Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
09-28-2005 | 06:09 PM
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From: , TX
Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Well I am a noobie at this but I just purchased a Art-Tech Cessna 182 and I am awaiting its arrival. I don't know how much there is to building it but I thought I would post up some information I have found while researching it.
I decided on the Cessna 182 -4 channel after seing its realistic graphics and design, also I got hooked on it also after seeing this guys plane:
.
I also read some threads that got me to where I thought it would make a good 1st choice once it is set up properly.
Resources:
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_21..._1/key_/tm.htm
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4797
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=398732
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_30...tm.htm#3013698
Spare Parts:
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/body_...parts_182.html
http://rc-expert.com/product-access.php?pid=78
http://stores.ebay.com/RC-WORLD-INTE...QQftidZ2QQtZkm
Tips
1. Packaging Tape on Fusalage and Wings.
2. Upgrade Battery, LIpo adds 10-15 Minutes flight time.
3. Getting longer flight times -Use peak Charger to charge battery.
4. Cut throttle off when in trouble.
5. Avoid bad flying conditions- Do not fly in windy conditions. anything above 5mph.
Videos
http://www.art-tech.cn/english/Artic...p?ArticleID=86
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/body_cessna_movie_3.html
http://www.knvonline.com/files/cessna182s.wmv
Controls
4 Channel Radio Controls:
Throttle (Up and down left stick)
Rudder (Side to side on left stick)
Elevator (Up and down on right stick)
Ailerons (Side to side right stick)
Throttle: Used to maintain flight and vary flight speed with need.
Rudder: Rudder is used to turn the plane on the ground and in the air.
Elevator: Uses to make Plane climb and descend. Also used for loops.
(make a note that pulling down on elevator makes plane climb, and up elevator makes plane descend)
Ailerons: Used to make sharp turns and to perform rolls (corkscews)
1) Before 1st flight, cycle battery at least 2 times to ensure you’re getting full power out of it. (cycle means charge and run down the battery twice before using to fly)
2)On take off you want to take off from a smooth surface on the ground. Apply full throttle and gently pull down on the elevator.
Climb to a safe altitude before you make turns.
3)Don’t try to over control the airplane. The biggest mistake a novice will make is trying to over control. Just give gentle inputs from the transmitter. Remember that when making turns you need to compensate by adding up elevator (down on stick) to keep plane in level flight. Remember that too much stick in any direction may cause the plane to stall.
4)Remember on the elevator stick, up is actually down and down is up.
5)Make sure antenna is full extended on the transmitter and that batteries in transmitter are in new condition.
6) If you think your going to crash, shut the motor off right away. This will minimize any damage sustained to aircraft.
Note : 80% of crashes are from one thing: turning too sharp too low to the ground. You may not realize how fast a plane could drop in a tight turn and underestimate the importance of using the elevator to keep it level while making turns. The other 10% is from not keeping the flying speed up (too much elevator and/or not enough throttle) so it stalls and then falls out of the sky. The last 10% comes from pilot disorientation (losing your bearings when plane is in the air)
==========================
I am looking forward to getting mine!
Flight Simulator Software: Credit:rybak
===========================
===========================================
I decided on the Cessna 182 -4 channel after seing its realistic graphics and design, also I got hooked on it also after seeing this guys plane:
. I also read some threads that got me to where I thought it would make a good 1st choice once it is set up properly.
Resources:
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_21..._1/key_/tm.htm
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4797
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=398732
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_30...tm.htm#3013698
Spare Parts:
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/body_...parts_182.html
http://rc-expert.com/product-access.php?pid=78
http://stores.ebay.com/RC-WORLD-INTE...QQftidZ2QQtZkm
Tips
1. Packaging Tape on Fusalage and Wings.
2. Upgrade Battery, LIpo adds 10-15 Minutes flight time.
3. Getting longer flight times -Use peak Charger to charge battery.
4. Cut throttle off when in trouble.
5. Avoid bad flying conditions- Do not fly in windy conditions. anything above 5mph.
Videos
http://www.art-tech.cn/english/Artic...p?ArticleID=86
http://www.parkflyers.com/html/body_cessna_movie_3.html
http://www.knvonline.com/files/cessna182s.wmv
Controls
4 Channel Radio Controls:
Throttle (Up and down left stick)
Rudder (Side to side on left stick)
Elevator (Up and down on right stick)
Ailerons (Side to side right stick)
Throttle: Used to maintain flight and vary flight speed with need.
Rudder: Rudder is used to turn the plane on the ground and in the air.
Elevator: Uses to make Plane climb and descend. Also used for loops.
(make a note that pulling down on elevator makes plane climb, and up elevator makes plane descend)
Ailerons: Used to make sharp turns and to perform rolls (corkscews)
1) Before 1st flight, cycle battery at least 2 times to ensure you’re getting full power out of it. (cycle means charge and run down the battery twice before using to fly)
2)On take off you want to take off from a smooth surface on the ground. Apply full throttle and gently pull down on the elevator.
Climb to a safe altitude before you make turns.
3)Don’t try to over control the airplane. The biggest mistake a novice will make is trying to over control. Just give gentle inputs from the transmitter. Remember that when making turns you need to compensate by adding up elevator (down on stick) to keep plane in level flight. Remember that too much stick in any direction may cause the plane to stall.
4)Remember on the elevator stick, up is actually down and down is up.
5)Make sure antenna is full extended on the transmitter and that batteries in transmitter are in new condition.
