Top Flight NOBLER ARF Control Line Airplane Kit Overview

[Shug Emery]

As Winter has fallen upon us here in Minnesota, it is time to assemble and build.
I have four kits to be done but am going to start with this Top Flite NOBLER. This is just a peek at the contents of what comes in the box. Got Tom Morris bellcrank and controls to add to it as well as an OS .46LA-S.

Then to build an RSM Electric Mustang, RSM Tudor electric and a Brodak Shark 402 with an OS .25 to power it.

Ok...time to go and glue something up.......
Shug


 

[mike londke]

You are a kook! Love it , you should be a combat guy. Was that Hamlet or MacBeth I forget.
 

[Shug Emery]

You are a kook! Love it , you should be a combat guy. Was that Hamlet or MacBeth I forget.
 

'Tis truth the kook am I. That was a bit of Hamlet....has the word "Nobler" in it so I thought it apropos.
Someday I'll gve that combat a spin I say.....

[Serge_Krauss]

OK, Shug, you have a fan here. That is a marvelous video. I was greatly entertained!

SK

[Brian Massey]

Just my opinion, but an LA 46 is overkill for the ARF Nobler. Something smaller and lighter will be a better fit. I think you would be happier with a Brodak 40 or similar. Everyone laughs at the Fox 35, but set up right it's a good engine for the ARF Nobler as it is very light. The control upgrade is a wise choice.

Brian

[Shug Emery]

OK, Shug, you have a fan here. That is a marvelous video. I was greatly entertained!

SK

Thankee Serge.

Just my opinion, but an LA 46 is overkill for the ARF Nobler. Something smaller and lighter will be a better fit. I think you would be happier with a Brodak 40 or similar. Everyone laughs at the Fox 35, but set up right it's a good engine for the ARF Nobler as it is very light. The control upgrade is a wise choice.

Brian

Well that is the engine I have at this time. I do have an old OS .35 but not sure if I want to strap that on the Nobler nose.
Got my Fox. 35 on my Bi-Slob))))

[Randy Cuberly]

Well, I beg to differ Shug!  I think the LA 46 is a great choice for the Noble Arfer! 

The only thing that needs to be taken into consideration for it's installation is that the landing gear needs to be about 1/2 inch longer to accomodate an 11.5 inch diameter prop.  Not really a problem.  About 1/2 oz weight in the tail will usually ballance the slightly heavier engine than what the designer of the Nobler had available.

I would reccommend swapping out the remote needle valve for a ST style that makes it easier to package.  Also the Tank that comes with the kit is not large enough to fly the pattern with the 46.  Opt for a 4 3/4 to 5 oz tank...Brodak Medium width uniflo.

It is actually a very good flying airplane with the extra power...Perfect in fact!

Truly enjoyed the Video...great entertainment!  I'm a big fan of Hamlet also!

Randy Cuberly

[john e. holliday]

As Randy says the .46 is a good choice.  Don't have to make new gear, just get slightly larger wheels.   I replaced the lead outs and bell crank on mine and it was powered with one of my trusty old Fox .35 Stunts.   Was a great flying plane as long as I could keep the uni-flo vent in place.  Seems when the screw comes out it would fall to the back of the plane and the engine would go way rich.   The ARF Nobler now hangs with an EVO 36 and no cowl.  Fuel tank is just big enough for it to get me through the horizontal 8's.   Engine is still breaking in.   Also remember to check the incidence between the wing, stab and engine.   You will have a great flying plane when done.

[RknRusty]

Thanks for the Nobler review, Shug. I really hope some of your backpacking Tube followers, being the outdoorsy folks they are, will see your aeromodeling productions and decide to try Control Line for themselves.
One can only hope.
Take care,
Rusty

[Tim Wescott]

I've flown two ARF Noblers; both do very well on the 46 LA.  A Brodak 40 may be better -- but they're just fine with the LA.

[Shug Emery]

Well, I beg to differ Shug!  I think the LA 46 is a great choice for the Noble Arfer! 

The only thing that needs to be taken into consideration for it's installation is that the landing gear needs to be about 1/2 inch longer to accomodate an 11.5 inch diameter prop.  Not really a problem.  About 1/2 oz weight in the tail will usually ballance the slightly heavier engine than what the designer of the Nobler had available.

I would reccommend swapping out the remote needle valve for a ST style that makes it easier to package.  Also the Tank that comes with the kit is not large enough to fly the pattern with the 46.  Opt for a 4 3/4 to 5 oz tank...Brodak Medium width uniflo.

It is actually a very good flying airplane with the extra power...Perfect in fact!

Truly enjoyed the Video...great entertainment!  I'm a big fan of Hamlet also!

Randy Cuberly

I will take a look at some of those suggestions...especially the needle. Where does one get those ST needle valves? Are they difficult to install?
They did upgrade the tank. Read the picture below
Thanks.

[Shug Emery]

As Randy says the .46 is a good choice.  Don't have to make new gear, just get slightly larger wheels.   I replaced the lead outs and bell crank on mine and it was powered with one of my trusty old Fox .35 Stunts.   Was a great flying plane as long as I could keep the uni-flo vent in place.  Seems when the screw comes out it would fall to the back of the plane and the engine would go way rich.   The ARF Nobler now hangs with an EVO 36 and no cowl.  Fuel tank is just big enough for it to get me through the horizontal 8's.   Engine is still breaking in.   Also remember to check the incidence between the wing, stab and engine.   You will have a great flying plane when done.

