Squitters

Thanks Peter, Once again, an incredibly impressive display. With the staggering flying skills, which make it work so well, the POV messages and lighting patterns look amazing. I don't know if I should thank you for posting that though, as it really nails home what a great evening I missed ;0) Is it too early yet, or are there plans for a similar event in 2017? If so, I shall certainly be encouraging everyone I know to attend. Phil

A big thank you to all who had a hand in putting on the Bartons Point show this weekend. It was a shame that the high winds restricted the flying on Saturday, but it was still a fantastic show, from some very accomplished pilots. Having now seen the video posted above, I just wish I had stuck around for the evening - D'oh! Hopefully I'll get it right next year. Phil

Is Hobbyking's 'sale' price an attempt at a 2016 April Fool? **LINK** It nearly had me. Phil

A note at the bottom of the 'RCARTF' website suggests that it is linked to 'Skyartec.co.uk'. Their telephone number has a Cambridge area code. However, there might not be a direct business link between the two sites. Phil

A good morning to all. I have been offered the opportunity to purchase two Fox engines; a Fox.36 and a Fox.25. Although both are new, boxed and unused, they have been stored in a workshop since the mid-eighties and unsurprisingly, even though they are still shiny, nothing appears to move anymore. Also, there is a conspicuous lack of silencers – or, should I say ‘mufflers’, as they are American made? I have never used/owned a Fox engine, and before I commit my children’s inheritance to what might be a rash purchase, I would like to call upon the collective knowledge and experience of this forum - if that’s alright with you? My questions/concerns are:- Are Fox engines any good?; i.e Are they worth the time/money/effort? Will I be able to get spares for them – particularly the silencers? What are the chances of me even being able to get them turning again? What is the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow? Thanks in advance. Phil

Ha-ha! I hadn't even noticed the head. I was distracted by the need for Cillit Bang

I think this should be a 'Wet 4'.... **LINK**

My first RC system, on returning to the hobby, was the Futaba 6EX FASST, and I never lost a model due to Tx/Rx failure. Pilot error, yes, but never a radio related failure. About two years ago, I purchased a Spektrum DX8 with AR6210 DSMX receivers and satellites. Having lost two planes in quick succession to Tx/Rx related failures (one on final approach of its maiden flight), I will no longer use Spektrum in new builds. I only keep hold of the Tx to use with my BNF models. Now I am using a Futaba T10J FHSS based system, and all is well - so far. It's a shame, because as many of you have pointed out, the Spektrum system is very versatile. But, I just don't trust it.

Hi Dave, I have made several purchases from their Hong Kong warehouse, and I have always been very pleased with what I have received. The postage times from Hong Kong can border on 4-5 weeks, but I certainly haven't had any issues with what has ben supplied. I think they have only recently set up their EU distribution centre(s), and it sounds like they must be having a few teething troubles - not that this helps you. Phil

If this is worth thousands, then there must be a lot of millionaires on this forum...... **LINK**

I lost two models, in close succession, while flying with AR6200 (DSM2) receivers and a DX8. Both crashed in very similar circumstances - spiralling uncontrolled into the ground on approach to landing. One whilst coming out of a turn, and one on a straight approach. The first model (a Hangar 9 Sundowner 36) was returning to land from it's maiden flight, and the second model was an ARTF Wot4 on what was only its second outing. A Horizon Hobby bulletin describes issues with a certain range of DX6i and DX8 transmitters, operating with DSM2 receivers, and offers a recall option. On checking the PID of my own DX8, I initially saw that it was not marked with a PID within the affected range. However, on closer inspection, I found that the PID 'sticker' I had initially seen was in fact covering another sticker. On removal of the top sticker, it revealed a PID which was listed for recall attention. I contacted Horizon Hobby, who assured me that my DX8 had the necessary updates, but I'm still not convinced all is well. For future projects, if/when I feel brave enough, I will ensure that I stick to DSMX receivers only, but even if that is successful, it's going to take some time to build any confidence in the system.

Thanks for the 'heads-up' everyone.A simple switch to Firefox has solved posting problems.

The weather has been fine for flying. The only problem is I don't have a tractor to get onto the field.

  1. Mode 2   2. South East of England (Kent)   3. South East of England   4. Taught by club instructor.   Phil

What's yellow, and weighs 100lbs?   Two 50lb canaries.   Merry Christmas, one and all