6) If you think your going to crash, shut the motor off right away. This will minimize any damage sustained to aircraft.
Note : 80% of crashes are from one thing: turning too sharp too low to the ground. You may not realize how fast a plane could drop in a tight turn and underestimate the importance of using the elevator to keep it level while making turns. The other 10% is from not keeping the flying speed up (too much elevator and/or not enough throttle) so it stalls and then falls out of the sky. The last 10% comes from pilot disorientation (losing your bearings when plane is in the air)
==========================
I am looking forward to getting mine!
Flight Simulator Software: Credit:rybak
===========================
Ok, so I just got a Parkflyers Cessna 182 4-Channel plane and I got the transmitter to talk to FMS (Flight Model Simulator) perfectly on my Windows XP SP2 computer. Here's what you need to do:
1. Download and install the free FMS software. I got it to work with both the fms Alpha 8.5 and fms /beta/ fms disk01.exe">Beta 7, but I imagine the Beta 7 version is more stable.
2. Download the free FMS Cessna 182 model. Extract the entire contents of the .zip file into the "Models" folder under your FMS Directory, i.e. "C:/Program Files/ FMS /Models/".
3. Download the free fms SmartPropo to allow FMS to listen to your transmitter via the audio card. Extract only the winmm.dll file in the /ppm folder and put it in the FMS root folder, i.e. "C:/Program Files/ FMS /".
4. Buy this cable at your local Radio Shack to connect your 4-Channel Parkflyers transmitter to your computer via the "Line In" audio jack. It is a regular mono 1/8" audio jack on both sides.
5. Connect the transmitter to your computer, turn it on, and open your computer's Volume Control utility. Go to Recording Mode and select "Line In", and gradually increase the volume...I keep mine on max. You should be able to hear a buzz sound coming from your transmitter. Then go to Playback Mode and mute the Line In so that it doesn't drive you crazy.
6. Start the FMS software! Go to Controls > Analog Control, select "Joystick Interface", click "Resources". For "Joystick 1" you should see the active SmartPropo setup. Click "OK" and then go to "Mapping/Calibration" for the "Joystick Interface". The click "Calibrate" and start moving the control sticks around. If you get a sloppy signal, i.e. the bars are jumping up and down sporadically, you may need to increase the volume on your "Line In" jack via Windows Volume Control. Like I said, I keep mine on Max and it works perfectly. Put the right Channel Number for each control and start using the program! You may need to go back and check the "Inv" box if a particular control is responding backwards.
Some more info:
* You can only connect the 4-Channel Parkflyers transmitter to your computer. The 3-Channel version does not have the right jack.
* I've heard that SmartPropo might stop your FMS from even starting. This is due to your computer's sound card and not much can be done. Just delete the winnm.dll file you installed and it should work again.
* You can also connect the transmitter to your computer's "Microphone In" jack. However, you may need to play with your Volume Control settings so that a decent signal gets in.
* There are tons of other models all over the Internet that people have created, from airliners to X-wings. You can FMS +model+downloads&btnG=Google+Search">search Google or use this cool Auto Downloader to save time.
Some tips to strengthen the plane before you fly:
* Wrap the entire fuselage and wings in clear packing tape
* Put a strip of strapping tape or clear duct tape along the front edge of the wings
* Put in a small stick (carbon or wood) under the rear vertical stabilizer
Hope this helps! Good luck!
< Message edited by rybak -- 9/9/2005 7:21:53 PM >
1. Download and install the free FMS software. I got it to work with both the fms Alpha 8.5 and fms /beta/ fms disk01.exe">Beta 7, but I imagine the Beta 7 version is more stable.
2. Download the free FMS Cessna 182 model. Extract the entire contents of the .zip file into the "Models" folder under your FMS Directory, i.e. "C:/Program Files/ FMS /Models/".
3. Download the free fms SmartPropo to allow FMS to listen to your transmitter via the audio card. Extract only the winmm.dll file in the /ppm folder and put it in the FMS root folder, i.e. "C:/Program Files/ FMS /".
4. Buy this cable at your local Radio Shack to connect your 4-Channel Parkflyers transmitter to your computer via the "Line In" audio jack. It is a regular mono 1/8" audio jack on both sides.
5. Connect the transmitter to your computer, turn it on, and open your computer's Volume Control utility. Go to Recording Mode and select "Line In", and gradually increase the volume...I keep mine on max. You should be able to hear a buzz sound coming from your transmitter. Then go to Playback Mode and mute the Line In so that it doesn't drive you crazy.
6. Start the FMS software! Go to Controls > Analog Control, select "Joystick Interface", click "Resources". For "Joystick 1" you should see the active SmartPropo setup. Click "OK" and then go to "Mapping/Calibration" for the "Joystick Interface". The click "Calibrate" and start moving the control sticks around. If you get a sloppy signal, i.e. the bars are jumping up and down sporadically, you may need to increase the volume on your "Line In" jack via Windows Volume Control. Like I said, I keep mine on Max and it works perfectly. Put the right Channel Number for each control and start using the program! You may need to go back and check the "Inv" box if a particular control is responding backwards.
Some more info:
* You can only connect the 4-Channel Parkflyers transmitter to your computer. The 3-Channel version does not have the right jack.
* I've heard that SmartPropo might stop your FMS from even starting. This is due to your computer's sound card and not much can be done. Just delete the winnm.dll file you installed and it should work again.
* You can also connect the transmitter to your computer's "Microphone In" jack. However, you may need to play with your Volume Control settings so that a decent signal gets in.