I like the bigger wheels idea...sounds easier! Thanks Doc.

Thanks for the Nobler review, Shug. I really hope some of your backpacking Tube followers, being the outdoorsy folks they are, will see your aeromodeling productions and decide to try Control Line for themselves.
One can only hope.
Take care,
Rusty

Thanks Rusty. Some of my viewers did say they are getting into it...most on my Intro To Control Line video.
Enjoyed your stories in the MCLS newletter. Really good writing for sure.
Funny, I just submitted a story to Bob Hunt a few weeks ago about me and my Dad flying a Cox Stuka for the first time)))) Waxing nostalgic. Serendipity.....https://www.dropbox.com/s/j9sbigw57i0u9qb/Patterns...a%20Control%20Line%20Story%20Part%201.docx?dl=0

I've flown two ARF Noblers; both do very well on the 46 LA.  A Brodak 40 may be better -- but they're just fine with the LA.

I like hearing that. The .46 will be pulling the Nobler. Thankee

[Tim Wescott]

I will take a look at some of those suggestions...especially the needle. Where does one get those ST needle valves? Are they difficult to install?

You get ST needles (or at least ST-style needles) from various places -- Randy Smith has them, and will sell you one with a phone call.

I'm pretty sure they're a bit bigger than the OS spraybar, in which case you'll have to ream out the hole (this reduces the effective area of the venturi, which usually isn't a bad thing).  If you call Randy, he'll tell you...

Having said that, if you're still in the "crashes a lot" stage, you may want to consider retaining the remote needle valve, for crash resistance.  On a profile you'd relocate it so that it's parallel with the cylinder.  On that Nobler, you'd want to leave it right where it is.  You have a slight problem with fuel wanting to drain away from the spray bar when you're starting, and there are some slight issues with how well the engine runs -- but I've run the 20 FP and the 46 LA with remote needles, and haven't noticed any problems once the engine's started.

[Paul Taylor]

IMHO the LA 46 is the only engine for the ARF Nobler.  The instruction booklet shows a LA 40. I could never get my 40 to run right. I have several 46's and they run great box stock, even better with a front NVA.

I have a 46 in my ARF Nobler- Great Combo!

You can never have too much power. 

[Bill Morell]

Another great video from Shug! Haven't seen a single one that failed to entertain!

[Scott Richlen]

Shug:

Watch out for those motor mounts - they're not maple.  One hard backfire can do them in!

Also, if that's a 6 inch pitch prop, you got way more prop than you need with an LA-46.  4 inch pitch would be better.  Also, if you are going to use Zingers, use Zinger Pro's - they are a much better prop for stunt.

Scott

[Shug Emery]

You get ST needles (or at least ST-style needles) from various places -- Randy Smith has them, and will sell you one with a phone call.

I'm pretty sure they're a bit bigger than the OS spraybar, in which case you'll have to ream out the hole (this reduces the effective area of the venturi, which usually isn't a bad thing).  If you call Randy, he'll tell you...

Having said that, if you're still in the "crashes a lot" stage, you may want to consider retaining the remote needle valve, for crash resistance.  On a profile you'd relocate it so that it's parallel with the cylinder.  On that Nobler, you'd want to leave it right where it is.  You have a slight problem with fuel wanting to drain away from the spray bar when you're starting, and there are some slight issues with how well the engine runs -- but I've run the 20 FP and the 46 LA with remote needles, and haven't noticed any problems once the engine's started.

Yessir...think I am going to go with it right out of the box. Thankee for the intel.

IMHO the LA 46 is the only engine for the ARF Nobler.  The instruction booklet shows a LA 40. I could never get my 40 to run right. I have several 46's and they run great box stock, even better with a front NVA.

I have a 46 in my ARF Nobler- Great Combo!

You can never have too much power.  

I got that .46 just for this kit. It is in their recommendations so looking forwrd to prop selection, line length and all that to get a good lap time. Good to hear that you like yours.

Shug:

Watch out for those motor mounts - they're not maple.  One hard backfire can do them in!

Also, if that's a 6 inch pitch prop, you got way more prop than you need with an LA-46.  4 inch pitch would be better.  Also, if you are going to use Zingers, use Zinger Pro's - they are a much better prop for stunt.

Scott

At a friends suggestion I plan to beef the motor mounts up with gussets. See if that will get me through awhile.
That prop is one I just threw on for the video...though they do suggest a 11x6 for break in. I do have 11x4s and 11x5s too. Don't have any Zinger Pros though.

[Garf]

I have had 3 NoblARF's so far. I made several mistakes and crashed them all. I broke the mounts off them all including one with mounts replaced with heavy duty maple. NoblARF 1 had both control horns fail where they were wrapped and soldered. All also had leadouts slip to change neutral setting. I have powered them with Fox 35, EVO 36, Brodak 40, and OS 35S engines. LA 46 is overkill. OS 35S is ideal. For your 46, it is mandatory to change to front NVA and dump the rear needle. You can get stock OS FP NVA's from Tower or Ebay, or better, use Enya NVA and ream the venturi and case to get better fuel draw. Enya is available on Ebay. 

