George from Virginia says this:

"I just finished putting together the "ARF" version of the BTE Vortex.  You have a really great design that can be flown with ease!  But, I just had to make some modifications, but that is just what I like to do.

"I started by replacing the main gear wires and wheels (the originals worked just fine though) with aluminum gear, I went with more power by installing the OS 1.08.  I then moved the "on switch" to the front top (pull on) and installed a charging jack on the bottom.  I really enjoyed flying the Delta and it was really "a sweet plane" to land. 

"Take off's were straight and smooth, with very little trim required.  First flight included rolls (both rates) and inside loops both large and tight.  On the second flight I went to an outside loop with no bad tendencies.  However, you must be sensitive to changes and be aware of what a delta wing requires for control! 

"Inverted flight was great and only required that "touch" of down to stay level.  If you applied a little more pressure, you would move right into a nice inverted outside loop!  I did both hammerhead turns and flat turns without a problem.  I also tried a tailslide on the second flight and found recovery was fairly easy on both distance and time. 

"Here are some PICS and commentary ...

"My Vortex - I use a Futaba 6TXA, with mixed rudder to wheel servo, set on the switch that inhibits on high rate elevator (flying mode).  Before landing, I go to low rate which engages the nose wheel steering servo.  I started with recommended low and high rates but I fly on high.  Soon the low rates will rise slightly amount and the high end will move upward a bit.

"Landing Gear - Found center of gear mount, drilled and tapped 1/4X20 to match the gear holes and installed ALUMINUM bolts.  This provided a 16 inch spread @ tires and 17" nose gear to gear axle (centerline).  I also moved the original nose gear wire downward (as far as possible) without loosing contact with the upper mount boss.
 
   

"Engine - My OS 1.08 is an old one, (6 years) but the compression is still good and it always starts and runs well.  I decided to start with a 15X8 woody Top Flight.  But yesterday I installed a new Scimitar Series (composite) 14X10 to see if it will give me the performance along with increased ground clearance (wow, a whole 1/2 inch!)  I also got two new props to try; 14X8 and 15X8 APC's.  I know a lot of people don't like APC's because of the "rigid" cutting edge.  But, I enjoy the performance and don't like those without wooden "chips" -besides, the grass stains come off easier....LOL.

"Arrangements - As you see, I selected a servo (Hitec 605 bb) for each elevon, I made my own aluminum control arms and installed them on the underside of the "pretty red plastic ones" for better arc control (I can never leave things alone).  I opted for the standard Futaba 3003's on each rudder with 4-40 connectors and heavy duty arms.  I did move things rearward as possible --NO MOVING OF THE FUEL TANK-- I didn't want any Lean Problems to damage my trusty 1.08!  But alas, probably won't fly until late April since we are going to Las Vegas Sunday (40th Wedding Anniversary) for a week.......maybe I can sneak out Friday morning early!

"Balance and controls - I ended up with about 8 oz of lead "cut" and inserted into the open trailing edge area.  I secured it with 5 min epoxy pored into the area.  My control arms are 4-40 rods, against robart 3/4" spherical bearing end control arms.  In addition, I added 3 nylon hinges (one on each end and one center) onto each elevon.  I did this to handle any increased loads and for the "comfort" we all seek!  Otherwise everything was standard....worked at that canopy but just didn't use it."

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