Is it worth it?
 

I have been wanting to break out of the standard parkflier size model for a while now. I see Hangar9 are starting to offer a choice on their planes of either gas or electric. So Ive started investigating conversion costs and practicality. I know prices of lipo's and BL motors has come down, but it still is quite expensive, at least here in Australia compared to a 'slimer' motor.

What I want to know is why convert such huge planes (eg 150 size, 80" WS etc) to electric? I am aware of the pro's of electric over gas and would rather fly electric myself, even though my glow buddies are trying hard to convert me. But I was just looking at the monster Hacker conversion of the YAK. A200 + MasterSpin 300amp ESC- $1649.00 USD!!!!! Add airframe, servos' etc and its pretty rpicey stuff. I'm not bagging the product in any way, I think its incredible that the alternative exists, but why would the average flyer do this conversion? Is it just to prove that it can be done, surely this couldn't be viable for the vast majority of us. I know there is only a specialised few that could really do justice to such a large plane, but why go electric in this situation? Or is it not really meant for the average flyer (like me?) but as a showcase/hero model?

curious clovus

RE: Is it worth it?
 

It sounds like you already answered your own question, which, in this case, is the only correct way for it to be answered. It is a personal choice of preference...better suited to a hobbyist with means. :)

RE: Is it worth it?
 

I agree with Greg. It's a hobby and as with all other hobbies some will take it farther than others. At the moment a setup like that is out of reach and practicality for the majority of people in the hobby. However I can see that without these people constantly pushing the limitations of this hobby we wouldn't be seeing the growth of electrics, the mass accessibility, and the cheaper prices we're enjoying now.

RE: Is it worth it?
 

Thanks for taking the time to answer guys,

Greg, I have especially enjoyed your conversion articles of the Big edge and the ongoing P 51. I guess for my situation the money isn't an issue ( I'm a health specialist) but moreso at least one of a skills issue........ I don't think I am proficient enough for these planes. Although a big scale warbird is something I aspire to one day, I'm working my way up slowly from little white foam ones :D.

So taking in mind what has been said above, what has raised my curiosity is why did you, and anyone else who has converted such a large plane go electric on these models? Is it the pinnacle/cutting edge aspect that makes you do this? I can see why Hacker would showcase their products on such a grand scale, and FMA too. Heck, if I was in the industry I'd do the same, but it just seems the engine route is easier/faster to build.....if all you want to do is fly..........

clovus

RE: Is it worth it?
 

clovus,

Thanks for the kind words.

If you take the money factor out of your decision to use electric power, all that is left is a personal preference. You say that, "it just seems the engine route is easier/faster to build". This fits your situation best. For me, it is easier to use an electric power system. I find it cleaner and the quiet sound allows me to fly just about anywhere. My electric planes last longer due to less vibration and no caustic residue to wipe off or soak into the wood. Although gas is less expensive, glow fuel does cost $15-$20 per gallon in the U.S.

I haven't been with FMA since last November and my short one year employment with them is a small portion of my near decade-long electric flight obsession.

The two most difficult areas of electric flight for many people are deciding which motor to use and paying for fuel up front. For me, I enjoy the motor selection and mounting as much as I do flying. Once paid for, the battery pack fuel provides free flying for hundreds of flights...if not more. New technologies like A123 cells provide alternate choices for entry level enthusiasts wishing to trade weight for cost. The cost of an AXI 5330 and Jeti 90-amp ESC combo is down to only $411 at [link=http://www.hobby-lobby.com/brushless-axi5330.htm]Hobby Lobby[/link]. Not bad for a 3000 watt (4h.p.) power system! Other Chinese-made power systems tout even less cost. It is a continuously changing environment.

Finally, in case I still haven't answered your question, the larger electric conversions may or may not be for showmanship. My 33% Edge 540 certainly is my flagship and the cost is well above many of my other conversions. However, the 1/4 scale Cub I converted from World Models has been the envy of many local longtime R/Cers as it stays as clean and new as when I pulled it out of the box. It will fly for 15 minutes using inexpensive NiCd packs. A few years ago, this was simply not as easily done and the cost was very prohibitive.

RE: Is it worth it?
 

Ta Greg,

I re-read the above posts and it kinda made sense the 3rd read, at least I think it does..... I didn't meant offend with the FMA remark, I'm just trying to rationalise it all in my own mind.

not so curious clovus