Volantex Ranger 1600 overview

[@J2onton]

You made this 5 years ago! Returning to rc fpv after 7 years. Looks practical and strong. Still for sale. Think I willl order one. Flew the Firstar 1600, with the divergent thrust line, back in 2016. Was good when launched. You make very enjoyable and informative videos. Thanks.

[@AndrewNewton]

Thank you. I still have one and it's still a fave

[@J2onton]

@@AndrewNewton Cheers. Enough said.

[@RickMaddoxSr]

Just got my Ranger 1600. Thanks for the build videos.

[@AndrewNewton]

Excellent, it's a winner

[@patriotsleepercell4060]

Great video I was looking for something to replace my bixler 2 for long range fpv this works perfectly for me, large but not too large like the skyhunter. Love the idea of the plastic body and has great features.

[@alasdair4161]

Great to see you re visit Volantex after some early adventures. They certainly have progressed and listened to consumers with the new lineup. I have the 757-8 2000 and agree, it is just the perfect plane, I can soar all day long on one Liion battery, it is virtually un stallable, no tip stall can even be induced, it is amazingly efficient with a Sunnysky 2216 and it carves like an eagle, I also have the baby brother, the G2 (1200 wingspan) which I frequently fly even further, running Dragonlink and 1.2g, but again the wing design is brilliant, just perfect as a well mannered excellent handling well engineered and well built plane. Cheers, and thanks again for posting.

[@AndrewNewton]

Yes it's so well behaved

[@liftoff3204]

Great review Andrew, i have the 2.0 m version and it is a very good rugged fpv plane. Only over time i have damaged the skid that is not as tough as it looks. With flaps its awesome, prevents the nose down attitude under high throttle. Will definitevely buy a new kit soon. Might be tempted to buy the 1600, would be perfect to choose the wing depending on my mood! Keep doing your videos, its awesome

[@AndrewNewton]

Thanks, same fuselage so yes you could just swap wings

[@julianhumphrey4843]

Andrew, superb plane, i have the PNP version, really well made and tough as old boots

[@AndrewNewton]

Sweet

[@WeAreTheTrueMedia]

Perfect, thanks for posting Andrew. I received and built this Friday night. Not had chance to fly yet and can't decide if to bother with the stickers or laminate it. There is only one other review out there and the guy's voice drives me mad so I'm really chuffed to see you've bought one. I actually bought it on the basis of your Ranger 2000 review (and the fact my ancient Bix 3 has more glue and tape than foam). Just used the electrics from the Bix in this airframe. Currently looking how to get wheels on it to practice landings more.

[@AndrewNewton]

Excellent Phil.

[@Bellairvideo]

Well done Andrew!

[@roncannoles2377]

Thanks for another great video Andrew. Watching you having so much fun brought me back to younger days when I used to fly. So I pulled the trigger on this model vs the Bixler 1.1 V2, primarily due to all the great reviews. That, plus the larger more accessible stiff plastic fuselage were the difference for me. I think this will suit me well :-) Certainly appears to be good value at current pricing.

[@AndrewNewton]

Yes they are cheap for the quality. Hope you like it as much as I do

[@AmitWagh]

Beautiful plane..very nice review Andrew..

[@skypilot23]

Looking for the flight footage mentioned? I seriously think my bixler is getting old and frail- almost feel disloyal still flies so nice

[@AndrewNewton]

Flight footage coming tomorrow. This would be a great step up from the Bixler

[@jerrynormandin2892]

Andrew, greetings from Massachusetts, USA. I maidened my Ranger 1600 this week. After performing some acrobatics during the second flight the wing strut bent and the wing lock snapped on the right hand wing. I managed to land the airplane ok. A friend at my r/c club had some spare carbon fiber tubes that were just the right diameter so I cut it to size and replaced the wing strut. I managed to 3D print replacement wing locks with PETG filament. I have a question about replacing the Ranger 1600 wing locks inside the fuselage. What's the best way to replace it ? I have the airplane all trimmed and it flies great. I think with the carbon fiber wing spar there will be much less flex when performing loops and stalls, and the wing lock won't snap due to too much flex.

[@AndrewNewton]

Pull the whole wing mount assembly out by unscrewing all the little screws. Seems daunting but it fits back in easily

[@isoldemarangelis5096]

It looks like the Phoenix 1600 wing and tail sections used on this plane, let us know how it compares and the Phoenix 1600 as the Phoenix is my favourite out of my 20 planes. I hope it matches up as I will then make it my FPV go to plane.

[@AndrewNewton]

Everything is bigger than the P1600, maybe the wings are the same?

