Stevens Aero Edge-540

[John Weekes]

I have been so impressed with the look and flight performance of the Edge-540s by Stevens Aero that Dave Rees and Tom Hastie are flying, that I ordered one myself.

Man, the computerized engineering and laser cutting technology is unprecedented and has ruined me for just about any other kit. I used to think that the engineering, laser cutting, and parts fit of the Sig Somethin' Extra was state-of-the-art (and it is)...however, the jigsaw puzzle type of parts fit of the Edge is really very cool. You simply can't mix any parts up...they only go together in a certain way.

In principle, this kit should almost fall together...and it does...however, as usual, I've gotten bogged down with finishing and detail work and it has taken me a while to complete this project.

I'm hoping to have it ready to test fly this week at the ORCC field (maybe Wednesday night). I'll post pics soon. The colour scheme isn't really very inspired...but because the model is so well designed you don't use much filler...and the woodwork is good after a few swipes of 220 grit sandpaper to receive covering. Really!

Here are the specs on the gear I am using:

Hacker A30
Phoenix 45
Li-Power 2100mah
Microlite covering (Coverite?)
HS-81MG ailerons
Blue Bird (Purple) ele/rud (a few more oz of torque than the HS-55)

Not sure of the final weight (still installing the tailfeathers)...

Thanks to Dave and Tom for their excellent advice and feedback...and for continually pestering me to get this project completed!

Based on my experience building this model, I would highly recommend Stevens Aero products...awesome! :D :D

John

[Tom Hastie]

Do you have the 12x6 prop on the motor?
These electrics are seriously overpowered compared to their glow bretheren. It's compounded by the fact that they're built light and don't like vibration. Double checking the balance of your propeller is a good idea. And, full throttle should be reserved for when the aircraft is pointed upwards :D

Also, where's your CG? I personally like mine a little further forward than Dave, about a "finger-width" forward of the forward aileron servo screw. (My edge had a bit of an oopsie on its maiden when it didn't recover from a spin as fast as I was expecting... aft-CG and over confidence was the culprit I believe).

Lookin' forward to Wednesday night. Dave and I will hafta bring ours out for a "family portrait".

Tom

[John Weekes]

Yes, I'm using the same prop as you and Dave (APC 12x6e).

Not sure about CG let...haven't balanced the model yet.

Total weight (including battery): 34.25oz. ...Beyond the 26-30oz range specified by SA.

John

[Sev Fontaine]

I can't wait to see it John. I'm looking at getting a SA kit soon as well. Probably at NEAT.

[Tom Hastie]

34.25oz. ...Beyond the 26-30oz range specified by SA.

I'm pretty sure that's where mine is too. I must use lotsa CA, cause I always seem to come out well above the quoted weights on my SA planes too.


Don't worry about a couple extra ounces. If anything, sometimes I kinda wish the plane was a touch heavier. It's still less than half the weight of your Somethin' Extra :)

Tom

[John Weekes]

Here are pics of the growing fleet of Stevens Aero Edge-540s in the ORCC. Now that I've sorted out the servo problems (stripped gears on the elevator), I've had mine out to fly several times now.

I can attest to the fact that these are AWESOME flyers...and I would really encourage anyone interested in building/flying electrics of this size to give them a try...if your experience even comes close to mine, you will not be disappointed!!!!

John

[John Weekes]

Tom, I'm having difficulty posting my pics...can you put up your "pics from the Edge"?

Thanks...

John

[Tom Hastie]

Here ya go...

Hope these pics aren't to Edgey for some viewers.

*falls out of chair laughing*

Tom