I just received Hobby Lobby's catalog and found myself fascinated by the Fema on-board electric starters. While I don't personally need one, I am impressed by the ingenuity that went into developing the mechanism. (I like machanical things. No, I'm not interested in flying helicopters but I am fascinated by the mechanics of them.) Without the inevitable "I think they're stupid and I think you're stupid for asking about them!" comments, what do you guys think about on-board starters?

I think they are an interesting GIMMICK. Unless you are talking giant scale, the starter AND associated battery, servo, etc, are going to add a bunch of weight that will probably adversely affect the flying ability of the plane.

They do add that WOW factor... I've seen the G-23 gas version on a 1/4 scale Citabra... sure was neat to see him start it on the ground by flipping a switch and Re-start it in the air Over all they add to much weight and complexity on most planes and other than the WOW factor just aren't needed.

John

Plus with the starters that use a one way bearing and gear in front of the front bearing, the mechanics take away too much real estate. To the point where I can't secure a locking prop nut assembly on with enough confidence to fly particularly if using a spinner!

Ditto, installed one on a plane build for a club-mate.

A neat gimmick, that needs planning & forethought to fit, and adds mucho weight.

And not cheap from what I was told...

dr wogz - how did you end up securing the prop? i'm having to buy a nut that will screw through the prop and the locking nut screws within the screw. it's from tower and costs a little more but i think well worth the safety.

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXCT61&P=7

it's made for the flat twins but it should fit.

wish me luck!

got the assembly from my Magnum FT-160 (copy of the OS) and it fits perfectly. if you're looking to use the FEMA on an OS FS-120, get this assembly. the only drawback is that you will not be able to get an alumnimum spinner on unless you do some custom work. but a plastic spinner would go on just fine. the assembly requires that you use a spinner as the bolt will run out of threads before you get it all on. with a prop only, the FT assembly can not be used. unless of course, it's a huge arse prop. :-)