damifino, how can I see the logic in something without understanding the reasoning it rests upon? Don't misconstrue my desire to learn/understand why someone thinks the way they do with me disagreeing. Because I ask someone to explain their thoughts, does not mean I disagree with it, or the logic associated to with it.

Hence:
Your response implies that I should take what you, or anyone here, says as biblical. The problem with this philosophy should be obvious; I do not know what experience you, or others that reply, have. I have no guarantee that a response from member X holds "solid engineering principles" or is "experienced advice". I seriously do not think there is anything wrong with asking questions when you do not understand something. And others here have had no problem explaining these things in further detail (see krossk's response).

Sorry my response seemed out of line.
First, after seeing that several people who have experience and first hand knowledge with the Skybolt replied to your post with their honest opinions and explanations it seemed redundant for me to follow up with the same info. The logic and reasoning concerning moving the servos to the rear is so simple no further explaining seemed necessary.

Secondly, there are dozens of threads here on RCU pertaining to the GP Super Skybolt, a treasure trove of info. MINNFLYER and RC SPORT together have about 10 years combined experience with the Skybolt and have at least one video posted on RCU featuring a 1.20 powered, smokin' sequence of aerobatics. Those are the people to listen to. I don't expect my posts here to be taken as 'biblical' nor does anyone else, I imagine. However, you should take the plans and general layout provided with your kit with more than a grain of salt, especially with a kit as long running and successful as this one.

Finally, I highly recommend a book titled 'Basics of Model Aircraft Design' by Andy Lennon. A section in chapter 6 deals with exactly what you are not understanding; CG location and the 'The Balancing Act'. Using the method described therein you will be able to verify the manufacturer's recommended equipment locations within the plane and allow you to experiment with your 'cool mods' before wasting a lot of time building something that won't work. Model Airplane News Magazine's publisher has a bunch of books with hints and tips gathered from years and years of magazine readers and a good one titled 'R/C Pilots Handbook'. And don't pass up the Harry Higley and Sons series of books, they're timeless.

Hey, to each, his own, Ok guys?

Let's let it rest.

Okay.........Peace.

I built the Skybolt when it first came out - the only mods I would make if building another would be to find a better landing gear - the one that came with it just wasn't beefy enough, and I would use a YS 90 or 110 - mine had an OS 120 in it - the plane would have performed a bit better with a bit less of weight - it didn't need the extra power of the 120.

Dan