* There are tons of other models all over the Internet that people have created, from airliners to X-wings. You can FMS +model+downloads&btnG=Google+Search">search Google or use this cool Auto Downloader to save time.
Some tips to strengthen the plane before you fly:
* Wrap the entire fuselage and wings in clear packing tape
* Put a strip of strapping tape or clear duct tape along the front edge of the wings
* Put in a small stick (carbon or wood) under the rear vertical stabilizer
Hope this helps! Good luck!
< Message edited by rybak -- 9/9/2005 7:21:53 PM >
09-28-2005 | 06:35 PM
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From: Up north,
ND
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
sweet pic!! another upgrade, although substantially more money then probably the plane itself, would be to put a nice outrunner brushless in there. combined with lipos that would have great power and incredible flight time.
09-28-2005 | 07:25 PM
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From: , TX
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
I am still new too this so I am still learning the lingo.
What motor do you recommend that is brushless?
The only one I have found is: Part Num: a-at-brushless -Brushless motor + ESC Set for PLANES-
Price: USD$45 at http://rc-expert.com/product-access.php?pid=78 but it is out of stock. Can I buy any brushless motor and just put it in? Also what does upgrading servo's do?
THanks
What motor do you recommend that is brushless?
The only one I have found is: Part Num: a-at-brushless -Brushless motor + ESC Set for PLANES-
Price: USD$45 at http://rc-expert.com/product-access.php?pid=78 but it is out of stock. Can I buy any brushless motor and just put it in? Also what does upgrading servo's do?
THanks
09-29-2005 | 09:48 AM
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From: Laurinburg,
NC
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
I own a Cessna 182 and the stock motor has plenty of power, especially if you use a lipo battery (flights last longer and overall weight drops noticeably).
Don't know where you are getting yours from, but I've heard some of the sources on E-bay use a 370 motor, instead of the 480 motor. Parkflyers.com offers the one with the more powerful motor. There is plenty of power, so I don't think you will be disappointed with the stock motor.
Jmir
Don't know where you are getting yours from, but I've heard some of the sources on E-bay use a 370 motor, instead of the 480 motor. Parkflyers.com offers the one with the more powerful motor. There is plenty of power, so I don't think you will be disappointed with the stock motor.
Jmir
09-29-2005 | 10:20 AM
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From: , TX
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
ORIGINAL: jmir
I own a Cessna 182 and the stock motor has plenty of power, especially if you use a lipo battery (flights last longer and overall weight drops noticeably).
Don't know where you are getting yours from, but I've heard some of the sources on E-bay use a 370 motor, instead of the 480 motor. Parkflyers.com offers the one with the more powerful motor. There is plenty of power, so I don't think you will be disappointed with the stock motor.
Jmir
I own a Cessna 182 and the stock motor has plenty of power, especially if you use a lipo battery (flights last longer and overall weight drops noticeably).
Don't know where you are getting yours from, but I've heard some of the sources on E-bay use a 370 motor, instead of the 480 motor. Parkflyers.com offers the one with the more powerful motor. There is plenty of power, so I don't think you will be disappointed with the stock motor.
Jmir
[link=http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=6001835108&ssPageName= MERC_VI_RSII_Pr4_PcY_BIN_Stores_IT]http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=6001835108&ssPageName= MERC_VI_RSII_Pr4_PcY_BIN_Stores_IT[/link]
These guys ship out of San Fran, They seem to have the newest RX, 72Mhz, and the 480 Motor, and they are the least expensive I have found yet for a 4 channel. I jumped on it, I hope I made the right decision.
09-29-2005 | 02:16 PM
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From: Lower Hutt , NEW ZEALAND
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Hi 3z3k3l,
Glad you liked my pics of the plane with the nav light system I installed into it , you do know I have also installed working flaps as well ? these a great little planes but I would recommend upgrading the RC gear { tx and rx mainly } to a more named brand ...eg Futaba or JR etc if you need any more info give post on and I will try and help you out if I can I wouldnt go brushless on this plane the stock motor has more than enough grunt with 11.4v li-pos .oh yeah your right about the wind it doesnt like when its lumpy up there !
All the best
Cheers
V-S { aka Andrew }
Glad you liked my pics of the plane with the nav light system I installed into it , you do know I have also installed working flaps as well ? these a great little planes but I would recommend upgrading the RC gear { tx and rx mainly } to a more named brand ...eg Futaba or JR etc if you need any more info give post on and I will try and help you out if I can I wouldnt go brushless on this plane the stock motor has more than enough grunt with 11.4v li-pos .oh yeah your right about the wind it doesnt like when its lumpy up there !
All the best
Cheers
V-S { aka Andrew }
09-29-2005 | 04:50 PM
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Well done 3z3k3l, great posts, I'm sure you're going to love this little plane!! One thing I would suggest to prolong the life of the plane and to protect it from all the little bumps and scrapes is to totally cover the fuse and wing with clear packing tape. It weighs next to nothing (I can't tell any difference in the flight performance) and will give the body and wing heaps of added strength. It also looks great too, makes it look shiny, almost like a Monokote cover job.
I also suggest that you spend a bit of stick time on FMS before your maiden to get used to the controls. I made the mistake of flying my Cessna for the first time without getting a feel for the controls and promptly crashed on the maiden flight snapping the wing in three places and totally destroying the front end, cowling, prop, bent prop shaft, motor shaft. etc. I was extremely pissed off and the plane still looks like crap after I patched it up but it flies beautifully now I know what I'm doing!!
