Worth a Closer Look
Auto Cut-Off Dischargers
In time, Ni-Cd batteries can develop a "memory" if they are not discharged before recharging. This memory will keep the cells from charging to their full capacity.
Cermark has introduced two new dischargers which tackle this Ni-Cd-battery-memory problem. These dischargers may look similar, but they are designed to handle two different types of battery packs.
- Turtle-P: for higher-capacity 6.0- to 8.4-volt battery packs; features a connector normally found on park flyer and radio-control (RC) car battery packs.
- Turtle-R: for 4.0- to 6.0-volt receiver packs; has a universal socket that should accept almost any modern connector.
In testing, the Auto Cut-Off Discharger for receiver packs was used with a typical 600 mAh (four AA cell) pack. When the pack was plugged in, the LED indicator lit to show discharging was underway. The pack took just more than one hour to discharge to 3.6 volts. At that time, the LED indicator turned off. While not dangerous, the discharger was warm to the touch.
Cermark warns that these dischargers are not designed for checking pack capacity. Also, using the dischargers on packs larger than recommended can cause the discharger to become dangerously hot, and even melt.
Each model of the Turtle Auto Cut-Off Discharger retails for $14.95.
Cermark: 107 Edward Ave., Fullerton CA 92833; Tel.: (800) 704-6229; Web site: www.cermark.com
Fast Fueler
Available from JM Service is this high-quality, aircraft-grade aluminum fueler designed especially for large gas-powered models.
- Capacity: three gallons.
- Fill time: fills a 50-ounce fuel tank in less than two minutes.
- Completely sealed: no gas odor.
- Self-contained, high-volume air pump: no electric connection required (a safety feature when dealing with gasoline).
- Includes: 0- to 15-pound air gauge, two stainless-steel valves, large-capacity cleanable fuel filter.
- Construction: exquisitely TIG-welded, sturdy square-stock aluminum base to prevent tipping.
- Seals: filler cap and filter cover sealed with high-quality Buna O-rings.
The Fast Fueler is a heavy-duty, well-designed unit created by RC pattern pilot "Jersey Jim" Martin for fueling RC Giant Scale Aerobatics models. Price: $350.
JM Service: 105 Frenchtown Rd., Shohola PA 18458; E-mail: jims@mlo.cc
Giant Scale Plug-in Stab Adjuster Kit
When trimming the pitch of larger models, using transmitter elevator trim adds drag because of the stabilizer's large surface. Gator R/C offers a retrofit solution that trims the entire stabilizer instead.
- Allows quick adjustment of each half of the stabilizer using adjustment screws.
- Total adjustment: +/- 1/4 inch.
- Stabilizer becomes removable for easier transport.
- Support: each half is supported by a 5/16-inch-diameter aluminum tube that fits into an equal-length, slip-fit phenolic socket.
- Weight: 2-1/2 ounces.
The Giant Scale Plug-in Stab Adjuster Kit retails for $14.95.
Gator R/C: 2100 N. Old Mill Rd., Brookline MO 65619; Tel.: (417) 725-7755; Web site: www.gatorrc.com
M72-6 Lightweight Antenna
At just half a gram, the M72-6 antenna from DJ Aerotech provides the range of a receiver's original antenna while saving weight.
- Intended for DJ Aerotech's Roadkill kits but suitable for similar models.
- Size: 5 inches long, 0.185 inch in diameter; easy to hide inside the model.
- Designed specifically for 72 MHz receivers; provides the same range as a standard antenna (500 feet or more).
When making modifications to radio equipment, always perform a range check before flying.
The M72-6 Lightweight Antenna retails for $10.
DJ Aerotech: 719 Fisk St., Piqua OH 45356; Tel.: (937) 773-6772; Fax: (937) 773-9494; Web site: www.djaerotech.com
Twisters, Elbows, and Mufflers
Four-stroke engines offer advantages—lower noise, fuel economy, high torque—but their exhaust headers and mufflers often stick out at awkward angles, requiring large cowl cutouts.
Performance Specialties offers a system of angled exhaust headers and mufflers to position the exhaust where needed.
- Replacement elbows: available in 30-, 45-, 75-, and 90-degree versions to fit most installations.
- Twister: replaces the standard exhaust header and allows the muffler to rotate through 150°, then lock in the desired position.
Compatibility: available for O.S. 70, 91, and 120; YS 53, 63, 91, 120, and 140; and Saito 65, 80, 91, 100, 120, 150, and 180 engines.
Note: These systems do not work with the stock muffler; they require Performance Specialties mufflers.
- Performance Specialties muffler with angled elbow: $54.95.
- Twister/muffler combo: $64.95.
Performance Specialties: Box 3146, Gardnerville NV 89410; Tel.: (775) 265-7523; Fax: (775) 265-7522; Web site: www.pspec.com
GWS Park Flyer Retracts
Park flyers have evolved into many great-flying kits. GWS introduces Park Flyer Retracts to advance park-flyer realism.
- Weight: slightly more than one-tenth of an ounce.
- Includes: six-inch landing-gear strut, ultralightweight wheels, servo-actuated retract mechanism.
- Requires: a submicroservo (sold separately).
Installation overview:
- Cut a small groove in the wing deep enough for the mechanism to fit flush.
- Secure the mechanism with four screws.
- Make wing cutouts for the wheel and strut as needed.
- Run a pushrod to each retract.
The whole setup can be done in less than 15 minutes.
The GWS retract system retails for $9.99.
Horizon Hobby Distributors: 4105 Fieldstone Rd., Champaign IL 61822; Tel.: (800) 338-4639; Web site: www.horizonhobby.com
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
