ORIGINAL: nrad2000
I have been flying RC helicopters for almost 4 years. Both Nitro and Electric. I then got this strong desire to fly airplanes. I bought a used G3 simulator and practiced flying different model planes. Few weeks ago I decided on the Seagull Decathlon ARF. All the electronics are in, engine mounted, lines connected, and all i need now is fuel. I then learned on this RCUniverse that the Decathlon is not a Beginners plane. I am very determined to fly the Decathlon.
when they talk about balancing the plane what does that mean? should it balance so that the fuselage is parallel with the floor or the chord or wing incidence is parallel with the floor/horizon? manual saids to balance between 90 - 100mm. it will balance at 80 - it will balance at 120. of course the plane will look either too nose heavy or tail heavy.
Will the Magnum XLS 46 be enough to get her flying?
Hobby store suggested 11 x 6 prop. will that be ok?
Any helpful advice about the flying characteristics?
I have the phoenix 40 decathlon, with OS 55 AX and a 12.25 X 3.74 APC prop. There is a good build thread on the scale forum on the seagull. Most guys say the 46 will fly it scale. I intitaily intended to use a OS 46 LA, but was talked into getting the 55. I'm glad I did, flys it like a dream. Takes off and lands great! I have noticed no bad habbits with mine. I think the 46 will fly it, but it won't jump off the ground or have unlimited vertical with it. It will hover with 55 AX. Be ready for rudder on take off. apply throttle slowly on takeoff. I have mine balanced at 95mm and it is a tad nose heavy, but she flys straight and true, so I'll leave it alone. Personnally I wouldn't fly as first plane, but then again with all the heli stick time you have, it may be ok for you.