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I’d like to find out about the top AMA gas designs. What are the best of class and where can I find palns or kits for same?
This is a difficult question to answer. Currently, AMA gas features both locked down models (Classic Gas) and fully automated designs. These two classes have different types of models. Also, the models are in different sizes, from smaller 1/2A to large D class. I think it might be easier to answer the question if you could indicate both the class you intend to fly and the probable size of model you are looking at building.
In any event, the answer will vary with the person providing the information.
The two places to look for kits are: Campbell’s Kustom Kits and BMJR. These are pretty much the only kit sellers left for free flight models. Some models kits or at least parts can be found at FAI Model Supply.
Bob StalickIn the smaller AMA Gas categories, it is pretty hard to beat the Maverick, designed many years ago by Tom Hutchinson. It can be flown with Cyklon engines (may need a bit of beefing up in the wing) and performs very well. This kit is still available from Campbell, I believe. Others may have it for sale, too. Sometimes I see them on Ebay.
As for other models that are kitted, I am unable to give you much advice. There are a number of excellent free flight plans available:
The Pilfered Pearl, available in many different sizes, is used by a large number of AMA gas fliers. I have several from 300 sq. in. all the way up to 711 sq. in. Plans are available from NFFS and from the designer, Jay Jackson.
I also like the AstroStar, which was published in Model Aviation some years back. Terry Thorkildson designed it, and I believe it is availabe in several sizes, although the article was for the 600 sq. in. version. Plans from AMA.
For high-zoot models with VIT and the like, look at some of the back issues of NFFS Digest and/or Model of the Year winners in the various Symposia.
Norm Poti had a very nice B ship a few years back in Model Aviation, plans from AMA.
Maybe these will get you started. If I can be of any more help, let me know.
Bob StalickThe Maverick is a potent machine. If you want a bit larger plane, the Pilfered Pearl is certainly easy to cut parts for. I am a fan of ‘Marval’ ,plans available from NFFS plans service. I now have it for 1/2A @ 270″, B 560″, C 725″.
BMJR has a kit for Jaysbird 1/2A @ 250″. It will handle a BigMig 06. It might handle a AME 06. Of course, Ronnie could make it handle a Conquest 15!
Kits are not being produced. That’s just the reality of it.
Dan,
Where did you get the plans for the Marval 725?
Hi Dan,
Thanks for the info……That’s what I was planning to do as well. I think the Marval would be ideal for Classic with a combo .29/35 for both of the bigger classes.
I’ve been pretty happy with the Marval. If you build the bigger ones, forget that tha plans show a multispar option. It needs the D-box construction. Its a long wing.
I have found that with my trim setup it is very speed sensitive. If I launch it with a rich setting, it won’t stay on pattern and will shut down with a straight up attitude and then lose a BUNCH of altitude. A tough lesson.
If you run a 29/35 combo, you’ll likely need to match them closely.
Dan,
Do you think there would be a better selection than the Marval for a Combo airplane then? I have been mulling over the Pilfered Pearl 711 as well doing a “D” box as you suggest.
Thanks, Randy
Hey, the Pilfered Pearl is certainly an excellent design. It would work for you. The 711 PP gets a KB 6.5 on a regular basis. The 29 you mention might be a bit ‘iffy’ in the power department. A 600″ JaysBird could be done for your combo. Its a Nostalgia design, but would be an interesting choice. I would alter the fuselage shape and structure as well as the stab construction.
Not many guys are flying a B-C ship to combine AB classic and CD classic into one plane. There’s a few guys w/049/051 to go 1/2A to AB. Keep us posted.
The 29/35 could work on the Marval, I just think you’d need to make some trim adjustments w/engine switch.
Dan
I just read the post from Dan Berry regarding the Jays Bird, and I think it is important to note that modifications to Nostalgia designs are generally not permitted…if you wish to fly the model in Nostalgia events. I suggest a good read ofthe Nostalgia rules here on the NFFS website to see what changes are permitted (d.t. location, for example) and which are not (fuselage modification, wing structure, for other examples).
Of course, if you are flying the JaysBird in AMA Gas, then it doesn’t matter. I believe a better choice for AMA Gas would be the Pilfered Pearl. The 711 for C and D, and the smaller 650 sq. in size for B or C.
Cheers,
Bob StalickThe mods I mentioned were definitly for AMA gas exclusivity. Its just a thought, I’ve not done it but am thinking of it.
I’m going with Ramrods in Nostalgia and have just started a 750 with a Fox Combat .35.
There are several B ships for the .21 size engine but not many plans available for the .29/.35 unless you scale things up or down. My son has a Marval 560 nearly completed and it is very nice. I thought it might be a good thing to try a different design.
The complicating factor is that we fly at altitude where engines typically deliver 12-15% less thrust depending on which expert you choose to believe. Also the MMM club flys combined AMA gas so for local monthlies it doesn’t matter much. But when we travel to compete we’ll be needing to adhere to class definitions and if we fly smaller models for the altitude adjustment here in Denver, the ship will be mighty hot at lower elevations. Fun!
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