Friday, December 28, 2007
I'm still here, just on holiday...
Also, this Christmas brought no new flying RC toys my way...so, I've got nothing really new to report anyway. I did, however, finish the construction of a non-flying wooden toy Curtis airplane of one of my kids. The instruction weren't friendly for any age or skill level -- basically a take these wooden pieces, look at the picture on the box, and put her together kind of deal. I had to improvise and make some parts out of the spare balsa cutout sheets. I'll post a pic later.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Flight Log 12.14.07
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Flight Log 12.10.07
I want this, http://www.parkflyers.com/html/gee_bee_3d.html, if anyone's taking notes...But, I've read some negative feedback about the ParkFlyer's company...So, I'm torn???
Friday, December 7, 2007
Flight Log 11.06.07
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Flight Log 11.30.07
Friday, November 30, 2007
Your donation will now benefit the AMA too!
will go directly to the AMA for support of its services
If you like what I've been posting and want to support my efforts, that's awesome...And now, in an effort to give back to the RC Aircraft Community, your donations will benefit the AMA as well.
Thank You!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Flight Log 11.28.07
It was cold and a little wet...but, it was fun!
I use weather tools like the Weather Underground and the WeatherBug to keep track of my flying windows.
Save 10% from RedRocket
Save 10% | Take 10% off any order over $100 at www.redrockethobbies.com Order minimum does not include shipping charges. Hurry, offer expires November 30th, 2007. Use Checkout Coupon code: thanks Rebates Rebates and more Rebates: Use our coupon and get an additional rebate on these items: | |
Offer Expires: 11-30-2007 for coupon & 12-31-2007 for rebates |
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Flight Log 11.27.07
I thought my battery pack was charged, but alas...it was not.
But, as my friend Adam put it...it's better than no flight at all -- which is true :)
Monday, November 26, 2007
Save money at www.hobbyzone.com
Place an order by Friday, November 30 and receive 10% off the subtotal. During checkout, enter the following coupon code to receive the discount: 5RM9KR5WXC
click here to save
Flight Log 11.26.07
Sunday, November 25, 2007
SC Flight Characteristics Take a Dive
So, for the last couple months...I was finding that my SC kept wanting to dive for the ground, no matter how much UP trim I gave it or how much I adjusted the elevators servo linkage. Plus it was getting ridiculous looking to have the elevator controls it such a large UP position just to fly level.
At one point I was even taping weights under the tail section to try to keep the nose up. That was really getting silly.
Finally it dawned on my that my main wing was sitting a good half an inch back from being flush with the windshield area -- it didn't seem like a big deal...But, when I took some packing tape, and taped the wing into a "flush" with the slope of the windshield position...My SC started flying normal again
Notice the gap that is now between the trailing edge of the main wing and the area of the fuselage where the wing normally butts up against to keep it in place. I used packing tape on the leading edge and the trailing to keep it in place and then when I fly I also put the rubber bands on to keep it there during the stresses of flight.
Click here for larger version.
Since making this change, my SC has been flying great!
I posted this tip to the "Super Cub Club", see link on the right, and it was suggested by others that I should also put something firm, like a piece of balsa wood in that gap along the trailing edge of the wing. That's a great idea, that I'll be doing soon.
Oh...If you're curious, the rectangular hole is where I stick my Cobra DMC300 (FlyCamOne copy) 5-n-1 camera for OnBoard videos.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Flight Log 11.24.07
I added a Google Map link to the field under "Favorite Places to Fly"
And, I'm uploading an aerial video soon.
Came across a cool GWS jet
Some forum info on the jet can be found here.
Some video of one in flight is here.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Flight Log 11.23.07
Flew the Super Cub at one of the local elementary schools...see favorite places in the right margin (#2). It was near the end of the day, still sunny, but cold. I gave the video a negative look to match the music -- to try to make it look like a night shot. My HobbyZone Super Cub is 14 months old and still going strong...what a great plane!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Flight Log 11.20.07
Monday, November 19, 2007
Flight Log 11.19.07
So, took my warmed & charged up optional 8cell NIMH out to the HobbyZone Super Cub and tore up the sky.
I feel I've completely mastered the Super Cub now...It's a complete joy to fly. You should get one.
I didn't take any video...I'm already behind on my editing...so, you'll just have to imagine the crisp fall air, the wet fallen leaves, and the misty clouds that loomed over head.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Flight Log 11.15.07
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Flight Log 11.13.07
Monday, November 12, 2007
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Up Coming Events
RCUniverse Community Events
Friday, November 9, 2007
Christmas is coming...
