Radio controlled aero modelling in Ipoh.

[simonysc]

Now most of the model engine runs on petrol. A few years back most hobbyist use nitro engine because petrol engine was expensive and not so advanced. Nitro-fuel was much more expensive than petrol.

[simonysc]

some more pics. Hobbyist fly and show off their model every sunday at the vacant land next to the Puspakom Gopeng.

[simseair]

Simon,

How much does the red plane cost - together with the engine, remote, fuel, etc, etc? What is the brand? How long does it take to learn how to control the plane? If it crashes, is it costly to repair or will the plane be a total wreck?

[simonysc]

Bro simseair, for your information engine is 55 c.c. petrol engine (Rm1350), plane body (RM2000.++), Radio 2.4Ghz (RM800. ++), Servo (Hitec 13 kg) (RM165 per pc) X 6pcs. Total : RM5000 ++ for this red plane set. This is for professional flyers and not meant for beginners. Beginners go for high-wing models (wing attached to the top of the body like Cessna) and smaller in size, run with Nitro engine which cost below RM2000 for a full set. Cost of repair depeend on how you crash the plane. If crashed on soft soil, normally the body and wing need repair which wont cost much. In worst case just replace with a new body which cost around RM500. If crashed on hard ground or tarmac road, body and engine will be gone. Only the radio is left which you're holding it. If you've never fly before, never ever try it yourself. i can guarantee you sure to crash the plane which will endanger other people. Get a trainer to teach you. How long you can learn depend on how fast you can learn. Normally it takes 1 - 3 months.

[simseair]

Hi Bro Simon,

Thanks for your reply. This newbie has more questions. What is the diffference between the Nitro and the petrol engine? Is the nitro fuel expensive and where do the hobbyists normally purchase them? From the hobbyist shops? How about petrol? Is it ordinary petrol or special one?

For the planes, does it mean that newbies normally have to purchase the low-wings planes and upgrade to the high-wings after some experience? In that case, newbies will probably need to spend about 7 ~ 8 k for the kits. I agree the planes can be quite dangerous - don't want to kill anyone or get sued for injuries to others.

How about the difference between the planes, helicopters, boats and cars? Do hobbyists normally go for all types or do they stick to one? Different skills needed?

[simonysc]

Nitro fuel can only be bought from hobby shop which cost RM90 per US gallon (3.75 lt). it is divided into few categories. The higher the nitro content, the more powerful it is. 25% - 40% for model car engine which is smaller capacity and high rpm. 15% - 25% is for helicopter, 10% - 15% is for plane. Petrol engine uses ordinary petrol which we bought from the petrol station.....cheap only RM1.80 per lt. Beginners start with high-wing model which is more stable and easier to handle. Only after mastering the flying skill only moves on to mid-wing then to low-wing. The mid-wing and low-wing are built for acrobatic moves which can roll or loop at high speed. In my oppinion, plane modelling is the cheapest because most body parts can be repaired with some handicraft skill. Body made of balsa wood frame and monocoat paper which can be bought at hobby shop. For cars and heli is the most expensive. You cannot DIY parts and can only buy original parts for that particular model. Just ask around some hobby shop for the price of parts for car and heli. You'll get a shock unless you're rich. Example : a set of tyre (4 pcs) cost about RM120 which last for around 20 hrs. Parts for heli are more expensive. Once the main rotor blade hit the ground, you've to change it because it's off balance. Of course different skill is needed for different model. Have to learn from experience. For boats I've no experience since I never play with it. Too troublesome. Just think, how to get back the model boat if the engine get stalled in the middle of the lake. swim to get it or buy a bigger boat and row to it

[simseair]

Hi Bro Simon,

Thanks for your reply. I have learned a bit now about the hobby.

[keong8260]

This hobby does not "come cheap"...

[simonysc]

Yeah I admit this hobby doesn't come cheap and there'll be endless upgrade untill it bore a large hole in you pocket

[keong8260]

Is there any jet-engine model...