Edge 540 BP 3D ARF
Assembly Manual
Specifications
Wingspan: 35.5 in (900mm)
Length: 36.5 in (930mm)
Wing Area: 410 sq in (26.5 sq dm)
Weight w/o Battery: 13–14 oz (370–400 g)
Weight w/ Battery: 15–16 oz (425–455 g)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Specifications ...................................................................... 1
Introduction ......................................................................... 2
Using the Manual ................................................................
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout .................................................
Required Radio Equipment ...................................................
Important Information About Motor Selection ........................
Lightweight Outrunner Setup ................................................
High Power Outrunner Setup ...............................................
Optional Accessories ...........................................................
Required Tools and Adhesives ..............................................
Notes Regarding Servos and ESC ........................................
Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries ........................................
Warning ............................................................................. 5
Warranty Period .................................................................
Limited Warranty ................................................................
Damage Limits ....................................................................
Safety Precautions ...............................................................
Questions, Assistance, and Repairs ......................................
Inspection or Repairs ...........................................................
Warranty Inspection and Repairs .........................................
Non-Warranty Repairs ........................................................
Safety, Precautions, and Warnings .......................................
Airframe Assembly ..............................................................
Hinging ............................................................................11
Landing Gear Installation ...................................................
Radio Installation ...............................................................
Power System Installation ...................................................
Control Throws ..................................................................
Center of Gravity ..............................................................
Range Test Your Radio .......................................................
Preflight ............................................................................30
Flying Your Edge 540 BP ...................................................
2007 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code ...
14
18
24
28
29
29
30
31
The Edge 540 BP 3D combines the sturdy construction of a
balsa/light-ply airframe with the uninhibited 3D capability
2
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
5
of a lightweight profile park flyer. It’s all made possible by its
intelligently engineered, open structure design that keeps weight
to a bare minimum while providing all the structural integrity of
a real wood airframe. This feather-light construction, combined
with a high-output brushless motor, will provide spine-tingling
3D and freestyle performance that will let you really push the
limits. And it comes from the factory 90% built and covered in
genuine UltraCote
flying in no time
®
and UltraCote Lite so you can be up and
Using the Manual
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
7
7
8
This manual is divided into sections to help make assembly
easier to understand, and to provide breaks between each
major section. In addition, check boxes have been placed next
to each step to keep track of each step completed. Steps with
a single circle (
circles (
as for a right or left wing panel, two servos, etc.
Remember to take your time and follow the directions.
) indicate that the step will require repeating, such
) are performed once, while steps with two
2 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout
Required Radio Equipment
Large Replacement Parts
EFL2601 Wing w/Ailerons
EFL2602 Fuselage with Rudder
EFL2603 Horizontal Tail Assembly
EFL2405 Landing Gear
Small Replacement Parts
EFL2604 Pushrod Set
EFL2605 Hardware Set
EFL2606 Wheel Set
EFL2607 Wheel Pants
EFLA213 E-flite/JR/Horizon Decals
EFLM1915 Outrunner Stick Mount
You will need a minimum 6-channel transmitter (for proper
mixing and dual rate capabilities), crystals, micro receiver,
and four sub-micro servos. You can choose to purchase a
complete radio system that includes all of these items or, if
you are using an existing transmitter, just purchase the other
required equipment separately. We recommend the crystal-free,
™
interference-free Spektrum
system, which includes a micro receiver and 4 sub-micro
DX6 2.4GHz DSM® 6-channel
7.5-gram servos. If using your own transmitter, we recommend
®
the E-flite
S75 Sub-Micro servos.
If you own the Spektrum DX7 radio, just add the AR6100 DSM2
6-channel receiver and four of our E-flite S75 Sub-Micro servos.
Complete Radio System
SPM2460 DX6 DSM
®
6CH Park Flyer w/4-S75
Or Purchase Separately
JSP30610 6-Channel UltraLite Rx w/o Crystal, Positive Shift
JR/AIR (72MHz)
JSP30615 6-Channel UltraLite Rx w/o Crystal, Negative Shift
Fut/HRC (72MHz)
JRPXFR** FM Receiver Crystal (JR only,
not Spektrum receivers)
™
Or
SPM6000 AR6000 DSM 6CH parkflyer receiver (for DX6 only)
Or
SPM6100 AR6100 DSM2 6CH Rx (for DX7 only)
And
EFLRS75 7.5-Gram Sub-Micro Servo (4)
3E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Important Information About Motor
Optional Accessories
Selection
We recommend the E-flite® Park 400 Brushless Outrunner,
920Kv (EFLM1305) to provide you with light weight 3D
performance, or the Park 450 Brushless Outrunner , 890Kv
(EFLM1400) for extreme high power perfomance.
