Just got my arf, looks fairly nice.

Couple of questions though:
1) Why is this arf built so heavy??? 9.5 pounds for all of the parts, unassembled, out of the box. I plan to put a saito 180 in it, and figure the weight at 13+ pounds when its done. The sig cap 1/4 scale weights 2 pounds less! (According to their own ads). I think I could easily shave off 2 pounds if I cut lightening holes into the motor support...It is way overbuilt, probably to support a big gas engine. Could probably shave a 1/4 pou nd off the landing gear too - it is very heavy...So, should I try to lighten it??? Has anyone done this???

2) Assuming I dont lighten it, will the saito 180 on 15% nitro give unlimited verticle???

Thanks, I would appreciate any input...

From a comparison standpoint, my Sig Cap 231 EX weighs 11.25 lbs dry with a Saito 1.80 in it. It is GROSSLY overpowered. I almost never fly it at over 1/2 throttle - except for the vertical uplines.

I would lighten your Extra agressively. I was worried that the Cap was a little "underbuilt". This has proven to be untrue. It's light, but it's solid. If you can shave off a pound or two, you'll be a very happy camper.

I have flown them both. The Extra is the smoother of the two. But flies a little heavier (duh, it is heavier). The Cap is really un-Cap-like though. It doesn't drop a wing or stall like other Caps I have seen. It lands like a big trainer.

Both are great ARF's

Best of luck to you.

thanx. Another thing. This plane comes with the smallest fuel tank I have ever seen . . . Ive got to measure its volume. but it looks tike its 12 oz or so!

I just finished the Extra, and have now got a few flights on it.

With the 1.80 you will need a bigger fuel tank. I would recommend a 24 oz minimum. I haven't weighed mine yet, but I would bet it is at least 13 pounds. I would also swap out the wheels, they will not last.

As to the engine, my choice would be a 1.60FX 2 stroke, but I'm partial to 2 strokes. Cheaper and more powerfull.

Bpu699,The fuel tank is 16oz and if you use throttle management you can get about 12 min. I would recommend you pin the firewall mine came loose after 12 flights, I found it while doing engine maint. the 180 gives me unlimited vertical on my plane. I had it almost out of site and the plane wasn't evenn slowing down!16% nitro with 16x8 apc.

I'm on the Saito 180 side - four strokes just sound better! Mine weighs about 12½ pounds and with an APC 17-8, the vertical is essentialy unlimited. The stock tank is good for 10 minute flights as long as the throttle is used.
I also have the Sig CAP231EX and recently changed the APC 17-8 to a Mejzlik 18-6 with good results - seems like better vertical and better braking effect on approach. Not cheap but worth it.

Dennis