Alex Blackwell’s Rat Cruiser

This is my take on the twin-engine FT Cruiser from Flite Test (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKMKWx1oqFs) that I modified for 4 engines using the smaller Flite Test power pod design familiar from their ‘mini’ series.

I used the FT ‘Speed Build’ kit and, other than the modified engine setup, it’s pretty much the standard build using hot glue. I really struggled with the turtle deck and it’s still not right, but anyway – this is a ‘rat’ plane…

The electronics setup was lifted virtually wholesale from the ill-fated RatRiot4: 4x Emax MT1806-2280kV motors with 5045 counter-rotating props powered by a Spedix IS25 4-in-1 25A 2-5S ESC, 9g micro aileron, elevator & rudder servos all hooked up to a Matek F411-WING flight controller running iNav flight firmware.  The Rx is FrSky R-X6R EU-LBT using SBUS & sending useful telemetry back to the Tx.  30% differential thrust on the rudder channel helps it turn, both in the air and on the ground as it doesn’t have any steering in the undercarriage.  The wheels are lightweight 70mm ones sourced from Sussex Model Centre because I didn’t like the look for the foamboard ones supplied in the kit.

For the colour scheme I experimented with acrylic paint applied with make-up sponges stolen from her ladyship’s dressing table.  It looks OK from a distance but I’m not really happy with the result and probably won’t do that again.

On the power meter with a 3S 2200mAH Lipo it pulled around 34A at full throttle and measured a maximum 347W; it weighs 910g all-up including the 180g Lipo. The setup could just as easily run from a 4S pack if more power is needed.

Maiden flight when the runway is properly dry!

Alex’s Rat Cruiser Build

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