3 Meter Fox Sailplane Tips: Solo launch mode, field assembly and prop replacement
I have come to really like flying the giant scale 3 meter Fox but struggled with launching it consistently without help when I was the only one at the field. This video is mostly about setting up a consistent fool-proof self-launch mode using mixes, flaps settings and flight modes. You can adapt for use with any hand-launched model!
I set it up as Safe on for level wings and up elevator, partial flaps, for automatic climb. A gentle toss and full power into any wind will safely achieve hands-off climbing level flight. If you want more initial climb simply increase the elevator deflection. Two switch settings at launch, Safe On and flaps to Launch Mode, are required.
Note that this setup includes separate aileron servos, not a Y-cable. I did that to get some landing flaps crow. If you are using a Y-cable it simplifies the setup, but you will not have crow.
I also show how to get the tail servo leads retracted into the fuselage and a tip on prop blade replacement.
At the end there are short launches and landing videos.
The receiver is the AR637T and ESC is a Smart Avian 60 Amp. Everything else is as-supplied with the FMS Fox kit.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro Splash screen
00:08 Intro talk
04:44 Assembly
12:48 Servo travel setting
13:11 Sub trim
14:06 Servo reversing
15:07 Rates and Expo
16:31 Flaps settings
17:53 Mixes
19:59 Battery selection and balance
20:36 Thermaling and flaps setting overview
23:26 Detailed thermal mix results
26:40 Prop blade replacement tip
28:56 Wrap-up
31:26 Launch #1
31:53 Landing
32:21 Launch #2
32:41 End splash screen