An Introduction to R/C Aircraft Modeling  by Brownie's Hobbies

    R/C is an exciting, interesting, and pleasurable part of model aviation. Though more expensive than the control line or rubber powered models that you may be familiar with from your childhood, today's technology has brought the cost well within the reach of most modelers. Twenty years ago the four-channel radio you purchased for your plane cost well over $400. Today, that same radio, with today's technology, will cost you under $200. Most beginners can start with a four-channel radio costing them less than $160.

    We suggest that if you're in a hurry to get off the ground, to buy an ARF (Almost Ready to Fly) trainer. With an ARF you can actually purchase the plane, engine and radio today; and, within a few days be out on the flying field for your first lesson. Some people have been known to get it done overnight!

    If you think you'd enjoy building your model from a kit, there are quite a few excellent ones on the market. These beginners' kits are geared to the inexperienced builder and the instructions are straightforward.

    There are many engines to choose from and this is why we recommend a "40" size plane. Especially, in and around Staten Island, wind conditions are such that a smaller plane, which may cost a few dollars less, will not be particularly satisfactory for the novice pilot. In learning to fly, you'll want a plane that will have some wind penetration, and most smaller planes don't come up to standard in that respect. Another factor, which you should take into consideration, is that after you've graduated from your trainer and are ready to progress to a more aerobatic plane, there are many more kits available which will accept the engine you've already purchased for your trainer. So now you have the option of "retiring" your trainer to the ceiling of your workshop, or selling it to another flyer, and transferring your engine and radio equipment to the more advanced model.

    One of the first things you will have to get before beginning to fly is your Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) license. This is a MUST, as no AMA Chartered Club can allow an unlicensed flyer to participate because of insurance regulations. It is, however, a bargain. For your annual membership, you receive not only liability insurance, but also, an excellent monthly magazine chock full of everything you'd like to know about the hobby.

    Once you've completed your plane, instructors are available to get you flying safely and knowledgeably. They can be found either through your hobby shop or clubs in your area. For your everyday flying, you'll want to join a club in your area. On Staten Island, there are three large airplane clubs, all of which welcome new flyers. There are monthly meetings and daily flying sessions most of the year round! It will definitely be to your advantage to become a member, as the clubs maintain your flying field, and your participation will help. Most clubs have rules regulating guests to some number of visits before requiring membership. So feel free to check out several clubs before making your choice.

    As with any new hobby, your shopping lists go on and on! We've provided a checklist of some of the available items to complete your field equipment, and an online estimator to estimate your entry costs. And, remember...

BIRTHDAYS AND OTHER HOLIDAYS ARE GREAT TIMES TO COMPLETE YOUR LIST OF GOODIES!

    Illustrated below is an example of a field box with all the accessories you'll find helpful out on the flying field. The cost of this equipment will run about $150. This includes the field box, power panel, electric starter, 12-volt battery and charger, and electric fuel pump. To start your engine, you'll need a starting battery (l 1/2 volts) or you can hook up a glo-clip to your power panel; and, optionally you may find a small fuel bulb to prime the engine helpful. There's a technique to starting and adjusting your engine; and, if you have a problem in the beginning, you're not alone! Again, as with learning most anything new, working with a good instructor is the best route to follow.

    Essential tools are few--but you'll need a 4-Way Wrench (for the props and glo plugs), a pair of needle-nose pliers, and ball-wrench screwdrivers to begin with. There are many different brands of fuel on the market; most are excellent. Model airplane fuel is premixed with a combination of nitro methane, alcohol, and synthetic or castor oil (or a combination of both oils). Most 2-cycle engines will operate efficiently on either 10% or 15% nitro. When you're flying at full throttle, the engines will burn about one ounce of fuel per minute; but in normal sport flying, you won't be using full throttle constantly. So an 8-ounce tank will give you approximately 10-15 minutes flying time.

    As you might suspect, the things that you'll find that you can't do without are endless; but what you need most, is the thought of soaring through the sky and the thrills of experiencing your first "solo" take-off and landing.

    You'll be very glad you chose model aviation as your new hobby!

 

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Brownie's Hobbies

124 Bennett Street

Staten Island NY 10302

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Revised: February 17, 2009 at 10:57 PM