PURCHASE AND CONSTRUCTION OF A MODEL
The following contains information for those new to the sport and may assist in deliberations prior to purchase and building your first model. It should be considered as a guide only, since there are many and varied ways to a successful involvement in the hobby. Obviously, if minimising costs is essential, then there are alternatives; so please ask.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Firstly, most club members fly fixed wing aircraft using internal combustion engines (either glow or petrol) or electric motors as their primary focus. Some also own and fly gliders, jets and helicopters as a secondary interest but are usually flown elsewhere. With this in mind, we would recommend a glow-powered trainer style aircraft as a first model on which to learn the basics of flight. For reasons of economy, wind penetration, stability and size for good visibility, one powered by a .40-.50 cubic inch motor is recommended.
AIRCRAFT
A trainer as suggested is typified by a high wing platform of approx 1.5m to 1.8m span and uses a four channel radio (minimum) for control. Primary controls are aileron, elevator, rudder and engine (throttle). There are many good trainers available and it is recommended that you choose one with the greatest wingspan. As a guide, cost will likely be between $100 and $200. Most model kits are of ARF (Almost Ready to Fly) construction meaning that most of the major units are pre-built and pre-covered. This considerably simplifies the assembly process. Assembly of such models is well within the capabilities of most newcomers: It’s just a matter of taking your time, reading the instructions and, of course, asking club members if in doubt.
ENGINE
There are several makes of motor on the market and one to suit a trainer will cost about $150. Other minor items necessary to get started include a propeller and a glow plug. Such items, and fuel, are usually available from the club.
RADIO EQUIPMENT
Radio equipment to control your model (transmitter; receiver; 4 or 5 servos; switch harness and batteries) must have at least 4 channels. However, it is stressed that the question of appropriate radio equipment be discussed with club members before making a purchase decision. Make sure you are properly informed about transmitter mode (club members are predominantly “Mode 1” users). Another matter requiring your attention relates to the transmission frequency of the radio. Whilst the majority of members currently use transmitters operating on the 36Mhz frequency band, your choice should include consideration of the recently-introduced systems operating on the 2.4Ghz bandwidth. Both types of equipment perform the same functions to guide the model but it would seem that the 36Mhz equipment is being phased out in preference to the 2.4Ghz band. It is recommended that the make, and bandwidth, of the radio to be purchased be thoroughly researched beforehand. You should also be aware that it is necessary to use only radio equipment certified for use in Australia (denoted on the equipment by a “C-tick”) Use of equipment not so certified would be likely to seriously jeopardise any insurance claim..
To summarise the radio dilemma -
- You make the decision on 36Mhz or 2.4Ghz frequency band
- It may be best to purchase a complete set (transmitter + receiver + servos + transmitter battery pack + receiver battery pack + switch assembly to use in the model + charger)
- Transmitter must be capable of flying fixed wing aircraft
- Must be 4 channels as a minimum (6 or more preferred)
- Must have 4 or 5 servos minimum (some sets only come with 3 so you may have to purchase additional ones)
- Should be Mode 1 for instructor compatability
- Must be certified for use in Australia (C tick)
- Must be capable of full range performance (not just Park Flyers)
- Prefer pre-assembled battery packs (battery packs for both receiver and transmitter are built up as a single unit and not just individual batteries)
- If using a 36Mhz transmitter it must be certified for use with a 2 inch frequency key
Expect to pay $300 plus for your radio equipment.
BASIC EQUIPMENT FOR MODEL CONSTRUCTION.
Items required to assemble a model include a sharp hobby knife, glue (both superglue and epoxy), screwdrivers (blade and Phillips) and a small shifting spanner. Discuss these requirements with members.
