GETTING STARTED

                                                       

                               

We are a fixed wing model aeroplane club so this advise is mainly directed at prospective

fixed wing modellers. This short article will give you some basic information to help you

to get started.

The best way to get started is to visit your local model shop get the proper advice, it is in

their best interest to give you the right advise.

They will recommend a starter package deal, consisting of a trainer plane,a suitable radio (to

control the model) engine, starting equipment, glue,fuel, etc. in fact when you leave the

shop you should not need any other items to complete the project.

It should be possible to bring the model back to the shop to have it checked out to ensure that the model has been properly built and is in a flying condition this will save time when you get to the flying site

If you are learning to fly with an experienced instructor a four function (rudder,ailerons

elevator,throttle) is recommended. Training models will usually have a tricycle

undercarriage.( nose wheel and two main wheels) This makes ground handling easier,

there is no reason why a tail dragger should not be used if preferred. The engine should

be mounted upright to be easy accessible and to make starting less difficult.

A six function control and at least a 7cc.to 8cc. engine is recommended so when

you move on to a more advanced airplane you can transfer the engine and controls

to the new model.

Do not buy a radio control set with dry batteries, dry batteries are not consistent enough

for model aircraft use. Buy a set with rechargeable batteries. Radio control sets fitted with

rechargeable batteries come with a battery charger that is capable of charging the transmitter

and airplane batteries at the same time.

Model aircraft radio sets operate on the 35MHz. band and must not be used for boats or land

based models, the 35MHz. band is dedicated to model aircraft use. There are 35 channels

available we also fly on 2.4GHz. Your 35MHz radio control set it will come with a

set of crystals as two models cannot be flown on the same frequency at the same time a

PEG BOARD system operates at the club field, where only the peg holder is allowed to fly.

    Anyone else on the same frequency must wait until that peg becomes available.

  With the introduction of the 2.4GHz this waiting for a free

                           channel will be a thing of the past.

         The LONGWOOD CLUB fly mode 2 (THROTTLE ON LEFT STICK).