Model construction: 2001
Features of the model:
Wingspan: 1.45 m
Weight: 2.6 Kg
Engine: OS 46 FX
Propeller: Graupner 12×6
This plane, from a Graupner kit, is magic, its construction has no particular problem, except that it is necessary to mount the aileron servos in a different way than that which is proposed. Indeed, it seems fragile and reading an essay of the same kit reported the loss of the 2 ailerons on the first flight. The gas and elevator servos have been pushed to the noze to avoid adding lead. The finish is classic Oracover and adhesives.
The centering is in accordance with the plan (85mm) and the deflections are set reasonable for a first flight (ailerons +/- 6, rudder +/- 25, elevator +/- 10). This earned me the nickname of Mr 3mm for quite a while. It is true that it is good to increase all this to fly correctly. In this regard, it appeared that the deflection of the rudder is a little fair. Unfortunately it comes up against the elevator flap. A small modification to the construction is necessary.
Take-off:
It is very easy. The landing gear, very forward, allows the depth to be left neutral during acceleration, only a small correction to the rudder is necessary. The plane passes by itself on its landing gear and it is enough to pull the depth to leave the ground.
In flight:
The power of OS 46 makes the machine climb very well. The reactions are lively (with more manly deflections: ailerons +/- 10, elevator +/- 15). The stops are clear and precise and the figures can be of great amplitude. On the other hand, the triggers are quite calm, this must be caused by a center of gravity a little too far forward. I’m waiting to have the courage to back it up a bit to check. The slice flight just takes, the rudder travel being limited …
Landing:
It gets complicated! The finesse is such that the plane does not slow down quickly, you have to come from far and follow a fairly flat approach. For the moment I keep a safe speed and the landing are quite strong. The landing gear cash this without flinching (with steel screws and not the nylon screws provided in the kit).