Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / June 2004

I got a Tipsy when they first came out 2½ years ago, as my first ever
RC plane and learned to fly on it.
              It always flew 'OK' but not a barn burner with that high
revving shallow pitch prop. I assumed Graupner had optimized the prop to
the plane. NOT!
                Four months ago I got the bright idea of trying a
higher pitch prop, a Gunther 4.9X4.3, otherwise known as the 'Wingo'
prop (also used on Zagis). The plane was totally transformed! It
acquired a phenomenal climb rate, would loop from level flight, and ROG
off asphalt using just a belly skid. The motor is the stock 280. I had
been concerned the higher pitch would stress the motor, but so far there
is no sign of stress and it is barely warm on landing. The plane will
cruise at much lower throttle, with the motor just ticking over. Whereas
before, it took high throttle with the prop wailing away just to
maintain altitude.
                I'm careful to use high throttle only briefly, for
takeoff, climbout, accelerating to loop, and brief speed runs.
Continuous high throttle is never called for. The plane is flown an hour
or more just about every day. It has now acquired permanent landing gear
and steerable tail wheel, and is a pure joy to fly.
                    One caveat is the plane is extremely fragile, and
from the outset requres considerable beefing up with packing tape.
                    I can't imagine Graupner's rationale for using (and
continuing to use) that silly, rediculous folding prop which hugely
impairs the plane's performance.
               Bill (oc)