topflight elder 40
 

hi, i built this kit years ago, i have a k-b40 glow on it but would like to go electric because of the cleaning issues with the aft fuselage, could anyone recomend a power setup for this plane. i dont need the top of the line stuff. thanks

RE: topflight elder 40
 

Hi Kitman.

Lovely plane - been thinking of buying one of those myself, but a little scared because I've never built a kit before.

The Top Flite site lists the AUW at 2495g -3175g - guess it depends on whether you've gone 2 stroke or 4 stroke. I've just converted a .40 trainer, replacing the .46AX 2 stroke OS engine with a Scorpion 3026-12, 80A ESC and 5Ah 5s lipo, and gained 180g in the process, so I guess with a similar setup you'd probably be looking at an all up weight of around 2680g, or 5.9lb. Let's call it 6lb.

For a scale WWI flier like this, you'd probably have a very flyable plane at around 100w/lb.

A Scorpion 3026-890 (the Series II replacement for the 3026-12) running an APC 12x6 on 4s would give you 850w, 60A, 3000g thrust - so even at a motor efficiency of only 80% (and I'm sure the motor is way more efficient than this), you'll have your 600w with a bit to spare. The 4s would also be lighter.

Reckon this would be a fantastic setup for your plane.

RE: topflight elder 40
 

bleeps, what kind of price are you looking at therefor the whole unit. thanks

RE: topflight elder 40
 

I bought the motor and mount from an Australian supplier, but everything else came from Hobby City.

In US$, you're looking at around $70 for the motor, $40 - $50 for the battery (depending on whether 4s or 5s), and around $50 for a Turnigy 80A speed control.

Add motor mount, postage, and other odds and ends, you're probably looking at around $200 all up.

You could go for a Turnigy or other cheaper outrunner, but experience has taught me not to skimp on the motor. It only takes one bearing failure or thrown magnet at an inopportune moment to destroy a plane, and it's such a nice plane.

Do yourself a favour and get the Scorpion. They're that good.