Hey.
I am thinking about getting a plane. The only other plane I have flown is an E-Gull Parkflyer (only a 2 channel), with varying success . Right off the bat I must say that, unfortunately, I do not have access to an instructor. However, I have my heart set on a gas-powered craft. I was wondering if the Alpha Trainer from Hangar 9 would be a good plane for me, or should I go for something less complex.

Thanks in advance,
Drew Hart

Yes, it would be a good plane for you...

Just a couple of cautions though...

First, make sure that you charge the batteries thoroughly before the first flight (you probably already know this, but I've heard of one situation where the new pilot didn't, with predictable results). The Instructions may tell you to charge them for a full 24 hours before use the first time - just follow the instructions. For the best longevity, don't use a rapid charger until you've had a chance to charge the batteries a few times with the included wall charger (for both transmitter and receiver).

Secondly, be prepared to run a couple of tanks of fuel through the engine to help to break it in. Again, just follow the instructions and don't take shortcuts, despite what the 'field expert' might tell you.

Thirdly, if you have any ideas about trying to fly this without an instructor, I would urge you to reconsider. Your first flight will be much too short.

OK, you asked me the time, and I told you how to build a swiss watch... Enjoy your airplane.

I hope that this helps,

Bob

Thank you very much for your help. I really appreciate it.

-Drew

alpha is a great plane, i learned alone with one, still have it ande its still in great shape,you will need extra props though(alot)[X(]

Okay thanks. Nice to know others have had success with it.

-Drew

That was my trainer too!! If you have the money and the space get the 60 size one, I could fly in the wind while everyone was grounded. Also, you do not need to break it the engine, which is a plus.

I also learned to fly on the Alpha trainer. Excellent beginner's airplane. I also recommend the 60 size (didn't have it when I learned) as it will be easier to see and can be flown in light winds.

Once you break the prop, and you will, just replace it with a two bladed propeller instead of trying the find three bladed props that fit. 12X6 should work fine.


Keep the airplane at least 3 mistakes high and close enough to you so you can see it clearly.

If at all possible get an instructor.

Good luck!

Regards,
doubledee

Check at your Local Hobby Shop (LHS) and see if they can connect you with ANYONE that has flown successfully before. Any help is better than going it alone. While it can be done, it may get expensive too. Ontario is a province if I remember my geography. Can you narrow down your location a bit? Maybe someone will see it and be able to meet up with you.

I am currently flying my Alpha Trainer 40. I just started 2 months ago and am looking to buy my next plane already! This plane handles wonderfully, but as mentioned above it is VERY susceptible to wind( To the point that I will carry the plane to the take-off spot when there's a stiff wind going down the runway). I've gone through 4 propellers in this time, and have 4 spares ready to go!
I had an instructor however, and it is definately the way to go! You'll have a MUCH happier experience!
The evolution engine has given me zero problems, i've crashed the plane twice and have only had to do very minor repairs (like benging the landing gear, re-centering the engine, new screws to hold the tail in place).
I think getting the 60 size is good advice, I've heard it makes a big difference in the wind, since this is where you will break a lot of props, since even when the wind is in a favorable direction, turning the plane for an approach can have you ending up on your nose.
Can't say enough good things about this aircraft, it was my choice after a week of searching these forums to find out which plane gave folks the least aggravation in construction, quality of materials, and quality of engines/servos etc.
You won't be disappointed.
Cheers!!

I have the 40 size alpha and did my first solo flights the other day and have the green light at the club to fly on my own now. Now having said this it is an easy plane to fly but try to fly in the early morning or late evening when the wind is at its lightest if your set on doing this alone but if you can find anyone to help it would be a real help to you when i started this i thought i could have done this myself until the first time me and the instruct ore went up with mine and he said i had it i shook like a leaf in 70 mils hour wind the first time and still have the shakes a little when im on my own flying. All this said the plane is a nice flying plane. Just remember at anytime if your crash this plane and crash it really bad its like taking a $100 dollar bill and lighting it on fire its hear and gone that fast.

Good Luck
Chris

BTW - your website doesn't seem to work. At least not for me.

