VSKYLABS RC ANT-20X Maxim Gorky

8 x GLOW-PROPELLER - 1:12.6 SCALE - CHALLENGING
SCALE FLIGHT - NOT FOR BEGINNERS

Model data:

Type: Giant-Scale RC Model based on the ANT-20 Aircraft
Scale: 1:12.6
Length: 2.6 m ( 8.53 feet)
Wingspan: 5 m (16.4 feet)
Weight: No-fuel: 60 lbs / 27.2 Kg 
Fuel: ~3.4 Liter / 6 lbs
Engine: 8 x O.S. MAX-55AX (.40-.50) class (~1.68 hp @ ~16,000 RPM each)
Propeller: 8 x 2-blade, 13"
Fuel consumption: Approximately ~29cc to 35cc per minute or ~0.46 to 0.56 GPH (at full power) Performance/Limitations: Maximum speed: 50 knots / 58 mph / 93 km/h (sea level, full power, straight and level). Vne: 60 knots / 69 mph / 111 km/h. Note: performance is characteristic of the type; a large, heavy, multi-engine scale model with high drag and corrugated surface detail, optimized for stable scale flight rather than speed.

Channels:

  1. Throttle
  2. Rudder
  3. Elevator
  4. Ailerons
  5. Control modes (Full, Dual-Rates/Expo) - Recommended full control mode.
Pilot notes:

General: The ANT-20X is a large scale eight-engine glow-powered beast. Despite its enormous size, the weight-to-size ratio is well optimized, providing good control feedback across the entire speed range. The aircraft is a classic demonstrator of sluggish, draggy, high aspect-ratio slow flyer and requires constant rudder input for coordinated flight.

Roll response is lower than anticipated, particularly in slow flight. Rudder input is essential to assist roll and coordinate turns at reduced speed. In fact, it can be flown using mostly rudder input for rolling.

Speed Management: The propulsion system has a profound effect on lift and drag characteristics. Six of the eight engines blow air directly along a major portion of the wingspan, generating significant lift in powered flight. On the other side of the equation, the multiple fine-pitch propeller discs create considerable drag, effectively capping top speed.

Throttle response to speed changes is immediate and direct on both directions. At idle, the propeller discs act as significant air brakes, affecting gliding performance that the enormous wingspan implies. For best glide ratio on final, maintain slight above-idle RPM. Killing excess speed is almost effortless, just reduce power and the drag does the work.

Being a large taildragger, ground handling demands attention. Manage pitch and roll inputs carefully during taxi, particularly on windy days. The size and weight make directional corrections slower to develop and slower to stop.

Controls: Dual rates or expo can be used for scale flying, however, full control throws are essential during landing. Do not approach with reduced rates engaged.
Real world reference video:
*The following video shows a real-world reference for the model. It is provided for informational purposes only. It is not produced by or affiliated with VSKYLABS. All credits belong to the original content creators. Various design features and other characteristics may vary, when compared to the VSKYLABS model in X-Plane.



VSKYLABS RC Elements Vol. 1 screenshots - X-Plane 12: