GWS Pico TIGER MOTH - Flight Report
#126
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Location: glasgow, , UNITED KINGDOM
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GMan2000 and guys - taking a leaf out of your book(s) and got a new Moth on order. I'm going to use all the info on thi thread to build the Ultimate TMoth!!!! Its still one of the best flying planes I've ever owned, and I've got/had 20+
It wil be light, b/less and 2S, with decent u/carriage, AR6200 full range and Spectrum DX6i. Not sure about motor yet but might just stick with my trusty E-Max 2805's. Any ideas or tips woul be helpful, build doesn't start till September 7th.
Byeee.......

It wil be light, b/less and 2S, with decent u/carriage, AR6200 full range and Spectrum DX6i. Not sure about motor yet but might just stick with my trusty E-Max 2805's. Any ideas or tips woul be helpful, build doesn't start till September 7th.
Byeee.......
#127

Im thinking about buying the mae rx ready version here http://www.m-a-e.com/Sub_Pages/Produ...rMoth_Kits.htm there is not a lot of talk about this set up on this thread but the only place I found to buy a rx ready b-less t-moth. How are the cd-rom motors? On there info page it says they will fly longer with the 3c version 8-4 prop vrs the 2c 10-6 prop. I don’t know a lot about elec but thats confusing to me. Couldn’t you use the 8-4 prop wit the 2c version and get just as long or longer flighs?
#129
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TonyW - I'm no expert on the MAE set-ups and have never used a CD-Rom motor, all my small planes etc are using E-Max 2805/2812 on 2S packs, giving 125W and about 2000+Kv. But looking at the specs of that plane I would be inclind to go with an 8 x 4/5 to start and see how it goes. Do you want long flight times or a bit of 'punch' for windier conditions?? Better still, follow the specs of MAE to start 'cos they have a good reputation and a lot of flight testing behind them. Thats my 2 cents anyway
You must have the best landing strip in the World, casinos, pyramids, girls, money and girls (did I mention girls?) on either side!!!!!!
Lucky sod.....

You must have the best landing strip in the World, casinos, pyramids, girls, money and girls (did I mention girls?) on either side!!!!!!

#130

LoL, yes vegas is nice. Iv never been interested in the small slow rudder only EP’s but after watching a guy fly his tiger moth for over 30 min at the field the other day I just had to have one. Ill see what set-up he has I know he was using 2c. It does make since to want enough power to get out of trouble. I guess my question is wont a 2c with enough mah always give you more duration if propped right over a 3c?
#131
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TonyW - you are right, but most of us with TMoths (not all!!) use 2S up to 1000Mah (on average) which gives about 15 minutes easily and up to 25 if you have a gentle throttle finger!!! It all depends on the output of the motor and prop, plus you can build ulta-light or modify with decent u/c, cf strengthening etc.
Check out Guaperman 2000's tips on weighing everything at the start of this thread and his vids on U-Tube to get an idea of what is possible.....all good stuff
Good luck anyway pal, byeeee for now...........
Check out Guaperman 2000's tips on weighing everything at the start of this thread and his vids on U-Tube to get an idea of what is possible.....all good stuff

Good luck anyway pal, byeeee for now...........
#132

Iv been flying the MAE t-moth 3cell 500mah version with 8-4 prop and it flies great. Has enough power to go straight up or just putting around I can stay up for 30 min and still have plenty of power left. MAE gives u supplemental instructions that have a lot of useful tips and a fly wire setup to give the wings strength.
#133

Thread Starter

Wow! Over 10 years ago and I still have my Beloved pico Tiger Moth!
Can't believe how time has flown!
It is still in flying condition and looking the best ever still.
Also, it is the slowest model I have in my fleet.
Can't believe how time has flown!

It is still in flying condition and looking the best ever still.
Also, it is the slowest model I have in my fleet.

