SimJet
 

Thanks for all the comments, to answer a few of the questions posed tome here are the answers.

1. I want the smaller turbine so I can install it in a small jet. Yes you can tune down a JetCat but it is still too large. The smaller turbines burn approx. 5 to 6 oz per minute and need less fuel, thus requring lsmaller fuel tanks. It would be nice to have a smaller model to just load in the back of my car instead of having to load my larger models in my truck requiring more time for breakdown and set up.

2. Your right JetCat does not make smaller turbines, that is a shame because I love their turbines. Yes you are right again, the more you reduce the size of the turbine the more problems you will have because the laws of physics apply. Fuel and air molecules don't reduce in size which is a problem when you reduce the size of the combustion chamber. However I believe with a very well built and tested along with proper electronics a 12lb thrust reliable turbine is possible. Just because JetCat or AMT (High Quality mfgs) choses not to produce them does not mean theat it is impossible. AMT is still all air start.


3. As to turbojet comments, you are right reps do use this forum to spread there information. I don't mind the reps adding their thoughts as long as they identify themselves as a rep. I was hoping for some of our European friends who have more experience with SimJet to comment. This is an open forum and if some would like to add to the dicourse I would be interested in their comments.

4. Yes I have attended some jet meets mostly small ones and I have not seen many of the SimJets yet that is why I am asking for input. I will make a purchase before I attend another one because with two kids a wife and work and school I do not have much time in my life to travel to these events.

Thanks

Small turbine
 

I can see your point of view, I'd love to have a small reliable turbine to put into a nice little one-piece jet.

How about it guys, let's hear some numbers.

Anyone with a Simjet 1200 out there? How many runs and flights since new without problems?

Real Worl #'s
 

OK, here's some real world numbers.

On my BobCat with a RAM 500, since September 31 last year, 212 flights with one flame-out, I ran it out of fuel. The engine was sent back for inspection at flight # 185. It was cleaned, checked and returned. Still has the original internal parts, no bearing changes and it's running like a champ. I think the 500 is my favorite engine. Smooth as silk. And I do love the smaller models. Easy to transport and less fuel to carry around. Great fun!

I have two RAM 1000R's, one in my MiG 15 and the other in my Bandit. I have 144 flights with the Remote Start 1000 in the MiG, with one flame-out on the first flight. The prototype RS ECU was very fast to bring the engine to idle from full throttle. I was going full speed and just jerked the throttle to idle, and it flamed. Production ECU's solved that. I did have a slipping O-ring early on which created some entertainment at last year's Tuscon Jet Rally, but since then It has been flawless, never back to the factory.

The second 1000 in my Bandit has 146 flights on it. I've had two flame-out's with it. A repeat of the MiG flame-out when I dove at full power and jerked it to idle. It was a prototype ECU that has been changed to a production version. On the second flame-out a lead coming out of the battery fractured and broke. The installation had the lead rubbing against the bottom of the cockpit floor. I've since changed that. Motor has never been back to RAM.

My next model will be a RAM 500 BVM Sabre. I did a conversion for Spencer Maze and I just love that model! It's a perfect combo.

I wish all the manufacturers out there the best of luck with their products. The more the merrier, as competition brings out the best. Just look at what's available now compared to just two years ago. Ain't it grand?

Engines
 

Yes Tony, it is absolutely fantastic. I remember thirty years ago dreaming about the day small turbines would become a reality. I was out of RC for a long time but every few years or so would pick up an RCM to see if anything was developing in turbines. The last few years have been incredible.

Sounds like you've got a nice running 500 but we still hear about problems with the smaller turbines. It seems like some run great and some don't. It's probably just a matter of time before the smaller turbines become just as reliable as the bigger ones.

The great thing about RC jets is how things continue to improve with time. The small turbine field has a lot of new players with the RAM 500, Simjet 700 and 1200, SWB Mamba and the JG-50 Bee. I can think of nothing better than for all of these little turbines to prove themselves with time. Like a lot of other jet modelers I would love to have a little one-piece model I can throw in the car and get ready to fly with minimum set-up time.

I think the next few years will be a very exciting time. Let's hope we can stay safe and out of the over-active imaginations of the government and media so we can continue to enjoy this wonderful hobby.

Re: Engines
 

Well Said Dustflyer! This is KEY! We must continue to practice safe operation of our turbines, so far I think the turbine community has done quite well. All it will take is one serious accident and it could all be over. Please fly safely!