[@jmp29]

Hi Andrew. Is the CG mark on wing ok for you or do you find another better CG please ? Thanks for all your nice videos.

[@AndrewNewton]

Thanks macfly. I did a video on that exact question kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYGsXmNmbdd6orM

[@wesorama]

It does look good.

[@mkolesnik]

great video - can you advise on the servos please? i understood the tail servos are coronas ds 939mg - what about the wings? the same? cheers!

[@AndrewNewton]

I'm using Carbonbird 13g MG (Might be rebranded KST) but Turnigy TGY9018 or TowerPro MG90would be suitable

[@vingasoline1]

sir what would you recommend for an itermediate flyer the ranger 1600mm or the e sky eagles 1100mm? im torn between the two

[@AndrewNewton]

Both would be good but the Ranger is a big favourite for me. Very tough and adaptable.

[@mikehoran3323]

Thank you for the excellent review and video. Is there information anywhere that tells you how many and how long, regarding servo lead extensions? Great piece of kit. I'm planning on running this non-powered strictly for sloping. I'm going to get a bunch of colored mylar strips, about 10 or so inches long (colors undecided) and attache them to the motor mount you don't like that much, to simulate a colorful exhaust streak. It will be interesting trying to get the CG right without the weight of the motor back there, or maybe I'll leave the motor there and just remove the prop. Thanks again for the video.

[@AndrewNewton]

I like your ideas. Could leave the motor out and use a lighter battery like a 2200. I'll measure my extensions for you

[@AndrewNewton]

Mike, I used 2 x 40cm for the wings and 2 x 60cm for the tail servos. Might need a 20cm for the ESC too

[@tomwolf9420]

Finally, at long last my prayers have been heard: a easy-to-take-down-and-reassembly plane that fits in my car (after my wife stored a quadzillion bags in it) What would you say: how many times would the tail section stand assembling/ take down? ( besides rudder/elev calibration)

[@AndrewNewton]

The tail is not really designed for repeated disassembly, screw holes would strip out eventually.

[@tomwolf9420]

I thought it would be something like that... The search goes on.

[@dimitrishatzis9055]

Why did you change the motor Andrew? Do you prefer the propdrive? Thanks!

[@AndrewNewton]

The Turnigy motor was wearing out, noisy bearings. I think a Sunnnysky 1216 1250kv would be my choice now.

[@sylverzerom]

Hi ​ @Andrew Newton, great video! I just got my Ranger 1600 a few days ago, and i miss the values for the max. rudder deflection on the manual. I tried a google search but couldn't find a good hint. Can you give me some numbers? thanks

[@AndrewNewton]

Nice one. Dont need much rudder at all. 15mm movement each side would be plenty

[@sylverzerom]

@@AndrewNewton thanks for the quick reply, you got any recommendations for the ailerons & elevator also? My guess, elevator needs less than +/-15mm and ailerons symetrical or asymetrical?

[@DutchRC]

Howdy mr. Andrew :) maybe you can help me out here.. Do you know if an FPV-cam with a bigger (gopro style) lens woud fit in the Nose of this plane? I'm considering a Runcam Eagle 2 pro for this plane, but I'm unsure if the lens would fit.. thanks in advance sir! :)

[@AndrewNewton]

Greetings Sir Roeland. The hole is too small - 15mm. Eagle lens is more like 18mm. Would be easy enough to enlarge the hole.

[@DutchRC]

Thank you very much for the prompt reply sir! Very much appreciated :) In that case I'll go for a Runcan Split 2 setup on this plane (that cam has a smaller lens)..

[@ready-set-test5275]

hi andrew great video thanks a lot for sharing, iam considering buying this and getting away from flying wings, i fly long range FPV so i have a great sunnysky motor prop combo for max efficiency, only problem i have in so far is that i cant find any info on max prop size, the prop iam planning on is APC 9x4.5, would that be too big and cut into the tail or do i have enough room? many thanks

[@AndrewNewton]

8" maximum prop size

[@lordservant1]

Andrew what was the best c of g location for this plane?

[@AndrewNewton]

CG testing - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYGsXmNmbdd6orM

[@lol-dx3zv]

I have never flown an rc glider before and is considering the volantex Phoenix s, Phoenix v2 and this ranger 1600. Which one do you recommend that is beginner friendly and glides well😊? Thanks very much

[@AndrewNewton]

Phoenix V2 is the best glider, I'm on my 3rd. The S is good entry level and the Ranger is more of an FPV plane but it can glide too.

