It's only noticeable when you save weight in a lot of different areas of the plane, then it could add up to maybe several pounds. That kind of weight loss is noticeable even in a 40% plane. Just be carefull not to take weight out that may weaken a plane ! Carbon fiber landing gear and wing tubes are a really good start.
The plane is a Hangar 9 35% Extra 260. It is not done yet, but I'm hoping for approximately 27.5 lbs. I am using a carbon fiber wing tube and I thought about not putting in the pilot to save weight as well.
My experience with bigger planes is limited... 50cc and down. My experience is that anything less than 2-3% savings is not noticable unless it impacts CG. Your 5 oz's savings in less than 0.7%. I would bet you would never tell the difference.
I see your point Mith, I can't tell the difference in handling from the beginning to the end of a flight. I am relatively new to 3D. I just want to make sure that I am the limiting factor, not the plane.
In addition to saving a little weight, I thought if I don't put the pilot in, I could cut out the hatch floor and backrest area for better canopy cooling and for my Futaba 2.4 receiver(s). Mith, is it a good idea to mount one of the antennae in the turtle deck?
ok, fred, u r in luck. I also have a H9 260. Currently i am not using a pilot. RTF Weight 26.8 lb with no carbon fiber. I just installed (5 min ago) carbon fiber landing gear along with smoke system. I will let u know my all up weight in an hr or so.
3D Weight Savings
Linear Mode
