Hi Tattoo

Well, now I know that there are at least 2 of us flying RC planes the "right way" - Mode 1. One of the reasons I stick with Hitec transmitters is that they are so readily switchable from Mode 2 to the much more proper Mode 1.

However, I guess I am not a very good salesman. I instruct in our club. I give students their choice of learning Mode 1 or Mode 2. So far everyone has asked for Mode 2. So I grit my teeth and teach them that way.

I don't have any problems with Mode 2, but for flying a series of smooth, good looking maneuvers, give me Mode 1 any day.

So, take care, one and all, and one day you will open your eyes to the joys of Mode 1.

You Should check the Radio because most old radios arnt narrow band and are illegal.

Radley if you are talking about the radio that came with the original posters Cox Cessna, that radio is on one of the six channels in the 27Mhz combined air/ground band which was not subject to the 1991 narrow banding as the 72 and 75Mhz band was.

John

J-Dub07

Don't overlook the possibility of locating a good deal on a used trainer. Get with some of the local guys and ask some questions. Spend a day or two watching and asking questions. You'll find it to be time well spent and money saved.

Larry

J-Dub07

Go to the field. Do not buy anything. Ask a lot of questions. Do this for four weekends straight. Right now you need to acquire as much knowledge as possible. Remember the store is in the business to sell stuff. You will waste more money that way before you know it. Most fields will be glad to set up a buddy box and let you try your thumbs at flying. Do not pay anyone at the field if they ask for money go to this web site and search for another field close to you. www.modelaircraft.org also join this organization. The real truth about the start up cost of this hobby will be around $500.00 to start. Also check out these web sites www.horizonhobby.com and www.towerhobbies.com

I am not trying to scare you off but I feel a person should hear what they need to know not what they want to hear.

Hi J,

Crossed Thumbs is absolutely correct. I have been flying rc for about 6 months now. I have invested about $2500.00 so far into scale looking planes, radios, a helicopter, and all the accessories you need to fly. All are in the trash can now. I sold what was left of my helicopter,( I ate about $500 of I what I had invested in it) and bought myself a plane jane, no frills, stick with wings, gas trainer. I am having more fun with that trainer than all the other planes put together. Why? Because now, after 6 months, 5 crashed planes, a helicopter, and an empty bank account, I am finally learning to fly. But I had no one to really warn me. And what little hints the guys at the hobby shop tried to drop on me went ignored because all I could see wasa that P-51 Mustang streaking across my 10 acres at 80 mph. The mustang flew about 100 yds before it hit the ground at 80 mph. Trash can. I got fed up, went to my local club, got some buddy box time, and now I can fly.

Another good comment from CThumbs. If the guys at your local field are worth their salt, money or membership pressure will be the last thing they ask of you. I tried to join my local club on the first visit, and the club officer I spoke to would not take my money. He insisted I learn to fly first,(with their help ofcourse), get to know everyone, and in a few months if I was ready, then I could join.

Go to your local club and have fun, then you can start pulling your hair out like the rest of us!

Just my 2 cents..........................Scott

went to the field on saturday. it was awesome there were a couple people that I was talking to asking questions and watching them fly. I didn't buddy fly but did strike up enough conversation with one nice fella that told me to stop in this coming saturday and he would help me out with any more questions and that he would bring with him an old trainer plane for me to taxi around with. He seems pretty informed about the hobby. he said a lot of what you all are suggesting so it looks like I may have got my foot in the door. THANKS a ton everyone for your help I'll be sure to post how things progress.

Now your 'cookin', enjoy.

John

A lot of good advice in this forum. Take the Cox and post it on e-Bay and take those proceeds and buy a good all-wood .40 size box trainer with a flat airfoil. The Tower Trainer or Hobbico combo is good. Also some trainer RTFs in RCUniverse. Get the simulator if you cannot find an instructor. Take your time and practice.

I had that Cox / MRC Cessna. Looks good but is hard to balance, cannot fly it in a breeze more than .02mph, and the thing will not take a landing any harder than feather. It also cannot be repaired very well.