I am returning to the hobby after a 7 year hiatus and am looking for a trainer. I have a 6 year old boy(see 7 year absence) who most likely will be learning soon. So this is my plan. I would like to get a 40 size trainer with the option to add flaperons. I intend to buy a 6 channel computer radio and want to be able to use it. Does anyone know of such a plane and have experience with it?

Thanks
Mike

I don't know of any RTFs that have this. However, this is a relatively easy conversion to make. You just need dual aileron servos and need to mix them properly. There are many threads on how to do this on RCU.

The NexSTAR has an option for dual servo's for the ailerons. I went with the ARF version so I could get the Futaba EXA radio which is a decent entry level computer transmitter. I'm just learning (had my first take-offs and landings last Sunday after a couple instuctor take-offs and landing the weekend prior so I could get my hand at flying at a safe altitude). The NexSTAR with a .46 engine is a nice trainer in my opinion. I have removed the fixed "speed brakes/training flaps", I left on the leading edge wing extension which is supposed to reduce stalling/spins during low speed, so landings are quite easy and slow. I really don't think you will need flapperons with this plane, though I might put on that extra servo just to play with them.

Some of the guys on here have done some pretty radical mods to it, including making it a flat wing, tail dragger.

Mike, are you looking for an ARF or a kit? this will help us in directing you. Mnay planes on the market can be assembled or modified for flaperons or even modified for separate flaps. there are planes we might recommend for you that your son would have more trouble with too, so we need to be careful.

fyi-instruction manual that address adding flaps to nexstar about page 28
http://www.hobbiconexstar.com/downlo...025-manual.pdf

Good manual. Shows the dual aileron install which could be used for flaperons and also show how to modify for separate flaps. Had not seen the manual before, nice touches. As I know the Nexstaar is a good flying plane I certainly recommend it for your intended uses.

Oops, sorry guys. I am looking for an ARF.

The Nexstar can be purchased as an ARF, no problem. In fact that is the way I recommend. That allows you to pick engine and radios. PLEEEEZE don't pick an LA engine IMHO [:'(]. OS46AX would be one of several good choices.

Be sure to get some help for the first few flights at least until you regain your previous skill level. False pride = pile of debris.

I set up dual servers on my Nexstar and use the flaperon function often. Just flew it a little today, very little because of the @#$% wind, but I used the flaps in a full 100% down position and I actually could see a difference in the added lift, sooner lift offs and slower flybys. I found no need for retrimming for straite and level flight when I deploy them. I also have an "up" switch on my Hitec radio for this function so I use them as spoilers to! I have only used them on the ground and frankly the effect is neglagable, but cool looking non the less. Someday I will see what spoilers will do to my airspeed when I am at a safe altitude.

Oh, one more thing. Once you put one servo in each wing, check the wing's ballance!! I had to add a heafty fishing weigt inside the right wing because my plane kept dipping it's wing after the modification. I was supprised to because both serveos were exacly the same. Hmm, oh well. It's fine now.

Mike, what was your skill level prior to your hiatus?

Minn, don't forget the 6-7 year old that will also be using it. Although I may be leaning toward getting 2 planes if the budget allows it. 6 is pretty young, expect problems there too but doable with enough patience.