Conference vmszoo::rc

1060.0. "an old Futaba 6FN" by RVAX::SMITH () Fri Jul 28 1989 14:54

    I couldn't find an appropriate place for this using the keywords,
    so if the mod's want to move it, feel free.
    
    I recently purchased a trainer, engine, and radio out of the notes
    file. The individual I bought this stuff from threw in an old
    futaba radio (complete) that he had no use for. It looks like it
    just came out of the show room. By describing it, I'm wondering
    if anyone might have an idea as to how old this radio is.
    
    Here goes. As already stated, it is a Futaba. The box says it's
    a FP-4FN 4 channel system. However the radio is DEFINATELY a
    six channel rig. The model/serial number sticker identifies it
    as a FP-T6FN. The picture in the owners manual corresponds to
    the six channel. Looks wise, it is almost identical to the current
    FG series radio's. Rather than a gold tone metal case, it is vinal
    clad. There is a big (3/4 inch) round plate on the top center of
    the radio where the antenna attaches. The fifth channel switch is
    on the top left, and the "push button" trainer switch is on the
    top right. There is a sixth channel potentiometer switch (just like
    a trim lever) on the left side face, under the throttle trim lever.
    Depending on the light, it's a brownish, mauve, dusty rose color.
    
    The receiver is a FP-R6f 6 channel. The whole system in on Freq.
    72.320 which, as of Dec. 20th, 1987 became illegal to use. The
    system uses ni-cads with the receiver battery being the square
    type with the plug wire exiting the top center of the battery.
    
    The charger is similar to the current plug in type only much larger.
    It has a seperate power cord that plugs into the wall, and the TX
    and RX charging cables are totally seperate with plugs at each end.
    
    The ratcheting on the throttle lever is VERY course. The joy sticks
    are non-adjusting with black plastic tips.
    
    That's about all I can think of to describe this radio. Everything
    seems to work perfectly and I'm wondering if it would be worth
    sending it back to get upgraded.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Steve

    Sure sounds like the FP-6FN 6 channel rig that I just sent back
    to Futaba to get refrequencied from 72.400 to Channel 12.  They
    quoted me a price of $25 and 4 weeks.  Still waiting for its return
    (should be mid-August).
    
    I built my own flight pack (550 mah) with solder-tab AA cells from
    Indy @ $1.65 ea.  I got enough to make up a new transmitter set
    as well.  The hardest part of the flight pack rebuild was getting
    the cells out of the bottom of the plastic case.  After getting
    them out, I carefully slit the plastic wrapper, removed it from
    the cells and set it aside for later use.  Unsolder the wires from
    the cells and solder the new cells together using the old pack as
    a guide.  After soldering the cells together, attach the wires,
    replace the plastic wrapper and reassemble the case.  After that
    treat it just like any other flight pack.  It takes a little time,
    but saves a bit of money ($1.65 x 4 = $6.60 vs. $9.95 from Tower)
    to put on other things.  

    This may belong in another radio note, or under 1991 so the mod's
    can move it if they like.
    
    I called Futaba last night and got some info. They can upgrade (re-
    crystal) the old FN for $30.00. At this point in time, they don't
    know if they will offer a 1991 upgrade on that radio yet.
    
    They can upgrade the FG radio from a 4 channel to a 6 channel for
    $30.00. They can also upgrade the TX to 1991 for an additional
    $30.00. Then you'd have to buy a 1991 RX to complete the upgrade.
    Futaba's price for the RX is $130.00. I'm sure mail order is much
    better. Havn't had a chance to check it out yet. Turn-around time is 
    currently running 4-5 weeks.
    
    Steve