JWN

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EDIT 4/14/06: RCU MAGAZINE [link=http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=694]TOLEDO 2006 COVERAGE [/link] IS NOW ONLINE!

http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/a...article_id=694

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The first day of public access to the 2006 Week Signals Toledo show is over. Exhibitor space is sold out. The swap meet area extends from one end of the upper hallway to the other including many of the rooms directly attached to it. It's safe to say that anything you might be interested in can be found at this years show whether it be new, old, high tech or low. There is something to catch the fancy of anyone interested in radio control model airplanes.

The first thing that caught my eye was a large red biplane sitting at in the Hobbico booth. I wasn't the only person to notice it as there was a crowd of people pushing in to get a look. This Staggerwing ARF is so new, Top Flite hadn't had a chance to print up brochures. The model requires a 1.60 2 or 4 stroke. It has a molded fiberglass fuselage and built up wings and tail surfaces. Expect it to see it around June this year with a price tag of $479.95.

Just a few feet away was another new model that has yet to be released, but should arrive on hobby shop shelves in May. The Giant Super Sportster ARF. Even though Great Planes recommends a 35cc gasoline engine, it only weighs 13.5 - 14 lbs which is carried through the sky on an 82" wing. The model has a fully built up structure with a painted cowl. Expect a street price of around $319.99.

Around the other side of the booth I came across the latest release in the Electrifly Flatout series of flat foamie electrics. Our very own RCUniverse.com Biplane. Using the tried and true construction techniques of the other Flatout models, the RCUniverse.com Biplane is easy to build and early reviews state it's an awesome flying model that takes very little space to fly in.

Futaba had their wares on display and the new 12Z was getting lots of attention, and for good reason considering all of the features built in to the radio.

JWN

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Model Rectifier Corp has a great looking display this year. They have a large selection of airplanes, helicopters and cars on display. They also have two large video screens setup and attached to computers so modelers can have a go at their Reflex XTR RC flight simulator. To top all of this off was a handsome display of the MAH Extreme 3D composite helicopter blades they distribute.

Next I found my way over to the MPI Products booth where two new Himax brushless outrunner propulsion systems were on display. What makes these systems unique is that they drive counter rotating propellers. Systems of the past relied on gear boxes to drive the two props. The engineers at Himax looked for a simpler solution and came up with one that has a lot of promise. Instead of a gear box, they mount the two motors back to back through a common firewall. The front motor drives the rear prop, while the rear motor drives the front prop using shaft that runs through the center of the front motors hollow shaft. Both of these systems are displayed running and they look great. What's really great about this arrangement is that prop torque is eliminated.

The smaller of the two systems uses a pair of 2812-0850 motors with a combined power output of approximately 300W. It is expected to be released mid June with a price tag of less than $150.00.

The larger of the two systems uses a pair of 6320-0250 motors and puts out approximately 4000W. That's more than 5HP! The system will cost less than $500.00 and will include the special spinner. For a size comparison, the props in the picture are 19X12!

JWN

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Aeroworks has two new Yak 54 models they are adding to their Quick Built (QB) series of ARF's. Most of us think of all ARF's as being quick built, but Aeroworks takes ARF's to a new level buy making their models as fully built as possible. Even the Robart hinges are pre-glued into the surfaces so that only actual final assembly and installation of items such as your chosen engine and radio are left to be done.

The smaller of the two models, at .90-1.20 size, has a 69" wingspan and will weigh approximately 9 lbs. ready to fly. It can be built for either glow or electric power.

The larger Yak follows in the footsteps of it's smaller sibling in that as much building and pre-assembly as possible has been completed for you. This model has a 104" wing span. The hardware package is so complete, it even comes with 2 fuel tanks. One for gasoline, the other for smoke! To top of the whole package, a neat and simple control surface throw meter is even included. This model will be ready to ship in mid-summer.