Be conservative until you get the hang of it!! ...oh and avoid the brushless hop-up, that'll be too much power for any newbie to handle. The stock gear is more than enough to get you in the air and learn on.
One thing in your favour is that you've picked a great plane to learn on!! Just don't go crazy and try to do everything on your first few flights and you'll be fine!! Loops, rolls etc will all come in time... I speak from experience having flown and crashed many times!!
Good Luck and keep us notified as to your progress.
I also suggest that you spend a bit of stick time on FMS before your maiden to get used to the controls. I made the mistake of flying my Cessna for the first time without getting a feel for the controls and promptly crashed on the maiden flight snapping the wing in three places and totally destroying the front end, cowling, prop, bent prop shaft, motor shaft. etc. I was extremely pissed off and the plane still looks like crap after I patched it up but it flies beautifully now I know what I'm doing!!
Be conservative until you get the hang of it!! ...oh and avoid the brushless hop-up, that'll be too much power for any newbie to handle. The stock gear is more than enough to get you in the air and learn on.
One thing in your favour is that you've picked a great plane to learn on!! Just don't go crazy and try to do everything on your first few flights and you'll be fine!! Loops, rolls etc will all come in time... I speak from experience having flown and crashed many times!!
Good Luck and keep us notified as to your progress.
09-29-2005 | 06:17 PM
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From: Santa Ana,
CA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
How good is the 4ch transmitter that comes with the Cessna182? Would it be better to find a trainer that does not come with all the electronics or is the included transmitter durable and worth holding onto?
09-29-2005 | 07:33 PM
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
The included transmitter does the job but not much more. As far as hanging on to it?? Why not... it works and it is reasonably durable for what it is but the servos are pretty nasty so I couldn't say how long they would last but in stock form it would definately work well as a trainer.
I personally would not remove the radio gear to transplant it into another plane but some people would, and I guess it's entirely possible to do so. All I'm saying is that I wouldn't rely on this radio system as your main system, and don't expect to be able to run three or four other planes with it.
I only have the three channel version but I'm about to mod the wing for ailerons, replace the RX and servos and run it as a 4 channel plane with my GWS TX when I get around to it. I've just added ailerons to my GWS Slow Stick but I've not flown it yet with this mod. The Cessna has been hanging on the wall for a while so I'll take it out in a day or two to get rid of the cob webs!!
I personally would not remove the radio gear to transplant it into another plane but some people would, and I guess it's entirely possible to do so. All I'm saying is that I wouldn't rely on this radio system as your main system, and don't expect to be able to run three or four other planes with it.
I only have the three channel version but I'm about to mod the wing for ailerons, replace the RX and servos and run it as a 4 channel plane with my GWS TX when I get around to it. I've just added ailerons to my GWS Slow Stick but I've not flown it yet with this mod. The Cessna has been hanging on the wall for a while so I'll take it out in a day or two to get rid of the cob webs!!
10-03-2005 | 03:25 PM
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From: , MO
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
I just ordered my first plane too. I picked the Cessna 182 from all of the postings I found on this site. Thanks for pulling many of them into one posting.
I have a question on using the packing tape to reinforce the plane. Is it done lengthwise to the wing and body? Is there any overlap in the process? I like the idea, but I also want to maintain the looks of the plain.
How about a shrink-wrap material? Does the heat used to set the material effect the styrofoam of the plane?
Any help or comments is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
dutchman1174
I have a question on using the packing tape to reinforce the plane. Is it done lengthwise to the wing and body? Is there any overlap in the process? I like the idea, but I also want to maintain the looks of the plain.
How about a shrink-wrap material? Does the heat used to set the material effect the styrofoam of the plane?
Any help or comments is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
dutchman1174
10-03-2005 | 04:00 PM
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Hi Dutchman, and welcome to the forums!! I don't know if there is any tried and true method to applying the packing tape correctly, I know from my personal experience I tended to stick it along the length of the wing and pulled fairly tightly, The same for the fuselage. I tried to use as little tape as possible and only overlapped it by about 5mm (I think that's about 1/4 inch) and it looks great, at least it did before the crash, but I'm sure that the tape saved the plane from becoming a total write-off.
Just make sure that you use a clear packing tape and she'll look great. Also, if you haven't already applied the decals (Cessna stickers) yet then cover the plane in tape FIRST!! A friend of mine bought the same plane and he taped it up before he put the stickers on and in my opinion it looks heaps better than mine. So if you can possibly do it before then you'll end up with a better looking plane and you'll be able to remove and apply different stickers some time down the track if you crash it, like I did.
When I bought mine it came packaged as plain foam pieces in the box with the decals on two sticker sheets but I hear that some of the later releases of this plane come with the decals already applied so if that's the case just tape over them and it'll still look better than it does in stock form.
As far as using any of the shrink wrap materials IE. Momokote, Solarfilm etc. DON'T DO IT!!! The temperature needed to shrink and bond the film is higher than the melting temperature of the foam used in this plane.
Perhaps somebody may invent a low temperature covering some time in the future but as far as I know, it doesn't exist yet. Come to think of it, a low temperature shrink wrap covering for park flyer foamies would be a great idea!!! I wonder if anybody has the patent on that yet...
Good luck and keep us informed as to how you go!! Post a couple of pictures when you get it finished, I'd love to see how it looks. Probably a lot like mine did before I beat it up!! Oh, the memories... I'm going to make a phone call to the patent office now so I'll look out for your future posts...
