Ten years ago I attempted to get into R/C planes. I purchased a PT40 kit and spent a few weekends putting it together. Due to a series of events I was never able to get into the hobby and the plane was destryoed during a move a year later.

I have spent the last month convincing my wife that I really needed a hobby and she finally agreed (begging does work!) I purchased a SuperStar 40, OS Max .46, and a Futuba 6XAS. I have also submitted my application to the AMA and I am talking to the president of a local club (I'm trying to do things right).

Anyway, looking through the directions for the SuperStar, I had a few questions and was wondering if someone could help me out.

1. When I assembled the PT40, it used nylon hinges to connect the control surfaces. The SuperStar has fabric disks for hinges. Would I be better off buying better hinges or are the ones included with the SuperStar okay?

2. After completeing the fuse. of the the PT40, I applied a thin layer of foam (looked like really thin weather stripping) around the fuse where the wing sits to protect the receiver and servos from engine exhaust. The SuperStar doesn't have anything like this. Should I apply the weather stripping or not worry about it?

3. When working on the PT40, I used a fuel resistant paint on the firewall, engine compartment, and inside the fuse. Again, the directions for the SuperStar doesn't mention doing any of this. Should I protect these surfaces in the SuperStar or just leave the wood unprotected?

Thanks!