I just ordered a Switchback from Mountain Models plus 2-8 cell 600 AE battery packs. I didn't buy the 8 cell Nimh pack because I would have to buy a charger too. My question is: How much difference is there between the 2 types of packs in endurance and power? Also if anyone has any building tips about the Switchback, I would appreciate them. Thanx RCNutt

RCNutt,

A couple of things worth considering when building the Switchback

- when mouting the motor sand the square rod so it's a fairly loose fit in the GWS gearbox but then drill a hole through outer skin of the Switchback, the gearbox mounting and the rod and fit a screw. That way you can easily remove/refit the gearbox/motor. Given that the motors are only good for about 50 flights you will need a way to remove the gearbox/motor from time to time when you fit a new motor.

- consder making the landing gear assembly detachable and also do it in such a way that you can fit it "backwards" with the Y shape and the wheels pointing more forward - the SB does have a tendency to nose over so having the wheels a bit more forward is a good idea. You might want to think about using slightly heavier wire for the landing gear if you are using the AE NiCds which are heavier than the NiMh packs (personally I fly mine with 7 cell 600AEs)

Cliff Lawson

I simply mounted the lg backwards and bent the gear legs forward, wheels slightly towed in. ROG's need a little right rudder due to torque.First flight, needed a little up trim, a tad of aileron trim. After trimming, plane flies smoothly, not twitchy. Eight 720mah NiMh Cells and GWS 300C(B) with 9X7 prop give 10+minutes at average 3/4 throttle, Flies inverted at 3/4 throttle with just a little down elevator. Landings are light and easy even dead stick ( cutoff occured at about 12 minutes). The sport wing option is nice but don't thik you'll need it if you have any aileron experience. Mine weighs 13.6 ounces with the NiMh pack. Maiden flight was yesterday morning, flew even after wind kicked up to about 15mph, handled very nice. Caution SB is addictive!

if you are getting a GWS 300(either C or B gear), setting a motor timing is another way to make your switchback hover in mid-air.