Cheers!!
Just make sure that you use a clear packing tape and she'll look great. Also, if you haven't already applied the decals (Cessna stickers) yet then cover the plane in tape FIRST!! A friend of mine bought the same plane and he taped it up before he put the stickers on and in my opinion it looks heaps better than mine. So if you can possibly do it before then you'll end up with a better looking plane and you'll be able to remove and apply different stickers some time down the track if you crash it, like I did.
When I bought mine it came packaged as plain foam pieces in the box with the decals on two sticker sheets but I hear that some of the later releases of this plane come with the decals already applied so if that's the case just tape over them and it'll still look better than it does in stock form.
As far as using any of the shrink wrap materials IE. Momokote, Solarfilm etc. DON'T DO IT!!! The temperature needed to shrink and bond the film is higher than the melting temperature of the foam used in this plane.
Perhaps somebody may invent a low temperature covering some time in the future but as far as I know, it doesn't exist yet. Come to think of it, a low temperature shrink wrap covering for park flyer foamies would be a great idea!!! I wonder if anybody has the patent on that yet...
Good luck and keep us informed as to how you go!! Post a couple of pictures when you get it finished, I'd love to see how it looks. Probably a lot like mine did before I beat it up!! Oh, the memories... I'm going to make a phone call to the patent office now so I'll look out for your future posts...
Cheers!!
10-07-2005 | 12:04 AM
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From: Sumner, WA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Hello All,I just ordered my first plane today, the Cessna 182 and I absolutly can't wait. Actually it's my second plane, my first being a 2 channel which for a thirty dollar plane has provided literally hours of entertainment for my whole family. That plane has seen it's share of glue.
I've been researching for about a month now and after many websites and much reading the Cessna 182 won my vote.
Thanks for everyone who shares their experiences and knowledge with the rest of us. I will let you know when I hit the air, (which will be after simulated flight on the computer).
Thanks
Speiro
10-07-2005 | 06:34 AM
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From: Clinton Township,
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RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
i just received my Cessna 182 yesterday from a dealer on E-bay who had it shipped directly from Art-Tech in China. My mistake as the plane arrived with only a thin skin of cardboard over the original box. You guessed it, Damaged aircraft. The internal box dividers were made of cardboard instead of foam. The main wing had the right airelon dented in a 1/4 of an inch and bent upwards with a possible crack not all the way through. Air-Tech is too cheap to provide good packing and 1/2 the planes come here damaged. I'll have to pay an additional $25 to get a new wing before I find out how it flies. I paid $156 for it with free shipping but with the cost of the new wing, I didn't save a dime. I won't order from Air-Tech again.[img][/img]
10-07-2005 | 05:17 PM
#14
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Bummer, I know how bad you feel, it really sucks when you're excited and waiting for something like that too arrive and you get really disappointed when you open the box and it's not in A1 condition, but from what you've described it certainly doesn't sound like the damage is fatal!! Don't throw it out yet, the foam repairs really easily on this plane with a bit of 5 minute epoxy. I should know, I crashed mine pretty hard on it's maiden flight and shattered the main wing into three pieces along with the prop, prop shaft adaptor, motor shaft, cowling and tail. I thought the world was going to end!! I was sure that I'd totalled it but I just sucked it up and glued it all back together. I covered it in clear packing tape and spent $15.00 to buy a new motor, prop and adaptor. It looked a bit dodgy after gluing it but after the tape went on she looked like new again, it's been flying great ever since, and best of all it's still on the original wing.
Sounds like the damage to yours is more cosmetic than structural. Do you have any pictures?? I can probably give you a few repair tips... Oh, and don't forget to cover it in clear packing tape too, that will give it heaps more structural integrity and make it look better too!! Just patch it up with 5 minute epoxy and apply the tape and I garantee you won't even notice that it was damaged. As far as Art-Tech being cheap, well they are!! ...but you've got to put things into perspective though. You're getting a pretty good 4 channel RTF aileron trainer for $156.00 Even if you do eventually need to replace the wing (Which I doubt) that's only $180.00 total, I know you can spend a lot more than that and end up with something which is not as good as the Cessna 182. You'll eventually discover that the amount of fun and enjoyment you're going to get out of this plane will far out-weigh that cost.
The blame should really be directed towards the Ebay seller for not adequately packaging the product. To be totally fair, on their website http://www.art-tech.cn/ Art-Tech tell people not to buy their products on Ebay, and also tell sellers not to sell their products on Ebay but if you are willing to the risk then go for it!! It's entirely possible to get a real bargain on Ebay, and it sounds like you did if the damage ends up being as minor as it sounds and totally repairable.
You might even be able to get the seller to send you a new wing if you send him pictures of the damage, if not threaten to leave negative feedback about the transaction. Personally I've had many good transactions on Ebay without a problem.
Brace yourself though, all RC planes crash and sustain some damage eventually so my advice to you is the keep the 5 minute epoxy handy and above all don't worry about it too much!! The plane you picked is a good one and it's probably one of the easiest to repair that I've ever seen. It flies great and has heaps of power to spare so patch her up and enjoy it!!
God Luck!!
