Hi Guys

I bought my blue and white Sukhoi 40 from PacAeromedol in 1996. I too have replaced the Cowl and chin piece with fibreglass parts I obtained as spares from the manufacturer. I'm on my third cowl!

Boy, I like this plane. Puts a smile on my face every time I come back to it. Great design on the fuse - 1/32nd three ply in a round shape. I originally powered it with an OS Surpass 48 and then with a Surpass 52 when they came out (dropped right in). It was my first low wing plane (I was ambitious) and I still have it, it still looks tidy and pretty too! It has a Barbie doll in the cockpit and despite all the things I've put her through, she's still grinning from ear to ear! I definitely got my moneys worth with this 'plane (cost $159 in 1996).

Landings are OK once you learn not to go too slow in your final turn, just keep the speed up and everythings OK. Very aerobatic and "light" on the sticks. I'd buy another if they still made them. The hardware was mostly good US sourced stuff (the Hayes tank was especially nice) if I recall correctly.The only substantial thing I replaced was the dodgy metal engine mount. I used a nice GP composite item.

I have just ordered a fuse bottom for it from PacAeromodel after a Hot-doggin' ace friend of mine borrowed my tranny and put the thing through a Hanno screw at full power after a very vigorous aerial work out. I swear he almost twisted the tail off. The plastic bottom piece cracked both sides 1" back from the rear of the wing! But it will fly again - the parts (well this part) are still stocked, and I have ordered a new one for $6.50. Too cool.

I hope to have fun with this for a long time to come. Who says ARF's don't last? I wish they would bring it back.

regards


fiery