Lightweight Outrunner Setup
EFLM1305 Park 400 BL Outrunner, 920Kv
EFLA311B 20-Amp Brushless ESC
THP9103SJPL 910mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po
APC10047SF 10 x 4.7 Electric Prop
EFLAEC303 EC3 Device & Battery Connector, Male/
Female
EFLC3005 Celectra™ 1- to 3-Cell Li-Po Charger
This is a lightweight setup with adequate power for 3D flights.
High Power Outrunner Setup
EFLM1400 Park 450 BL Outrunner, 890Kv
EFLA311B 20-Amp Brushless ESC
THP13203SPL 1320mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po
APC12060E 12 x 6 Electric Prop
EFLAEC303 EC3 Device & Battery Connector, Male/
Female
EFLC3005 Celectra 1- to 3-cell Li-Po Charger
This is a high-power performance setup for strong 3D flights.
EFLA110 Power Meter
Required Tools and Adhesives
Tools & Equipment
EFLA250 Park Flyer Tool Assortment, 5-piece
Or Purchase Separately
EFLA257 Screwdriver, #0 Phillips (or included with
EFLA250)
3
/
EFLA251 Hex Wrench:
EFLA250)
Drill
1
/
Drill bit:
Felt-tipped pen
String
Straight edge
Threadlock
Razor saw
T-pins
Thin CA
Medium CA
Paper towels
Hobby knife (#11 blade)
6-minute epoxy
Pliers
Ruler
Square
Sandpaper
-inch (1.5mm)
16
-inch (or included with
32
4 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Notes Regarding Servos and ESC
WARNING: Use of servos other than those we recommend may
overload the BEC of the recommended Electronic Speed Control
(ESC). We suggest the use of only the servos we recommend
when utilizing the recommended ESC’s BEC, or the use of a
separate BEC (like the UBEC) or receiver battery pack when
using other servos.
Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries
Lithium Polymer batteries are significantly more
volatile than alkaline or Ni-Cd/Ni-MH batteries used
in RC applications. All manufacturer’s instructions
and warnings must be followed closely. Mishandling
of Li-Po batteries can result in fire. Always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions when disposing of Lithium
Polymer batteries.
Warning
An RC aircraft is not a toy! If misused, it can cause serious
bodily harm and damage to property. Fly only in open areas,
preferably at AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) approved
flying sites, following all instructions included with your radio.
Keep loose items that can get entangled in the propeller away
from the prop, including loose clothing, or other objects such as
pencils and screwdrivers. Especially keep your hands away from
the propeller.
Warranty Period
Limited Warranty
(a) This warranty is limited to the original Purchaser
("Purchaser") and is not transferable. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT
AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE
REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER. This warranty covers only those
Products purchased from an authorized Horizon dealer. Third
party transactions are not covered by this warranty. Proof of
purchase is required for warranty claims. Further, Horizon
reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without
notice and disclaims all other warranties, express or implied.
(b) Limitations- HORIZON MAKES NO WARRANTY OR
REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ABOUT NON-
INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE OF THE PRODUCT. THE PURCHASER
ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THEY ALONE HAVE DETERMINED
THAT THE PRODUCT WILL SUITABLY MEET THE REQUIREMENTS
OF THE PURCHASER’S INTENDED USE.
(c) Purchaser Remedy- Horizon's sole obligation hereunder
shall be that Horizon will, at its option, (i) repair or (ii)
replace, any Product determined by Horizon to be defective.
In the event of a defect, these are the Purchaser's exclusive
remedies. Horizon reserves the right to inspect any and all
equipment involved in a warranty claim. Repair or replacement
decisions are at the sole discretion of Horizon. This warranty
does not cover cosmetic damage or damage due to acts of
God, accident, misuse, abuse, negligence, commercial use,
or modification of or to any part of the Product. This warranty
does not cover damage due to improper installation, operation,
maintenance, or attempted repair by anyone other than
Horizon. Return of any goods by Purchaser must be approved
in writing by Horizon before shipment.