Sounds like the damage to yours is more cosmetic than structural. Do you have any pictures?? I can probably give you a few repair tips... Oh, and don't forget to cover it in clear packing tape too, that will give it heaps more structural integrity and make it look better too!! Just patch it up with 5 minute epoxy and apply the tape and I garantee you won't even notice that it was damaged. As far as Art-Tech being cheap, well they are!! ...but you've got to put things into perspective though. You're getting a pretty good 4 channel RTF aileron trainer for $156.00 Even if you do eventually need to replace the wing (Which I doubt) that's only $180.00 total, I know you can spend a lot more than that and end up with something which is not as good as the Cessna 182. You'll eventually discover that the amount of fun and enjoyment you're going to get out of this plane will far out-weigh that cost.
The blame should really be directed towards the Ebay seller for not adequately packaging the product. To be totally fair, on their website http://www.art-tech.cn/ Art-Tech tell people not to buy their products on Ebay, and also tell sellers not to sell their products on Ebay but if you are willing to the risk then go for it!! It's entirely possible to get a real bargain on Ebay, and it sounds like you did if the damage ends up being as minor as it sounds and totally repairable.
You might even be able to get the seller to send you a new wing if you send him pictures of the damage, if not threaten to leave negative feedback about the transaction. Personally I've had many good transactions on Ebay without a problem.
Brace yourself though, all RC planes crash and sustain some damage eventually so my advice to you is the keep the 5 minute epoxy handy and above all don't worry about it too much!! The plane you picked is a good one and it's probably one of the easiest to repair that I've ever seen. It flies great and has heaps of power to spare so patch her up and enjoy it!!
God Luck!!
10-07-2005 | 07:24 PM
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From: , TX
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Hey Guys, I just got my Ebay Plane,
Took no time to put together. I think what took the most time was putting the packing tape on everything.
I can attest that the shipment packing, it is just a box over the plane's box. But so far I can't tell if anything is damaged.
Ok, The instructions it came with are really for the 3 channel version. It came with a 72 Mhz reciever with 6 channels and 12 pins. Pins 2-4 were already used. Where do I plug the wings into? I am assuming Pin 1 right? as this is a 4 channel? Also I assume to follow the color scheme so all the cables are aligned the same way, seems white is at the top.
Anyways, here is my first real problem...
I heard somewhere that sometimes the battery comes charged so I plugged my battery in just to make sure it wasn't charged, well all the alearons starting moving and going crazy, is this normal? As soon as I turn on the Remote Control unit everything stops. But if I turn it off again, the tail starts going up and down and side to side like it is possessed.
Also when I try to work the controls on the reciever after I turn the plane and the reciever on nothing happen. The plane is one foot in front of me so I don't think it is a range issue. Seems like some circuits are backwords or I did not wire something right or could someone be flying another plane close by?(not likely but hey who knows)
Side note, I unplugged the wings out of the receiver and the problem still happens on the standard wiring. Is this normal?????
Where should I look for the solution?
I will include some pictures soon.
Thanks!
Took no time to put together. I think what took the most time was putting the packing tape on everything.
I can attest that the shipment packing, it is just a box over the plane's box. But so far I can't tell if anything is damaged.
Ok, The instructions it came with are really for the 3 channel version. It came with a 72 Mhz reciever with 6 channels and 12 pins. Pins 2-4 were already used. Where do I plug the wings into? I am assuming Pin 1 right? as this is a 4 channel? Also I assume to follow the color scheme so all the cables are aligned the same way, seems white is at the top.
Anyways, here is my first real problem...
I heard somewhere that sometimes the battery comes charged so I plugged my battery in just to make sure it wasn't charged, well all the alearons starting moving and going crazy, is this normal? As soon as I turn on the Remote Control unit everything stops. But if I turn it off again, the tail starts going up and down and side to side like it is possessed.
Also when I try to work the controls on the reciever after I turn the plane and the reciever on nothing happen. The plane is one foot in front of me so I don't think it is a range issue. Seems like some circuits are backwords or I did not wire something right or could someone be flying another plane close by?(not likely but hey who knows)
Side note, I unplugged the wings out of the receiver and the problem still happens on the standard wiring. Is this normal?????
Where should I look for the solution?
I will include some pictures soon.
Thanks!
10-07-2005 | 07:46 PM
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
3z3k3l, Did you say that it only does this when the transmitter is turned off??? The Standard practice is to always turn on your transmitter first but make sure the throttle stick is in the off position before you connect the flight battery. You shouldn't get this problem again if you follow this start-up procedure each time. This is because the receiver needs to "see" the signal from the transmitter before it can configure itself to receive the signal. (At least that's how the guy at the LHS explained it to me) I hope I've explained it correctly!!
As for which pins to plug the aileron servo into, logic would dictate that it would be channel one, but that's not always the case. I've found that some of this dodgy-type Chinese radio gear can have the channel markings the wrong way around on the plastic casing so it's really a lottery as to which one will work. Unfortunately it's going to be a matter of trial and error for you, just remember to turn the TX on before you connect the flight battery and all will be rosey!!
You are right on the colour scheme thing, and if you find that you don't like the orientation of the controls you can switch them over. For example, I like to have throttle and ailerons on the right stick with rudder and elevator on the left. It took me a while to find which channel related to which control on the RX but I just switched the plugs around until I had it the way I like it. You may be perfectly happy with the way it is now but that's just me and it all come down to personal preference and above all what works for you!!
The golden rule is: DONT ATTEMPT TO FLY UNTIL ALL THE CONTROLS ARE WORKING PROPERLY AND YOU'VE DONE A SUCCESSFUL RANGE TEST!!
Good luck and let us know if that fixes the problem for you!!