[@lol-dx3zv]

@@AndrewNewton ok, tank you so much! Perhaps I'll have the v2 😁

[@robertputland875]

I got the 2m version I'm going to maiden it today with the air3 inav it balances perfect with a 5000mah battery I had a 2700mah for it but it doesn't balance it

[@AndrewNewton]

Good luck Bob. Give it a decent throw, it does like to dip down on launch. Prefect plane for iNav

[@robertputland875]

Andrew Newton I will when I fix my gps my inav board won't arm and the gps led is not coming on

[@MrBullythecat]

Hello, this is the plane I was referring to, is this plane better than the Bixler 1.1 v2 as I am looking to buy the one you recommend. I live in the tropics which is pretty much windy all the time, I bought a smaller 3ch Wltoys f 949 and I got a few flights in but for the most part when flying downwind because of how light it is, the wind will take it out of my control. So I am really looking for a plane for a beginner and one that can handle the wind, which one of the two would you recommend?

[@AndrewNewton]

Ranger 1600 is not really a beginners plane. Bigger and heavier than the Bix.

[@scotthendrix13]

Hello Andrew,on setting up the 1600..does this model need a flap switch for launch?or just setting up AETR fly very well..I’m having issues launching mine on take off,also note I’m using a hobby eagle a3s3 gyro board,,the gyro board has a trainer self level mode which doesn’t let the elevator move very little,so I’m using normal mode which still has very little stabilization..or if any at all.sunnyskym2212/1400 motor 8x6: prop and (:for now)2200. 4s..would a flap switch help or?if so do I use ailerons or elevator?what do you suggest..as the elevator doesn’t have a lot of movement on such a large area..themself,level mode,doesn’t have enough i guess throws to lift it up..when I try in normal mode,it’s rolling over,,

[@AndrewNewton]

It's all about the throw with these pushers. 3/4 throttle and a strong throw just up a bit from level. Some like a little bit of up elevator on a switch just for the launch but I think you should keep it simple and practice that throw. Stabilisers are a bad idea unless you have the model working right first. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3fahHippsdmfNk

[@Pufferman]

Trying to get into Tx flying after many failed attempts with a Ranger 600 but having visual problems with the small size. ( lost three times; found twice. ) Having followed you recently, I wonder if I upsized to a Ranger 1600 PNP if I could fit a gyro and what would be suitable?

[@AndrewNewton]

Yes, good choice. What radio do you have? NX3 stabiliser would work with any system.

[@Pufferman]

@@AndrewNewton chosen after looking at many reviews. N othing up to date. Boats don’t normally need sophistication. I have a spektrum DX6 and a Fatuba RX18 which have both served me well. Also thanks for the wing painting tip. I found some black/yellow safety tape and might try that although with a larger plane I might be better with a GPS gizmo as well.

[@ceramiart]

Hi Andrew, I've searched your website and gone through your vids but can only find the size and make of the tail servo's. What size Metal gear servo's did you use elsewhere? Gary/ Perth

[@AndrewNewton]

Hi Gary. I have KST Carbonbird 11g digitals in the wings. - www.multiwiicopter.com/products/servo-cb113mg-metal-gear-mini. I have TGY9018 MG analogues all round in the 2m Ranger.

[@EnglishTurbines]

Hi Andrew, I can see why you like it....With my Design Engineer hat on, Id say it has been very well done. The concept has been made to work well, with a large bay for Lipo and FPV gear. In fact this model knocks ANY of the Bixlers for six Id say, they are just awful for FPV in comparison. That moulded Fuz alone has had a lot of money invested in the tooling, it's easy to see. I thought the motor mount was also well thought out. Is an 8 x 6 the largest prop it will take then..?

[@AndrewNewton]

Yes 8 x 6 just fits. Actually it's 8 x 4"

[@SkySurferG]

Just bought one for my first serious FPV foray. Any chance of a pic of your motor mount mod ? Just a circle of light ply ? Or you could sandwich the existing mount between 2 metal motor mount crosses I guess.

[@AndrewNewton]

It's a disc of 3mm PVC plastic that fits inside the fairing. Your idea of the metal crosses would be perfect too.

[@SkySurferG]

Thanks as always.

[@faktalist]

Do this wing same 2000 WingSpan version?

[@AndrewNewton]

Can swap wings, both bodies are identical.

[@peterfranzen3538]

Hi Andrew would you recommend this for a novice. I've just come in to just about enough to buy the PNP version or is there something else you would recommend for a newbie.

[@AndrewNewton]

If you have mastered the basics this would be an excellent choice. For a total beginner something smaller and lighter like an AXN or Bixler 1.1 might be best.

[@peterfranzen3538]

Andrew Newton thanks mate.