Almost directly across the isle is Carl Goldberg Products with a full selection of great looking models. Everything from trainers to all out 3D models is represented. One of Goldberg's latest endeavors has been been to provide new and interesting small electric models for this very fast growing segment of the hobby. Here again, if you are looking for sedate or wild, Goldberg has something that will appeal to you.

JWN

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Winding through the crowd we come across the Horizon Hobby booth. Airplanes large and small, helicopters, engines, etc.. It's all represented here. Under the Hanger 9 brand we find the new Pulse XT ARF. The model includes options to install either glow or electric power. It's a sleek looking low wing model with proportions that promise to make it a sport flier's dream come true.

Sitting right next to the Pulse XT is the Tribute 4D 36 ARF. Available in either ARF or PNP configurations, the PNP version includes an Evolution 36 engine and JR servos.

On the other side of the booth we find two exciting new electric powered models. The Super Liner ARF is a great looking model for those looking for something a little different while retaining great flying qualities. The model includes the ducted fan units, but the modeler must provide two brushless motors, ESC's and batteries. The great looking, and functional, shock absorbing landing gear however is included.

The BYP Yak biplane is based on Quique Somenzini's Yak 54F design. With a wingspan of 32" and a weight of just 10.5 - 11.5 ounces, the model shows a lot of promise for those looking for a high performance foamie park flier type model.

One of the engines displayed which really stood out was the Evolution 45GX. The capacity is, like it's name implies, 45 cc (2.6 cu in) and boasts the highest power to weight ratio of the entire Evolution lineup. With this kind of power, it's a natural for the growing breed of 27% scale aerobatic models. That great looking case isn't just for show. It's magnesium to keep weight low while maintaining excellent strength.

Also on display is the new Seagull Model's Dual Ace 46. The model boasts fiberglass nacelles, nose and tail cones with traditional built up fuse and wings. With a price tag of just $189.99, it will prove to be an easy way to add a great looking twin engine model to your hanger.

JWN

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Ohio Model Products (OMP) is another manufacturer with a full line up of models on display. Two models that stood out were the Giles 202 RTF and the Katana EP RTF park fliers. Both models come fully assembled and include brushless motors, ESC and 3s Li-Po battery in addition to a 6 channel radio. The Katana EP RTF is available and in stock with a price tag of just $295.99.

The Giles is expected to be released mid-summer and will come with everything the Katana does, but will also include the sturdy, and great looking, aluminum case it is displayed in.

Kondor Model Products (KMP) had several nice models on display. One is the new RV 6/7. The single model includes options to build is as either the model 6 or 7 as well as with tail dragger or tricycle landing gear.

Almost right next to the RV 6/7 was the F-18 E-Jet. Constructed out of white foam, the model uses a pusher electric motor for simplicity and performance.

JWN

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In the "Why didn't I think of that" category, we find glue bottle holders from Roc-It-up. Constructed from soft foam with a weighted bottom, these ingenious yellow balls hold 1/2 or 1 ounce bottles of your favorite sticky stuff or other liquid that seems to always get knocked over and spill all over your work bench. The weight in the bottom of the ball will right the bottle should it be bumped or otherwise knocked over. Wedges are included with each Roc-It-Up to provide tight grip on the bottle. At $4.95 each, ever modeler can afford several of these. Check them out at www.rocitup.com

Tru-Turn is showcasing their latest addition to their every growing line of spinners, prop nuts and adapter nuts. Now available in your choice of four hard anodized colors, these spinners will really dress up your next, or even current model.

Balsa USA's booth is full, though neatly laid out, of large scale models. In the middle of the display is the new 1/3 scale Fokker D-VIII. With a wingspan of 118", 3818 sq in of wing area and expected weight of 40-45 lbs, this is indeed a very large model. Suggested power is 60-80cc gasoline engine.

Sig too has a well laid-out and attractive booth. Displaying products both of their own manufacture and those from Kavan, whom Sig imports and distributes.

