I first soloed some 35 years ago flying a 2 channel Cessna Centurion ARF powered by an .049 engine then built a Cox S-Tee, none of which are still around anymore. Back then I was in grade school and by the time junior high rolled around I got into sports, taking advice from coaches who couldn't understand having a hobby outside of football/basketball/track practice, so I quit. At any rate, things have changed quite a bit since then and I was recently give an ORX T-Six controller, with nothing else, so I'm thinking of using that as the basis of getting back into R/C.

I'd like a .40-.46 Glow powered trainer, I'm just not interested in the electrics. I also have a new in the box KB .35 Green Head Tornado engine from an estate that I helped manage a couple of months ago. I know that it isn't big enough for the trainer planes that I'm looking at, but since it is NIB I am thinking that it will be worth something in getting me started by using it as a down payment on a new .40-.46 engine or maybe as a trade for a good used one.

If you could give me some suggestions as to what type of trainer, a good reliable engine maker and what else I will need to go with my controller I would be grateful. There are so many manufacturers of engines now it just makes my head spin. I am familiar with OS, Fox and of course Cox but none of the others even existed as far as I know, back in 1977-78 when I first began flying R/C.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions and help.

OK, in my opinion, and I know the opinion of several others here you can't get a better trainer than the Sig LT-40. It comes in either kit or ARF (Almost Ready to Fly). I've had one for 13 years now, still flying (at least it will be flying after I fix it). It is almost a 60 size trainer so it is easy to see. It has great handling qualities for the beginner. It flies great with a .40 or .46 size engine. I first had an OS 40LA on it and it flew fine but after a while it was too small for me. The 40LA was a bushing motor (they don't make it anymore) and was low powered and disposable. I'm now using a Tower Hobbies .46ABC (more power, but they don't make it anymore either). I know the OS engines are reliable, just make sure you go with a bearing motor. I haven't used any other brands in 2-stroke. If you want to try a 4 stroke I know the OS engines are good, so are the Sato engines.

Welcome back and good luck!

Hi William O.

First welcome back to the hobby.

As said above the LT-40 is a good choice, as for engines due to the coast of glow fuel, I would suggest you look into the new 20 cc gas engines, they are just as reliable and much cheeper to run. They also require less support equipment, and as all things there is a learning curve.

I would also go to the AMA web sight and look up a local RC club they may even have an old geezer/yung guy that would be willing to help you, and of corse check out your local hobby shop (LHS)

Good Luck with your new adventure

Cheers Bob T
AMA13377, Corsair Brotherhood #5

Okay, I will check out the LT-40. The closest R/C club is Tri-City Flyers and I emailed the president for more information.

I'm flying a Tower Hobbies .60 Trainer ARF. It's a MkII that I got on clearance sale when they were switching to the MkIII, it was less than the .40 ARF. I powered it with a Magnum 2 stroke .60. This has been a very good engine for me, I just keep the glow plug battery in my back pocket when I'm flying-the engine typically starts within 2 flips by hand. The plane flies well according to all experienced pilots that have flown it in the process of helping me learn, personally I think it flies GREAT but I am just back into the hobby myself. I just picked up a spare landing gear set for about $9 delivered from Tower. Hope this helps.

I will check that one out as well. I've found several suitable used trainers for sale, some complete and RTF but then there is shipping, or they seller flat out won't ship at all. Do you think a local club would be a better place to look for a used airplane, or should I just buy new and install my current radio and engine of my choice?

Buy the whole lot second hand on Ebay. So much cheaper.

Go to the local club first and talk to them. They may have some good stuff for sale and you can find someone to help you with what ever you need . Most people put off going to a club first and IMHO that is a big mistake. They know what's good local, they have people to help and a lot of times they will be able to get you on the right track quicker and cheaper. Plus : you SHOULD use their assistance for the first few flights . ENJOY !!! RED

Happened across the Hanger 9 website and am digging those airplanes very much. Also found out today that I will be starting a new job on Friday and as it's 112 miles away from my condo, I won't be commuting back and forth so my plans on getting back into flying will be put on hold for the time being. One plus for the new area is it's relative flatness, less populated and more places to fly. Bad news is that my fun money is now tied up in U-Haul rental, deposits and/or closing costs on a new mortgage. At least I won't be bored over the next few months.

You should still locate a local club and just hang out when time allows. That way you will start to get some kind of idea as to what's going on and what you are going to want.

They might even have a buddy box system and give you some pre air time . Besides making some new friends . ENJOY !!! RED