Horizon Hobby, Inc., (Horizon) warranties that the Products
purchased (the “Product”) will be free from defects in materials
and workmanship at the date of purchase by the Purchaser.
5E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Damage Limits
Questions, Assistance, and Repairs
HORIZON SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSS OF PROFITS OR
PRODUCTION OR COMMERCIAL LOSS IN ANY WAY
CONNECTED WITH THE PRODUCT, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM IS
BASED IN CONTRACT, WARRANTY, NEGLIGENCE, OR STRICT
LIABILITY. Further, in no event shall the liability of Horizon
exceed the individual price of the Product on which liability
is asserted. As Horizon has no control over use, setup, final
assembly, modification or misuse, no liability shall be assumed
nor accepted for any resulting damage or injury. By the act of
use, setup or assembly, the user accepts all resulting liability.
If you as the Purchaser or user are not prepared to accept the
liability associated with the use of this Product, you are advised
to return this Product immediately in new and unused condition
to the place of purchase.
Law: These Terms are governed by Illinois law (without regard to
conflict of law principals).
Safety Precautions
This is a sophisticated hobby Product and not a toy. It must be
operated with caution and common sense and requires some
basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this Product in a safe
and responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the
Product or other property. This Product is not intended for use
by children without direct adult supervision. The Product manual
contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is
essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in
the manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate
correctly and avoid damage or injury.
Your local hobby store and/or place of purchase cannot provide
warranty support or repair. Once assembly, setup or use of the
Product has been started, you must contact Horizon directly.
This will enable Horizon to better answer your questions and
service you in the event that you may need any assistance.
For questions or assistance, please direct your email to
productsupport@horizonhobby.com, or call 877.504.0233 toll
free to speak to a service technician.
Inspection or Repairs
If this Product needs to be inspected or repaired, please call for
a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Pack the Product
securely using a shipping carton. Please note that original boxes
may be included, but are not designed to withstand the rigors
of shipping without additional protection. Ship via a carrier that
provides tracking and insurance for lost or damaged parcels, as
Horizon is not responsible for merchandise until it arrives and
is accepted at our facility. A Service Repair Request is available
at www.horizonhobby.com on the “Support” tab. If you do not
have internet access, please include a letter with your complete
name, street address, email address and phone number where
you can be reached during business days, your RMA number,
a list of the included items, method of payment for any non-
warranty expenses and a brief summary of the problem.
Your original sales receipt must also be included for warranty
consideration. Be sure your name, address, and RMA number
are clearly written on the outside of the shipping carton.
Warranty Inspection and Repairs
To receive warranty service, you must include your original
sales receipt verifying the proof-of-purchase date. Provided
warranty conditions have been met, your Product will be
repaired or replaced free of charge. Repair or replacement
decisions are at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby.
6 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Non-Warranty Repairs
Safety, Precautions, and Warnings
Should your repair not be covered by warranty the repair
will be completed and payment will be required without
notification or estimate of the expense unless the expense
exceeds 50% of the retail purchase cost. By submitting the item
for repair you are agreeing to payment of the repair without
notification. Repair estimates are available upon request. You
must include this request with your repair. Non-warranty repair
estimates will be billed a minimum of ½ hour of labor. In
addition you will be billed for return freight. Please advise us
of your preferred method of payment. Horizon accepts money
orders and cashiers checks, as well as Visa, MasterCard,
American Express, and Discover cards. If you choose to pay
by credit card, please include your credit card number and
expiration date. Any repair left unpaid or unclaimed after 90
days will be considered abandoned and will be disposed of
accordingly.
on electronics and model engines.
Electronics and engines requiring inspection or repair should be
shipped to the following address:
All other Products requiring warranty inspection or repair should
be shipped to the following address:
Please call 877-504-0233 with any questions or concerns
regarding this product or warranty.
Please note: non-warranty repair is only available
Horizon Service Center
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
Horizon Product Support
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for
operating it in a manner that does not endanger yourself
and others or result in damage to the product or the property
of others.
Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any
optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery
packs, etc.) that you use.
This model is controlled by a radio signal that is subject to
interference from many sources outside your control. This
interference can cause momentary loss of control so it is
necessary to always keep a safe distance in all directions
around your model, as this margin will help to avoid collisions
or injury.
• Always operate your model in an open area away from cars,
traffic, or people.
