Talking to modelers all day, I get to hear news about other projects they have worked on, and projects that they consider too big. My question is: How big is too big?

People tell me: "I don't try anything over 80", too much for my van." or "I stick to things around 75" wide."

Given that most any modeler can do a decent job on something big, but what comfort levels dictate what is "a good size" to build - now that the build season has started. (and it has started in case anyone hasn't noticed)

Is there a limit most builders here stay under?

Hi Ken, Size is not a limiting factor to me, however with larger size planes, I do like to see features like a 2-piece wing and removable stab.

I wanna hook up my Futaba 6EXA to a Boeing 747 and fly 3D! [sm=RAINFRO.gif] I can't see any plane as too big so long as the funds and skills are there to support it. Within safety and regulatory limits of course.

Size is really a metter of personal preference...

Some will say that they are too dangerous when they get over such and such size.... The fact of the matter is, they are all dangerous in the wrong hands. This is why we should ALL do whatever is necessary to make sure everyone is being safe at the field.

If you have the means to transport, the talent to fly and are a safety conscience person, then I do not think there is such a thing as TOO BIG.

Convenience is a factor too. Hauling big planes around is lot more work than a 40 sized. The exception is the guy who lives in one of those RC field neighborhoods that just opens his garage and taxies his 46% Ultimate out and onto his field.

I'm afraid that once I get my Foamy done, I will not want to haul around my 25% CAP232 in my Honda Accord.

YEAH RIGHT !!!!!!!!!

I like big planes, but I have trouble fitting anything over about 80" in my car. I normally like to bring two or more planes to the field, and I'm not ready for a trailer.

like Mike said, two piece wing. That'll let you fit a 13 foot wingspan plane in the car with no trouble.
Dennis-

And the removable Stab lets you slide the rudder between the two front seats

I build anything from half A to Huge! I have a couple 1/4 scale, got rid of my 1/3 scale bipe after flying it for years, and am building a full scale too. Just a huge model! Long as you can afford it, build any size. Just don't whine when they go in. That hurts more if they are bigger.

Here's my 88" span 4.5 lb. delta....cheap, big and light!

In the good Ole US of A, I believe the FAA requires Ultralight aircraft to be around 250 lbs. or under. That's a pretty good gauge for too big for RC as well, AMA waivers not withstanding... hehehe.[sm=lol.gif]

I agree with Woodpile. The AMA says anything over 55 pounds is too big without a waive though.
Dennis-

That delta is something interesting. How I bet you could fold it up. What is it made of?

I like big gasoline planes in the summer, my Bravada hauls 100" wingspan pretty well.

In winter, can't beat a little electric, carry a couple of 'em fully assembled in the back, pull 'em out and fly.

A buddy builds large bombers, has a trailer for them. I think I see one in my future!

Good luck,
Dave Olson

Thanks,

I've told the story before, but I go once more with it.

I built it in a few hours out of a foam material called "Super Tuff-R" a sheathing material available from any builders supply store. (The difference between "Tuff-R" and "Super Tuff-R" is the super has a better skin on one side, not just the foil one side, paper on the other.)Basicly a skinned foam, it's kind of brittle, but is very easy to work with, just don't try to bend it too much. There is no "spar" to speak of, just some packing tape and foam.

I also used a piece of PVC drainpipe for the "fuse". Could have been a little lighter if I'd have used a liteply or balsa fuse.

It had a Magnum FS .52 for power and weighed (R.I.P.) 4.5 lbs, or about 2 kilograms for those not in the U.S.A.

Not the fastest delta, but it was the only 88" span 4 stroke park flyer I know of.....

Get Married
Then your wife will tell you...
That toy plane is too big..
Too expensive...
Takes up too much space...
Smells out the house...
Before you know it you will be flying <30 inch electric's...

See, thats where you say things like "Well I was thinking of rebuilding that 78 Chev and putting a 350 4-bolt main in it with TRW forged pistons with a comp cam under a nice set of roller rockers..." Then she will be glad you don't walk in every night from the garage smelling like grease and oil...

I have 6 planes in the lab and 4 at home. My wife doesn't say too much. But I still have to be careful.

Then you can answer;
Too big?!? I never heard you say that before!
So is your jewelry.
So does your mother.
So does your mother.
Before you know it, you'll be flying anything you want! By yourself.....

I don't think there is anything as too big in R/C aircraft. After i finish my 1/6th scale F4U and 1/3 scale Sopwith Pup, i'm thinking of building a 33% Waco YMF-5 Genesis Kit. As long as i can haul it in my pickup or on my 12' trailer it's not to big.

Oh man, I split a gut when I read that. Good Shot!

Thank you! Thangkyouverymuch! I'll be here all week! Don't ferget to tip the waitresses!

"So's your mother" :::Cackle::: Still laughing about that one!