Here are some ideas for planes being released in November:
ParkZone J-3 Cub BL RTF, Due November
E-flite Blade 400 3D RTF, Due November
Hangar 9 B-25J Mitchell ARF, Due November
E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF, Due November
E-flite Piper Pawnee 15e ARF, Due November
E-flite Taylorcraft 450 ARF, Due November
Here are some ideas for planes being released in December:
ParkZone J-3 Cub BL PNP, Due December
E-flite AT-6 Texan 25 ARF, Due December
E-flite S.E. 5a ARF, Due December
E-flite Enticement F3P ARF, Due December
That Piper Pawnee 15e has a cool retro look. I also like that Texan...Who am I kidding, I'd take all of these...if you're listening Santa :D
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Flight Log 11.08.07
I also attempted to fly this little foamy plane I have, that came with LED's so you can fly at night. I've been inspired to try some night flying by my Columbian flying friend, David.
It's a pretty underpowered plane...and it flies pretty bad. The slightest turning thrust usually causes the plane to just spiral to the ground. But, the lighting system works pretty well and I did get some NIGHT-flight time -- pretty fun. I'm thinking I might rip the light system out of this plane and adapt it to my Super Cub.
Betty Info:
FEATURES:
• Made From Durable EPP Foam
• Radio Doubles as 5 Cell Battery Charger
• 3 Bright LEDs for Night Flying
SPECS -
• 5 Cell 150mah NiMH Battery
• 2 Electric Motors
• 2 Working Props
• Working Landing Gear
• (8) Venom Power AA Alkalines™
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
E-flite has a new plane
Here's a great article on it: http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=928
Flight Log 11.07.07
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Flight Log 11.06.07
Before flying though, I bought some nylon rope and repaired the hole I made, oops :), in that soccer net I landed in yesterday (see the video below).
Remember, you gotta look out for the community you fly in...or they'll stop allowing you to fly in it.
Flight Log 11.05.07
Blogger's been erroring out on me for hours now...I tried posting this for two days, now that it's 12:11am :(
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Two Days and No Flying...
Wingspan: | 37.8" |
Wing Area: | 450 sq. in. (approx.) |
Weight: | 29.5 oz. RTF |
Length: | 25.6" |
Wing Loading: | 9.44 oz/sq. ft. |
Servos: | 4 micro servos (included) |
Transmitter: | Futaba 6EXAP |
Receiver: | Castle Creations Berg 7 |
Battery: | Vampower 11.1V 1300mAh LiPo |
Motor: | Outrunner (included) |
ESC: | 20amp (included) |
Manufacturer: | Green RC Models |
Available From: | Powerline Hobbies |
Retail Price: | $199.99 |
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Flight Log 11.01.07
If you have a Super Cub, you need the optional 8 cell battery, buy one today. You more speed and power, yeah!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Flight Log 10.31.07
Flew the Super Cub at the field by work. Just flew it...no video...just pure flying. Had lots of fun.
You should buy a HobbyZone Super Cub...You will not, I Guarantee, regret it.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Flight Log 10.30.07
Once this morning at the duck pond and once during lunch at the field by work.
I will post video later tonight...this mornings flight includes some close encounters with the geese at the duck pond.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Missed my chance today...
Then...it rained and got breeezy...and then, it got dark. Oh well, tomorrow's another day.
Found this video today...very cool:
Please send me your suggestions for my next plane...see below.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
I need a new plane
Leave me a comment, with your opinion, of what a good plane would be for someone who's never flown with ailerons before.
Planes I'm thinking about:
http://www.towerhobbies.com/products/hobbico/hcaa28.html
http://store.bananahobby.com/1074.html
Flight Log 10.28.07
Here's the video:
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
Flight log 10.26.07 -- Beautiful day...but, breezy
I tried to enjoy a Super Cub flight this morning, but the wind was already too much for the plane. I made one loop around the duck pond park and safely put her down on the cement pad - whew! The brightness control on my onboard camera freaked out, so the video is worthless, sorry. But, it was getting tossed around like mad -- it even spooked the geese on the ground a bit :)
The wind is not letting up, so that's probably all the RC'in I'll get in today.
So sad :(
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Flight Log 10.25.07
It was too breezy, and after a few crazy laps around the field -- the plane was really being pushed around -- I landed it.