#134

Thread Starter

Been flying the TAR out of my little GWS pico Tiger Moth (13+ Years now!) and still with the Himax HC2212-1180 Brushless Outrunner without any issue or problems!
A little additional Kv so, I can fly my pico Tiger Moth with just 2-Cells and still have good power while swinging a GWS 8 X 6 prop. Performs it ALL including a loop from level flight and etc....etc.....
Just a super power system!
Okay, for those wondering:
Himax 2212-1180 Brushless Out-runner Motor - AeroMicro
Power System Setup:
Himax HC2212-1180 Brushless Outrunner
Castle Creations ThunderBird 9 AMP Brushless ESC
GWS Std Narrow Servos
Castle Creations BERG 4-Channel Receiver
2-Cell, 1200mAH, Li-POLY <-- This is the largest Battery I use! It usually a 850mAH 2-Cell to keep it really light!
Pilot from ParkZone P-51D Mustang "Frankie"
Wheels, Dubro Lite Foam 1 1/2 inch diameter
Keeps my model really light!
A little additional Kv so, I can fly my pico Tiger Moth with just 2-Cells and still have good power while swinging a GWS 8 X 6 prop. Performs it ALL including a loop from level flight and etc....etc.....
Just a super power system!
Okay, for those wondering:
Himax 2212-1180 Brushless Out-runner Motor - AeroMicro
Power System Setup:
Himax HC2212-1180 Brushless Outrunner
Castle Creations ThunderBird 9 AMP Brushless ESC
GWS Std Narrow Servos
Castle Creations BERG 4-Channel Receiver
2-Cell, 1200mAH, Li-POLY <-- This is the largest Battery I use! It usually a 850mAH 2-Cell to keep it really light!
Pilot from ParkZone P-51D Mustang "Frankie"
Wheels, Dubro Lite Foam 1 1/2 inch diameter
Keeps my model really light!

#135

Thread Starter

Hello good people!
After 14+ Long Years, my GWS pico Tiger Moth still flys like new!
What a fantastic and majestic model this is!
It was completely Dead Calm and was able to deplete ALL Three batteries for three (3) great and Long Flights.
opcorn:
2nd Morning in a Row!!!!
@ Youtube
After 14+ Long Years, my GWS pico Tiger Moth still flys like new!
What a fantastic and majestic model this is!
It was completely Dead Calm and was able to deplete ALL Three batteries for three (3) great and Long Flights.


2nd Morning in a Row!!!!

@ Youtube
#136

Thread Starter

Just sharing!
This was Tuesday morning, June 9th, 2020 at Moon Port Modelers RC Club, Titusville, Florida.
It was very calm here in Central Florida, I took advantage and wasted no time and got three wonderful and majestic flights from my pico Tiger Moth.
So sorry for the rather off mark target video but, it seems like my Cowboy hat was not all the way on my big head!
opcorn:
This was Tuesday morning, June 9th, 2020 at Moon Port Modelers RC Club, Titusville, Florida.
It was very calm here in Central Florida, I took advantage and wasted no time and got three wonderful and majestic flights from my pico Tiger Moth.
So sorry for the rather off mark target video but, it seems like my Cowboy hat was not all the way on my big head!


#137

Thread Starter

Guys,
I am not making any excuses, really. Just that I have been so distracted and Life just interferes with very good intentions in helping out a very good friend with his GWS pico Tiger Moth (Version 2). I say version-2 because the wings are a little thicker and the Cowl is a hard plastic instead of the flimsy black one that we all are accustom.
Anyway, here is the start of my good intentions back November 2018!
https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/show...ico-TIGER-MOTH
My goodness, time really flew!
My good friend and Skybro is so patient and kind as he knew that one day I would return his beloved GWS pico Tiger Moth to him in the best of conditions with lots of good modifications.
Today was the day!
Not to bore anyone out of their skull here, just sharing what I did with my buddy's Tiger Moth and will make a list instead of you reading the boring details.
1. Scratch made the Bass Wood Wing Struts using template I found up at the web. (At one time you could order these but, no more!)
2. Installed a Spektrum AR636-A (yes, it was a tight fit but, not impossible) and using Gorilla Double Sided Mount Tape did the trick.
3. Installed a better looking Pilot and tied a RED scarf. Again using the Gorilla Double Sided Mount Tape.
4. Installed flying brace wires. (Well, didn't have any fine and thin metal wire so, used a very strong auto convertible top repair string).
5. Installed some fat and super light foam tires to absorb any hard landings as I didn't install any landing brace wires.
6. Installed the Tail Skid using GWS spare parts from Clear Plastic Control horn.
7. Model weigh-in (without any Battery) came in at 8 - 3/4 ounces!
8. I gave my buddy a relatively recently acquired (used) first GEN Spektrum DX7 transmitter (JR Case).
9. Upgraded the DX7 Transmitter battery with the Panasonic Eneloop Ni-MH 8-cell, 2500mAH pack and works with the stock Spektrum Charger!
Summary:
The choice of power system on my buddy's pico Tiger Moth had already been installed which is a pretty high KV, TowerPro BM2408-21 (1400Kv ) and during this morning maiden flight it provided very good power and hand launch was like a Girl Scout Cookie toss as that power system gave enough power to the model that it took off from my hand like a home sick dove!
Unfortunately, I changed out the GWS 7 X 6 slow flyer propeller to one up size GWS 8 X 6 slow flyer and after 30 seconds I noticed that the model was struggling with lack of power and fortunately I was close to the textile runway and called OUT "Landing" to those at the Pilots station and the model landed pretty much dead stick without any issue. (Pretty sight).
The determination is still in discussion as I have two other motors that will provide much better results (Lower Kv) that will provide long and enjoyable flights with good size propeller size such as GWS Slow Flyer 9 X 6.
A few pictures of my Build and Modifications on this NEW GWS pico Tiger Moth (Version 2).























