Greg Covey

The Parkflyers R/C [link=http://www.parkflyers.com/html/jumpjet.html]Jump Jet[/link] is a complete EDF jet package that comes with everything you need to fly except the 8 AA batteries for the transmitter. The included 4-channel 2.4GHz DSM radio system provides solid glitch-free flying. The 3600 Kv brushless motor and 30-amp brushless speed controller provide speeds of over 75mph!

The package includes a 3-cell 1800mAh LiPo pack with a balancing charger and A/C adapter supply to keep the pack healthy flight after flight. Also included is a complete flight simulator program with USB adapter to plug the 4-channel transmitter into the PC.

The transmitter is digitally bound to the receiver so multiple jets can be flown together without interference.

The ParkFlyers R/C Jump Jet was designed with state-of-the-art Cad Cam computer software for the most aerodynamically efficient R/C jet design possible. Modular interlocking design allows easy access to all electronics, and ducted fan unit, for easy repairs and maintenance. [link=http://www.parkflyers.com/html/jumpjet_parts.html]Spare parts[/link] are also available. The main fuselage canopy features a 90-degree twist release canopy bolt. A special EPO type of foam/plastic construction allows for more durability than regular Styrofoam and the hard rubber nose can absorb most impacts.

Specifications:[ul][*] Wingspan: 32.5"[*] Length: 28.5"[*] Weight: 22.7oz[*] Motor: 3600kv brushless[*] Radio: 4-channel 2.4GHz FM[*] Servos: Two 9g sub-micro[*] Battery: 11.1v 3-cell 1800mAh LiPo with balancing port[*] Range: 5500 feet
[/ul]

Greg Covey

The main fuselage was protected with bubblewrap in a custom box compartment. All the electronics were pre-installed so there is very little assembly required. The epoxy glue and screw driver needed to complete the assembly are even included!

The transmitter needs 8 AA batteries. The battery, charger, and A/C adapter require no soldering. Simply follow the instructions in the manual for proper battery pack charging. The LiPo pack balance connector is also E-flite and Great Planes Electrifly compatible.

The 15-page manual covers everything from safety, assembly, charging, to plane and radio setup and troubleshooting. Additional manuals are included for more details on the 4-channel 2.4GHz radio system, the LiPo balancing charger, and USB cable instructions. A CD is also included that contains the R/C Flight Simulator Software and some flight education movies.

A QC (Quality Control) inspection card provides personal certification of the LiPo cell voltages and all main components of the Jump Jet package.

Greg Covey

The assembly is very quick. Simply screw in the fins with the supplied screws and screwdriver, glue the nose piece with the supplied epoxy, and press the tail cone in place after removing the backing from the pre-applied double-sided tape.

The servos, control rods, and linkages are all pre-installed.

The only thing I did outside the instructions was to trim the aft end of the tail cone black material to meet the inner clear Mylar material. In this manner, none of the air exiting the ducted fan is perturbed.

Greg Covey

The canopy is easily removed with a 90 degree twist on the quick latch. The battery fits snugly in its custom compartment. You simply turn on the transmitter, plug in the battery, and you are ready to go!

The Jump Jet comes with two bottom skids to help protect it on landings. Note the fingers holes on the bottom for easy hand-launching.

Greg Covey

My JumpJet was Ready-To-Fly at 22oz. I measured 230 watts at 21 amps on full throttle which provides a strong 167 watts/lb power level. It performed very well and had plenty of power!

Greg Covey

The JumpJet had plenty of power for loops, rolls, and high speed passes. What surprised me was the slow flying characteristics which will allow an intermediate pilot to have a successful experience, especially after spending some time on the included simulator. Flight times were about 10 minutes with plenty of full throttle passes.

It took us several iterations to fine tune the clevis trims so that the transmitter trim controls were near center. Once this was done, we could easily launch the JumpJet ourselves with one hand while the transmitter was in the other. When landing, carry a little power until just before touchdown and you'll slide along the grass just like in the video.

The only minor issue I had was with the transmitter stick gain. Since I am used to adding exponential to soften the stick centers, I needed to adapt to the higher gain of this setup. A receiver-ready version would be a nice option for experienced R/Cers that already have a computer radio.

[link=http://www.gregcovey.com/reviews/JumpJet1.wmv]ParkFlyers R/C JumpJet Test Flight Video[/link] (19meg)

flying photos by "Papa Jeff" Ring

markarch

Nice Review Greg. The plane looks a bit like the Art Tech Jet Tiger. Do you have any idea if they are the same plane? I have been wanting an edf delta and this may be a nice addition to the fleet.

Greg Covey

It looks very similar with some dimension changes, an easier hatch latch, and a new 2.4GHz radio system. I suspect it has the same origin but is specially made for Park Flyers R/C.

bmschulman

My Feedback: (1)

Helpful review; looks like a fun plane. I just received mine and put it together tonight. Looks solid. Hopefully I'll get to try it this weekend. Anyone out there other than the reviewer flown one yet?