BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

I know that there have been a number of successful BVM F-16 EDF conversions; however, I am unable to determine exactly where to place the NACTA intakes for battery cooling. I also wonder if exhaust vents to dissapate heat would be needed but maybe there is sufficient leakage that this would not be a problem. This is the last step so any help would be appreciated. Pics would be great!!

Mike

RE: BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

Mike BVM has a complete conversion kit with instructions now for this plane. Also if you are using current high C-rating batteries with low internal resistance then NACA inlets are not needed.

RE: BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

Mike,

I did this a year or two ago. I can get pics of the ducts when I get home early next week, but I don't think it's critical. There's no need for exhaust vents...plenty of leakage

Dave

RE: BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

If you're using the high quality, high C rated batteries that BVM sells you don't need the NACA duct cooling vent.  My Hunter draws 220A at full throttle and I don't have any cooling air over the batteries.  I flew it at E-Jets a couple of weeks ago and the temps were in the high 80's, low 90's and they were fine.  I use the same brand BVM sells.

Kirk

RE: BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

Guys,

I should have mentioned before that I'm in Vegas where ambient temps are over 100 at midnight.

Dave

RE: BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

But its a dry heat. LOL

Dave, you definately need the cooling vents. Vegas is a hostile environment for electrics :D

RE: BVM F-16 EDF Conversion
 

BVM designs the internal cooling on their F16 to be accomplished with 2-mods. First is by removing the small pointed area on the fuse located just just above and to the rear of the main inlet opening - removing about 1/4" - 3/8" of this front "beak" point. And second is by adding a former in the tail cone that is designed to allow the cooling air to escape. I believe NACA type inlets will accomplish the same result as long as that tail cone former is installed for the air to exit. Also, there are several mods BVM recommends be done to strengthen the air frame and stabilators. These mods are not difficult and all the parts and instructions are all included in the conversion kit. When done you will see that these mods do improve the jet's structrual integrity. IMO, the BVM F16 is a very special and rare plane - the conversion kit is worth considering.

A few months ago I completed converting our BVM F-16 from ICDF to EVF 12s power using the BVM conversion kit. Many have seen my 2 sons fly this plane on electric power and it does leave an impression.

You will find that the performance increase with the EVF-12s conversion vs. ICDF is significant - much shorter takeoff roll, greatly improved vertical, 170-180mph top-end and best of all, NO FLAMEOUT WORRIES at low air speed. We set timer at 4:30 for the gear pass and it seems to work well. The Thunderpower 4s, 65c, 6600mah packs are only slightly warm at the end of the flight with about 75% of the capacity consumed.

It sounds pretty good, too - particulary high speed, power off fly-bys. You will be pleased.

call me if you need help; sam dimaio 610-436-5552