I am not making any excuses, really. Just that I have been so distracted and Life just interferes with very good intentions in helping out a very good friend with his GWS pico Tiger Moth (Version 2). I say version-2 because the wings are a little thicker and the Cowl is a hard plastic instead of the flimsy black one that we all are accustom.
Anyway, here is the start of my good intentions back November 2018!
https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/show...ico-TIGER-MOTH
My goodness, time really flew!
My good friend and Skybro is so patient and kind as he knew that one day I would return his beloved GWS pico Tiger Moth to him in the best of conditions with lots of good modifications.
Today was the day!
Not to bore anyone out of their skull here, just sharing what I did with my buddy's Tiger Moth and will make a list instead of you reading the boring details.
1. Scratch made the Bass Wood Wing Struts using template I found up at the web. (At one time you could order these but, no more!)
2. Installed a Spektrum AR636-A (yes, it was a tight fit but, not impossible) and using Gorilla Double Sided Mount Tape did the trick.
3. Installed a better looking Pilot and tied a RED scarf. Again using the Gorilla Double Sided Mount Tape.
4. Installed flying brace wires. (Well, didn't have any fine and thin metal wire so, used a very strong auto convertible top repair string).
5. Installed some fat and super light foam tires to absorb any hard landings as I didn't install any landing brace wires.
6. Installed the Tail Skid using GWS spare parts from Clear Plastic Control horn.
7. Model weigh-in (without any Battery) came in at 8 - 3/4 ounces!
8. I gave my buddy a relatively recently acquired (used) first GEN Spektrum DX7 transmitter (JR Case).
9. Upgraded the DX7 Transmitter battery with the Panasonic Eneloop Ni-MH 8-cell, 2500mAH pack and works with the stock Spektrum Charger!
Summary:
The choice of power system on my buddy's pico Tiger Moth had already been installed which is a pretty high KV, TowerPro BM2408-21 (1400Kv ) and during this morning maiden flight it provided very good power and hand launch was like a Girl Scout Cookie toss as that power system gave enough power to the model that it took off from my hand like a home sick dove!
Unfortunately, I changed out the GWS 7 X 6 slow flyer propeller to one up size GWS 8 X 6 slow flyer and after 30 seconds I noticed that the model was struggling with lack of power and fortunately I was close to the textile runway and called OUT "Landing" to those at the Pilots station and the model landed pretty much dead stick without any issue. (Pretty sight).
The determination is still in discussion as I have two other motors that will provide much better results (Lower Kv) that will provide long and enjoyable flights with good size propeller size such as GWS Slow Flyer 9 X 6.
A few pictures of my Build and Modifications on this NEW GWS pico Tiger Moth (Version 2).

























