[twostroke]

For a 50 cc gas ARF, I would suggest the new 86" QQ Yak. These planes ( as far as an ARF goes) are of top quality and are awesome in all aspects - 3D or precision flight. This airframe will do it all. It is also very steady and stable for relaxed flight if you are a first time gas pilot.



I would run either JR of Futaba electronics - at least 9 channel radio and PCM receiver with either JR or Hi-Tech high strength digital servos. I would run Dura-Lite or Fromeco battery systems. DA or 3W engine. I would not mess with smoke or cannister mufflers when just starting out.

As far as maintenance, there isn't much to do on the engine after breakin except keeping things clean and storing in a dry environment. Break in varies but I would say on average of 5 to 8 gallons of fuel. Break in on standard ashless 2 Cycle oil, then switch to synthetic 2 cycle oil after break in. Mix oil heavier for break in then less after but you would go by engine manufacture specs on that.

As far as engine life, every gas engine I have owned has always outlived the air frame they were on and I am still using the original engines I first bought. They will last a long time with proper jetting, mixing of oil, and use.

A used set up as I have described above (minus the TX and RX) I have seen go for as little as $1200 to $2600. Just depends on age, usage, shape its in etc.



I would have to agree with airriley, I would stay away from any Hanger 9 gas sized ARFS. I have not seen very good results with durability and longevity in their ARFS. THey fly okay, but have not proven to me to stay together well over the long term. JMO.

In your question about should an intermediate glow pilot step up to gas, all I can say is once you go gas, you'll never go back and it is also true - bigger is better. Gas is cheaper than glow fuel as well.



Hope this helps.

Here is the link to the site:

http://www.somenzini.com/html/aircraft/yak86.html

When you decide on a project, please post and let us know how it is going!

Good luck!