[Shug Emery]

I have had 3 NoblARF's so far. I made several mistakes and crashed them all. I broke the mounts off them all including one with mounts replaced with heavy duty maple. NoblARF 1 had both control horns fail where they were wrapped and soldered. All also had leadouts slip to change neutral setting. I have powered them with Fox 35, EVO 36, Brodak 40, and OS 35S engines. LA 46 is overkill. OS 35S is ideal. For your 46, it is mandatory to change to front NVA and dump the rear needle. You can get stock OS FP NVA's from Tower or Ebay, or better, use Enya NVA and ream the venturi and case to get better fuel draw. Enya is available on Ebay.  

Wow...some harsh luck....
So why is mandatory to switch out the needle valve? I am not sure my skills are up to reaming and engine mods. Just don't see why I can't put on the .46 and fly. That is my current plan.
The .46 is in their recommendations as well as .35 and .40.
Thanks.
I like the name Garf!

[Phil Krankowski]

If you are running pressure and worry about the fuel draining back from the remote NVA route the PRESSURE line so you can pinch it while starting.  With the engine primed, and the fuel tank vent closed (pinched) the fuel will more than less stay where it is supposed to.  I did this with an LA25 and the results were quite nice for a couple inches of extra line in a place that otherwise doesn't matter.  It does look a little less clean.  With an electric finger it won't matter though.

Phil

[Garf]

Wow...some harsh luck....
So why is mandatory to switch out the needle valve? I am not sure my skills are up to reaming and engine mods. Just don't see why I can't put on the .46 and fly. That is my current plan.
The .46 is in their recommendations as well as .35 and .40.
Thanks.
I like the name Garf!

I know the history of the Nobler from the beginning. The original had the Johnson small shaft 35. Tower wants to sell the LA 46. It's too much. The needle conversion is needed to bring the engine as far back as possible to minimize balance problems. Talk to namvet about this. The conversion is simple. Either use a tapered reamer or a #21 drill bit (5/32" or 4 mm.) People usually install an extra head gasket to make it more user friendly when hand starting. The one time I forgot to do this, it reminded me.

[Steve Helmick]

I'm a big fan of Randy Smith's NV Assy...it's like the ST, but much better. I am NOT a fan of the OS/Enya type NV's. They seem to have a failure mode where they're damaged (bent, probably) but hard to chuck out and replace. They're not cheaper than a Randy Aero NV, either.

All you need is a 'lectric hand drill and a .161" drill...#20. Hold the engine in one hand while pushing the venturi into the case and drill...to compress the o-ring a bit. Drill from one side, drill from the other side, and then drill through both sides from one side. To keep the slight amount of chips out of the engine, just close the port in the crankshaft. Clean afterwards with a Q-tip and/or hose out with WD-40 or similar. I usually use my drill press and just hold the engine in both hands. S'easy!  

If you use the TT Cyclone 11 x 4.5 (like Tim and Tom), you won't have clearance problems (they work great and r cheap!). But the stock LG sucketh and needs to be replaced with an aluminum type. Reinforce the LG mount also. Much better landings...   Steve

[Scott Richlen]

Suggestion: before you drill, pack the opening with kleenex type tissue to ensure no chips get close to the crankshaft.

Also, I notice a lot of LA-46s like to kick-back and loosen the propnut (and yes, even with the extra head gasket).  My starting procedure is choke about 4 flips turning the prop forward (counter-clockwise), flip it through about 5 or 6 times forward (you'll feel it loosen as the fuel gets into the cylinder), hook up the battery and hand crank backwards until you get a bump.  Then a hard flip backwards will usually give you a one flip start.

Scott

[Bob Reeves]

Aw heck I have a Noblearf with a ST G21 46 in the nose. Only issue is carrying enough fuel, added a wart to the fuel tank which helped but still not quite enough. Is a real hoot to fly, hard to describe with the 46 just growling along like the airplane isn't even there. The LA will be fine...

[john e. holliday]

I have switched out most of my LA 40's to the .46 because it is so reliable.   The latest one is in the Ringmaster Imperial and runs great with remote needle set up.   

[José Almeida]

Hi Shug.

Your video is great! Thanks for sharing!

Talking about building during this winter, I will go start 2 another Nobler 52 from Dixon Plans. One electric and other IC like I show in the pictures attached.

I follow your comments, about what kind of engine is better for Top Flite Nobler ARF. I had the opinion for this kind of plane, no more than .40, but .35 is better.

My last Nobler is building all from plan and I try join two era's of the Nobler life.

Never saw till today anything like that and results very well.

This is why post here, for sure, he goes helping who want a plane very competitive and do all FAI pattern.

My had flow in one European Champ and in others World Cup events in Europe a few years ago.

With OS Max 32 Balanced and BluePrinted by Randy Smith, 8 O'clock position, Bob Hunt Carbon Tuned Pipe inside fuselage, B&O 11x4 wood prop and Fuel 22% Oil (1/2 Synt and 1/2 Castor) with 5% Nitro. 65ft lines, 5.4sec/lap with excellent tension in all space. Total flight time 6m15s.
The total weight is 39,5.oz

Simply underfull plane and many European pilots are testing him. In one of the pictures, Yuri Yatsenko from Ukrania, take a picture with him after flying.
If in my hands flight well, in Yuri hands, the plane are really superb

Shug if you have the possibility or any other pilot, try that!  

I attach some pictures of my Nobler 52 and promise post here the evolution of mines

Regards,
José

[john e. holliday]

That is some good looking Noblers.   I like the way you hid the pipe.

