Parkzone T28 - yes or no !

[Delta7]

Hi All, seeking your wisdom here please!
I've been flying helis for about 6 months now, but was thinking of buying a fixed wing too, that of the Parkzone T28 Trojan. I use Phoenix flight sim and can fly most fixed wing models safely, I heard the T28 should not be for a beginner, but do you think this would be a suitable choice for me? Having said that, I've been put off this model by comments about the esc & bec burning out, and causing the plastic gears to melt etc, appreciate you comments on that too, or any other model suggestions I should be considering. Ideally, I want a large ARTF, with all the gear except TX & RX. Thanks in advance for any tips!

[ralphp]

welcome to the forum!....
To be honest you'll find there are pro's and cons for flight sims (I personally haven't used them....due to pc's being in there nappies when I started!)LOL

If you're up for some fun and believe you can handle slightly more than a novice.....i'd go for a Spit (due to flight carictoristics, she can float a bit as well as race around once you get the feel)

I'd look at the T28 after that...but as all will say "up to you" as for the rx side i'd put a question in to Rad or bulli (they know the black arts of the "black box")

toddle pip old bean and happy flying!

[Anthony]

I've got a Cub, Spitfire, Mustang and FW190 from the parkzone range but I now want something with a rudder so that I can do stall turns and spins.. I was thinking of getting an ARTF Edge 540 or Extra 260. How does the T28 stack up against those two? :)

[Radweld]

The Extra and the Edge are stunt planes with large control surfaces to facilitate quick handling, the T28 is a war bird with a flat bottom wing. The T28 is a great plane, I have one myself. It's probably the best model in my hanger, the most reliable and the most flown. Although not as nimble as the stunt planes, the T28 can do all the maneuvers, Knife Edge, Stall turns, Waterfalls are all possible.

The stock motor and ESC is fine, the older models had a 25A ESC but the new version has a 30A ESC with Switch Mode BEC, if you going to get one, have a look inside the box for confirmation (still says 25A on the box) It's a Brushless out runner so there is no gearbox. It will break in a crash and I have crashed mine but the parts are cheap and it still is a tough old bird.

I like the T28, I recently bought an Xray stunt plane but find the handling far too twitchy so when ever I have time to fly, I take the T28

[Anthony]

Arr thanks, so the T28 does all the manouvers then... I can't decide which plane to buy. It's just that it looks a bit odd with it's wheels constantly down, and I'd really like something that can go vertical and roll quickly. Then I decide that I would like a ducted fan but i heard that they need a catapult which puts me off. I dont know what to do. :D

[ralphp]

If you like duckted there are a few that arn't cat launch....like the A10 warthog....but build quality has a question mark over it!

[Radweld]

If you want something fast thats got huge vertical capability then you want a Stryker C. I have a Stryker B with a Brushless upgrade and this is trmendous fun to fly. Although the noise of the prop can be heard upto 1/2 mile away so not a stealth plane lol.

[Anthony]

Ooo I was thinking of a Stryker C, but I couldn't see them for sale on this website... not sure I like the look of it or not anyway, but it does sound like a lot of fun! :D

[Radweld]

Stryker is a great plane, lots of fun. I have a B thats got a brushless and it always entertains.

[Delta7]

So back to my main question, would the T28 (with 30amp esc!) be suitable for me as a beginner, being well versed on the sim (Phoenix). For helis I found the sim a lot harder than the real thing ! So it help me a lot!

[Radweld]

Get a supercub for your first plane, once you mastered this you can jump upto the T28 but where the cub is calm and forgiving, the T28 isnt.

[Delta7]

Isn't the Supercub 3 channels? I really want 4, any other rececommendations?

[gavj8]

Arr thanks, so the T28 does all the manouvers then... I can't decide which plane to buy. It's just that it looks a bit odd with it's wheels constantly down, and I'd really like something that can go vertical and roll quickly. Then I decide that I would like a ducted fan but i heard that they need a catapult which puts me off. I dont know what to do. :D

I would also recommend the Stryker. Can roll on a perfect axis and very nimble. I also have the B with my own brushless motor and electrics. As for a hand launch ducted fan, i have the Phase 3 EF16. Easy to build, launch and will pull 70 - 80 mph stock!

[Radweld]

Isn't the Supercub 3 channels? I really want 4, any other rececommendations?

Did you turn on wind etc on Pheonix, flying for real is usually harder than that a basic Sim but if you think you can handle it then a T28 will do you fine. There is no gearbox in them, they use brushless out runner motors. Some people complain the ESC is weak, usualy after they replace the servos for quicker ones (go figure)

The radio is junk though, the stock RX is rubbish so if you get one, also order a dual channel RX to replace the stock one. I used 2.4Ghz Spektrum on mine.