As for which pins to plug the aileron servo into, logic would dictate that it would be channel one, but that's not always the case. I've found that some of this dodgy-type Chinese radio gear can have the channel markings the wrong way around on the plastic casing so it's really a lottery as to which one will work. Unfortunately it's going to be a matter of trial and error for you, just remember to turn the TX on before you connect the flight battery and all will be rosey!!
You are right on the colour scheme thing, and if you find that you don't like the orientation of the controls you can switch them over. For example, I like to have throttle and ailerons on the right stick with rudder and elevator on the left. It took me a while to find which channel related to which control on the RX but I just switched the plugs around until I had it the way I like it. You may be perfectly happy with the way it is now but that's just me and it all come down to personal preference and above all what works for you!!
The golden rule is: DONT ATTEMPT TO FLY UNTIL ALL THE CONTROLS ARE WORKING PROPERLY AND YOU'VE DONE A SUCCESSFUL RANGE TEST!!
Good luck and let us know if that fixes the problem for you!!
10-08-2005 | 03:34 PM
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From: , TX
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Thanks ABC, Your dead on, just a noobie mistake on my part. I did manage to fix it.
1. I had "used" batteries in the Remote- Bought new fresh batteries.
2. Battery wasn't fully charged...- I fully charged the battery and when I re-tested, everything was working great.
3. The wiring worked on the number 1 pins for the wing to attach to.
I took it out for test run today, perfect day for it, it is about 70 degrees & sunny and a 1-2 mph wind. I first tried a throw launch at full throttle but the plan didn't climb at all, just flew forward then decended down, like there was not enough power. Hit the dirt hard.
I then took it to taxi out on some open pavement. I think I definately will need an steerable nose wheel. If anyone has a guide on how to build one I would love to hear it. It did great, got up to speed fast then started to take off, but immediately went left and onto the pavement. Think that one messed up the motor because now it sound like someone dumped a bunch of metal bearings inside and they are just bouncing together, but the motor still works. It's just loud.
After that I decided to just practiced mock take offs and turning and getting use to the controls.
I may end up buying the flight simulator software just so I don't mess up the plane, as I realized how much I don't know the controls just by taxing around.
Next I am going to get the lipo battery and charger, that and possibly the flight software to get me familiarized with the controls, anyone know where I can download it instead of waiting for shipping?
So far its great, Now to get it in the air...
****Update on Motor:
I found out what happen to the motor. I heard something rattling in the plane when I brought it home, I took off the wing and out popped this bushing.
The round bushing at the top had fallen out, I placed it back in and took a hammer and a large screw head, turned the screw upside down and lightly tapped the bushing back into place.
I put the motor back in and hopefully all is well. The shaft doesn't move from side to side anymore like it used to so I think its fixed. But I think I may have chipped a capacitor so I will see what happens.
1. I had "used" batteries in the Remote- Bought new fresh batteries.
2. Battery wasn't fully charged...- I fully charged the battery and when I re-tested, everything was working great.
3. The wiring worked on the number 1 pins for the wing to attach to.
I took it out for test run today, perfect day for it, it is about 70 degrees & sunny and a 1-2 mph wind. I first tried a throw launch at full throttle but the plan didn't climb at all, just flew forward then decended down, like there was not enough power. Hit the dirt hard.
I then took it to taxi out on some open pavement. I think I definately will need an steerable nose wheel. If anyone has a guide on how to build one I would love to hear it. It did great, got up to speed fast then started to take off, but immediately went left and onto the pavement. Think that one messed up the motor because now it sound like someone dumped a bunch of metal bearings inside and they are just bouncing together, but the motor still works. It's just loud.
After that I decided to just practiced mock take offs and turning and getting use to the controls.
I may end up buying the flight simulator software just so I don't mess up the plane, as I realized how much I don't know the controls just by taxing around.
Next I am going to get the lipo battery and charger, that and possibly the flight software to get me familiarized with the controls, anyone know where I can download it instead of waiting for shipping?
So far its great, Now to get it in the air...
****Update on Motor:
I found out what happen to the motor. I heard something rattling in the plane when I brought it home, I took off the wing and out popped this bushing.
The round bushing at the top had fallen out, I placed it back in and took a hammer and a large screw head, turned the screw upside down and lightly tapped the bushing back into place.
I put the motor back in and hopefully all is well. The shaft doesn't move from side to side anymore like it used to so I think its fixed. But I think I may have chipped a capacitor so I will see what happens.
10-08-2005 | 04:42 PM
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Welcome to the world of RC things not exactly going as they should all the time... Wow, I've never seen a can motor do that before!! Sounds like you've managed to fix it though. You may need to buy a spare soon, just in case you've damaged the brushes. You should be able to tell if it's OK if it takes off next time you try. I think you can pick up a new speed 480 motor for about $6.00 at your LHS. The best things about using standard brushed gear and NiMh packs compared to a brushless setup with LiPo's is that replacements are really cheap and the NiMh packs are really robust compared to LiPo's!! This particular plane has plenty of reserve power in stock form too so the hop-up to the next level won't be needed any time soon.
Just on the flight simulator, there's a free download available. Just Google "FMS Flight Simulator" and install the program files. If you then do a search on "Art-Tech Cessna 182 FMS Model" or "Parkfkyers.com Cessna 182 FMS Model" you'll be able to download the Cessna model for FMS which will allow you to fly the Cessna free of charge.
If you can't find it just PM me and I'll e-mail it to you. It's only about 6mb total so it doesn't take that long to download.
