The Phoenix Models RC Stuka JU 87:1.20/20cc or Electric Power
This RC Stuka JU 87, by Phoenix Models, is a popular sized ARF (Almost Ready to Fly) model with a wing span of 75.2" (1910 mm). It is constructed of laser cut balsa and ply and covered with a printed material that include panel lines.
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I much prefer the ARF concept, with balsa an ply construction. I find this type, when compared to the popular foam models are far more durable and easier to repair.
Phoenix models are a Vietnamese company that have been producing ARF RC models for 25 years.
Tower Hobbies are now selling the Phoenix line. Tower have an enviable reputation for selling great models and looking after their customers, during and after the sale!
Features
- Can be glow engine or electric powered
- Top quality construction from laser cut balsa and ply
- Covered with a vinyl, printed covering that includes panel lines
- Full length cockpit with 2 pilots and instrument panel
- BIg hatch for easy lipo change and radio access
- Bolt on two-piece wing for easier transport
- Strong and light construction from balsa and ply
- Accurate scale outline
- Good flyer!
- Quality hardware package included
Specifications of the Phoenix Stuka JU 87
- Wingspan: 75.2" (1910 mm)
- Length: 60" (1522 mm)
- Flying weight: 10.8-11.9 lbs (4.9-5.4 kg)
- Wing area: 936.2 sq." (60.4 sq.dm)
- Wing loading: 26.54 oz./Sq. Ft. (81g/Sq. dm)
- Engine: 1.20cc 2-stroke or 1.40 4-stroke or 20 cc gas
- Electric motor:Rimfire 120 or equivalent (Brushless outrunner,1600-2200 Watts, 450 KV)
- Lipo battery: 5-6 cells, 5500-6000 mAh
- ESC: 120-160 Amp
Books
Parts Included
- 2-piece, bolt-on wing
- Finished fuselage with fin and rudder assembly
- Finished tailplane
- Painted fiberglass cowl
- Wheel pants
- Shock absorbing strut type landing gear
- Wheels
- Bombs
- Struts
- Tank
- Manual
- Hardware package
Extra Parts Required
- Radio:Minimum of a 6 channel
- Servos Required:9 (Nine) standard size servos-2-ailerons,4-flaps,1-rudder, 1-elevator, 1-throttle (Gas or glow model only)
- Receiver battery: 4.8-6V / 1200-2000mAh NiMH
- Motor (EP Version): Rimfire 120 or equivalant
- Electric Speed Control: 120A-160A
- Lipo Battery: 5-6 cells / 5500 – 6000mAh
- Propeller (EP version): 22 x 8E to 26 x 10E
- Engine (Gas version): 1.20/ 2-stroke or 1.40/4-stroke glow engine or 20cc gas engine
Videos
The first video is the official Phoenix model movie. It has a nice "walk-around" followed by a good taxi and take-off. The flying shots are professional and the landing deserves an 8 out of 10 in my scorebook!
The next one is by the AMA and shows good shots of the finished model. The author did not like the very non-scale gloss finish so he sprayed the model with a flat finish and added weathering. The landing gets a score of 9!
This last video shows how Phoenix models are constructed. The girls doing the majority of the building and covering are masters at ARF building!
Manual
The instructions are very well written, in good english. Very clear 2D and 3D drawings are easy to understand and will make the assembly of this Stuka JU 87 a pleasure. Please click here to see this manual.
Pros
- Well constructed of laser cut balsa and ply
- Lots of scale detail
- Scale outline
- Easy assembly
- Good flight performance
- Fits into small space for transportation
Cons
- Glossy finish definitely not to scale and makes the model look like a toy!
- Non scale tail wheel assembly
- Cockpit molded in frames are too wide
- Keep CA and CA accelerator away from the covering-it may remove the finish and printed details. Check any solvent(such as alcohol) on an inconspicuous spot first.
- Very thin plastic used for wheel spats
Recommended Modifications
- An overspray of a matt clear coat is highly recommended. I have used a matt water based polyurethane, applied with a small roller and achieved excellent results.Minwax Polyurethane dries fast and looks good. It is easier if the matt coat is applied before assembly of the Stuka JU 87.
- Fiberglass the inside of the wheel spats to make them more durable.
Review Summary of the Phoenix Stuka JU 87
The vast majority really liked this plane and criticism was generally limited to the glossy finish and the non-scale tailwheel.
The tail wheel could be fixed, but it is a lot of work and maybe not worth the time.
The balance point as shown on the manual seems to be fine and very few flying problems were noted.
The wheel pants/spats breaking easily was of some concern, so inside fiberglassing would be a good idea
Purchasing Information
I include these links to the appropriate page on the Tower Hobbies site, for your convenience.
I do not receive any commission, so the price is no higher.
Please note that Tower Hobbies states the scale at 1/4-this is not correct! Phoenix say it is 1:5 3/4. That sounds a lot more accurate.
Price=$289.99 with FREE shipping
Photo Gallery of the Phoenix Stuka JU 87
Nice take off
Close up of cowl
Nice study
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