CCDave

My Feedback: (53)

I agree that isn't a good customer service practice, but I sure there isn't anything they can do about it until the next production run... I have ordered one and I plan on just fixing it like Tom did and go on with life... I just hope they will fix this problem in the future...

TT2

My Feedback: (13)

Not yet anyway. The molds should begin being CNC cut early next week. The gear I used was actually a prototype for a CA Models 24% Extra 300L. It fits the Katana perfectly and also fits the Creek 72" Staudacher and I'm sure many others.

-Tom

rc-sport

My Feedback: (12)

TT2, don't you think they should issue a recall of the wings like Hangar 9 did with their Edge? My issue is if it crashes they may send out a new plane but what the motor and the rest of the gear if it gets damaged also. I like the plane, it flies really well but I'm afraid to really wring it out.

Swat Cop

My Feedback: (11)

You might try sending an e-mail to China Models, they are the manufacturer. Giant scale Planes is just a distributor. I doubt even if the plane crashed because of the wings anyone would replace the plane. I also doubt anyone is going to replace any of the wings out there now, they may improve the wings on future versions of the plane. Yes it flys good but you are still talking about a dirt cheap Chinese ARF.

malcolmm

I'm not sure if there is a need for a recall of the wings, although it would be a nice gesture.

I haven't repaired my wings yet, but it doesn't seem like it should be a big deal. Of course, I'm not too fond of having to cut the covering, but Monokote seems to be a close match, and at least you can cut it from the bottom of the wing.

From what I have seen so far of the Katana, I would much rather have it than any Hanger 9 ARF. I have a Ultra Stick 60 which I have only flown for about a dozen flights. I hated building the Stick (took me more time than a Something Extra kit), and I hate flying it. And the Stick cost me a half again as much as the Katana.

Planeclothes

My Feedback: (1)

Hey guys, I just started putting my Katana together and would like to get some feedback on the following:

First, I noticed that when I attach the wings to the fuse, even with bolts and springs in place, I see a small gap, maybe 1/32 in some spots along the wing joint. What I mean is, it doesn't look 100% sealed or gapless. Is this normal? Also, I had the hardest time putting those mount nuts inside the wing and landing gear (inside the fuse), I can't imagine how hard it's going to be to put them behind the firewall. Any ideas? Last but not least, how many of you used the stock round CA hinges?

Thanks.

Swat Cop

My Feedback: (11)

I used the stock CA hinges, I have about 80+ flights on mine with no problems. My wings fit tight when bolted. Yes it is a pain to get to any of the areas you need to place the blind nuts.

TT2

My Feedback: (13)

That's a tough call. Since the planes are unbelievably inexpensive I suppose that it's impossible to expect the manufacturer to put out a recall for the wings. I would fully expect subsequent production runs to incorporate a proper spar design. It certainly wouldn't be too much trouble for the manufacturer or US distributor to at least identify the problem and issue a 'service bulletin' on how to correct the problem. GP did this with the 1/3 scale Pitts wing...I think they'd even mail you some of the original covering to aid in making the repair.

If I were the importer I'd probably go about it the same way GP did. It would let the customers know they were being supported but not cost a fortune.

-Tom

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

TT2
You made your own CF Gear

DNTMN<---Impressed

You stated in the first post that it would be avalable soon at fiber lite.

When do you expect it to be avalable?

I just ordered my Katana 140 from Jet Hobbies http://www.jet-hobbies.com and want to use fiber gear

Also where came I find a light CF tube for the servo wires, what is the dimmentions/specks?

Where can I find the CF tube for the tail pieces you mentioned, what is its dimmentions?

Thanks in advance

PS: You are right the specifications on the HS 5925 are awsome I plan on using 5 of these

Dan

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

TT2

Also I am interested in replacing the aluminum wing tube with a CF version can you tell me the dimmentions?

Planeclothes

My Feedback: (1)

Thank you, bike466.

CCDave

My Feedback: (53)

I am in the process of buying all the components to build a GSP Katana 72" and I am looking for suggestions on what kind of servos I am going to put in it. Here are the conditions I am working with:

1. I am going to be using a Futaba 9CAP TX
2. I will be using a Saito 180 for power
3. I want to use Hitec servos to save some money
4. I want to keep the cost down, but want the best performance for the money.
5. I want to be able to do some basic 3D stuff
6. I am planning on using a HS-81 for the throttle so I only need the control surface servos.

