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Old 10-30-2009 | 11:03 AM
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Tom Nied's Avatar
Tom Nied
 
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 2,233
Received 22 Likes on 21 Posts
From: Queen Creek, Arizona
Default RE: Newbie questions

1. I like using a VoltWatch on my planes, they're easy to install, and make for a quick check of the battery status. Or you could install a charging jack on the side of the fuselage and that's an easy way to check with a voltmeter as well as for charging with a field charger.

2. As soon as I land I like to get my plane back into position where I'm working on it, usually with a rope around the tail anchored with a stake(screwdriver in my case). If it's really windy its questionable to even be out flying. Also, once I land and I am secured, I like to refuel if I'm going to fly again, that way I'm ready to go up if its my turn.

3. It's best to go outside. The gook, smoke, and fumes just aren't worth it. Sure is fun to start inside and get the girlfriends attention though. I will go out in front of the garage. Other neighbors run lawnmowers, and gas trimmers. A ten minute run during daylight hours shouldn't bother anyone. If someone even seems perturbed, I will curtail my runs. Best place is out at the model field. Usually you are far enough away from people that you shouldn't bother anyone out there. But even out there it's a good idea to move a distance away from other modelers.

4. I have almost the same combination on my Debonair but with only 4 servos. I can easily get 4 ten minute flights with a couple of touch and goes added just for fun. So that's about 44 minutes on a full charge. The other day I tested fate and actually got 5 in, but the VoltWatch was showing yellow and red when I was taxiing back in. Usually I will field charge both the Tx and the Rx at 4 flights, and I'll be good for another 4, giving me a total of 8 for the day. That's a pretty good day at the field. I haven't noticed any diminished capacity because I've field charged, but then again I don't field charge every time I'm out.