Hi,

I have a World Models Super frontier 40 that i would like to convert over to those much cleaner brushless electric motors, but im a little unsure as where to start with it all, i have read quite a few posts in the forum already but i wasnt sure if i could directly relate to some of the other posts about various 0.40 sized trainers

I was hoping someone would be able to shed some light on it all for me by helping me out with this and suggesting what might be the best motor/controller/battery combination for my plane and hopefuly a decent online store where i could get the gear from

any suggestions are welcome
thanks in advance.

Adam

Hi Adam,

The best place to start is with the weight of the plane (ready to fly glow) and the type of performance you expect from it like trainer, aerobatic, or 3D.

In general, a .40-size glow engine can be replaced with an [link=http://www.hobby-lobby.com/brushless-axi4120.htm]AXI 4120[/link] motor.

Specifications for Super Frontier 40:
Wing Span: 64 in. / 1625 mm
Wing Area: 704 sq. in. / 45 sq. dm
Flying Weight: 6 lb. / 2700 g
Fuselage: 51 in. / 1295 mm
Radio: 4 channels 4 servos
Engine: 2 stroke .40 cu. in.

Since this is a trainer type plane, we can use a rule of thumb around 65 to 75 watts per pound.

65 * 6lb = 390 watts which fits nicely within the operating range of the AXI 4120/14 motor. I would use a 14x8 prop on either 14-cells of NiCD/NiMH or a 4-cell Lithium pack.

For even lighter application with the same 400W, you could go to a axi 2826/10 or 12 which will give you also the 400W with 4S lipo and save you 5 oz.

Thanks for the responses guys,
So a AXI 4120/18 coupled with a Jeti 70A controller and a 4s lipo pack will be good enough for this plane?

sorry i never added the plane specs...

how good are the kokam lipo packs? any others be better to look at?

any good recomendations o a charger for lipo packs? im currently looking at the schulze ISL6 is this a decent charger or would i be better off with something else, im basically looking for one that will last me a while

Thanks Again,

Adam

Adam, check this link, these guys are doing some great flying E conversions, for 40-52 size glow, there's a ton of videos to see too.
http://www.e-flightline.com/e-flight...ain%20body.htm

Mel.

the shulze is a perfect charger, albeit a bit expensive and ol' fashioned (no much user friendly).
Look at the ice duratrax, right now looks like the one to pick...I have a triton, nice one too...

I have been flying a Super Frontier for a year and a half. It flies very well with a mega 45 super box geared 2.5:1, 16x10 APC prop 16-20 cells 1700 nicads to 3000 nimh. 7-14 minutes depending on type of flying. Weighs 9 pounds plus. Climbs agressively on 20 cells. I have flown as high as 1500 feet for aerial photography. See here: www.pam-rc.org under picture gallery. Its a great plane. Today I would use the 4120 to avoid the gearbox.

Greg: the specs on the plane are:

Wing span 80.5 inches, Area 1232 square inches

OK thanks for the help so far guys
i have finally received my motor and speed controller after some issues with shipping

Has anyone got any advice on mounting the motor, i bought a motor mount but im not quite sure of the best way to attach this accureatly to the firewall
Any suggestions?

Look at www.espritmodel.com under accessories and motor mounts. After that you have to make sure the shaft comes out of the cowl at the right angle and centered. Probably 2 degrees down and 2 degrees right trhust. I fly my funtana with a 4120 and the radial mount mounted on a 1/4 inch plywood piece which is adjusted out in front of the firewall with four 6/32 screws about 3 inches long and lots of nuts. It is very solid.