• Avoid operating your model in the street where injury or
damage can occur.
• Never operate the model out into the street or populated
areas for any reason.
• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
• Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any
optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery
packs, etc.) that you use.
• Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of
the reach of children.
• Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid water exposure
to all equipment not specifically designed and protected for
this purpose.
7E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Airframe Assembly
A=A
AA
Required Parts
Fuselage
Wing Stabilizer
Required Tools and Adhesives
Felt-tipped pen
Ruler
String
Hobby knife w/#11 blade
Thin CA
Sandpaper
1. Locate the wing and fuselage. Slide the wing into the
fuselage and center it as shown in the drawing. Use either a
ruler or a ruler and string to ensure the dimensions are the
same as shown.
2. Use a felt-tipped pen to trace the outline of the fuselage
onto the top and bottom of the wing.
3. Remove the wing and use a hobby knife with a
sharp #11 blade to remove the covering from the
1
/
wing
-inch (1.5mm) inside the lines drawn.
16
Hint: Use the opening in the bottom of the wing for the
servos to help in alignment.
8 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Important: Do not cut into the underlying wood. This will
90º 90º
weaken the structure and could cause failure in flight. As
an option, you can use a soldering iron or hot knife with
light pressure to carefully melt the covering and avoid the
potential of cutting into the wood.
4. Slide the wing back into position in the fuselage. Check to
make sure the wing is perpendicular (90°) to the fuselage as
shown. Lightly sand the opening in the fuselage if necessary
to make any adjustments.
5. Wick thin CA into the joint between the wing and
fuselage. Make sure to apply CA to left, right, top and
bottom to guarantee the wing is glued securely.
Note: Avoid using a CA accelerator to allow the CA to wick
well into the wood of the fuselage and wing. This will provide
the best bond between the two items.
9E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
6. Slide the stabilizer into position in the fuselage. Check that
B=B
A=A
A
B B
A
Parallel
it has been centered using the drawing as a reference.
7. Check that the stabilizer and wing are parallel to each
other. Lightly sand the opening in the fuselage to correct any
alignment problems.
8. Follow Steps 2, 3 and 5 to prepare and glue the stabilizer
to the fuselage.
10 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Hinging
Required Parts
Airframe
CA hinges (17)
Elevator (left and right)
Aileron (left and right)
Rudder
Plywood elevator joiner
Required Tools and Adhesives
Thin CA
T-pins
Straight edge
1. Remove the covering from one elevator to expose the slot
for the plywood elevator joiner. Slide the joiner into position
and check it is aligned with the front edge of the elevator
using a straight edge. Wick thin CA into the joint between
the joiner and elevator to secure the joiner in position.
2. Trim three hinges from the hinge sheet. Place a T-pin in
the center of each hinge.
3. Slide the hinges into the pre-cut slots of the elevator.
11E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
4. Slide the hinges and elevator into position on the
stabilizer. Align the end of the elevator with the end of the
stabilizer. Remove the T-pins to position the elevator as
close to the stabilizer as possible while maintaining proper
hinge gap for adequate throw. Saturate each hinge, top
and bottom, with thin CA.
5. Repeat Steps 2 through 4 to install the remaining elevator.
Apply thin CA to the elevator joiner as well as the hinges.
Note: Do not use CA accelerator on the hinges. The CA
must be allowed to soak into the hinges and surrounding
wood to provide the best bond.
Important: Make sure the balance tab of the elevator
clears the end of the stabilizer before applying CA
to the hinges.
12 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
6. Hinging the rudder follows the same procedure as the
elevators, except you don’t have to worry about the elevator
joiner. Use three CA hinges when attaching the rudder to the
fin/fuselage.
7. The last step is to hinge the ailerons to the wing. Each
aileron uses four hinges to attach it to the wing.
13E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Landing Gear Installation
Required Parts
Assembled airframe
Tail gear assembly
Main gear strut (2)
Main wheel, 1
10mm plastic wheel spacer (2)
4-40 nut (2)
4-40 lock nut (2)
4-40 x 1-inch socket head screw (2)
2mm x 15mm machine screw (2)
2mm nut (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Pliers
Phillips screwdriver (small)
Hex wrench:
Thin CA
6-minute epoxy
Threadlock
7
/
-inch (48mm) (2)
8
3
/
-inch
32
1. Locate the tail gear wire. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the
wire into the slot in the bottom of the rudder.
