ultimate ARF, The

Just how big is a 46-percent-scale ARF model plane? We learned firsthand when the Hangar 9 Ultimate TOC 10-300 ARF arrived by truck at our office in Ridgefield, CT. We unpacked this 100-inch-span wonder in the lobby, and within minutes of its arrival, the entire Air Age staff crowded around to take a look. No one could believe that such a gigantic plane could arrive completely built and covered; this model definitely qualifies as the biggest ARF ever!

Because presstime was looming, senior technical editor Gerry Yarrish rounded up the needed gear and hardware, and then helped master builder Sal Manganaro with the prep work. Gerry also penned the review using Sal's notes and his own observations. But nothing worthwhile is ever easy, and even though the Ultimate was flight-ready in less than two weeks, rain and clouds canceled our first two airborne tests and photography sessions. As our deadline got closer and closer, we all bit our fingernails down to the quick and were checking the weather forecast 10 times a day. The third time was a charm, though; the sun broke through the clouds, the Ultimate got airborne and flew even better than we had anticipated. Associate editor Rick Bell shared stick time with Sal, and we all let out a collective sigh of relief after those first, entirely successful flights. If you can't already tell, we're very excited to showcase and review Hangar 9's newest flagship ARF on page 34. And you won't want to miss the video click trip on our Web page: modelairplanenews.com.

IN THE WORKSHOP

This issue features a triple-header of how-to's! First in the lineup, Gerry Yarrish details how he installed a Fuji 50cc in his Great Planes Pitts Special. Adding a gas powerplant to your next plane will be simple with these step-by-step photos and instructions.

Scale modelers will appreciate Charlee Smith's technique for creating great-looking metal panels. Charlee's guest "Scale Techniques" column starts on page 110.

And last, but not least, Steve Woodrough shares how he fixed his broken profile fuselage to make it as strong-and nearly as light-as it had been before it crashed. You can use Steve's method on any flat surface; check it out on page 84.

POWERLINES

The popularity of battery power isn't limited to small backyard flyers and indoor models; even giant-scale aerobats are taking advantage of this clean, quiet energy source. Fans of big, electric-powered planes won't want to miss our premier "Powerlines" column, authored by electrics expert Greg Gimlick. This bimonthly column will focus on .40-size and larger glow-to-electric conversions, multi-motor setups, high-power batteries and charging systems and more. If it's big, fast and electric, you'll read about it here.

We always appreciate hearing from you, whether it's a suggestion for an article, a comment on a past issue, a question for "Airwaves," or a photo for "Pilot Projects." We're also still looking for your favorite columns, articles, or memories associated with Model Airplane News for our 75th anniversary celebration, so please take a moment to share your thoughts with us. Send your email to man@airage.com, or write to us at 100 East Ridge, Ridgefield, CT 06877-4606 USA.

Safe landings!

Copyright Air Age Publishing Oct 2003
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved