lets have a go at these.
Originally posted by LoneAL
May sound stupid but I want to know as much as I can before meeting with my instructor, I don't want to be a total idiot. I got a tower trainer 40 with an O.S. .46fx. It was a kit deal ARF from TH.
First thing, I have a hole/rip in my towerkote on the fuse. I don't know if our cat was trying to help or my kids. But anyway I have something to fix. Now How do I? Just some towerkote and "tape" over it? It is in an area with no balsa.
if its a small hole then some packing tape will hold for a short patch.
to repair it more permenently just lay a peice of *kote (*pick your favorite brand) over the patch about an inch larger then the hole on all sides. use a covering iron to seal it and shrick it snug.
Second, what should I use to get fuel into the fuel tank? Squirt bottle, hand crank pump, or elec. fuel pump?
yes, yes, or yes. any of these will work. I use a hand crank pump. (eletrics seem to wear out faster.)
Third, use after run oil, wd-40, or don't worry about it?
dont use WD-40. it might attack some of the seals in the engine.
for a cheap afterrun you can use automatic transmision fluid or "marvel mystrey oil" (found in hardware stores for use in air tools).
unless you dont plan on flying for a few weeks you shouldnt need afterrun. just make sure you run you engine out of fuel then crank it a few more times with the glow plug ignitor on to burn up any exess fuel.
Fourth, should I use an air filter? I hope to have my own runway which will be part grass, part dirt and part sand.
you can but unless your runway is really dusty your plane wont be exposed to that much dust. you may want a small screen on it to keep dirt out in case of a "mishap" or off runway excursions.
Do I need an ESV voltmeter?
this is a good idea. its good to check your voltages before you fly. you want to get one that puts a "load" on the battery. I use one that is a combo tach and volt meter.
Should I go ahead and set up a "Billy Box". Named after Billy Hell using a black & decker master cart. BTW it really looks great Billy, or should I say Mr. Hell.(since I am a newbie)
I have one of those. I acually bought mine before I saw the thread by billy, then converted it afterwards.
as for what to call him, you can just call him that funny looking guy that flys those weird flat planes
Last, but not least, I want to thank you all. I "watch" and read as much as I can from you guys. You are all so helpfull and nice.
(that was my brown nose job so you won't hammer down on me)
Did you guys see DIY's Chris C. with that trainer show? My wife and kids kept giving me crap about it taking him an hour and me since x-mas. I tried to explain it but they never listen, I've been "fixing" it up for quite a while. Once I get it all balanced out I'll be ready. cant wait!!!
welcome to the hobby. have a fun and safe time.