Originally posted by dntmn
I am interested in getting into beginner IMAC. I have a Greatplanes Extra 300 40 size ARF with a Saito 100(Don’t you love overkill). I have a few dumb questions that need answering.
***Get rid of the Saito 100 - put a smaller - LIGHTER engine in the plane. The extra weight will GREATLY deminish the flying characteristics of the plane. You don't need the extra power in basic; however, you do need a smooth flying plane w/o any bad characteristics.***
I have downloaded the IMAC flying and judging guide as well as the CD guide and I can not find reference to scale pilot requirement, % deviation from scale, specifics on what scale aircraft are allowed?
***Great Start!!! In basic, you can fly pretty much anything - although some CD's do not allow pattern type planes. Also, the scale pilot/instrument panel rule does not apply to basic. In Sportsman and above, you have to have a 3 demensional pilot (no profile pilots) and an instrument panel. You also have to have a scale model of a plane which has competed in IAC competitin. YES, Extra, Edges, Giles, Caps are popular, but there are a lot of other planes which are "IMAC Legal" as well. The above ones are popular because they fly extremely well. Also, the 10% deviation rule went away this year. the new rule leaves a lot of room for interputation so check with the CD if you are going to use something which might be a stretch.*****
Are you limited to Laser, Extra, and EDGE for IMAC?(that is all I see people beyond basic flying)
***See above****
I would like try basic with the plane listed above any suggestions to setup?
****Again - lose the engine and try to get it light. Set up should be VERY mild. The object of IMAC flying is SMOOTH - large control throws and way aft CG's make this impossible. ******
I like the edge because of its advertised slow speed and landing characteristics, but I have been told though this is a great 3D plane an Extra is better for IMAC. Can you explain?
****Both are excellent designs. The Edge seems to wander a bit in rolls - point rolls, rolling circle, etc. The Extra seems to "groove" better. The Edge is rock solid in 3D - no wing rock, etc. The Extra rocks slightly, but is still very good. A lot of it is because of the straight leading edge on the Edge and the slight taper on the Extra.*****
What is the difference between an Extra 300 and an Extra 330, 330L?
***There is an argument that the 330 technically does not exhist, but that is a whole different story!!! (I am sure I will get lots of questions on that one!) For the most part, the L means the wing is LOW as opposed to a mid-wing placement. The 330 also has a bigger rudder and vertical fin. This allows the extra to perform in Knife Edge much better***
How much effect does running a 2 stroke with the tank forward of the CG effect flying characteristics as the tank gets low keeping IMAC in mind?
****It will change your trim settings for pitch. It really depends on tank size and airplane size to determine HOW MUCH it will effect it. The point is that with a glow engine (and gas) only use a tank size big enough to take off, trim pass, fly two sequences, and land. Anything else is wasted weight. *****
On a 2 stroke you balance with an empty tank, then put 8 to 24 oz of fuel forward of the CG, on a gasser the fuel tank is on the CG how does this effect balance and flying characteristics?
***See above, but the plane will become much moer pitch sensitive as the gas burns out.*****
Can you place a 2 stroke OS 160 in, lets say a Creek Hobbies Extra, with a pump and place the tank over the CG? What type of pump would you use? Would you recommend this?
****Not sure - anyone else ????****
I am interested in the Creek Hobbies line of models because of cost and positive reviews thus far which one of these would you suggest for my next IMAC plane and why? I want a two peace wing.
****Again - not sure, I have not flown any of their models. Remember - bigger flys better. Other planes in that catagory that I know fly well is the Hangar 9 Cap 232 ARF and the Aeroworks Edge line*****
What engine would you suggest in The Creek Hobbies line of models my next IMAC plane and why?
***Stick with the manufacturers suggested size. This will give you a nice balance between power and weight. An overpowered -overweight plane flys like junk. A moderately powered, light wing loading plane flys awesome!!!****
What servo setup(overkill is ok) would you suggest in the Creek Planes?
****I would not go with regular standards like Futaba 3003, etc. You also do not need digitals, but if your wallet will allow it - go for it. A nice percision servo like a Futaba 9202 or JR 4721 would be ideal Hitec's are good too, but I would stick with the digitals 5645 or 5625. You want a very percise servo - i.e. good centering - more than speed or power.****
Describe the perfect setup on Creek Models line of planes ie…tank, horns, servos, locations, engine, mount…etc…
***No idea - don't own one.***
I have a H9 Pizzaz on order for the sole purpose of learning 3D. If I fly sportsman with one of your 120 aerobats can I switch to the Pizzaz when freestyle comes around or does the requirements for freestyle coincide with IMAC pattern requirements?
You still have to fly a SCALE airplane in the freestyle. Sorry.
My GP Extra is ready for its maiden flight, how would you suggest I approach plane setup to ready it for IMAC Basic?
***See above - again - You are WAY overpowered and certainly way overweight. This is not a problem when you are banging the sticks around having fun on a Satruday afternoon. But if you want to fly with percision, a smalle/lighter engine will be much better!!***
Thanks in advance for your help