I've recently returned to RC aircraft after 15 years (job changes and transfers). I have completed and am flying a Lanier SuperStick 60 and a Seagull Extra 300S. I have started constructing a Great Planes Venus 40 to be powered with an OS AX46, and using a HiTec Optic 6 computer radio.

My questions regarding completing the Venus are:

1. Should I install the engine inverted like the plans call for or install sideways? I have never used inverted mounting and am slightly concerned about difficulty starting it.

2. Is the plans wing center brace sufficiently strong or should I plan on fiberglassing the center section for strength and accept the increased weight?

3. Should I use the stock muffler for the OS or get a Pitts or sport muffler to improve the looks?

4. Does everyone use the plan's method for setting up the elevator on one servo (HiTec 425 servo) or would it be better to change and use 2 servos on the elevators?

Thanks in advance.
These forums have been very helpful in getting me up to speed with all the advances since I had to drop out.

I mounted my engine with the plug at the 8 o'clock position. The stock muffler hangs out the bottom.
One must be careful not to flood the engine when starting.
Join the wings with 30min epoxy. Let it set overnight. it will be fine.
I used the stock pushrod system (with lock-tight) and a Hitec 605 servo.

I ran my saito 72 upside down with no issues. the trick is to lean out the low end needle but not to much. once set, it never needs to be touched.

no need to fiberglass as long as you do a good job joining the wing

I used the stock elevator methods with 1 Hitec 475 servo. I also soldered the 2 push rod wires together.

I mounted my OS 46FX inverted with the stock muffler and just used 30 min epoxy to join the wing halfs (let it cure for 24hrs). IMO this is a light airplane and using 1 servo for the elevator works just fine. Enjoy your Venus 40

As far as emgine mounting goes I like to use the * o'clock position as mentioned earlier. I have done two 40 size pattern planes that way Now if I do another it will be the same way. I have used a TTPro 46 and not had any flooding issues. My issue is usually getting enough prime to start , the fuel tend to run out the venturi before getting to the cylinder.

Have a good time and don't forget to kepp the speed a little higher on landing lest you drop a wingtip.

Thanks to everyone for their replies. It makes me more comfortable
now to do it the way the plans have it. I'll take a good look at putting the
glow plug at 8 o'clock instead of 6. Thanks again.

I mounted an OS .50sx (2 stroke) inverted with zero problems. Been in there for 2-3 years now and no problems. Just joining the wings together with epoxy is plenty. I stress mine out pretty hard and no problems as of yet.

Great flying plane.

The Venus is a fantastic beater plane. I learned to fly low wing on this thing and it sure survived many hard landings with construction per instructions. No need to modify anything. Only thing I want to add is to activate Flaperon function if you have a computer radio. This will allow the plane to come in real slow for landings and still have pretty good aileron control. I can land mine slower than a trainer, just to show off...