Bummer. Not enough flight time...but, there's always tomorrow :)
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
The Super Cub Flew Again!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
The Super Cub Will Fly Again!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Another Arrow Flight Day...
Got maybe 5 minutes out of it...but, they were quality minutes. I wish I could upload the smell & feel of the day -- it was such a nice day :)
I hope all the RC'gonians (RC + Oregonians) took advantage of the day.
Nice and sunny...
Sunday, October 21, 2007
The Frappr Map...
Just click on the top user icon, on the frappr's left scrollable user nav area. It should have a popup that says "You!".
A bubble then pops up in the map area and it has a link for customizing your info. You can add a picture and a brief message or an URL to your own web site i.e., free advertising :)
Check it out...I'd love to hear from you on my frappr.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Didn't get a lot of RC stuff done today...
I had plans to go to a hobby store and get some parts, but I stayed up late watching my download of the IRCHA 2007 video...and, I kinda slept in. By the time I woke, my wife and I had to get some groceries etc. then she had to work. Even if I had made it to the hobby store, it was pretty wet and stormy today...so, flying for the better part of the day, wasn't going to happen.
But, I did put in some FMS simulator time...I'm trying to practice the heli maneuver where it circles around on a horizontal plane with it's tail down and inward and the front of the heli is pointing out of the circle and upward -- wish I knew the name of the trick -- but, I think I'm figuring it out.
Finished my download of the IRCHA 2007 video, Finally!
Lots of impressive 3D flying. My only critique would be, "Where's the scale heli's?" there were a couple stills of some tables with scale heli's on them, but no video of them flying : (
This video was all put together by the people at HeliFreak.com...so, if you liked this...you should check them out and support them:
Friday, October 19, 2007
When did you get the HeliFever?
Checkout this link to see a kid who got the fever at 4, wow!
This is some of the text, from the email that informed me about this video:
Before you can view this video I want to make sure
your ego is tough as steel and that you're not as
delicate as a flower because when you lay your eye
balls on this video, you might squirt a few tears, I
did.
Remember, if you're feeling extra sensitive today, for some
strange reason, don't watch this video. It might make
things worse...
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
FREE IRCHA 2007 DVD torrent
I've been able to download the "teaser" video, that is part of the this torrent, and there's some pretty cool stuff. I can't wait to get the whole 2 hour DVD downloaded...but, my internet isn't that fast, so it'll be a day or two :)
I took the teaser and cut out all the chatter, leaving only the heli's...and here's that video:
Product Announcements & Release Updates
One-of-a-kind scale rendition of the Piper ag workhorse.
E-flite S.E.5a SF 250 ARF $49.99 Due Dec.
Vacuum-molded foam fuselage, carbon reinforced stab, stained plywood interplane strut.
ParkZone J-3 Cub BL RTF, Due October
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Flew the arrow flight again today...
Monday, October 15, 2007
Hotshot Heli Pilots can win $3000
TIME IS RUNNING OUT! Are you a hotshot micro-heli pilot? Do you have the right stuff? Wanna win some moola, cash, dinero? If so then click on over to www.empirerc.com and download the pilot application for more details. If selected to compete you will have a shot at winning cash and bragging rights in the 3rd Annual 2007 World Micro-Heli Cup sponsored by Empire RC and RC Universe.
Total prize pool is $3000 with first prize in mini class at $1,500!The event will be covered on RC Universe and in various other websites and media.The event takes place on October 20th and 21st at the iHobbyExpo in Rosemont, llinois.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Only flew in simulation this weekend
Oh Gee!
It looks really cool...but, is it as great as it seems...leave a comment if you have one, thanks.
Cool Blade Upgrade
Friday, October 12, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Flightlog entry...for 10.10.07
I'm sad though...I believe the planes NIMH is dying out :( I'm sure I can find a replacement somewhere, but that's a hassle.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Only had time for a couple RC things today
This plane is throttle and rudder only. It handles and prefers a good wind for it to soar in...and I picked it up for under $20 at Toys-R-Us. It has been an awesome plane, because it's portable and functional.
Here's some video of this plane in flight from a past flight:
Find another video here RCUVideos.com
I also added some basic RC Airplane Controls info to my Flightschool section of my JoeFlyer site.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Flew the Blade CP Pro at the duck pond
I took some onboard video, but it came out pretty shakey...if I can make it worth watching I'll post it.