[Scott Richlen]

Impressive looking machines!!  I didn't get the 8 o'clock reference until I saw the last picture.  Did you use an RC mount?

Scott

[Avaiojet]

I may be totally wrong on this, but...

Isn't there some modeler that takes Noblers and puts 60 size engines in them? Changes the moments and the overall look of the fuselage.

Not sure where I read this, but I believe there was a photo also? Putting a question mark here because I could be thinking of something totally unrelated to the Nobler. But I think it was the Nobler?

[Juan Valentin]

    Hello shug
                      Great video Shug.In my ARF Nobler used an OS .40FP  reworked by Randy Smith  and it flew real well,could do the pattern no problem. I did some changes besides the control. I removed all the covering and used polyspan in the wings and tail,silkspan in the fuse and painted it with SIG dope. Removed the motor mounts because I didn`t like the wood,made a balsa cowling like the green nobler and added aluminum landing gear.Did adj.leadouts and weight box.
                                                                                                                                                                               Juan

[Tim Wescott]

Great video Shug.In my ARF Nobler used an OS .40FP  reworked by Randy Smith  and it flew real well,could do the pattern no problem. I did some changes besides the control. I removed all the covering and used polyspan in the wings and tail,silkspan in the fuse and painted it with SIG dope. Removed the motor mounts because I didn`t like the wood,made a balsa cowling like the green nobler and added aluminum landing gear.Did adj.leadouts and weight box.

With all due respect, that's like buying a Yugo (Zastava; I don't know if they tried to sell Yugos in Portugal), tearing it down to bare metal, then refinishing it in Ferarri colors and putting in leather seats.

I may be totally wrong on this, but...

Isn't there some modeler that takes Noblers and puts 60 size engines in them? Changes the moments and the overall look of the fuselage.

That sounds like PJ Rowland's Nobler with a 61 Stalker, with which he competed in Classic with Controversy at the US Nats some time back.

[Paul Walker]

That sounds like PJ Rowland's Nobler with a 61 Stalker, with which he competed in Classic with Controversy at the US Nats some time back.
[/quote]


What "controversy" was that? I was there....Didn't hear of any.

[Juan Valentin]

Hello Tim
                 No offense taken.  This thread is about ARF Nobler  and I derived great pleasure out of reworking mine to make it look better.  I definitely was not trying to make a Green box Nobler out of it.I did build the green box Nobler Twice while I was in the service,I had one in Florida and another in Germany while I was stationed there. I still have the plans. I remember well the Yugo which was sold here in Puerto Rico too. I would have no problem if a guy paints his red,puts leather seats and even Ferrari insignias if that was his dream as long as he is not trying to sell it to me as a Ferrari.
                                                                                                                                                                                   Juan

[Tim Wescott]

What "controversy" was that? I was there....Didn't hear of any.

"Controversy" is an overstatement.  Purposeful -- it's been a slow day.

As I recall he reported some grumbling about stepping so far away from a Fox 35 for the motive power.

[Tim Wescott]

(Zastava; I don't know if they tried to sell Yugos in Portugal)

I remember well the Yugo which was sold here in Puerto Rico too

How did I get from Puerto Rico to Portugal?  Dang, these illiterates who can't get past the first letter of a place name; they'll be the ruination of us all!

[Andrew Saunders]

Hey Shug, just a bit of advice on the LA 46. On all of mine i run a ST Needle valve assembly, I put a second head gasket in, And i run the sonic tronic Glow devil 300 Glow plugs. Any RC lOng with an idle bar will help, but i found mine love the glowdevil 300s. Ive also had the piston sleeve retimed but do not he,i the head. I also use Sig Champion fuEL 10% NITRO 20% LUBRICANT.Just might be something you wanna try if ya like. I would definitely go to the Super tigre  needle valve assembly if you dont do anything else to it.Great engine though for the plane. What prop are you gonna use on it? What size fuel tank are you putting in it?

[wwwarbird]

    Hello shug
                      Great video Shug.In my ARF Nobler used an OS .40FP  reworked by Randy Smith  and it flew real well,could do the pattern no problem. I did some changes besides the control. I removed all the covering and used polyspan in the wings and tail,silkspan in the fuse and painted it with SIG dope. Removed the motor mounts because I didn`t like the wood,made a balsa cowling like the green nobler and added aluminum landing gear.Did adj.leadouts and weight box.
                                                                                                                                                                               Juan

 I remember a build thread on this silver Nobler some time ago. Nice work and I really like the simple clean treatment, looks great!

[Paul Walker]

"Controversy" is an overstatement.  Purposeful -- it's been a slow day.

As I recall he reported some grumbling about stepping so far away from a Fox 35 for the motive power.

Tim,
I believe the controversy was in Australia, not the US. There were some hard feelings down under about that plane.

[Mike Keville]

Seem to recall PJ's model was a GIESEKE Nobler....not that anyone should care what he used for power.

[Steve Helmick]

Not only that, but they give points for using period correct powerplants in Australia (and England), so you can imagine the disgust from somebody with a mere Fox .35 stunt when the wind comes up in the afternoon. As it usually does.  Steve

[José Almeida]

Impressive looking machines!!  I didn't get the 8 o'clock reference until I saw the last picture.  Did you use an RC mount?

