The F-4 Phantom landing gear is true to scale in geometry and location in the model - features that are often missed in scale models. Its rugged construction has paid off for many F-4 drivers because they know they can execute carrier style landings without injuring the gear or the model. These main gear bolt directly to the two carbon fiber molded wing spars that are built into the composite wings.

Fiberglass inlet diverters and ducts direct the air into the Carbon Fiber Bypass system to feed and cool the engine. The hot gases then exit through the bifurcated Stainless Steel tailpipe and exit nozzles. This hot section is cooled by auxiliary air flow through the Carbon Fiber cooling shroud. All engine mounting hardware is included.

An incredible feeling of power and fighter style maneuverability are characteristic features of operating a turbine powered BVM F-4. The sound of twenty-seven pounds of roaring thrust from the turbine is enhanced even more with the bifurcated exhaust pipe - a unique resonance that most jet jockies really like. It's as close to the real thing as you can get. The extra wide stance of the main wheels and dual nose wheels allows arrow straight take-off rolls when you punch the throttle to the "Go" position. Barely 100ft of runway passes below the cockpit prior to rotation if you are operating "clean wing" - add 50-100ft more for carrying external fuel tanks and armament. Suck the gear up immediately and you are in for a model fighter pilot's dream flight. With this much power, the climb angle can be severe, so just let it gain altitude and airspeed through the first turn before retracting the flaps. You can then reduce the throttle to about half power and pick up the flaps. The C.G. and stabilizer positions shown on the plans proved once again to be perfect. Even with 6+ pounds of fuel on board in the early stages of the flight, the Phantom can execute huge vertical turn arounds, just advance the power lever and go for it. Cruise power requires about 1/3rd to 1/2 throttle producing a comfortable airspeed of about 140-150mph and it conserves the gas. The rakish lines of the F-4 create a unique, relatively easy to see jet. Adding the external stores, especially the wing tanks, increases the visibility probably 25% or more. Jet fighters are longer than they are wide, so anything that you carry under the wings really adds to the visual image and orientation. If your goal is to execute perfect axial rolls - go with the centerline tank or leave it clean wing. If you prefer just to cruise, ala a recon mission, then the wing tanks represent the best configuration. We are living in great times; real turbine engines, gyro stabilization and even automatic power compensation (JetCat) make our model jets easier and safer to operate. Bob Violett