ORIGINAL: mikedenilin
I have both old SM F15 and the new SM F16. The quality is much better on the new F16. I agree with Anton about the quality problems with these OEM factories in China. I have done business in China for many years and run my own factories after these Chinese OEM factories failed to perform over time. They will give you a perfect sample then give you poor quality products when they mass produce them. The problem is the Chinese management mentality. They are more in the short quick bucks than building quality and reputation. I guess this quality problem happens in many industries. I trust Japanese, Taiwanese, Korean, and American run companies over there more than trusting the mainlanders. Of course there are always exceptions, but too few. For jets, I would rather pay 10% to 25% more for quality kits from reputable companies than things coming out of the unknown. Of course, good service is very important too.
Anton, do you hear me? I'm still waiting for your reply for buying your F18 without landing gear sets. I have been waiting for 3 weeks for a quote. I even went to Shanghai Model Expo to look for it. People told me you were there, but I did not see you. Keep up with good quality planes and service. Now I am back in the States, so I guess I need to find your Xtreme Jet dealers in the States, then.
Thanks,
Mike
Hi, Mike
yes, you are right,
when i came to mainland China in 2002, to test fly the Viper Jet and design the first F-15C ARF kit, I saw the OEM factory had only very poor knowledge of Jets.
I even wanted to bring L/G with wheel brakes and BVM UAT to China to help with the Viper jet test flight, and they had never even started a Turibne yet.
I had spent a lot of money to make all the L/G and accessories in mainland China, but the Aluminum material was always of a very poor quality.
For 50% downpayment they will make very good samples - but later the quality deteriorates and you will received very poor products, there are always exceptions, and they never return your money!
So, when I decided to relocate all L/G manufacturing to Taiwan I know it was the right descision.
Mike, did you received my e-mail? I have already sent you one,
Best Regards
Anton