RC Guys Piper Cherokee 101" wingspan

Started by Michael, December 01, 2012, 04:50:19 PM

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Michael

I've just started by December project, the RC Guys 1/4 scale Piper Cherokee.

This is a ARF, but due to its size, there's a lot of work. I hope to finish it on the holiday break.

The model has a 101" wingspan and will weigh close to 20 pounds.

It will be powered by an E-Flite 160 brushless motor.

First step was to glue together the plywood engine/motor mount.

Michael

Gregor77


piker

Very nice, Michael.

I know you told me your plans for this plane, but I can't remember.  Did you say you'll be using 11 cells?

Robert

Michael

10 or 12 cells.

One magazine review used a 22" prop and mentioned close ground clearance.
Our slightly bumpy field concerns me a bit.

I used an 18/8 prop (12S) on my 18 pound P47 Thunderbolt, which has nearly as big a fuselage but smaller (less area and wingspan) wings.
I'm sure this would be adequate to fly a civilian model in a scale manner.

I'll either use a 20" prop on 10 cells or an 18" prop on 12 cells.
(I'm using a 110 amp 12S Castle Creations ESC.)

On 12 cells there will be some low-end torque loss, but more watts to fly.

What do you think?

Michael

Michael

Motor installation complete.

Still need to do the cowl, spinner, battery installation, and final radio adjustments.

Maybe a fake interior.

There were some challenges with the supplied hardware and the instructions, but it's generally straight-forward and fun to build.
Michael

sihinch

It's great to see that everyone is making use of the holiday season to build models!!!!  ;)

Looks awesome, Michael.  As does Jack's build too.

Michael

In all fairness, Jack's is a scratch-build, and mine is a big assembly.

I am really impressed with all the model-building going on in the club.
Michael

Gregor77


piker

This is going to be an awesome plane, Michael.  It'll have a real presence in the air!

Robert

Michael

A few adjustments and a pilot to be added, but basically done.

It is big!

I'll have to build a cradle for field assembly.

Michael

Andy Hoffer

Quote from: Michael on December 22, 2012, 10:41:38 PM
A few adjustments and a pilot to be added, but basically done.

It is big!

I'll have to build a cradle for field assembly.

I'll be watching for you at 1000' when I fly over the TEMAC field !! :)

Andy

thehaze

Takeoffs are optional. Landings are mandatory.

Michael

Maiden flight today; successful!

Smooth take off, medium speed (scale) circuits, and landed nicely at 4 1/2 minutes.

It's a big plane and takes quite a bit of "runway".

A bit bumpy in the air due to the wind, but flew easily at just over half-throttle on 12 cells.

A good flier!

Michael

sihinch

Looked fabulous!  Congrats Michael.

My 2 maidens today ended in disaster - glad to see yours are going well.

S

Michael

Sorry Simon.

We've all been there, and will likely go there again.

Michael