Scott

Hi Scott.
Yes, I did. I use a Dave Brown round mount for .25 -.35 engines without wood screws. (picture attached)
Like you know, is more easy to adjust the engine angle to place the pipe inside fuselage.
No wood motor mounts are used. For reinforced the fuselage and specially the nose and carve the tunnel for pipe without problems, use glassfibre 12 grams/m2 with a mix of epoxy and 1/3 of alcohol, for save weight.

Thanks
José

[Jeff Traxler]

Hey Shug,
    I made my NobleARF E powered and I love it.I changed the controls to more modern components and put a set of my carbon landing gear instead of wire.My pattern has improved bigtime.........the thing's like a Timex,just keeps on tickin'!!
                                                      Trax

[Shug Emery]

Hi Shug.

Your video is great! Thanks for sharing!

Talking about building during this winter, I will go start 2 another Nobler 52 from Dixon Plans. One electric and other IC like I show in the pictures attached.

I follow your comments, about what kind of engine is better for Top Flite Nobler ARF. I had the opinion for this kind of plane, no more than .40, but .35 is better.

My last Nobler is building all from plan and I try join two era's of the Nobler life.

Never saw till today anything like that and results very well.

This is why post here, for sure, he goes helping who want a plane very competitive and do all FAI pattern.

My had flow in one European Champ and in others World Cup events in Europe a few years ago.

With OS Max 32 Balanced and BluePrinted by Randy Smith, 8 O'clock position, Bob Hunt Carbon Tuned Pipe inside fuselage, B&O 11x4 wood prop and Fuel 22% Oil (1/2 Synt and 1/2 Castor) with 5% Nitro. 65ft lines, 5.4sec/lap with excellent tension in all space. Total flight time 6m15s.
The total weight is 39,5.oz

Simply underfull plane and many European pilots are testing him. In one of the pictures, Yuri Yatsenko from Ukrania, take a picture with him after flying.
If in my hands flight well, in Yuri hands, the plane are really superb

Shug if you have the possibility or any other pilot, try that!  

I attach some pictures of my Nobler 52 and promise post here the evolution of mines

Regards,
José

Those Noblers are sassy. Thank you.

[Shug Emery]

    Hello shug
                      Great video Shug.In my ARF Nobler used an OS .40FP  reworked by Randy Smith  and it flew real well,could do the pattern no problem. I did some changes besides the control. I removed all the covering and used polyspan in the wings and tail,silkspan in the fuse and painted it with SIG dope. Removed the motor mounts because I didn`t like the wood,made a balsa cowling like the green nobler and added aluminum landing gear.Did adj.leadouts and weight box.
                                                                                                                                                                               Juan

I love the clean look of this Nobler. Really sharp!

[Juan Valentin]

          Thanks Shug, I noticed you have your videos on you tube,It`s a great idea that way you can reach more people.Keep it coming your videos are instructive and entertaining.
                                                                                                                                                                 Juan

[Shug Emery]

          Thanks Shug, I noticed you have your videos on you tube,It`s a great idea that way you can reach more people.Keep it coming your videos are instructive and entertaining.
                                                                                                                                                                 Juan

I have had a few of my YouTube subscribers that they got kits and handles and hope to try it. Some are RC guys and some brand new. Hoping to nab a few more.

[Steve Thornton]

    Hello shug
                      Great video Shug.In my ARF Nobler used an OS .40FP  reworked by Randy Smith  and it flew real well,could do the pattern no problem. I did some changes besides the control. I removed all the covering and used polyspan in the wings and tail,silkspan in the fuse and painted it with SIG dope. Removed the motor mounts because I didn`t like the wood,made a balsa cowling like the green nobler and added aluminum landing gear.Did adj.leadouts and weight box.
                                                                                                                                                                               Juan

Juan that's one gorgeous Nobler!
Steve

[John Sunderland]

The TF Nobler arf has a few years behind it now. I dubbed them "rubber Noblers" the year they came out. I have flown several, owned two, assembled neither, sold one new in the box. My first flight on one was in competition. I placed well! One is still hanging on the wall with no motor mounts.   Worth its weight in fractions of an oz in gold!  

The LA 46 will require about an 1 oz. of tail weight for the stock CG and lead out location. use a tongue muffler on pressure. Try an 11/ 4.5 from Eric Rule for the 46. Another sweet set up for this is a an old OS 35s with a Big Art tube muffler, on pressure. Most important.... fly the heck out it!

[JoeJust]

While I am the first to admit my meager attempts at flying/building PA planes I have to say that the TF Nobler is on of my favorites.  I have had 4 of them and after many flights I have given them away and as far as I know they are still flyable.  I do have one TF Nobler that I have kept. It seems that TF received this plane as a test model for covering.  m
there were numerous colors of M-cote on the plane with notes as to how much heat was applied.  I got it for a 'song" and stripped off all the "test" mono and recovered it.  It flys WAY better than I can . Here's what it looks like today

[Shug Emery]

While I am the first to admit my meager attempts at flying/building PA planes I have to say that the TF Nobler is on of my favorites.  I have had 4 of them and after many flights I have given them away and as far as I know they are still flyable.  I do have one TF Nobler that I have kept. It seems that TF received this plane as a test model for covering.  m
there were numerous colors of M-cote on the plane with notes as to how much heat was applied.  I got it for a 'song" and stripped off all the "test" mono and recovered it.  It flys WAY better than I can . Here's what it looks like today

I like it........good some good flavor to it.
Thanks for showing that.

