A couple of Pete Shumann’s Albatrosmods (above left). These now have PKZ equipment as well as a new color scheme and super detailed engine, guns, and
Hobbico Flyzone has refitted their previ-
ous Micro models to Tx-R versions with SLT technology. These include the Play- mate HCAA2558, Micro Super Cub HCAA2556, and Albatros HCAA255. They require a Tactic transmitter or AnyLink and are incompatible with the previous ver- sions that used the FTZ-324 transmitter. Flyzone also has new RTF versions of these models with the TTX402 transmitter. This transmitter does not have the adjustment features of a computer controlled radio like the DX6 or DX6i using the AnyLink mod-
pilot. Pete also dolled up a FlyZone Dr.1 (above right) with different trim scheme and a P-51 motor.
ule. For instance, I mixed in a little down elevator with throttle which greatly helps the zoom tendencies of the Dr.1 when pow- er is added. These Flyzone WWI models are treated as
a blank canvas by many modelers with artistic inclinations. The designer, Dave Johnson, states the Fokker Dr.1 and Alba- tros DV can be disassembled by using Ron- sonol Lighter Fluid (naptha) to dissolve the glue joints. He also uses 3M blue masking tape and CyA debonder to strip off the paint. 3M 75 removable spray-on adhesive and tis- sue make a good mask. A light spray coat of Floquil Polyscale does not add much weight. Pete Schumann, a local flyer, prints out camouflage and insignia on an ink jet print- er and glues it on the wings with spray ce- ment. A thin coat of white glue can be used if an Epson printer has been used as their inks are more water resistant. While I found the stock motor provided
PHOTO: GORDON JOHNSON
The new SLT receiver in the Dr.1 (above). It has nicer servos. The AnyLink parasite module (below) installed on a Spektrum DX6.
plenty of power even if it was a bit noisy, some guys just can’t get enough power or object to the noise and replace the Flyzone motor with a P-51 motor and gear box. Gordon Johnson used a GWJ 7mm Long Motor Horizontal Mount Gearbox from
www.bsdmicrorc.com. This gearbox has a longer motor than the SS/Didel 7mm mo- tors. The gearbox has the horizontal mounting kit which makes it easier to mount in planes such as the Hobbico Fokker Dr.1, Albatros, or Playmate. With a GWS 5–3 prop this propulsion system pulls 1.1 amps and develops 31.5g of thrust.
For comparison, the blue SS 7mm motor
pulls 0.9 amps and develops 29g of thrust. The standard gearbox and 4.5-inch prop used on the Dr.1, Albatros, and Playmate pulls 1.0 amps and develops 26.6g of thrust. Thus, this long motor gearbox with
a 5–3 prop results in an 18% increase in thrust with only a marginal increase in amp draw and weight. Many fliers re- placed the old FTZ compatible receiver module in the Albatros with PKZ bricks to get smoother controls or a Mode 1 trans- mitter configuration. The new SLT receiv- er and AnyLink renders this unnecessary in the new FlyZone models.
Timer topic Hank Nystrom sent me an e-mail describ-
ing his Texas Timers http://www.texas-
timers.com/ products for the E-36 event. His Micro E-Timer is a mechanical timer based on a “Tommy Toy”-like escapement with a switch that actuates a PLSR1 electronic module that controls an ESC. With the scroll set on the timer to control the time, the button is pushed on the PLSR1 and the motor starts via the ESC. You trip the timer, and when the scroll releases the arm the electronics module stops the motor. The weight of the Micro E with wire con-
nector and the PLSR1 combined is 10.9 grams. The cost is about $50. The DT func- tion is handled by a fuse or second timer. There is a new version in the works that will include the DT function. Texas Timers also has a nifty hub for folding props that has a 3mm shaft, weighs 2.6 grams and costs $11.50. It accepts all of the popular blades including Graupner with a 6mm yoke.
Save the date The CASA 15th Annual Spring Sizzle, a 2-
day Electric Fly-In, is May 26–27, 2012, in Rockville, MD. Watch the web for details:
www.springsizzzle.com. The Loudoun Coun- ty Aeromodelers 13th Annual Electric Air- craft Flyin is July 28, 2012 at Banshee Reeks Park, VA. Go to
www.lcaa.org for details (map and directions are on the flyer).
Texas Timer’s Micro E system for motor control (above). Texas Timer’s folding prop hub (at right). Now you don’t have to machine your own for a 3mm shaft.
FLYING MODELS 35
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