Now the bad news. After getting home tonight I thought I'd fly in the street and I had rigged a new way to mount my camera up front of the Blade...Things seemed to be going pretty well and then I got disoriented and crashed it...Bent the shaft, broke the boom, and knocked the camera around hard enough that I lost all the video it had shot !@#$%&!@*&%!!@
Oh well...
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Windsock Info
- Wind direction is the opposite of the direction in which the windsock is pointing (note that wind directions are conventionally specified as being the compass point from which the wind originates; so a windsock pointing due north indicates a southerly wind)
- Windspeed is indicated by the windsock's angle relative to the mounting pole; in low winds, the windsock droops; in high winds it flies horizontally
- Per FAA standards...a 15 knot (17mph) wind will fully extend the windsock; A 3 knot (3.5mph) breeze will cause the windsock to orient itself to the wind...i.e., 3.5mph of a breeze is what it takes to move the sock around the pole.
The knot: 1 nautical mile per hour = 1.852 kilometer per hour exactly. Other convertions:
- 0.998383 geographical miles
- 1.150779 miles (statute)
- 2025.372 yards
- 6076.1155 feet
- 1 meridian arc minute at sea-level surface distance
Today's weather, overcast & breezy
Weather Report Desktop Tool
Choose your plane and closest airport to receive current flight weather stats. Displays temperature, wind conditions, air pressure, visibility, and more.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
More heli flights this morning
I also flew my new imports: the 2-channel heli and the yellow & red planes. They flew great too...until I ran out of plane battery mid-flight with the little yellow plane. It went right into the pond! But, guess what...It's foam and it floats. After about 10min. it drifted back closer to the pond's edge. And...I was able to use the prop to propel it closer to me, so I could grab it!! And...it still flys too! So, I'm really pleased with this plane.
The only bad thing about flying this morning was that halfway to the park I realized I had left my video camera at home :( and so I got no shot of my little yellow sea plane -- maybe next time it goes in the pond I'll be prepared.
Join my Frappr Map
Look down the right side of this blog an add yourself to my frappr map today!
Friday, October 5, 2007
Fun times with my RC Toys from China
The red low-wing plane even flew well -- I was amazed. The yellow top-wing is still the better flyer, but the low-wing was fun today...I got it really high, that helps.
I also took some more video of the 2-channel heli in flight.
I got at least 8-10 min. of flight time out of each craft -- that's pretty good!
Thursday, October 4, 2007
You get what you pay for??? part three
I also flew the little yellow top-wing plane that I got with the helicopter. I've listed in a previous post that a con was it's either on or off throttle...but, it didn't seem to bad today. I think it's because the plane can also glide pretty well without the motor. You can get this little plane pretty high, and a slight breeze is also a plus, and this little guy will fly for quite some time.
So, I think I might order some and make them available for order...stay tuned.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Nice & Clear == Fly
But, my second flight went really well until I ran low on battery, came in kind of too confident, and crashed. Now, I need some new parts for my main rotor head...maybe I'll go aluminum???
My buddy showed up with his fixed pitch Honey Bee. This is a pretty indestructible heli...and it flies really smooth too. I think this is probably one of the best entry level heli's one can buy...it's a step above the co-axial one's, and a notch below the the collective pitch models (explanation of fixed vs collective here). Here's some video of the flight today.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Rainy & Breezy == No Fly
Monday, October 1, 2007
Replaced another Blade CP Tail Boom Today
Tip: It's definately easier to replace the boom by un-soldering the wires fromHey Joe...why you replacing your tail boom anyways? Good question. I have had my last few flights (See previous posts) on a boom that was slightly damaged and held together with some tape. Today, while making some tail rotor adjustments with the tail motor pot onboard the Blade...an adjustment I made was a bit too extreme, so I crashed and ruined my already damaged boom : )
the tail motor and sliding the boom off the wires...than trying to disconnect the wires from the receiver and pulling them through the boom that way.
The new boom and motor run great in my hovering tests...I can't wait till the next flying day to do some real flying.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Cascade Rotory Wings Fun Fly Day 2
Here's a T-Rex with a cool custom paint job...It was a nice change from most of the standard paint schemes everyone else had.
One heli that didn't make it today...
So sad : (
More Cascade Rotory Wings Fly In, Fri. Night
This heli had light strings all over it defining it's shape. My cheap video camera could only capture the lights on the rotors...Heli's are totally cool when lit up at night!
This heli was lit-up by a huge flashlight!
And this is video of one of the heli's with light strings defining it's features.