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View Full Version : Back to the flight line, after 15 years, maybe...


RDWOlf30
07-22-2002, 07:26 PM
Well, it's been 15 years since I last touched the controls of an RC aircraft, and I decided on a whim to start again. Many of the tips/tricks taught to me by my old instructor are a bit foggy, and building a plane my be a bit to pricey to help me decide if I really want to get back into the hobby, so I went the ARF route. There are a lots of questions I have, I was only 15 when I flew last and times have changed a lot.

I selected the World Model Ultimate 30 Bipe ARF as my plane (I wanted to have a plane that would be easy to fly and stable, but offer some adjustment for more advanced flight in the future without sinking $$$ into a trainer), construction went very well and the model CG is very nice right out of the box with the OS .40LS 2 stroke, I decided on the Hitec Laser 4ch, 4 servo raido and have done no custom modification to the airframe or airfoil ( I expect a lot of improvements later if I am happy with the plane)
I adjusted all the flight control surfaces to have about 5mm of throw so it won't be too responsive with plenty of room for more later, and the .40 engine has plenty of power to get me altitude till I get the rust off my unused flight skills.
I remember most of the old tricks I used to line up on the runway, how to trim out the new plane once airborne and most of the basics on preflight, engine start-up and tuning, I just can't shake the feeling I am forgeting something. Now in the past I have competed on AMA tournaments at the field I used to be a member at (Aiken Flight Club, Aiken, SC) and was accustomed to flying planes with much more responsive controls and faster overall speeds. I used to be accustomed to high approach rates and having to land em' hot, but I am a little reserved in my much older than 15 age. Any tips or advice about my choice of aircraft, equipment or just encouragement would be appreciated.

groundforce
07-28-2002, 05:21 AM
Sounds to me like you may need to have somone to fly you on a buddy box till those old skills return.
Atleast to get you used to a bipe after being away from this a while.
Theres a guy at our field who flew aways back, and is now returning to flight. He refused the re-training, came in hard, havent seen him back since.
Not saying this to knock you or nothin....just get a little help till you regain your confidence and skill.
Also......dont forget to break in the new engine.

RDWOlf30
07-28-2002, 06:07 PM
I am contemplating buying a trainer (new or used) and trying my hand at that first. I am also considering one of the pc flight sims. Dave R. gave me great advice about my first return flight and I am also talking with the folks here at the Frederick Model Club about an instructor for a refresher flight or 5. I remember how much fun this used to be and I don't want to ruin it with a tragic biplane in many pieces scenario. I'll be sure to post a photo of the plane's condition after my first flight...again, thanks for the advice and guidance.



Robb