Warbirds-RC.com

Build Articles
Bench Tests
Hints & Tips
Flight Reviews

News Feed

Last Updated: January 10, 2008 - 09:28:40 PM

HET-RC - F-15 ARF
By Eddie Rutledge
May 01, 2007 - 02:32:16 AM

Email this article
Printer friendly page

INTRODUCTION:

My fascination with aviation started when I was a child. My father spent thirty years in the USAF. I spent quite a bit of time on the flight line. I started flying electric radio controlled airplanes about two years ago. My first plane was an electric foam airplane. I quickly realized I was not going to be able to fill my desire for speed and performance with this type of aircraft. So I started my online research to fill this desire.

This is where I learned the difference between an ARF (almost ready to fly), EDF (electric ducted fan), ARC (almost ready to cover), and a kit. I have a very time demanding job so the ARF EDF is for me. I Ordered the HET-F-15 from Warbirds-RC. First I had the Sniper, second the HET-F-18 Hornet, third was the HET-F-16. These planes went together like a hand in a glove. It took me quite a while to get the right set up for performance that I think a jet should have (Vertical).

SETUP:

I know from previous planes, I wanted to run at a minimum of five cell lithium polymer batteries. You need a motor that can support the watts this puts out. The Typhoon 2W-25 works great or something comparable. I used 2X 5S2500 mah batteries, one for each motor. My flight times are about 4 to 5 minutes depending on throttle management.

TAKE OFF:

I use the bungee launch system with guided rails. The biggest mistake I have made with the bungee is not measuring the wind direction. I own a windsock now. The F-15 needs a good bit of force to get it flying. I use two thirty-three foot bungee cords next to each other. I stretch them out a little over a 100 feet. This catapults my plane up nicely.

FLIGHT:

This is where the f-15 fun begins. It sounds so cool with both fans screaming. The roll rate is fantastic with this aircraft. I can start rolling at the beginning of the field and get at least three to four rolls without loosing altitude by the time I pass myself. I can literally take my hands off the stick in straight level flight. I don’t recommend it though! The f-15 does nice loops and pulls out of the dive like a champ. Here is my favorite maneuver. I get some altitude and go pretty far out. I will dive at full throttle towards the end of the field and level out. I do one roll then pull into a loop, and then at the bottom of the loop, I will begin barrel rolls flying away from me.

LANDING:

The f-15 slows very well for landing. If you are considering an EDF as a first plane, I would suggest you get a computer program that can teach you how to fly these fast planes before you learn the way I did. I hope I have given some insight for anyone considering this plane.

If you have any questions about the HET-RC - F-15 ARF, feel free to contact me at: eddie@warbirds-rc.com .

Top of Page