[Phil Krankowski]

Aw heck I have a Noblearf with a ST G21 46 in the nose. Only issue is carrying enough fuel, added a wart to the fuel tank which helped but still not quite enough. Is a real hoot to fly, hard to describe with the 46 just growling along like the airplane isn't even there. The LA will be fine...

How do you "add a wart"?

Plug the tank off and use a heat gun letting air expansion stretch the heated area?  Something more controlled?

Phil

[Bob Reeves]

Just a protrusion that fits between the motor mounts. It's a metal tank, I formed a 2nd smaller tank out of tin and soldered it to the top of the tank with the area between the two tanks open. The fill vent now goes to the top of the added tank so it gets filled. It's uniflow on muffler pressure.

[Phil Krankowski]

Just a protrusion that fits between the motor mounts. It's a metal tank, I formed a 2nd smaller tank out of tin and soldered it to the top of the tank with the area between the two tanks open. The fill vent now goes to the top of the added tank so it gets filled. It's uniflow on muffler pressure.

That make more sense.  I thought you had a modern plastic tank.

Phil

[Chris Belcher]

Shug...I just did one of these and here is my experience...use the LA46 cuz you can do a pattern on 3.75 oz of fuel if you run a wet 2 with low pitch prop. A brodak ATF 4 oz tank slips right in. I don't like plastic tanks for several reasons, but that's another post I suppose. A Brodak 40 is lighter but uses way more fuel..at least mine does and it IS well broken in. REPLACE THE MOTOR MOUNTS! Didin't in mine and it was a nightmare. The engine will crush those weird brown mounts. Have since repalced and wished a hundred times i had done it first. Replace at least the pushrod from flaps to elevators...I used arrow shaft and ball links. And fly it the first few times with no cowl...i wasted a lot of time a the field taking that cowl on and off to get to motor stuff. Now I am making my own cowl cuz the fiberglass one is OK but not great. After you do all of these mods you will have a GREAT flying airplane. Mine is just so easy to do the pattern on..nice tight corners..no bounce (cuz I checked the incidences before i glued any flight surfaces in) and there's just something about a Nobler...and a Stilleto...and an Oriental..and a Smoothie...and a Genesis...and a Ringmaster...and a... well you get it! Id,nt this fun?

[Jim Nohsey]

I have had 3 NoblARF's so far. I made several mistakes and crashed them all. I broke the mounts off them all including one with mounts replaced with heavy duty maple. NoblARF 1 had both control horns fail where they were wrapped and soldered. All also had leadouts slip to change neutral setting. I have powered them with Fox 35, EVO 36, Brodak 40, and OS 35S engines. LA 46 is overkill. OS 35S is ideal. For your 46, it is mandatory to change to front NVA and dump the rear needle. You can get stock OS FP NVA's from Tower or Ebay, or better, use Enya NVA and ream the venturi and case to get better fuel draw. Enya is available on Ebay. 

Graf, I got an nib nobler last night and setting here looking at it. I have cut some ply to renforce the mounts (http://stunthanger.com/smf/index.php/topic,25165.0.html) post 22
Did you have to cut into the covering at the wing tip to pull the new lead outs or did you solder to the old ones and pull thru?

[Jim Nohsey]

I have had 3 NoblARF's so far. I made several mistakes and crashed them all. I broke the mounts off them all including one with mounts replaced with heavy duty maple. NoblARF 1 had both control horns fail where they were wrapped and soldered. All also had leadouts slip to change neutral setting. I have powered them with Fox 35, EVO 36, Brodak 40, and OS 35S engines. LA 46 is overkill. OS 35S is ideal. For your 46, it is mandatory to change to front NVA and dump the rear needle. You can get stock OS FP NVA's from Tower or Ebay, or better, use Enya NVA and ream the venturi and case to get better fuel draw. Enya is available on Ebay. 

[Paul Taylor]

Graf, I got an nib nobler last night and setting here looking at it. I have cut some ply to renforce the mounts (http://stunthanger.com/smf/index.php/topic,25165.0.html) post 22
Did you have to cut into the covering at the wing tip to pull the new lead outs or did you solder to the old ones and pull thru?

Jim
You can use CA to attach new lead outs to the old ones. Might have to remove some of the strands.

[Jim Nohsey]

what tank are you using??

[Shug Emery]

Graf, I got an nib nobler last night and setting here looking at it. I have cut some ply to renforce the mounts (http://stunthanger.com/smf/index.php/topic,25165.0.html) post 22
Did you have to cut into the covering at the wing tip to pull the new lead outs or did you solder to the old ones and pull thru?

I cut my covering. Did not want too but had a tough time pulling through the small brass tubes for lead out guides. Tried super gluing but kept popping off. I should have maybe soldered in retrospect.
I am using the plastic tank that came with it. Also got a 6 oz sullivan as back up.

[RknRusty]

I slit the chinakote covering on the under side tip of my ARF Oriental wing and cut eyelets off so I could pull the lines out of the leadout guide. With the new lines already bushed and wrapped to the bellcrank, I used crimp tubes to connect the old lines to the new. Pulled them through, cut off the crimps and threaded back through the leadout guide. Clear tape to seal it back up. I changed it from a 4" to a 3" Sig bellcrank.

