User Manual

49
Once the throws are set, apply a drop of threadlocker to
the threads on the pushrod and tighten the nuts against
the clevises.
IMPORTANT: With the throws set, now is a good time to
set the failsafe on the transmitter. The failsafe may save your
plane if the signal is lost and prevent the electric motor from
accidentally coming on.
Balance the Model (C.G.)
More than any other factor, the C.G. (center of gravity/
balance point) can have the greatest effect on how a
model  ies and could determine whether or not your  rst
 ight will be successful. If you value your model and wish
to enjoy it for many  ights, DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS
IMPORTANT PROCEDURE. A model that is not properly
balanced may be unstable and possibly un yable.
At this stage the model should be in ready-to- y condition
with all of the components in place including the complete
radio system, engine, muf er, propeller, spinner and pilot.
The fuel tank should be empty. If electric, the motor battery
should be installed, but not connected to the ESC.
6" [152mm]
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1. If using a Great Planes C.G. Machine, set the rulers to
6" [152mm]. If not using a C.G. Machine, use a  ne-point felt
tip pen to mark lines on the top of the wing on both sides
of the fuselage 6" [152mm] back from the leading edge, at
the joint between the wing center section and outer wing
panels. Apply narrow (1/16" [2mm]) strips of tape over the
lines so you will be able to feel them when lifting the model
with your  ngers.
This is where your model should balance for the  rst  ights.
Later, you may experiment by shifting the C.G. 5/8" [16
mm] forward or 5/8" [16mm] back to change the  ying
characteristics. Moving the C.G. forward will improve the
smoothness and stability, but the model will then be less
aerobatic (which may be  ne for less-experienced pilots).
Moving the C.G. aft makes the model more maneuverable
and aerobatic for experienced pilots. In any case, start at
the recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the speci ed range.
6" [152mm]
❏
2. With the wing attached to the fuselage, all parts of the
model installed (ready to  y) and an empty fuel tank, place
the model upside-down on a Great Planes CG Machine, or
lift it upside-down at the balance point you marked.
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3. If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy.” If the nose
drops, the model is “nose heavy.” Use Great Planes “stick-on”
lead (GPMQ4485) to balance the plane. To  nd out how much
weight is required, place incrementally increasing amounts
of weight on the bottom of the fuselage over the location
where it would be mounted inside until the model balances.
A good place to add stick-on nose weight is to the  rewall.
Do not attach weight to the cowl—this will cause stress on
the cowl and could cause the cowl ring to break loose from
the cowl. Note: The manufacturer has already installed
some weight on the  rewall. If the plane is nose heavy, start
by removing some of the pre-installed nose weight before
adding tail weight. Once you have determined if additional
weight needs to be installed, it can be permanently attached.
Do not rely upon the adhesive on the back of the lead weight
to permanently hold it in place. Over time, fuel, vibration
and exhaust residue may soften the adhesive and cause
the weight to fall off. Instead, permanently attach the weight
with glue or screws.
❏
4. IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any
weight, recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.