JWN

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Though Toledo is traditionally a show for airplane and helicopter modelers, there were a few displays with R/C cars. Mecoa was displaying a line of 1/8 scale gasoline powered 4 wheel drive cars from a company called Compagnucci. Yes, gasoline, not glow or "nitro" as they are commonly called. These cars have actual spark ignition gasoline burning engines. Several models are available in RTR form and they appear to be well engineered.

JWN

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When the show opened Friday morning, there were only a few models on static display vying for one of the coveted Best in Category, or even Best of Show award. By the end of the day however, there were many models on display. From the smallest of the small all the way to a 1/2 scale Cub. There are airplanes, helicopters, cars and boats represented. The construction of all models is very high. It's an impressive display for sure, and yet more models are sure to show up before the 12 noon Saturday deadline.

Note, the 1/2 scale Cub appears to be displayed in the Micro R/C Plane area. It is actually displayed in Sport Mono Plane area, but the model is so large, it's wings extend from one sign, past the other!

Roquewj

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Nice coverage of the first day. Thanks for sharing.
I was not able to attend. First time in ten years.
Hope everyone is enjoying this great show.

mrdakota

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Could you please check in on a new product for warbirds, featuring giant scale in air variable pitch prop system for me?
I believe it is called something like "war bird prop drives" or similar.

thanks,
Keith

Kmot

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Thanks for posting! Where are the other 500 pictures?

mvigod

More pictures coming later today and we'll have a full blown article posted with coverage in the RCU Magazine after the show.

marc

mvigod

Just in from the toledo show...Hangar 9 has released a flight simulator "FS One".

http://www.fsone.com/



more info here:

http://www.fsone.com/Articles/Articl...ArticleID=1571

My team at toledo should have some pics up here in a bit from the show but wanted to break the news for those who had not heard about this new simulator yet.

Geistware

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Very good coverage.
Thanks for the post.
Anything new from Great Planes?
Any new twin engine models?

JWN

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No new twins from Great Planes at this time, but they did have the Giant Super Sporter pictured in the first post. Expect to see it in your LHS mid May.

Flyfalcons

Any pics of the helicopters at the MRC booth? They (Hirobo) are supposed to have a new electric heli coming out soon.

Ron Olson

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I just got home a couple of hours ago and met up with many old friends and finally met some of my fellow Mod's from this site. Even not being a plane person I still enjoy the show every year. While editing I accideantally made the pix a little on the small side. My son also took some shots and I still have to upload what he shot and I'll have to enlarge some that I took to make it easier for you to see. The 60% Piper Cub was fantastic as were a lot of the other planes. The smallest had maybe a 6" wingspan and I could barely see the motor on it.
Being a boat guy, you're going to get stck seeing a few shots of those!
The first one is a cool robot that can move better than this old body ever could.

CaptainHook

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This was the best Toledo show I've seen in the last few years. There was some stiff competition of models on display. I would hate to be judging this one. I hope to see some pics of the Platt Owl that was there, it was my favorite. The Cub was awesome built by Tim Johnson and I here he's working on a 66% Spacewalker. The madness of some people![sm=spinnyeyes.gif]

Ron Olson

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True. If you've never been to a show like this, you can't believe the amount of detail that some people put into their planes and boats. One of the shots that I didn't post was a cruise ship with tiny lounge chairs and tables all over the ship, the kind of stuff that would put me off the deep end, like that would take much![sm=spinnyeyes.gif]

JWN

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The second day of the show was just as good as the first. There were a few more people there today and many people were carrying out fuel and large props. There were more than just a few people, myself included, who were woo'ed by some neat new model they just couldn't leave the show without.

Here we see the booths of Ace R/C, Aircraft International Inc., Air Flair, Airtronics, Altecare, B&B Specialties, Bob Violet Models (BVM), Cajun R/C and Carden Aircraft.

Of real interest were two new items BVM is working on. The first is an electrified version of the tried and true Viojet ducted fan unit. Initial tests are showing promise and improved performance is well within it's reach. Flight speeds of 130-150mph have been recorded so far and 200mph is stated to be well within reach. The other interesting item is a new ARF jet model which is based on the balsa Super Bandit. The wing area has been increased slightly to improve low speed handling. The all composite model is delivered in gray and white paint allowing the modeler to apply whatever trim and decals they prefer to create a truly unique model.