Above all, don't get too worried about it and don't give up on this teriffic hobby!! All these little problems happen to the best of us and they can all be addressed relatively easily and in your case reasonably cheaply!! You'll be back up in the air before you know it...
Cheers!!
Just on the flight simulator, there's a free download available. Just Google "FMS Flight Simulator" and install the program files. If you then do a search on "Art-Tech Cessna 182 FMS Model" or "Parkfkyers.com Cessna 182 FMS Model" you'll be able to download the Cessna model for FMS which will allow you to fly the Cessna free of charge.
If you can't find it just PM me and I'll e-mail it to you. It's only about 6mb total so it doesn't take that long to download.
Above all, don't get too worried about it and don't give up on this teriffic hobby!! All these little problems happen to the best of us and they can all be addressed relatively easily and in your case reasonably cheaply!! You'll be back up in the air before you know it...
Cheers!!
10-08-2005 | 11:43 PM
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From: Clinton Township,
MI
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
I sent an e-mail to the e-bay seller and she promised to send me a new wing. She admitted that their were many complaints about damaged planes due to poor packing. In the mean time I'll start applying the packing tape to the rest of the plane. Weather here in Michigan is too lousy to fly right now. Windy and rainy with temps in the 50's. Two days ago we were in the low 8o's. Well, fall is here and good flying days will be at a premium for awhile. By the way, thanks for all your positive comments. You know how to make a plane junkie feel better after an initial disapointment. I'll keep a watch on all of your comments to see how I can make this Cessna fly better.
10-11-2005 | 10:03 AM
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From: , TX
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
What Cable Do I need to hook my Art-Tech 4 channel EFly to my PC for the FMS software? I look online and it looks like a male to male audio cable.
Is that right?
Nevermind, I found a post that showed me exactly what I needed. I updated my main post as I think it is great info.
One thing though when configuring the controls under mapping and calibration my numbers were:
1
3
4
2
That is what I believe matched my planes Mode II 4channel remote.
*Update, messed up my motor on a take off that ended up hitting the curb. Looking for a motor locally if not going to purchase it online.
Is that right?
Nevermind, I found a post that showed me exactly what I needed. I updated my main post as I think it is great info.
One thing though when configuring the controls under mapping and calibration my numbers were:
1
3
4
2
That is what I believe matched my planes Mode II 4channel remote.
*Update, messed up my motor on a take off that ended up hitting the curb. Looking for a motor locally if not going to purchase it online.
10-11-2005 | 05:15 PM
#21
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Just go to your LHS, it's a standard brushed speed 480 can motor. $10.00 max!! I've found that the props are the hardest to find!!
11-16-2005 | 08:43 AM
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From: , TX
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
ORIGINAL: I_Love_My_ABC
Just go to your LHS, it's a standard brushed speed 480 can motor. $10.00 max!! I've found that the props are the hardest to find!!
Just go to your LHS, it's a standard brushed speed 480 can motor. $10.00 max!! I've found that the props are the hardest to find!!
But I am deciding to sell mine. We have had 5-20mph winds here the past few weeks and its frustrating, I think I am going to move up to an gas. There is a field near my house that some other guys run thier planes in the wind. I am getting jealous!
01-09-2006 | 05:13 PM
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From: , UNITED KINGDOM
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Have just taken delivery of one of these and have a radio problem. This may sound weird but I have tried this wearing different clothes with the same result!! Still interested? Ok I switch on the tx then plug in the battery and the servos go awol. If i stand back about metre or so the servos go quiet again. If I approach either the plane or the tx away they go. Any ideas?
Thanks for all the help.
Thanks for all the help.
01-14-2006 | 03:09 PM
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From: dublin 14, IRELAND
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
Hi. Can anyone help me. Im kinda new to this and got myself a cessna 182. I reinforced it with clear packing tape after a first flight wing break. I got the idea from someone on this. Really makes a difference. Ive crashed it a few times now but never did any damage. Anyway, my crashing days are over now and I really enjoy the plane. I have no problems controlling it but sometimes it refuses to turn right for me but when i take it down and check the ailerons, they move fine. Im not sure if its a problem in the rx or me. I use regargable batteries in the tx..would that matter? Or could it be a distance problem. It seems to only happen about 200-300 feet away. Is anyone aware of this problem in the cessna. Hope someone can help me, Thanks
01-14-2006 | 04:22 PM
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From: Lower Hutt , NEW ZEALAND
RE: Cessna-182 4-ch RTF Airplane*New Build
hi irishflyer ,
it could be a couple of things 1/ is the aileron servo secure ? they have a trend of becoming loose and flopping round a bit 2/ do you use the radio that came with it or a branded one eg futaba , JR etc ? it could be the radio you may be exceeding its range ...do any of the other controlls play up ? 3/ have you checked the ailerons themselves one could be sticking or the tape could be binding somewhere .Other than that I cant think of anything else , its strange if it only wont turn right .Hope this helps .My Cessna is flying great and have had many great flights with her ...25+ Flights .
cheers
V-S
it could be a couple of things 1/ is the aileron servo secure ? they have a trend of becoming loose and flopping round a bit 2/ do you use the radio that came with it or a branded one eg futaba , JR etc ? it could be the radio you may be exceeding its range ...do any of the other controlls play up ? 3/ have you checked the ailerons themselves one could be sticking or the tape could be binding somewhere .Other than that I cant think of anything else , its strange if it only wont turn right .Hope this helps .My Cessna is flying great and have had many great flights with her ...25+ Flights .
cheers
V-S
