darkfa8
Elite Veteran
Location: Eatontown, NJ - USA
My Posts This: Topic Forum | update...i now have 31 flights on this airframe.
My kit was from the original production run and since then some of the suppliers of parts have changed. So you'll notice the grain of my GF frame is different from that of the current GF model, and there may be some other materials differences, but am uncertain of all of the changes.
The model has been flown mostly as s sport flyer with about 3 really hard 3D flights.
At the 24th flight I noticed some vibration and checked out the head. Turns out the dampers were going bad (I was using the hardest dampers in the kit), so I replaced them with Align black dampers and the Align sleeve. Benny and Justin Chi also experienced damper wear around this many flights on their model.
The only non-stock item on the model are some KBDD 3D paddles to correct the pitching in FF that the aggressive stock paddles created and an Align 85* damper/sleeve set.
Otherwise, the model has been holding up very well.
I'm in the final stages of dialing in the tune on a YS50ST that I stuck in it after my OS50's bearings went bad.
I really prefer the belt drive tail for simplicity and low cost. Also, the graphite frames have held very well up so far. The frame screws did need to be slightly tightened after the first few flights, but they have held tight since then.
I would advise that if you buy this model to buy extra hex inserts and dampers.
The key features of this model are the modular design, from the electronics module, to engine module, to tail module. It makes setup, service and repairs uncomplicated and quick.
The servo layout opens doors to a potential for 140* conversion (waiting on GForce for this), and makes servo wheel setup very fast. The bell cranks take the brunt of the forces off of the servos and improves their surving a serious crash more probable.
Many of the drivetrain, head and tail parts are directly interchangeable with Align 600 branded stock parts and upgrades. So you really have a wide open realm of customization options beyond the AHF upgrades.
The only difficulty I think some may run into depending on your electronics is that space is very limited for components other than servos. So, when you're specing out your model, make sure to really keep this in mind. You may have to change your gear in order to lay it out well in the limited space.
I've gone for the minimalist approach on mine. Aside from the HS81 throttle servo, I've switched to a 2s1100 RX pack that I limit to 2 flights per charge, no regulator, no governor (I use curves), no switches, the small MiniG gyro and a homemade step-down for the tail.
The model is quite light at about 8.2lbs loaded with fuel. It tracks properly and sits pretty well in wind all things considered. The model flies very well, is cheap to crash in terms of parts costs and has a layout that keeps your time in mind to insure you spend more time flying rather than building, servicing or repairing.
I'll have some new pictures and video of the model in flight soon.
- Dan Goldstein - |
