OK I just flew the Fiberglass Skywalker for the first time today. Here is a list of the components I used on this plane including the weight of the plane. Also attached is a screen shot of the Castle Data log from the ESC. The reason I am posting this information is because of what I think is some misinformation on the power requirements for this plane. I have went with a smaller size motor than what is listed on the H.K. site and am very happy with the performance. It looks like the power required for a nice cruising speed (estimated 40mph) is low, approximately 100 watts. I am very pleased with this set up and the take off power is sufficient. I will be testing many more propellers in the future, when it warms up. I have attached the Data log and one picture of the plane. If you wish to see any other pictures of this plane just let me know and I will try to get them here ASAP.
Looking forward to your comments and suggestions.
Conditions today - Altitude 1230ft, Temp 15 deg F, wind 4-5 mph west. Runway east-west, today because of the snow in the grass was a gravel road. There was Ice and some snow on the road.
Motor- AXI 2814/16 1035 kv
ESC - Castle Ice light 50
Battery - For test flights only T.P. 3S 2250 45C (2) parallel. Actual flight packs will be TP6600-3SPL25 (2) parallel. For testing I added weights to equal the 6600 packs.
Prop - AeroNaut 10-7 electric this is the only prop I have tested so far. I have APC props, and some Xoar 3 blade props to test.
Servos - Hitec 65HB ailerons and flaps, HS 82MG rudder and elevator. After the first flights I will be changing out the rudder servo for lighter one. The rudder movement required on this plane is minor and it could use to loose weight in the tail.
Landing gear/wheels - Stock tricycle gear was used. 3" main wheels used. 2" wheel on front. Main gear needs support to prevent bending. I will solder on some washers and install X brace cables/springs to keep from bending the wires.
Weight - 6lb 7oz Lots of added weight to the nose to get the balance at 3" from leading edge of the wing.
Take off distance - 35' +/- I did not measure this but I am close. Climb out was good at 100% power
Landing speed - 15-25 mph Again not measured just a close guess. With the flaps @ about 5/8" deflection this does give the plane a stable nose up altitude at about 1/4 throttle. When the throttle is cut the plane slows quickly. Short fields will not be a problem with this plane.
Flight performance - Stable flight, predictable plane with a trainer like feel.
Replies
Ryan,
Thanks for the report.
Looks like your TO power was about 350 watts, and your density altitude must have been very low at 15 degrees F. I would think at my altitude, and thinking of summer temps, I'd still want to set it up for at least 500 watts.
You said you added weight to balance, and then also said you added weight to equal the weight of your intended battery. Did it take more weight than the equivalent of the 6600 packs?