5 point mixes:
Rudder to Aileron: 18, 8, 0, -10, -19 (opposite aileron from rudder)
Rudder to Elevator: 18, 12, 0, 12, 18 (this is down elevator)
Have fun!
Keith