SCALE FLIGHT - AMPHIBIAN MODEL - NOT FOR BEGINNERS
Model data:
Type: Giant-Scale RC Model based on the S-38 Aircraft Scale: 1:5 Length: 2.44 m ( 8 feet) Wingspan: 4.22 m (13.84 feet) Weight: no-fuel 60 lbs / 27.2 Kg Engine: Electric powered. Suggested Dualsky GA2000.4 (400KV) class, 2.5hp @ 6800 rpm Engine: Suggester radial glow engine Saito FA-325R5 (5-Cylinder), ~3.5 hp each Propeller: 2 x 2-blade, 20" Fuel tank: 1.8 L / 3.4 lbs. Fuel consumption: ~75ml/min / 1.2 gph Performance/Limitations: Maximum speed: around 50 knots / 58 mph / 93 km/h (sea level, full power, straight and level, gear retracted). Vne: 55 knots / 63 mph / 102 km/h. Note: the S-38 is a delicate, large-span scale model built entirely for scale fidelity and graceful flight. The uneven biplane wing, exposed engines, twin tail booms, and flying boat hull combine to produce a model that rewards smooth flying. Pushing beyond the speed envelope or applying aggressive control inputs risks structural damage. Full control mode is highly recommended at all times.
Channels:
Throttle
Rudder
Elevator
Ailerons
Control modes (Full, Dual-Rates/Expo) - Recommended full control mode.
Gears
Pilot Notes:
General: The S-38X is a highly engineered amphibian model, capable of takeoff and landing on both land and water. Real water physics are modeled, this is not a cosmetic nor arcade feature. For water operations make sure to operate (or set) in flat to reasonably mild waves.
In the air: The aircraft is sluggish and slightly underpowered, yet feels dynamic and responsive to pilot inputs. Roll response is sluggish, and requires rudder input for coordinated turns. The twin rudders positioned directly in the propwash of each engine make yaw response immediate and powerful. Coordinated flight is required for smooth and fluent operations.
The drag profile is high, which works in the pilot's favor for energy management. Power reduction translates directly and quickly into speed reduction, making final approach straightforward to manage with throttle alone.
The S-38X is a genuinely interesting slow flyer. Stable enough yet dynamic enough to stay engaging. It rewards the pilot who takes the time to understand its coordination requirements and can deliver a flying experience unlike anything else in the RCE fleet.
Controls: Full control throws recommended throughout normal flight operations.
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:
