Author: kabrackin@gmail.com

Electric vs. Nitro/Gas RC Planes: Pros and Cons of Each Power System

By York Area RC Club

Choosing between an electric or nitro/gas power system is one of the first big decisions for any RC pilot. Both have their advantages—and a few drawbacks. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which setup best fits your flying style, budget, and maintenance preference.

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⚡ Electric RC Planes

• Pros:
  • Quiet Operation – Electric motors run almost silently, perfect for flying in noise-sensitive areas.
  • Low Maintenance – No glow plugs or carburetors to tune; just charge and fly.
  • Instant Throttle Response – Smooth, predictable power delivery with brushless ESCs.
  • Clean – No fuel spills or exhaust; great for indoor or club field use.
• Cons:
  • Limited Flight Time – Typically 5–15 minutes per battery pack, depending on battery capacity and flying style.
  • Battery Costs – High-quality LiPo packs can be expensive and require care (balancing, proper storage).
  • Range Anxiety – Need a charger or spare battery on site; charging infrastructure required.

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⛽ Nitro/Gas RC Planes

• Pros:
  • Longer Flights – 10–20+ minutes on a single tank, depending on engine size and throttle management.
  • Realistic Sound – The authentic rumble of a glow or gas engine appeals to many scale and warbird pilots.
  • Fuel Convenience – Carry extra fuel cans; no waiting to charge packs between flights.
  • Thrifty Refueling – Nitro fuel by the gallon can be more cost-effective per minute of flight than batteries.
• Cons:
  • Higher Maintenance – Tuning carburetors, cleaning after flights, replacing glow plugs.
  • Louder & Messy – Noise restrictions at some fields; fuel and exhaust residue.
  • Startup Gear Needed – Glow starter or electric starter, fuel pump, spares.

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📊 At a Glance Comparison

Feature	Electric	Nitro/Gas
Noise	Very quiet	Loud, authentic engine sound
Maintenance	Minimal	Regular tuning & cleaning
Flight Time	5–15 minutes	10–20+ minutes
Startup	Plug in battery	Glow/electric starter & fuel pump
Running Cost	Battery replacements	Fuel purchase

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🔍 Which Is Right for You?

If you value quiet, hassle-free flying with minimal upkeep, an electric setup is ideal—especially for park flyers, EDF jets, and indoor arenas. If you crave longer flights, the roar of a real engine, and don’t mind a bit more tinkering, nitro/gas will suit scale models, warbirds, and larger sport planes.

Whatever you choose, both power systems can deliver hours of enjoyment. Join us at York Area RC Club to test both styles, chat with experienced pilots, and find the perfect fit for your next flying adventure!

Further Information: Electric vs Nitro/Glow Fuel Motors for RC Planes

Happy flying from York Area RC Club!

RC Field Etiquette

By York RC Club

Flying RC airplanes is more than just a hobby—it’s a community. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pilot, respecting the flying field and those around you ensures a fun and safe experience for everyone. At York RC Club, we believe in keeping the skies friendly. Here’s a guide to proper RC field etiquette every pilot should follow.

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🛬 Before You Fly

• Introduce Yourself: If you’re new or visiting, say hello to other pilots and club members. A quick introduction builds trust and helps keep communication open.
• Inspect Your Gear: Arrive with your airplane, transmitter, and accessories fully tested and ready to go. Field time is for flying, not fixing preventable problems.
• Follow Safety Rules: Know the field boundaries, flight line, no-fly zones, and emergency procedures. If your club has posted rules, read them.
• AMA Membership: Always carry your AMA or equivalent proof of insurance. Many fields require it for safety and liability.

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🚁 On the Flight Line

• Announce Your Intentions: Always say “taking off,” “landing,” “on the field,” or “clear” out loud. It’s courteous and prevents accidents.
• Fly in the Pattern: Follow the traffic pattern being used. Avoid flying opposite to others unless it’s a designated 3D or hover zone.
• No Overcrowding: Don’t crowd the flight line. Wait for your turn if all flight stations are in use.
• Keep It Over the Flight Zone: Never fly behind the flight line or over the pit area, parking lot, or spectators.

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🔧 In the Pits

• Secure Your Model: Always secure your airplane before powering up or starting your engine. Accidents happen fast.
• Throttle Safety: Keep your throttle cut active and propellers pointed away from others when working on your plane.
• Clean Up: Take trash, broken props, and empty fuel jugs with you. Leave the area cleaner than you found it.

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👥 Be a Good Field Citizen

• Help Others: If you see someone struggling, offer help. We’ve all had tough flights and frustrating moments.
• Respect Skill Levels: Be patient with new pilots. Remember, everyone was a beginner once.
• Limit Distractions: Keep loud conversations and guests away from the flight stations while flying is active.
• Share the Air: If someone is test flying, trimming, or doing a maiden, give them room and minimize distractions.

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📣 Spectator Awareness

• Keep Visitors Informed: If you bring guests, make sure they know where it’s safe to walk or stand.
• Kids and Pets: Keep children and animals supervised and away from high-risk areas like the pits or runway.

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✈️ When You’re Done

• Announce You’re Done Flying: Say “clear” when you leave the flight line so others know you’re stepping away.
• Pack Responsibly: Don’t block walkways or gates when loading or unloading.
• Say Goodbye: A quick “thanks” or “see you next time” keeps the community strong and friendly.

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🛡️ Final Thoughts from York RC Club

RC flying is safest and most enjoyable when we all follow the same basic rules of respect, communication, and safety. At York RC Club, we’re proud of the culture we’ve built—and we welcome everyone who shares our passion for the skies. By practicing good field etiquette, you’re not just flying—you’re helping our hobby thrive.

Fly safe. Fly smart. Fly together!

Electric motors have revolutionized the radio control (RC) airplane hobby with their reliability, clean operation, and instant power. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced pilot, choosing the right electric motor for your airplane is critical to flight performance. This article breaks down the basics of electric motors, explains key ratings, and helps you understand what all those numbers actually mean.

1. Types of Electric Motors

There are two main categories of electric motors used in RC airplanes:

1.1 Brushed Motors

Brushed motors are the older and simpler design. They use brushes and a commutator to transfer power to the rotor. These motors are inexpensive and good for beginners or small park flyers, but they’re less efficient and wear out faster than brushless motors.

1.2 Brushless Motors

Brushless motors have become the standard in modern RC airplanes. They’re more efficient, more powerful for their size, and last much longer. Brushless motors come in two types:
• Out-runners: The outer shell (can) rotates with the shaft. They provide high torque and are ideal for direct-drive propellers.
• Inrunners: Only the internal rotor spins. These are used with gearboxes or ducted fans and offer higher RPM at lower torque.

2. Key Electric Motor Ratings Explained. Electric motors are labeled with a variety of numbers and ratings. Here’s what they mean:

2.1 kV Rating
• Definition: The kV rating refers to the motor’s RPM per volt with no load.
• Example: A 1000 kV motor powered by an 11.1V (3S) battery spins at 11,100 RPM without a propeller.
• Use: Lower kV motors produce more torque (good for large props), while higher kV motors spin faster (good for smaller props or ducted fans).

2.2 Voltage (LiPo Cell Count)
• Motors are designed to run on specific voltages. This is usually expressed in the number of LiPo battery cells (1S = 3.7V).
• Example: A motor rated for 3S–4S can handle between 11.1V and 14.8V safely.
• Over-volting can burn out the motor or ESC, while under-volting leads to weak performance.

2.3 Maximum Current (Amps)
• This is the maximum continuous current the motor can safely draw.
• Example: A motor rated for 35A should be paired with an ESC that can handle at least 35 amps, preferably more for safety.

2.4 Power Rating (Watts)
• Power = Volts × Amps. This gives a general idea of the motor’s strength.
• Rule of Thumb: For sport flying, use 100 watts per pound of airplane weight. For aerobatics or 3D, 150–200 watts per pound is ideal.

2.5 Motor Size Numbers

Brushless outrunner motors often have size designations like 2212 or 3536:
• First two digits = stator diameter in mm
• Second two digits = stator height in mm

Example: A 2212 motor has a 22mm diameter stator and is 12mm tall. Larger motors generally produce more torque.

2.6 Shaft Size
• Affects propeller compatibility. Common shaft diameters include 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm. Match your prop adapter accordingly.

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3. Choosing the Right Motor

When selecting a motor, consider:
• Weight of the aircraft
• Type of flying (sport, aerobatic, glider, etc.)
• Propeller size
• Battery type and size
• ESC rating

Use online calculators like eCalc or manufacturer charts to match the right motor, prop, ESC, and battery combination.

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4. Maintenance and Care
• Avoid overheating: Ensure good airflow around the motor.
• Keep it clean: Dust and debris can affect performance.
• Check connections: Inspect solder joints and bullet connectors regularly.
• Monitor temperatures: After flights, motors should be warm—not hot—to the touch.

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Conclusion

Electric motors offer a reliable, efficient, and quiet power source for RC airplanes. By understanding motor ratings like kV, wattage, current draw, and voltage compatibility, you can choose the right setup for your flying style and aircraft size. Whether you’re building a park flyer or a high-powered aerobatic machine, the right motor ensures safe and enjoyable flights every time.

Hi everyone,

The flying season is finally here! I know some of you are still waiting for the weather to cooperate, but I’m ready to get back in the air. While we’re waiting, let’s take a look at those planes. Have any of the hinges on the control surfaces come loose during the winter? Are all the batteries still holding their charge? If you don’t want to be the one who has to reset the crash timer, make sure to check those planes. 

Please read the AMA Safety Regs

Looking forward to seeing all of you at the fields soon