At my previous report I had started running the Mini-Inferno 09 after breaking in the engine. I can’t say that I’ve explored every aspect of the machine, but I have given it a decent run on gravel and on a wide open paved area.
Driving Part.1 (Gravel) :
Gravel driving test was conducted at a secret location usually used for R/C helicopters.
At about 600m2 , it wasn’t that big but with a 1/16 size I could open it right up and enjoy this machine in a relatively tight space. (Sorry I cannot supply photos as this was a secret location)
The included pin-spike tires provided reasonable grip and easy drift control. I was also quite impressed with the degree of completion of the chassis and suspension. Next time I would like to try with some other tires.
It may be related to my setup, but the left / right timing from a standing start seems out. Right side seems faster. I wonder if this is due to counter-torque from the engine???
OH (Overhaul) Part 1 :
After running on gravel the car got quite dirty. I gave it a clean up with an air gun and also a light overhaul.
I removed the engine and front/rear gearboxes from the chassis and cleaned up with alcohol. I also checked for any wear and tear.
I took a hit in the dirt and noticed the front suspension shaft was slightly bent as a result. I fixed it and reassembled.
Also, wear on the center dog bone seems significant. About a third of the pin had worn away. I applied some dry grease and reassembled to see how it would go.
Driving Part 2 (On-Road) :
You probably recognize this famous place for flying models - Ojima Flying Field.
While the flying club was having a lunch break, I took the Mini-Inferno 09 out on the runway.
Anyway, for posterity I took a photo on the main heli pad. (Photo 1. on the heli pad)
Opened it all the way up every time. I was worried the engine would blow, but I ran it at full throttle all the way. (Photo 2., 3 : Driving at full throttle)
This was like an engine durability test. Trust Sirio engines not to overheat. I ran 2 tanks through at full throttle. Normally a machine wouldn't be run at full throttle for this period of time, but this proved the machine's high durability. But screwing the needle in too far is taboo…
OH (Overhaul) Part 2 :
This is my last report so I disassembled the machine completely.
In total I ran through 4L of fuel and didn't find any particular part that was damaged. I was extremely impressed with the machine's durability again.
The dog bone pins that I was worried about last time continued to wear down so there was only a third of the material left.
Next time I do an OH, these will need replacing. The wear was only on the spur gear side, but both ends might need to be considered.
One last thing, I found some exhaust escaping from the manifold and silencer joint. I disassembled these a few times so I think if you just install a new O-ring that should solve the problem here.
General Comments :
I would like to say thank you to all at Kyosho for giving me the opportunity to be a monitor for this product and submit my reports.
I suppose most other monitors are R/C car users, but my opinions are through the eyes of an aircraft user. So my impressions were probably closer to those of a beginner.
While the Mini-Inferno 09 is a joy to look at, it is also a fully featured racing machine so experienced R/C racers will also be very satisfied. I look forward to the release a many interesting optional upgrade parts.
(What I would like to see available as optional parts: dog bones, silencer, carbon suspension mounts etc.)
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Photo 1. on the heli pad
Photo 2 : Driving at full throttle
Photo 3 : Driving at full throttle
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