This large scale Phoenix Spitfire ARF is constructed of laser cut balsa and ply and covered with a printed heat shrink film, that has many scale details. Complete with air retracts and a detailed cockpit that slides and operable side doors.
This page is a collection of all the information I can find, from the manufacturer and distributor as well as reading all the forum comments I can find. If you have purchased this model then I would love to hear your comments! You can contact me here
There is very few extras to buy! With pneumatic retracts included, the Phoenix Spitfire ARF is a REAL bargain! All the items listed here are from manufacturers or suppliers that I have used in the past, with good results and I do recommend you consider them for this project.
Radio: A minimum of 6 channels are required. 8 channels are prefered to allow a separate channel for the separate aileron and elevator servos, with mixing function. If 6 channels are used then two "Y" leads must be used.
Servos: Nine (9) standard size, high torque (Min of 100 oz. ins)- (2-elevator, 2-flap,1-rudder, 2-aileron, 1-throttle (Gas version only), 1-air valve control for retracts
Receiver battery: 6.0V NiMH, 2400mAh
Electric version
Brushless Motor: Great Planes Rimfire 50 cc or equivalent
ESC: Castle Creations Edge 160 HV or equivelant
Lipo battery: Two (2) 6S 5000mA
Propeller: 22" x 8"-26" x 10"
Gas version
Engine: 50-61cc gas 2-stroke
Fuel tank: If a replacement tank is desired then a 24 oz Dubro (DUBQ0224) with gasoline conversion kit (DUBQ0675) can be considered.
Before I buy a new plane, I find it very useful to take a look at the manual. Many questions can be answered by a quick scan.
This manual is easy to read and written in excellent English. There are no photographs but a ton of clear 3D and 2D drawings, that will take you step by step through the assembly process.
Not perfectly to scale. In fact it is hard to understand which mark of Spitfire is modeled.
Wheel diameter looks on the small side.
The finish is fuel proof but be careful of some solvents such as-CA glue,CA accelerator,CA debonder and acetone, especially on the printed areas of the covering. Always check in an inconspicuous spot to be sure.
At this point,I can see no mods necessary. This may change as time goes by and more people have experience with the Phoenix Spitfire ARF. I will keep this up to date.
I was just checking the Tower Hobbies site and came across this review by a flyer from Frisco Texas. This is the first review i have been able to locate and it looks very favourable!
★★★★★★★★★★4 out of 5 stars.· Oct 5 2017Phoenix Spitty
Great looking model. Went together well. Well worth the price. Flies well, lands easily. I think a DLE 55 RA would work as well (or better than the DLE 61). I used 61 with Pitts muffler and still had to chop up the cowl. Added 1 pound of weight up front - probably could have gotten by with a bit less weight. Retracts solid -- 3 flights so far - no major complaints. Oh, the spinner is plastic and vibrated badly, I threw it away and will buy a Dave Brown aluminum.
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✔Yes, I recommend this product.
There has been some criticism of the shape and the fact that it is not a particular mark of Spitfire.
The wheels are on the small side.
Many like the value for money, when compared to it's competitors.
The plastic spinner is not very robust and I recommend it be replaced with an aluminum one.
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