Antique Seagull Designs YAK 55 Listed on Facebook Marketplace

Some time ago, I was tasked by an acquaintance to discover for him a Gas-powered acrobatic aircraft within a specific financial limit for his initial foray into “bigger” gasoline-driven aircraft. I proposed a 30cc scale since he has restrictions on storage space, and from my own encounters, smaller planes (20cc scale) do not perform as effectively.
A week after, I chanced upon a Seagull Designs YAK 55 being promoted on Facebook Marketplace, in a condition that seemed “like-new” with servos and an engine for $700AUD. The individual parts alone were valued significantly higher, so I made the purchase.

Upon a brief examination at home, these were my findings:
The aircraft appeared to have never taken flight, or if it had, it was in impeccable condition (confirming the seller’s claim). Its original price when initially available many years ago was $520AUD.
The engine provided was the O.S. GF30 30cc 4-stroke gasoline engine. Although the engine had been operated before, it appeared to have experienced a maximum of only 2 refills and appeared as though it was brand new. I plan to replace this engine to enhance the power output for my friend’s intended aerobatic use of the aircraft. A new GF30 costs $880AUD.
All servos had been fitted, comprising 4x JR DS8411 (original cost when new was $120AUD each) and 2x Hitec HS-5645MG (original cost when new was $80AUD each).
The wings were delivered in a wing sleeve, not a bad beginning…




Cheers,
Eran