I’m going to buy the Somethin Extra ARF and need some advice regarding engine choice. I already got an MDS 48 that runs well (in my trainer with half-symmetrical wing), but I also got an OS FS 70 surpass not in use. I know this one is a little bit on the heavy side. I also know that Saito 72 is very popular with SE, but is it worth the extra cost compared to the performance of the MDS 48 or perhaps OS 70? I could trade my OS for about 1/3 of the cost of a new Saito 72.

I use my trainer for all kind of aerobatics; loop, roll, spin, snap, cuban-8 (and all of them inverted too) without any problems. I use maximum throws but I think this plane is rather boring now. I have tried Somethin Extra, Super sportster, Ultra Sport and 4*60 in Realflight G2 and I prefer the SE with reduced throws.

Regards,
Fredde (Sweden)

Hi Fredde. I think your OS FS 70 would work fine in the SE...

Len

For some real fun check out the OMP 540 or Sledge 540 Kits in the profile and fun fly section I'm putting my SE on hold for these 2.

And I'd use a saito 72 or YS 63 on all them

Dennis

Fredde,

I have an OS .46 FX in my SE and it is more than enough power. The biggest thing to think about is torque ... a 4-stroke will give you higher torque and lower r.p.m. for better hovering capability.

Carl

I started with the 46fx on mine but went to the ys63 and it was a HUGE differance. The fact that I made taller landing gear and and it swings a 13x6 prop adds to the equation but it is a completley differant plane with that setup.

With the 46fx and an 11x5 it was managable but still twitchy and the throws were low. After the switch it calmed down and I could fly it wildly straight up and down. It imediatley made me seem like a better pilot.

Without a doubt the 3 most popular engines for it are ys63, saito72 and irvine 53. Spend the money on the YS because they are a better more powerful engine.

Thanks a lot for your help!

My local dealer lowered the price by 20% for Saito 72 and I couldn’t resist. I will use my OS 70 for another project, but I need a better hobby room for that one. Otherwise, Irvine isn’t much used here in Sweden. I only know one dealer who sells them and he is located far from my town. YS are more famous, but none of my local dealers got them. They normally sell OS, Saito and ASP. Now I’m waiting for my taller landing gear…

I am extremely happy with my SE - Saito 72 combination. Mine balance 4" back from the leading edge with the battery mounted under the receiver. Plenty of room to move it back more when the time comes. The Saito has PLENTY of power for the SE. You will have prop clearance problems with the stock landing gear. I solved mine by using the Du-Bro Super Strength landing gear and the kit wheels. Worked like a champ and the white gear looks good with the plane too.

I think you have mentioned this some time ago and I followed your advise about the gear. I hope I will get it during this week. I will also modify the tail gear with a stronger version from Sullivan.