Please help me with your suggestions.

Thanks in advance!

wyldman

My Feedback: (1)

605 BB would work.
But I always wind up flying 3D so I Used hitec 645 metal gear on mine. more money but alot more power and I don't have to worry about stripping gears as easily.

WYLDMAN

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

what is the max you are willing to spend per servo?

CCDave

My Feedback: (53)

Well... I'd like to not spend more than $60 per servo, but I would be willing to spend more on say the ailerons and less on the others mix and match...

If I had the funds I would put HS-5945's all the way around...

I would like to keep the cost for the 5 control surface servos under say $300 so that is an average of $60 per servo.

This is my first 3D capable plane and my first large sport plane. So I am trying to get the most bang for my buck!

Thanks for the help,

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

I would recommend the 5925's faster and plenty of torque. They would be best suited for the rudder and elevators where more torque is needed, you could use:

HS-645mg on the ailerons with 5925 on elev and tail
total cost $350...

or use 645 all the way around $200

0r 645 ail and elev and 5925 rudder $250

I have been saving up I plan to use 5 hs-5925 $450, but I have been saving up for this plane for a year I understand the cost vs performance battle, but desided to take my time and go all out on this plane

does anyone else have other suggestions?

multiplex digitals are cheep but i have no expierence with them.

rc-sport

My Feedback: (12)

CCDave I had the 605's on the elevators and rudder but took them off because the terrible centering when I was at 3D rates, I kept the 605's on the ailerons. I ended up using 5475 on the tail and they seem to be working OK.

RTD

Folks,

This is great thread, Ive learned a lot about the 72" Katana the easy way, ie. before I assemble it.

My question is relates to suitable engine(s). I have a new Moki180 which weighs about 8oz more than an OS160FX. Do I need to go for a lighter engine?

Thanks
Arthur

rc-sport

My Feedback: (12)

Weight won't be an issue with a Moki 180. I know someone who has one in an Ultimate that weights about 16lbs and it has plenty of power. You'll go vertical at half throttle.

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

I am searching for lighter CF gear for this plane anyone have any suggestions?

Can somebody measure there gear so I can see if I can find a suitable replacment?

here is the measurements I need:

CCDave

My Feedback: (53)

dntmn & rc_sport,

Thanks for your input! I think I am going to go the same route as you dntmn! I will just take my time and save up and get the 5925's... It will be a few months before I get the 9C anyway... I'm sure I can manage to save $450 by then...

This is gonna be one nice plane!

rc_sport, you are using a Saito 180 for power right? Tell me how that combo does..

Mach1Latus

My Feedback: (3)

CCDave

If you go to HobbyHorse.com and buy 5 5925s you get 10% off bringing the total to $405

Stephen

Stiks

Has anyone here tried one of these Katanas with a 3W24 as the power plant instead? I have a friend who is looking at getting the plane but would like to avoid the $23/gallon fuel bill that is attached to running a Moki 180 or even worse if he went for the OS160.

I doubt he will be lashing out and doing all the wild 3D manouvers just maybe getting it to hang off the prop a few times during the flight.

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

My Katana 140 from Jet Hobbies, http://www.jet-hobbies.com , will be in Thursday Sep 11(Scary). I cant wait. The first thing I plan to do is try and build a removable hatch like the one on Scotts RC Addition website mentioned eariler in this thread. I saw the website with the removable hatch pictures and it looks great.

I am going to ask a BIG favor:

Can somebody who has done this conversion post pictures with a detailed description of the steps it takes to make a removable hatch?

You only get one chance to do it right, especally once you take a razor saw to the fuse! I have been saving up to purchase all the necessary items to build this plane for some time now, and Finally I am ready.

Thanks in advance

PS: Here is my planned setup:
OS 160
Bisson Pitts
Perry Pump
5-HS 5925
1-HS 81(throttle)
16ox sullivan tank
16x6 mezslic...sp prop
PowerfLite LI 3600mha Battery
CF Gear
Custom graphics

Dangerous Dan

My Feedback: (1)

TT2
Can you give an updated flight report with the further aft CG?

Did the popsicle sticks fix the wing webbing problem, I hate to cut back the covering on a new arf if I dont have to.