Last edited by guapoman2000; 09-03-2020 at 02:59 AM.
#138

Thread Starter

Hello again,

Well, my buddy Gerry has his very rare and super hard to get Grand Wing Servo (GWS) pico Tiger Moth in his hands.
It is my thoughts that this RC park flyer model gets it's true appeal from the scale flight manners of the de Havilland Tiger Moth produced by the de Havilland Aircraft Company - Canada.
The RC model comes with under-cambered wing airfoil and the typical Aerodynamic properties to this type of airfoil produces lots of lift at the cost of airspeed, however, this particular RC model sure does penetrate the wind when commanded. It's under-cambered properties of it's airfoil is perhaps not that dramatic yet provides an excellent Slow Flight abilities.
Another appeal, is the very light wing loading (~ 10 ounces fully flight ready) and allows for very good use of small and super efficient Electric Power Systems (both Brushed and Brushless) using small capacity 2-Cell, (7.4 Volt) Lithium Polymer Battery setups.
It is just too bad that GWS is pretty much gone and this model has been discontinued for several years now.
** Enjoy Gerry!! **

Well, my buddy Gerry has his very rare and super hard to get Grand Wing Servo (GWS) pico Tiger Moth in his hands.
It is my thoughts that this RC park flyer model gets it's true appeal from the scale flight manners of the de Havilland Tiger Moth produced by the de Havilland Aircraft Company - Canada.
The RC model comes with under-cambered wing airfoil and the typical Aerodynamic properties to this type of airfoil produces lots of lift at the cost of airspeed, however, this particular RC model sure does penetrate the wind when commanded. It's under-cambered properties of it's airfoil is perhaps not that dramatic yet provides an excellent Slow Flight abilities.
Another appeal, is the very light wing loading (~ 10 ounces fully flight ready) and allows for very good use of small and super efficient Electric Power Systems (both Brushed and Brushless) using small capacity 2-Cell, (7.4 Volt) Lithium Polymer Battery setups.
It is just too bad that GWS is pretty much gone and this model has been discontinued for several years now.
** Enjoy Gerry!! **
#140


So amazed that so many people still remember and fly the GWS Pico Tiger Moth. Of all the R/C planes I have owned, it is still my favorite. I have built and flown about 5 of them.
After being challenged by some Lockheed engineers, I did some major mods and the plane can easily do snap rolls, take off vertically from handhold launch, etc. I think our record for flying with motor off in thermals was over two hours...and it could have gone much longer but I got two darn tired.
After crashing my last Pico Tiger Moth 8 years ago, I discovered I could not find any more of them. Then, about 4 years ago, I found two brand new kits in Poland on Ebay. I purchased them both immediately and they are still new in the box. I plan on building one of them in the next few weeks.
Not sure if this will help, but the mods we did included using Kevlar thread in an "X" configuration on the wings, and also included thin carbon fiber ribbon epoxied on the underside of both wings, and of course a brushless motor that enable the Moth to climb unlimited verticals until we couldn't see it anymore...
I will do my best to take pics this time before, during and after the assembly.
Best wishes to all and I hope someone will reproduce the Pico Tiger Moth again one day!
Up, up, and away!
Soar


Notice the 1/16" inch plywood on the stabilizer.

Plastic tubing for the Kevlar thread to attach to wings.

Geared motor...do they even make these anymore?

Rear wheel because I loved to taxi around a lot too! Notice plywood reinforcement on the rudder too.

1/16th inch plywood to reinforce the wing mounts.
After being challenged by some Lockheed engineers, I did some major mods and the plane can easily do snap rolls, take off vertically from handhold launch, etc. I think our record for flying with motor off in thermals was over two hours...and it could have gone much longer but I got two darn tired.
After crashing my last Pico Tiger Moth 8 years ago, I discovered I could not find any more of them. Then, about 4 years ago, I found two brand new kits in Poland on Ebay. I purchased them both immediately and they are still new in the box. I plan on building one of them in the next few weeks.
Not sure if this will help, but the mods we did included using Kevlar thread in an "X" configuration on the wings, and also included thin carbon fiber ribbon epoxied on the underside of both wings, and of course a brushless motor that enable the Moth to climb unlimited verticals until we couldn't see it anymore...
I will do my best to take pics this time before, during and after the assembly.
Best wishes to all and I hope someone will reproduce the Pico Tiger Moth again one day!
Up, up, and away!
Soar


Notice the 1/16" inch plywood on the stabilizer.

Plastic tubing for the Kevlar thread to attach to wings.

Geared motor...do they even make these anymore?

Rear wheel because I loved to taxi around a lot too! Notice plywood reinforcement on the rudder too.