I have recessed the hinge slots and opened them to fit the Dubro hinges. I'm not using the CA hinges. The seam on the covering needs to be clear taped or glued down all the way around the wings and flaps, or the LE and TE of all the covering will be flapping in the wind in no time.
Rusty

[Miguel Poduje]

Hello!!

I have a ARF Nobler for more than 12 years, When appeared first time on topflite catalog, I bought one without hesitatio. The first time i installed a Fox 35 stunt in the nose... but i had a lot of problems with this engine and the innverted position, after that, changed the fox for an OS Max 35 CL , but I could never make a flight to the speed I wanted. I was very disappointed, I had flown other Nobler´s but could not get a good fly with mine.

I read an article in internet, I forget who it was, and said you could use a .25 engine in the Nobler ARF because the power of a .25 now is similar  or greater than the power of a .35 of those years. I had  a new Thunder Tiger .25 CL who had never used it, so I decided to try. My Nobler now flies just the way I wanted it, with a propeller BYO (Brodak) 9x5 and 5.5 seconds per lap. The engine has good power and my Nobler is capable to do the FAI pattern smoothly even on windy days.



This video, is from the first fly with Tunder Tigher .25

[Miguel Poduje]

.

[RknRusty]

Miguel, I have a Thunder Tiger Pro .25, a ball bearing engine with a Super Tigre needle valve in a sprinkler venturi. I put it on a Goldberg Shoestring, and it's way more power than that plane ever needed. I fly with a 9x4 prop and still had to lower the compression just to get 4.6 second laps on 60'. That's a mean little engine. I should find something bigger to bolt it to.
Rusty

[Shug Emery]

Hello!!

I have a ARF Nobler for more than 12 years, When appeared first time on topflite catalog, I bought one without hesitatio. The first time i installed a Fox 35 stunt in the nose... but i had a lot of problems with this engine and the innverted position, after that, changed the fox for an OS Max 35 CL , but I could never make a flight to the speed I wanted. I was very disappointed, I had flown other Nobler´s but could not get a good fly with mine.

I read an article in internet, I forget who it was, and said you could use a .25 engine in the Nobler ARF because the power of a .25 now is similar  or greater than the power of a .35 of those years. I had  a new Thunder Tiger .25 CL who had never used it, so I decided to try. My Nobler now flies just the way I wanted it, with a propeller BYO (Brodak) 9x5 and 5.5 seconds per lap. The engine has good power and my Nobler is capable to do the FAI pattern smoothly even on windy days.

Mucho obligato Miguel......I have an OS .25 but it is destined for a Shark I am going to build. My Nobler is coming along but taking me way longer than the 4 to 6 hours they say in the instructions.
I like yours.

[Avaiojet]

Hello!!

I have a ARF Nobler for more than 12 years, When appeared first time on topflite catalog, I bought one without hesitatio. The first time i installed a Fox 35 stunt in the nose... but i had a lot of problems with this engine and the innverted position, after that, changed the fox for an OS Max 35 CL , but I could never make a flight to the speed I wanted. I was very disappointed, I had flown other Nobler´s but could not get a good fly with mine.

I read an article in internet, I forget who it was, and said you could use a .25 engine in the Nobler ARF because the power of a .25 now is similar  or greater than the power of a .35 of those years. I had  a new Thunder Tiger .25 CL who had never used it, so I decided to try. My Nobler now flies just the way I wanted it, with a propeller BYO (Brodak) 9x5 and 5.5 seconds per lap. The engine has good power and my Nobler is capable to do the FAI pattern smoothly even on windy days.

Miguel,

I never read much about Noblers because I never had an engine for one.

I didn't knew guys were using smaller engines than 35's and up on Noblers? Reading your Post with your ST 25 in a Nobler was a surprise.

I purchased a ARF Pathfinder to learn the pattern, only because I had an OS LA 46 that was to be used in another model.

I have an OS 30 stunt that could be used in a ARF Nobler, I should give that some consideration.

Be nice to have a second model for pattern work just in case I bury the Pathfinder.

The Nobler is looking better all the time.

Edited for spelling.

[Shug Emery]

Coming along. Test fit pictures. 4" bell crank and leadouts installed. New cf pushrod from flaps to tail installed. Tight working in the tail but got it figured out.
OS .46LA installed...yes that is what is going on at this time.
Removed the remote needle and put on an OS NVA. May change the venturi later. One step at a time.
Tricky doing all the new installs but worth it. I am liking the way it looks.
Shug

[tom brightbill]

Shug, don't forget to tape the hinge lines. Good luck.

[Miguel Poduje]

Shug

The Nobler rules !!!!

I see other light blue Nobler in your last pic.... is a profile Nobler??
Which prop you will use??  I think, if a .46 LA, you will need a 11 or 12 diameter with a low pitch, maybe 4 or 3.
Excelent plane you will enjoy it ..

Regards

[Tim Wescott]

I think, if a .46 LA, you will need a 11 or 12 diameter with a low pitch, maybe 4 or 3.

+1.  I'm having good luck at the moment with the Thunder Tiger 11x4.5 (it measures out to less pitch than that, I'm told).  The APC 12.25 x 3.75, 11x4, and 11.5x4 are all good props to try, too.  It's a good idea to try all of them and see which one seems best.

[Shug Emery]

Shug, don't forget to tape the hinge lines. Good luck.

I will do it for sure. Thanks.

Shug

The Nobler rules !!!!

