Phoenix Model Sbach 342 1.20 GP/EP ARF 65.5"
#1

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I just placed an order from Tower for this new Model. I have NO experience with Phoenix Models, So this will be interesting. It looks to be a nice model and about the size I wanted. They have another kit in the 55 inch range. But I waited for this larger model.
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Based on my experience with Phoenix, they specify the smallest engine the airplane will fly with. The recommended gas engine is the GT22 by the way.
Saying that, my 120 size Yak (the Yak, Sbach and the Edge came out together) is too tail heavy with a 20cc and too heavy with a 30cc. Phoenix also always builds heavy airplanes albeit very well built. I want to 3D, by the way. The Yak I am referring to flew very well with a Turnigy 26cc which was 850g, so in between the dle20 and 30. Too bad the Turnigy doesn't have the reliability.
To summarise, those who have ordered this airplane will likely select their engine based more on the CG balance than engine size.
Just a note- go over the airplane with CA in all the joints, that's probably all you need to do because all the surfaces will be prehinged and pinned
Ameyam
Saying that, my 120 size Yak (the Yak, Sbach and the Edge came out together) is too tail heavy with a 20cc and too heavy with a 30cc. Phoenix also always builds heavy airplanes albeit very well built. I want to 3D, by the way. The Yak I am referring to flew very well with a Turnigy 26cc which was 850g, so in between the dle20 and 30. Too bad the Turnigy doesn't have the reliability.
To summarise, those who have ordered this airplane will likely select their engine based more on the CG balance than engine size.
Just a note- go over the airplane with CA in all the joints, that's probably all you need to do because all the surfaces will be prehinged and pinned
Ameyam
#7

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This is good information. Thanks. My kit is out for delivery I'll post a few pix later.
which is better Turnegy or the RCG 26 CC CLASS engine???
which is better Turnegy or the RCG 26 CC CLASS engine???
Last edited by drdoom; 08-05-2014 at 01:33 AM.
#9

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The model is larger and Much nicer than thought it was. They just keep getting better. Mine arrived flawless without any issues. covering was tight and the paint on the cowl is excellent.
#11

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Ill see what can do. It is going to be a beautiful model. I want to go with a gasser. I think my DLE 35RA May be ok for power, It would take Quite a bit of work betting it in t he cowl.
#15

I noticed that when I downloaded the manual.
I didn't want to comment being that I didn't see it in person.
I originally was going with a different type of aircraft and changed my mind and decided to go with a SBach, just a different brand than this one that I found.
I didn't want to comment being that I didn't see it in person.
I originally was going with a different type of aircraft and changed my mind and decided to go with a SBach, just a different brand than this one that I found.
#16

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Well I broke down and ordered the DLE 20RA gas engine for mine.I don't think the DLE 35 will fit without major surgery I am really impressed how well this model is done. It seems really light to me, but I'm use to lifting turbine aircraft. Everything is hinged, but nothing is glued. IMHO it is hard to believe the value for the $$ spent. I will be replacing the tires/wheels. and Ill do an internal elevator servo. stay tuned.
Last edited by drdoom; 08-08-2014 at 01:50 PM.
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Mine, will arrive Tuesday. $205 with the saver club discount. I haven't decided between the OS 120AX, OS 108FSR or a OS120FS Surpass III with pump. All engines still NIB.
Looking for servo recommendations. I have several new Futaba 3152s but worried about them not being metal geared perhaps the new Tactic TSX47?
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Looking for servo recommendations. I have several new Futaba 3152s but worried about them not being metal geared perhaps the new Tactic TSX47?
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Yes they are keyed and are installed with a 4/40 socket head cap screw. Best hardware in a kit ive seen in a while. I normally toss the hardware bag and use my own stuff. Unbelievable value for $200 bucks. It also included a nice electric motor mount set. all cap screws.
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I had the Phoenix 65" Edge with a Dle 20, It flew awesome, it did need 6oz of nose weight but the 30cc would be to heavy. I also still have the Phoenix 56" Extra 300. The quality of these are very good. These are not the same arf's Phoenix put out many years ago, which were not very good. The new style they sell now are really nice, modern arf construction. Based on the 2 examples I have/had, Phoenix is a very fine arf for the price. As always with any arf, touch up the joints with more glue. You should enjoy this plane.
#23

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I put 3/16 bass wood under the top edge all the way around. Where the hatch is. You cant see but I'm still impressed with this kit.Im using a single arrow shaft with 2 exits for the elevator.
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It has typical fiber cloth hinges. I'm use to jets that weigh 25 lbs, and It is not important to me because I have no intentions of flying 3D. Il try to get it weighed when it is ready to fly.