All in all a great model.

[Anthony]

I would also recommend the Stryker. Can roll on a perfect axis and very nimble. I also have the B with my own brushless motor and electrics. As for a hand launch ducted fan, i have the Phase 3 EF16. Easy to build, launch and will pull 70 - 80 mph stock!


Ooo the EF 16 looks like fun!! :D

I see on the list of parts needed to complete it says "Radio: 3 or more channel transmitter with elevon mixing (or separate mixer) with receiver"... I was just wondering; are there specific transmitters designed for elevon mixing? The only ones I've seen are the standard ones that operate the servos seperatley.

[ralphp]

Radio 3? and I thought this was a faster bird???? more like local radio or Radio 1? LOL!!!!
sorry guys had to be done!.....I'll get me coat!

[IntruderWithin]

Well my pennies worth. I bought the CUB 1st (end of July) as I never flew before (I will fly one day no matter how many times I crash). Flew, crashed and re-built. Then I wanted the Spit:D. That lasted few flights:mad: went back to the CUB loaded the Spit gear into it changed settings and really learnt to fly straight, in the wind, and landings. I have the Real Flight 4 and try and pratice as much as I can. Last month I bought the Mini XT Pulse 3 flights and crash in a tree:eek:. Back to my CUB (like an AK47). This week got my T-28. Pratice on the SIM using the T-28 model.

Flight day yesterday: 13h00 : T28 took off from the ground nicely but i did not take it high enough and wind was stronger than expected (heart rushing, controls more sensitive than the SIM and CUB). Landed 8 min later no damage. 2nd flight at 15h00: Nice take-off up high and off we go for some flying (controls are very sensitive and one mistake could cost you). 8 min later landed. Today flight 3 and 4: up and away few turns , rolls at high levels. Good landings. SIMs dont ever give you the real feeling but great for learning to take off and landings (setting up approach).

The CUB is still best option, once you believe you are ready (usually after 2 flights hehehehe as we believe, but seriously few days even weeks of flying) get the T-28 it is great. ;)

Regards

D

[IntruderWithin]

Sorry last thing: Listen to the people in the forum they have helped me so much and I have gained so much insight.

Thanks all:)

[Delta7]

Sure will, thanks all - just to confirm though, the cub is only 3 channels?
I use phoenix sim and now turned the wind on, sure it makes it hard to land, etc, but I managed it with a few tip overs after landing, it was great for me learning to fly helis......

[IntruderWithin]

Hi

A 3-channel radio system that makes it easier for pilots who are new to RC to teach themselves how to fly with a 3-channel airplane, thanks to ACT. Additionally, the third channel allows for pitch control so that pilots can make tighter turns and have a wider range of maneuvers, as well as the option to make pitch trim adjustments while the plane is in the air

Two flight modes - ACT can be left on or turned off to allow pilots to be able to learn with ACT and then fly without it, once experienced, to do more advanced aeroabatic flying

A powerful 480 motor that offers great climb rate and power, and is more powerful than most motors on other teach-yourself-to-fly planes

Also look at the SUPER CUB forum

http://supercubclub.proboards78.com/ also youtube type SuperCub.:cool:

Hope it helps you decide.

[Radweld]

Sure will, thanks all - just to confirm though, the cub is only 3 channels?
I use phoenix sim and now turned the wind on, sure it makes it hard to land, etc, but I managed it with a few tip overs after landing, it was great for me learning to fly helis......

If you think you can fly it, a Corsair or a T28 will be great. Either of these with a DX6i added can help a lot because the DX6i has Expodential. The effectively dulls the controls around the centers but still gives you full rates when you need them. This option just helps to smooth out the controls a little.

The T28 radio shouldnt be trusted, it's a shame they don't sell it here PnP because the first thing you should do is replace the radio. Other than that, its a tough old bird. I recently crashed mine quite badly, stalled Inverted and she went down like a brick, only damage was prop, cowl and motor mount, about £15 to put right. When you learning you need something that can take the odd nock, the T28 sure can.

[IntruderWithin]

Yeah I got 8 flights now on the T-28. One bad landing cracked the plastic part that connects the wheel on the wing. Anyway, fixed that.

I have a DX6i and will change as suggested what Expodential rates do you suggest 30% (for low rate learning)? I really think the controls should be less sensitive in my opion.