I see other light blue Nobler in your last pic.... is a profile Nobler??
Which prop you will use??  I think, if a .46 LA, you will need a 11 or 12 diameter with a low pitch, maybe 4 or 3.
Excelent plane you will enjoy it ..

Regards

It is a profile Nobler.
Props...I have several. Goinna try a 12x5 and 11x4 and go from there in trimming.
Gracias.

+1.  I'm having good luck at the moment with the Thunder Tiger 11x4.5 (it measures out to less pitch than that, I'm told).  The APC 12.25 x 3.75, 11x4, and 11.5x4 are all good props to try, too.  It's a good idea to try all of them and see which one seems best.

So I shall....thanks for the sizes.

[Miguel Poduje]

Nice Video Shaug !!!!!!

[YakNine]

 Hey Shug, watched the video last night but stopped, the sound is out of sync with the video, checked your you tube channel and it's synced right great job , just giving you a heads up. T.J. PS. Saw the video of your daughter she was amazing the giant hoop would be great for working a new flyer through the dizzies !😁

[Shug Emery]

Nice Video Shaug !!!!!!

Thanks. Mucho obligato.

Hey Shug, watched the video last night but stopped, the sound is out of sync with the video, checked your you tube channel and it's synced right great job , just giving you a heads up. T.J. PS. Saw the video of your daughter she was amazing the giant hoop would be great for working a new flyer through the dizzies !😁

Hmmmm...the sound synchs fine on mine. Glad it was good on YouTube. Thanks you.
I never thought of the Cyr Wheels being a trainer for the dizzies but it is true!

[john e. holliday]

The new ARF Nobler is looking good.   I still have mine as a test bed for engines.   The profile looks good in the air, can't comment on sound as the family won't let me hook up speakers to the computer.  So I can't tell what you are saying and I'm deaf anyway.   I still remember the video of your daughter with the hoola hoops.   Such a talented family.  Is she still performing in Vegas?

[Shug Emery]

The new ARF Nobler is looking good.   I still have mine as a test bed for engines.   The profile looks good in the air, can't comment on sound as the family won't let me hook up speakers to the computer.  So I can't tell what you are saying and I'm deaf anyway.   I still remember the video of your daughter with the hoola hoops.   Such a talented family.  Is she still performing in Vegas?

Thanks Doc. Profile Nobler has a Sairo .40 four stroke on it. Low grumble.
Aerial is in Washington, DC right now performing in Pippin. A big Broadway show.

[Juan Valentin]

Hello Shug
                    I had to use the Kwik link for the elevator in my arf nobler and having gone thru the problem of the link skiping over the pushrod threads and the plane changing trim in flight I wrapped the threaded portion of the link with wire and soldered in place also I did a fillet with solder to strengthen the riveted pin since I heard some people claim the pin would come out of the link. There is not much space in that area as it comes from top flite for me to be able to  use a plastic ball link.Here are pics of what I did. If the solder gets in the threads use a 4-40 tap to clear them. As a safety measure I used a piece of silicone over the link.

                                                                                                                                         Juan

[Shug Emery]

Hello Shug
                    I had to use the Kwik link for the elevator in my arf nobler and having gone thru the problem of the link skiping over the pushrod threads and the plane changing trim in flight I wrapped the threaded portion of the link with wire and soldered in place also I did a fillet with solder to strengthen the riveted pin since I heard some people claim the pin would come out of the link. There is not much space in that area as it comes from top flite for me to be able to  use a plastic ball link.Here are pics of what I did. If the solder gets in the threads use a 4-40 tap to clear them. As a safety measure I used a piece of silicone over the link.

                                                                                                                                         Juan

Looks solid....doubt that will let go. Great ides and I will do it.
Gracias.
Shug

[Shug Emery]

Ready for flight. OS .46LA.
Changed bellcrank, leadouts and pushrod from flaps to elevator. Wrapped leadout ends with copper using a cool lil' wrapping gizmo from Jim Lee. It was fast and fun to do.
47.5 ounces.
Hopefully get it in the air at our frozen fun fly New Years Day.
Shug

[Randy Cuberly]

Hey Shug,
What's all that white stuff on the ground...looks cold!  

I love Arizona!  

Randy Cuberly
PS:  Did Ya tape the hinge lines???

[JoeJust]

It is "Blue Cheese".
Joe

[Shug Emery]

Hey Shug,
What's all that white stuff on the ground...looks cold!  

I love Arizona!  

Randy Cuberly
PS:  Did Ya tape the hinge lines???

I did tape the hinge lines for sure!
The white stuff is Earth Base Cover.
Shug

[jim gevay]

Sean, I would advise bringing something a little less nicer to fly than your brand new Nobler to the Frozen Fun Fly.

[wwwarbird]

Sean, I would advise bringing something a little less nicer to fly than your brand new Nobler to the Frozen Fun Fly.

 Ditto Shug, definitely use an old beater that you don't care too much about, the odds of damage are pretty high.

 Save the new bird for better conditions.

[Shug Emery]

Sean, I would advise bringing something a little less nicer to fly than your brand new Nobler to the Frozen Fun Fly.

Ditto Shug, definitely use an old beater that you don't care too much about, the odds of damage are pretty high.

 Save the new bird for better conditions.

Thanks for shaking me straight feller.....may be Bi-Slobbin')))))

[Paul Taylor]

Make a pair of ski's.