Eclipse Experiences

[Don McCullough]

Steve, thanks for point me to the discussion thread. Great details on
your modifications and construction. After looking at the kit online, I
was thinking along the lines of your comments below - CF gear and tubes.

 
Don
 
-----Original Message-----
From: discussion-request at nsrca.org [mailto:discussion-request at nsrca.org]
On Behalf Of Steve & Cindy Kessler
Sent: Sunday, February 29, 2004 6:14 AM
To: discussion at nsrca.org
Subject: Re: Eclipse Experiences
 
Don,
 
I have two Eclipses (#2 Eclipse is under construction) and one Fantasy.
My #1 Eclipse now has less than 15 flights.  I had a fellow FAI flyer go
thru the new FAI pattern with it.  I fly masters.  We both have Smaragds
as our main planes.  We both agree the Eclipse flies every bit as good
as my Smaragd-z with one minor exception.  The Eclipse has a little less
frontal area on the fuse and does not slow down as quickly as the
Smaragd.  I think I'll be able to make adjustments in my flying to
compensate.  Snaps and rolling maneuvers are identical to the Smaragd.
In fact, I simply used my Smaragd throws and transmitter settings on the
Eclipse.  I only had to make adjustments on the snap settings.  All
other aspects fell into place.
 
The basic kit is only $499.  This is a steal considering the wings come
sheeted.  All of my kits have had excellent fiberglass and sheeting
quality.  The fuse is some three to four ounces heaver than a Smaragd.
I compensate by substituting Bolly landing gear,  BPG CF wing tube.  I
do also use the ES CF pipes.  All in all, I am able to build the plane
at 10# - 0oz to 10# - 3oz.  This compares to my Smaragd at 10# - 1oz.
Why pay $1200 to $1600 for a Smaragd or Partner kit when you can have
two to three Eclipses for the same cost.
 
I have started a thread on RCUniverse on "Eclipse building tips".  There
are some photos posted of modifications I have made.  I plan to use the
Eclipse in the 2004 Masters pattern wars and see if my fortunes can
improve.  I give the Eclipse two thumbs up.
 
Steve Kessler
 
----- Original Message ----- 
From: Don McCullough <mailto:donald_mccullough at hotmail.com>  
To: discussion at nsrca.org 
Sent: Sunday, February 29, 2004 2:45 AM
Subject: Eclipse Experiences
 
After seeing the ad for the A Model Eclipse in the latest K Factor, it
seems like a good candidate - and priced right. Anyone out there have
any experience with the plane or the kit?
 
Don McCullough
NSRCA 1520
 
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