[Delta7]

Just to clarify again - sorry, the supercub is only 3 channels even with ACT? I want to go straight for 4 channels, Rudder, Elevator, Ailerons & throttle. I have a 6 channel TX for helis & aircraft.

Which would you recommend over the corsair or the T28, or any other 4 channel edging on the beginner side, although I feel pretty confident given my heli experience! :eek: I read the spit maybe good to.....I have 4 x 2200mah 3 cell lipos, for helis and ideally want to use those in a fixed wing!

[Anthony]

Yep the Supercub is 3 channels... throttle, elevator and rudder. I'm not sure about the comparison between the T28 and F4 having never flown either of them. However I have ordered an F4 so I shall be able to report back on how it compares to the Spit and P51 shortly! Ha :D

If you feel willing to spend £215 on something that you may stick in the ground then go for an F4, but really I'd say get a cub if you're feeling cautious or a Spit if you feel ready for ailerons, as I dont think a rudder makes much difference to normal flying. :)

[Delta7]

Good advice - thanks, but that's why I was looking at the T28, a foamie, with 4 channels and available for around £120 - £140, really put off by the reports of the esc burning out though. I think I will look at the spit if it is a full 4 channels.........

[IntruderWithin]

Iwould also say a Spit if you are going to byass the CUB and want 4 channel. Keep us posted on how you progress.


Anthony, who makes the F4? is it ducted fan?

[Anthony]

Haha noo the new F4 Corsair... not a Phantom, although if there was a Parkzone F4 Phantom I'd be very interested! :D

The Spitfire is only 3 channles too; it makes do without a rudder.

[Delta7]

Well, that's it then, I'll go with the T28, do they sell them now with the 30amp controller or is it with the dodgy 25amp one still? I will of course rip the radio out, and installed an FSST 2.4ghz Rx to go with my 6EX Tx.

[IntruderWithin]

Mine came with the 30amp.

I'm on 16 flights and going strong. This thing is very fast. Take off, go high (when you have some hight you have at least a little more time to act) reduce power to about 65-70% and circle around get used to the controls and land around 7 - 8 min. This thing comes in fast until you know how to flare (took me to flight 12 or so).

I have not changed my remote yet and dont intend to until I'm able to fly at high rates with confidence.

Good luck:cool:

[Delta7]

Thanks Intruder......damn wind has got up now, and looks like to remain, missed 2 glorious days to fly my heli's this weekend due to her indoors, and having to do boring maintenance around the house ! doh!:mad: Update all when I get the bird!

[Radweld]

Good advice - thanks, but that's why I was looking at the T28, a foamie, with 4 channels and available for around £120 - £140, really put off by the reports of the esc burning out though. I think I will look at the spit if it is a full 4 channels.........

There is nothing wrong with the 25A ESC, when you get your model just make sure the heat sink isnt covered in the silicone they use to secure it to the fuse, this can cause them to overheat. All new T28's should have the 30A esc now anyway.

[Delta7]

Cheapest I found so far is £119

anyone found better ! ?:)

[Radweld]

You should always buy from Squadron Leader for the after sales support. Most of these cheap on-line places won't care less when you have a problem.

[Delta7]

I don't think thats a very good statement in that you should always buy from squadron leader! (You must work or be on commission for them), but I do take your point, and for the sake of a tenner difference, I will truely consider it! Would you (SL) sell one (T28) with a 30a ESC and no TX, I don't really want another cheapie TX cluttering up my shed! ?

Also, would there be any problems running a 2200mah lipo on this, that I use in my helis?

Thanks.

[ralphp]

Delta.....

Myself, Rad and Bulli (all common posting persons) are NOT on commision or members of SQ.

And I must admit unless you use a "local model shop" that knows you, SQ tend to be the most helpfull and carefull of your order/sale.

Also we all post to hopefully "HELP" and "ADVISE" newbes....and pick up tricks and hints are selves (i've been model making in several areas for over 30 years and learn every day!)

On the back of that we act as moderaters (for FREE) to ensure the forum is a frendly non theatening place...free of GEEKS....well yes I'll admit to being a geek, but NOT in these pages! anyway back to my rivet counting!

Rant over....where are my pill's nurse!

[IntruderWithin]

As a beginner and gaining most of my tips and tricks from this forum (and now flying my T-28) I think that people should not get into price wars. SL sell good product at fair prices (sometimes lower than RC shops and when you see the sale items) the service has been top noch and it is only fair since SL host the forum we should not make links to other sale sites. :cool:

Tip gained here is pounds saved later;)

[SquadronLeader]

I'm welling up guys.......:o

Thanks for the kind words. It's nice to know The Squadron has support from a lot of you.

