ORIGINAL: bigedmustafa
I hate to keep bringing this thread back on topic, although so far everyone has done a great job of ignoring my efforts:
Here is the relevant question:
"If you are a beginner modeller and pilot who has never flown or constructed a hobby-grade RC aircraft of any kind before, should you build a SPAD trainer and then power it with an electric power system?"
This is essentially the question asked by the original poster.
Assuming that building a Spadet is simple and easy and even a first-timer with zero building experience will be able to create a terrific flying Spadet, should he power it with glow power or an electric setup? Why is one choice better than the other for a Spadet?
I expected this thread to turn into a glow vs. electric argument; degenerating into a pro versus anti SPAD discussion is pointless given the original poster's interest in SPADs. So, once again:
The original poster is going to build a .40-sized SPAD trainer. Should he power it with glow or electric, and why?
You're absolutely right, and i apologize for my part in keeping it off topic.
In answer to his question from a n00b's standpoint, it depends on two factors for me: A) Why are we using the SPAD? if its to save $$ because your broke (Like me) then the obvious answer is to put a glow .40 on it because its far cheaper to set up, even if the long run cost could be more due to fuel costs.
If however, you just like the idea, and or ruggedness of the SPAD, then we come to my second question. Are you any good with electricity and electronics? if you say no to this STAY AWAY FROM ELECTRIC! you have to know a bit to set it up, and still must be able to follow the instructions that come with the gear (if any). On the other hand, if you have the extra $$, aren't afraid of, and are capable of working with the advanced battery systems that electrics use. Why not?? (Assuming you aren't worried about that awesome sound you lose out on with electric)
I guess, as long as you are capable of setting it up it boils down to this:, do you want to spend more money up front, and save on gas and clean up later, or do you need to skimp the $$ spending now and can afford the $20+ every few weeks for the fuel and cleaning supplies?
Answer that question and you have the answer to your dilemma.