Hey.

Thanks for all the advice. You remember your geography well. It is a province. I am in Oakville, which is in the southern area of the province.
My website is working fine. If you get a could not find drewsarcade.maclenet.com error, my free host is down quite a bit so that is probably it. It is currently working though. It is a site about my MAME arcade.

Thanks again,
Drew

If my map work is correct, you are not too far South of Toronto. There should be a few clubs in that area I would imagine. Do a little digging and try to find an instructor. Browse thru the various posts/threads and check out the people listing that area as home and ask their advice and comments. First place to ask is your hobby shop.

Some other advice not mentioned about the Alpha trainer. I just preflighted one last night for a new student. Check the ailerons for any extra play. Dribble some thin CA down the hole that the control arm penetrates into the aileron. This will significantly stiffen the control linkage and prevent fluttering. Check the center of gravity very carefully - make sure its balanced or slightly nose heavy. Make sure you put keepers on your clevises. A small piece of fuel tubing works great. Make sure your battery and your receiver are fixed in place, not just floating around inside the plane. Self stick velcro is recommended. Use at least 14-16 rubber bands to hold the wing on. Many beginners try to use only 4 or 6. This allows the leading edge of the wing to pick up from the plane, with predictable unsatisfactory results. Make sure your ailerons are trimmed even with the trailing edge of the wing with your trims set at 0. This will give you the maximum trim ability and help prevent climbing as you add speed. Make sure your rudder is dead center with 0 trim, as well as your elevator. Check the nose wheel is also tracking centered. On the landing gear, file a small flat spot on the wire where the wheel collar lockscrew is. This will help prevent the collar from coming loose. A small piece of fuel tubing outside the collar will also help hold it in place. Finally, make sure there is no bending of the control linkages, particularly for the rudder and elevator. Use a dowel attached to the linkage if necessary to stiffen, or run your linkages through a housing.

Find an instructor, or at least get an experienced pilot to maiden the plane and get it trimmed. There is nothing worse than a new pilot trying to adjust the trims.

Good Luck!
Brad

Hey.

I was just looking around and found the NexStar RTF. I really like the looks of this plane (trainer software etc.). Would this work as well?

Oh one quick thing just wanted to know how much room I would need to fly this plane if I do indeed get it.

Thanks alot,
Drew

at least a field the size of a football field and even more airspace, go to a flying field,(if i didnt say that i would be shot)

I second gjeffers idea.... find a flying club. Even a football field is too small if the plane gets away from you.. It'll be more fun anyway.

Bob

Okay thanks. If the NexStar a good plane though?

-Drew

I must say that the nexstar is a great plane to learn on....I flew on the simulator for 3 months and I must say it helps a whole lot...I soloed after my fourth flight...It flies great....havent gone through any props on mine yet....I had my eyes set on the alpha trainer at first though..I really like how that plane looks with the tri prop...

I learned to fly with a alpha two years ago.I still it to the field with me when i fly.I also have a Arrow. It has a semi-symmetrical wing but puts together like th alpha. The only problem i have found is the wire gear tends to bend easy. After a few landings the plane will squat and the prop
will hit.Does not matter how easy you bring it in. On the trainer issue it is the only way to fly.I would have quit long ago with the wisdom of my trainer and the rest of the club I fly with for that matter.

Okay great. Thanks for the advice, I will take that into account when I decide to purchase.

-Drew

I also learned to fly on the Alpha trainer 40 I even passed my solo test in 30+ KM/hour wind after only 8 flights with an instructor (So it takes on the wind pretty good... or I'm just damn good ;-) ). In strong wind it is twitchy but the plane responds well. IT does requires some coordinated rudder turn, especially when a strong wind is behind the plane...

A few things to check before gluing everything...

Make sure the ailerons are not warped before gluing... also try to keep a minimal gap between your aileron and wing, mine had too much gap and it rolls very slowly.

Great plane, you won't regret it.

I have the Alpha 60 and soloed after one flight with my instructor. The plane is a dream and I have been flying in windy conditions as well. I reccomend the 60 to one and all. It's a load of fun.