As most businesses understand (particularly those that want to survive!), it's not all about the lowest price. Whilst we aim to be competitive, there are a few retailers out there that like to rip the arse out of the margins. We at Squadron Leader prefer to offer a more rounded service that offers great support, information, enthusiasm and products at a reasonable price.

If there are further improvements that you feel should be made, suggestions are always welcome.

Thanks once again,

The Squadron.

[Radweld]

Yeah, I would be enclined to agree with that. I don't buy all my stuff from SL but I do buy my parts for my Parkzone stuff from there. I do so because the price is usually good and their delivery has always been good.

[ralphp]

Intro....

I don't think most of us are worried about other links, it's due to the lack of help when things go wrong on "on line ordering" (as most of us have found!) We all enjoy a larf and joke (which this must be viewed as!)....but not at the expense of others.....unless you paint your plane pink ow er? but boy was that a fun couple of posts!:eek:

As Im building an unproven Lanc at the same scale as a PZ Spit.....I'm sure to cover a distant fild or two in foam after launch, I leave myself open to the odd larf (but expect no less!):D

[Delta7]

Decided to go straight for a 4 channel and have ordered a Wilga 2000. Looks nice and stable, a trainer type too, and different from others I seen, yes I know agaisnt the advice and not from Squadron Leader! but it was brought in the UK for £70 odd! Will post some pics and specs soon, done a google on it which I know I should have done first, but I got a bit fed up reading and getting conflicting advice on various forums I've read for most models ! Got some tips from you - tube on mods for it, like adding a steerable tail wheel for taxining for example.
Hopefully it will be here tomorrow, and I am planning to give it a go on Sunday! ( Wheather permitting !)

[Dizzee Rascal]

I'm welling up guys.......:o
If there are further improvements that you feel should be made, suggestions are always welcome.

I only wish you would read your PM's!

[Delta7]

Are you referring to me to read my PM's ?

Specs for Wilga 2000:
Specification
Wingspan: 1160mm (45.7")
Fuselage total length: 888mm (35")
Wing loading: 35g/sq.dm (12.3 oz/sq. in)
Main wing area: 16.82 sq.dm (260.7 sq. in)
Flying weight: land plane: 550g (19.4 oz.) float plane:600g (21.2 oz.)
Motor: 290ED motor with decelerator.
ESC: 15A Brush ESC
Propeller: 8 x 6 three-bladed propeller
Battery: 9.6v 1000MAH NiMH battery (Land plane), 11.1V 1200MAH Li-polymer battery (Float plane)
R/C system: PPM-FM 4 channel proportional R/C system

[ralphp]

Dizze....you sound upset mate? what are you going on about? have you been posting and not getting responces?????

confused dot com!

pip pip old bean flaps to full!

[Delta7]

Well after a straight forward build of about an hour, and a bit of my own design of strengthening the stabilizer fin, I flew the Wilga 2000, 4 or 5 circuits straight from a tarmac road and pulled of a very smooth landing on grass parrallel to the road! She flew very easily and I had to use a lot of elevator to keep the nose down, so after trimming a bit, I took off again, and even pulled a first loop and landed on grass again. Not bad considering this was my first fixed wing flight and straight onto 4 channels, the Phoenix flight sim definately helped a lot! (This was on my 7 channel Tx rather than using the one that came with the plane, although it did look very solid, I was a bit worried about the 300yrd range it quoted so hence I use my own FF7 that I use on my Raptor Heli). Next day I flew in 12 - 15 mph wind, and into the wind it was almost just hung there with a bit of power on! Very pleased with this model although I did break a prop trying to take of in this stronger wind, luckily it came with a spare, and I hand launched from then on! I Recommed this as cheap 4 channel trainer! If you have sim time and can land, then why bother with a 3 channel cub !

[scrog10]

So back to my main question, would the T28 (with 30amp esc!) be suitable for me as a beginner, being well versed on the sim (Phoenix). For helis I found the sim a lot harder than the real thing ! So it help me a lot!

My first plane was the T28. I was a bit shaky the first few flights but by the 10th I was doing rolls loops and stalls. I had a bit of heli time previous to the plane but I was no expert.

I reccomended the Trojen T28 to a friend and complete novice. He's doing well so far. Maybe 10 flights with no misshaps.

I think the T28 is easier to fly than the Focker Wulf because it has more power and it is alot more manouverable. Plus it has wheels. Taxiing. takeoff and landing are just as much fun as loops and rolls. :)