1/16th inch plywood to reinforce the wing mounts.
Last edited by soarwitheagles; 09-19-2020 at 02:52 AM.
#142


I have been out of the R/C and Tigermoth scene for so long...and I wanted to ask some questions...
I used a geared brushless motor 8 years ago and have tremendous success. If I remember correctly, we clocked the Pico TM at over 30 mph. It also had unlimited vertical climbing abilities [could go vertical until out of sight].
The guy at our local hobby shop recommended the RIMFIRE 370 and assured me it would work better than my geared motor...
Here are my questions:
Will the RIMFIRE 370 give as much torque/power as the geared motors from 8 years ago?
Does anyone still make the gears and geared motors anymore?
Thank you,
Soar
PS here's a pic of the motor they sold me...


I used a geared brushless motor 8 years ago and have tremendous success. If I remember correctly, we clocked the Pico TM at over 30 mph. It also had unlimited vertical climbing abilities [could go vertical until out of sight].
The guy at our local hobby shop recommended the RIMFIRE 370 and assured me it would work better than my geared motor...
Here are my questions:
Will the RIMFIRE 370 give as much torque/power as the geared motors from 8 years ago?
Does anyone still make the gears and geared motors anymore?
Thank you,
Soar
PS here's a pic of the motor they sold me...


Last edited by soarwitheagles; 09-19-2020 at 03:19 AM.
#143

Thread Starter

I have been out of the R/C and Tigermoth scene for so long...and I wanted to ask some questions...
I used a geared brushless motor 8 years ago and have tremendous success. If I remember correctly, we clocked the Pico TM at over 30 mph. It also had unlimited vertical climbing abilities [could go vertical until out of sight].
The guy at our local hobby shop recommended the RIMFIRE 370 and assured me it would work better than my geared motor...
Here are my questions:
Will the RIMFIRE 370 give as much torque/power as the geared motors from 8 years ago?
Does anyone still make the gears and geared motors anymore?
Thank you,
Soar
PS here's a pic of the motor they sold me...
I used a geared brushless motor 8 years ago and have tremendous success. If I remember correctly, we clocked the Pico TM at over 30 mph. It also had unlimited vertical climbing abilities [could go vertical until out of sight].
The guy at our local hobby shop recommended the RIMFIRE 370 and assured me it would work better than my geared motor...
Here are my questions:
Will the RIMFIRE 370 give as much torque/power as the geared motors from 8 years ago?
Does anyone still make the gears and geared motors anymore?
Thank you,
Soar
PS here's a pic of the motor they sold me...
1. This is WHY-O-WHY I selected the HIMAX HC2212-1180 Outrunner motor. It is not a 28mm motor like the RIMFIRE 370 and it is a 22mm that weighs in exactly like the STOCK GWS IPS power system.
2. The RIMFIRE 370 according to the user manual tips the digital scale at exactly 40.3 grams which is 1.42 Ounces.
3. The Kv of the RIMFIRE 370 is 1,000 RPM/VOLT (Kv) and it should be able to swing at least a 9" propeller using 3-Cell Lithium Polymer batteries, however, it is my opinion that this would make the pico Tiger Moth heavier than necessary and too much power.
---------> My Electrifly (Great Planes) S.E.5a flys with this same family motor, the RIMFIRE 28-30-950. (28mm diameter).
4. If you have already purchased this RIMFIRE 370 then, you may or may not have sufficient RPMs at the Propeller using just 2-Cells Lithium Polymer, assuming your goals are trying to keep the pico Tiger Moth as light as possible like in the STOCK Form and while swinging the 9- inch propeller.
My HIMAX HC2212-1180 has the same cost factor as the RIMFIRE 370 and it is lighter and provides very good (not explosive) power to the pico Tiger Moth while using 2-Cell, Lithium Polymer batteries and swinging the GWS Slow Flyer 8 X 6 Propeller.
SUMMARY:
You might be okay with this RIMFIRE 370 but, it will suffer in the weight due to being almost 1/2 Ounce heavier than the STOCK IPS Brushed / Geared power system and the Middle of the Road Kv will perhaps need 3-Cell Lithium Polymer operation, an even more weight issue.
Just my $0.02 Cents Worth.
rimfire-28mm-power-system-manual-v3.pdf
