Hi all!

I'm going to be installing mechanical retracts in my GP Ultra Sport 40+ and was wondering what the feelings out there were on Hobbico vs. Great Planes (they are probably the same) vs. Dave Brown products. Up here in the GWN they are $39.00 for the plastic ones and about $70.00 for the DB units. The GP units are 1.9 grams each, and are plastic, the DB units are aluminum I beleive, but I don't know how much they weigh.

I am also looking for some way to finish the retract wells without adding a bunch of weight. The manual for the kit just says paint the wing cavity with thinned epoxy for reinforcement, but that leaves the whole cavity between the ribs and sheeting exposed to the elements. I've seen little drop-in liners as pert ov various kits that I've seen reviews on, but I've never seen them as stand alone parts I can order. Any ideas?

Thanks!

If the $30 isn't an issue, I would reccommend getting the DB retracts. I installed a set a Hobbico retracts in the GP Lear Jet a few years ago. They were pretty hard to get adjusted correctly, and I didn't think they would hold up to a hard landing. If money really isn't an issue, I would definitely look into pneumatic. I wound up replacing the Hobbico mechanicals with Robart pneumatics about a year ago, and as long as you remember to keep the air tank filled, they are very reliable.
As for the wheel well, I usually rubber-band a few we pieces of balsa around a pop can and let them dry. When you pull them off, glue a few together to make a complete circle. I like to glue them in the wing and sand them flush with the ribs before I sheet the bottom. Then just use any fuel proof paint or thinned epoxy to protect them. Hope it helps.

Ty

I designed and made the retracts I use back when I had access to a CNC machine. To be honest I haven't even looked at another set since (I had the foresite to make several sets). However, the one thing I would look for if I were going to buy a set, is to look for a set that can accomodate 3/16 gear wire. 5/32 is standard, but IMHO it is not strong enough for retract gear.

I prefer the Dave Brown retracts myself. Much sturdier then the others and spring loaded. Real easy to install also. As for the wheel wells plastic tops from spray cans etc can be cut down to size, painted and look/work great for this. Lots of different sizes out there too.

MinnFlyer -- I would have expected nothing less from you...I imagine they were made from an impeccable computer generated drawing as well!

Good thought on the spray-can lids IC, how's your US40+ coming by the way?

I just found out I can get Robarts mechanical retracts $10.00 less than the DB units, the Robats use a 3/16" wire for the struts and they come with axles too. Any feedback on these units?

My US40+ is still in the box I am embarrased to say. Had an accident with my Extra 300 and because of limited space wanted to get it repaired before starting a new project. Bad time of year two. I have already gotten the DB retracts and they look real good. They too have the 3/16th strut but no axel. Have never tried the Robart stuff. Might be a good deal especially at the price you are talking about.