[ Thanks ] [ NewsLetter ] [ About Us ] [ Beginners ] [ Reviews ] [ Glossary ] [ Why buy? ] [ Returns ] [ Privacy ] [ Delivery ] [ Payment ] [ Guarantees ]
Radio System
R/C planes are controlled by a radio systems that consists of a transmitter—which stays with you on the ground—plus a receiver, servos, and receiver battery (all of which are "on-board" components, mounted inside your model). Most aircraft radio systems come with everything you need, including a rechargeable battery pack.
First-time pilots should always seek the help of an instructor. And an important part of working with an instructor is making sure that both of you use radios with "trainer system" or "buddy box" capability. The trainer system allows you to connect your radio to your instructor's, using a cable. You'll still be the one controlling your model, so long as your instructor holds down the trainer switch on his transmitter. But if you start having trouble, all the instructor has to do is release the switch to take over full control.
Most entry-level sailplanes require a radio with only two channels of control, but you're better off buying a 4-channel system—you'll probably pay less for it in the long run. If you have sufficient budget, one of the newer computerised radios will make installation and setup a breeze. The
See the Radio System section for more information. Click HERE
Tools and Adhesives
Regardless of what sailplane you choose, some building tools and workshop accessories will be needed to make it flight-ready. These include such common items as a hobby knife, T-pins, screwdrivers, pliers, sandpaper, masking tape, and perhaps a drill. Building a kit also takes some specialized equipment like covering tools. Follow the Accessories Required links for the model you choose to see a list of the tools needed.
R/C model building adhesives are also required, and differ from the white glue and model airplane cement you may have worked with in the past. Cyanoacrylates are commonly used. These are glues specially formulated for working with wood, which provide a range of curing speeds—giving you as little or as much time as each assembly step requires. "Thick" cyanoacrylates also help to fill slight gaps between parts.
Modeling Epoxies are two-part adhesives, consisting of a resin and a hardener. At steps where very strong bonds are critical, a plane's manual will often recommend epoxy. The resin and hardener must first be mixed, then applied to the surface—so mixing cups, mixing sticks and inexpensive, disposable epoxy brushes also come in handy.
Accessories
Relatively few field accessories are needed to fly an R/C sailplane. If your model is a Slope Soarer, you may need nothing more than a few tools for minor repairs and adjustments.
Electric-powered sailplanes often include a motor and propeller as part of the kit. The only additional accessories you might need would be a battery and charger. Again, follow the Accessories Required links for the model you choose to see a list of the field accessories needed.
Shopping with
International Electric Models is 100% SAFE and fully GUARANTEED
by WorldPay. During the payment process, you will be able to
select to pay in either US$, EURO or AUD$.
