Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

I have decided to take the plunge and install pneumatic retracts on my H9 60 size P-47...I was wondering if anybody has had experience with the Spring Air 704's or the Robart 701's. Both are complete systems for less than $130 (except for the struts). I usually prefer to do business with the smaller guy, but the Spring Air's only take 3/8" struts and that would limit my options to offset struts (the straight Robart struts are too short). The 701's can take either 3/8" or 7/16" struts, so that would be a good option. For either system I plan on replacing the air valve with an UP-5 control valve, so that's not an issue.

Also, if I knew that A) the Spring Air struts were good quality and B) I could get the straight ones in the length I need without having to moung them to wire, then that would make me lean a little more toward them.

Thanks for the input,

Dave

RE: Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

The Spring Air 704 are way to large for a 60 size model. They are designed for 1/5 & 1/4 scale models.

RE: Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

Hmmm, but they only take 3/8" struts...I thought that would be too small for a 1/4 scale model. I might have to do a little more research...any other suggestions?

RE: Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

One advantage to Spring Air is that in the event of air loss they fail open. Some of the newer Robart line are reported to also have this feature. Something to consider if Murphy is around. :D

RE: Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

Exactly why I chose those models...Murphy and I are close like that ;)

RE: Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

My mistake, I was thinking "400" series Spring Airs. Actually though, 3/8" struts are plenty for a .60 size P-47.

RE: Robart or Spring Air Retracts?
 

I have the sring on a twin engine plane. I had the 3/8" in it. Some one told me that would need more.. I driled it out and put in a 7/16. I did not know at the time that with this plane the 3/8 would have been fine. The plane had a little miss hap the broke the spring air.. I got a new one and just ran a 1/4 in it. that was 4 years a go. I have not had a prob with it yet.. The plane is a 12 lbs plane... home made twing engine 64" wing with 2 os .46 in it.