[@JenkoRun]

What is the diameter of the Motor Mount? I'm looking in to getting an alloy spinner with a folding prop and putting the motor inside the mount for aesthetic reasons but I need the size. Thanks.

[@AndrewNewton]

The diameter of the hole is 37mm

[@JenkoRun]

Thank you

[@ronggrimard9430]

Hi Andrew apparently this is a popular plane because most of the places I have checked like Banggood the KIT version are out of Stock. I did request an email when the plane is available. So for the most part the Ranger Kit Version in the USA is not available. My Question is this??: you mentioned Digital Servos is there a particular reason you choose Digital metal gear?? Ron

[@AndrewNewton]

Digital for more accuracy and future use with iNav, metal gear for longevity

[@ronggrimard9430]

I did like your review on the Ranger 1600mm. What are your thoughts on the Analog version of the Corona Metal Gear Servo HK has them CS-939MG???. My Transmitter is an older model from FLYSKY its not digital.

[@Hightaff]

nice review are you using the marked CoG with the 4s 4ah cheers

[@AndrewNewton]

4S 3000mAH, yes stock CG

[@Hightaff]

@@AndrewNewton thanks for the reply

[@dennisrkb]

how does it compare to the skysurfer? thx!

[@AndrewNewton]

Bigger, tougher, more serious. Both are excellent

[@lancer367]

on the bangood site it says the fuslage is epo. is this a typo or is it epo. followed the link you posted.

[@AndrewNewton]

That's a typo on Banggood's page. Fuselage is blow molded plastic.

[@Lawzy]

I just picked one up Andrew. Question, you ended up using a Propdrive 2836 1200kV. What made you choose this over something smaller, say a SunnySky X2216 1250kV?

[@AndrewNewton]

No good reason, just that it had a threaded shaft and was available from HKing. I would go for the SunnySky if I had to replace it.

[@Lawzy]

Thanks Andrew. Yes, need that bolt on prop. I’ll start with the motor provided and then assess for an upgrade. :( just opened the kit and some of the aileron hinges are missing...bugger!

[@robertputland875]

andrew do you know where i can buy the wooden parts that are inside this model? because on my maiden i nav made it dive stright into the ground and destroyed everthing inside my 5000mah battery is half it size now please help

[@AndrewNewton]

Oh no, how did that happen? I suspect you will have to buy some plywood and make your own

[@robertputland875]

Andrew Newton i will just try 3d printing it because I have 3 3d printers I should put them to use and I don't know what happened but I had no control and it went down nose first the good thing is that there was no damage to the fuselage it must've crumpled then popped back out

[@pablosiga6082]

Andrew I have the same plane and I found a little tail heavy with the recomended CG. I changed 1cm and now is ok. Prease coment.

[@AndrewNewton]

Mine flies well at the CG

[@pablosiga6082]

Thanks .

[@yanickboulanger2918]

Hi Andrew, is the set-up of the PNP version is good, or should it be equipped separately

[@AndrewNewton]

Motor and esc are good, servos are OK but minimum quality

[@yanickboulanger2918]

Thanks for your answer....

[@stevenhunter7619]

Can you please advise which model is better - the Banggood or Hobbyking version and why?. Both offer the same model in the same wingspan and I am very keen on buying one.

[@AndrewNewton]

There is only one version as far as I know. Same plane

[@stevenhunter7619]

thanks for the prompt response and love you videos. Hking is cheaper - may go with that option

[@sams9716]

How do you think a 2820 920kv motor would work on this plane?

[@AndrewNewton]

Higher kV would be better because the prop size is limited.

[@AkoyTamad]

No wheels?

[@AndrewNewton]

No wheels

[@wordreet]

Not so sure about the tail end control horns being underneath. They've done it to make it look nice from on top, which, ridiculously, is how people always view the plane when they are in the "toy plane" frame of mind. But it's a selling point when you look at the box and maybe are a beginner or always land on cut grass or other smooth surfaces. I generally only go to the one place to fly, unless I'm away from home, and we have approx 2 inch high grass plus other herbage on the strip and rough low-ish gorse and heather around it. So with that having a molded plastic fuselage, I would not choose it as it's not feasible to reposition the servos.

[@MrRui33333]

vou tentar em 4s lipo ,..!!

[@j3fron]

Crash mark on the left wing spotted 😂

[@kabturek]

i now know what ill buy when ill kill my bixler 2. thanks!

[@thenatedog]

I don't think I've ever seen you make a plane out of a cardboard box. Just saying.

[@AndrewNewton]

Have Mercy! I dont need more ways to make planes. Oh maybe I'll have to give it a try

[@thenatedog]

I can see it now. The Pixler. Made from pizza boxes. pizzler?