JWN

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Next we have Castle Creations, CST, E Cubed R/C, Eddie A. Aircraft, FMA Direct, Graph Tech R/C, Hobby Lobby, Hurricane Flight Systems, Klass Kote, Klotz and Midwest.

Castle Creations is showing off their new Thunderbird line of ESC's which provide the same high performance and quality that electric fliers have come to expect from their Phoenix line. The Thunderbird series however is aimed at a slightly lower price point by sacrificing just a few of the higher end programming options. Another item being displayed is their new Phoenix 130 SHV (Super High Voltage) ESC. It handles up to 95 volts and 130 amps. Capable of delivering 12 kilowatts (!), this is a serious speed controller.

Eddie A. Aircraft has three interesting models on display. Though the models are a little unusual from those normally seen at the field, they rely on standard construction methods and materials.

Hobby Lobby has so many neat items on display it's tough to pick out any one or two items that stood out. They all look like fun!

Midwest is showing off their new Cellfoam 88 building material. This material will be perfect for building foamie electrics and is available at your LHS in convenient sizes and thicknesses. Visit their site at www.midwestproducts.com for free downloadable airplane plans you can try this new foam on.

RCKen

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John,
I'm working on getting the pictures downloaded from my camera and downsized for RCU. Don't know if I'll get them done tonight, I'm pretty beat from the day on the show floor. But it's a good kind of tired!!!! If I don't get them before I get on the plane home tomorrow I'll start uploading them when I get home tomorrow afternoon. I have over 400 pics in my camera from today. Of course I need to sort out the bad pictures first!!!

Ken

JWN

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Here we see Miller R/C Products, Model Aviation Products, Nelson Hobby Specialties, Northeast Sailplane Products, Propwash Video Productions, TS Engines LLC, RC Helis Plus, and RC Showcase.

Northeast Sailplane Products has a whole slew of electric powered and unpowered R/C airplanes on display. The Wild is a hot looking new model that is a cross between a pylon racer and a hotliner.

RC Showcase has several engines of note on display including the ZDZ 80cc Super, RCS 45 VT and RCS 400cc 5 cylinder radial. The 45 VT is noted to be the first commercially available spark ignition 4-stroke with electronic ignition. The RCS 400 is suitable for props with 40" diameters and puts out 25HP! The engine is so large, the 40X18 prop laying in front of it does not look so much like the huge piece of lumber it is.

JWN

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Continuing through the isles we see Stevens Aero, Slimline, Spirit of Yesteryear with Doctor Diesel, Team Genesis, TufFlight, War Bird Prop Drives, Wingman, Yellow Aircraft and Z-Planes.

Stevens Aero has it's fine line of electric powered airplanes on display and kits for sale.

Slimline introduced four new fully painted pilots which looked very well done. They are also displaying their new Nitro Powerstation. The Powerstation comes with an electronic power panel which provides power to the included, and built in, electric fuel pump, charging station for your glow plug ignitor and electric starter. The sturdy handle provides excellent balance for the powerstation and makes carrying the unit easy and comfortable.

Team Genesis has one of their huge Waco's on display. The model in their booth is the 40% version with an RCS 400 radial mounted to the nose. This thing is HUGE!

TufFlite has their nearly indestructible aircraft on display. To show how tuff these models are, they are running a video showing their models survive through crash after crash.

War Bird Prop Drives has their new belt reduction setup and operating. The system includes a variable pitch 4-bladed prop. Though other companies have produced variable pitch prop systems in the past, most required the pitch to be set by hand with the engine stopped. This new system is servo operated so prop pitch can be changed in flight.

JWN

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We'll finish up the day pictures of just a few more of the models on static display. The pictures do not do justice to the quality of workmanship represented on these models. Many are truly museum scale.