2. Attach the main gear to the fuselage using two
2mm x 15mm machine screws and the two 2mm nuts.
Use a drop of thin CA or threadlock on the nuts to
prevent them from vibrating loose.
14 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
3. Locate one of the main wheels and the
spacer. Slide the spacer into the wheel.
3
/
-inch (10mm)
8
4. Position the spacer in the wheel so it is offset to one
3
/
side. The spacer will measure
1
/
side,
-inch (1.5mm) on the other. Use thin CA to
16
glue the spacer on to the wheel once you have the
-inch (5mm) on one
16
correct offset.
15E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
5. Before installing the wheel, note the orientation of the
wheel pant for the following steps. The plywood side has
the lightning holes, while the balsa side is solid.
6. Slide the wheel into the wheel pant. The
(5mm) offset on the spacer will be on the balsa side of
the wheel pant. Pass the 4-40 x 1-inch socket head screw
through the pant and into the spacer. Use pliers to hold
the 4-40 nut inside the wheel pant on the plywood side
and thread the screw into the nut.
3
/
16
-inch
16 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
7. Slide the screw through the landing gear. Secure the
wheel pant to the gear using a 4-40 lock nut. Tighten
the 4-40 screw on to the locknut until the assembly is
almost tight. At this point the wheel pant should still be
able to rotate. Using pliers, hold the 4-40 nut inside
the wheel pant and rotate the 4-40 socket head screw
counterclockwise while positioning the wheel pant at the
correct angle. This will tighten the wheel pant assembly
between the two nuts.
Note: The two 4-40 nuts will hold the wheel pant in
position against the landing gear. You can apply a drop
of thin CA between the luck nut and the gear to keep it
from coming loose over time if necessary.
8. Repeat Steps 2 through 7 for the remaining wheel.
17E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Radio Installation
Required Parts
Assembled airframe
Carbon linkage w/nylon clevis (rudder), 13-inch (330mm)
Carbon linkage w/nylon clevis (elevator) 11-inch (282mm)
Carbon linkage w/nylon clevis (aileron) (2) 5
Control horn w/backplate (4)
Pushrod screw lock connector w/hardware (4)
Servos w/hardware (4)
3D length servo arms (4)
Radio system w/receiver
Required Tools and Adhesives
Phillips screwdriver (small)
Felt-tipped pen
Thick CA
Drill
1
/
Drill bit:
-inch (1.5mm)
16
Hook and loop tape
Hobby knife (#11 blade)
3
/
-inch (133mm)
8
1. Remove the arms from your four servos. Install two
servos into the openings on the bottom of the wing using the
hardware provided with the servos. Make sure to position the
output of the servo toward the rear of the plane, and to have
the servo leads accessible from the bottom of the airplane.
Pre-drill the holes for the servo mounting screws using a drill
1
and
/
-inch (1.5mm) drill bit.
16
Hint: Pass both servo leads to the same side of the
fuselage for a cleaner radio installation.
18 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
2. The elevator servo is installed in the upper hole in the
fuselage using the hardware provided with your servo. Predrill the holes for the servo mounting screws using a drill and
1
/
-inch (1.5mm) drill bit. The output of the servo will be on
16
the left side facing the rear of the plane.
3. The rudder servo is installed in the lower hole using the
hardware provided with your servo. Pre-drill the holes for the
servo mounting screws using a drill and
1
/
-inch (1.5mm)
16
drill bit. The output for the rudder servo will be opposite the
elevator servo facing the rear of the plane.
Note: Notch the fuselage so you can pass the elevator
servo lead to the same side of the fuselage as the aileron
servo leads.
19E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
4. Secure the receiver to the fuselage under the wing using
hook and loop tape. Route the antenna wires according to
the manual provided with your radio system. Plug the servos
into the appropriate positions in the receiver.
5. Apply thick CA to the bottom plate of the control horn
and slide the control horn into the holes from the bottom
of the aileron. Apply a few drops of thin CA to the posts
from the top of the aileron. Apply thick CA to the bottom
of the control horn backplate and slide the control horn
backplate into position, making sure the horn is solidly
secured. Apply a couple drops of thin CA where the posts
protrude through the backplate.
Note: Make sure all the wires are neatly taped to the
fuselage to prevent them from getting entangled with
the linkages.
Hint: With all the servo leads on the same side of the
fuselage the radio installation will look neat and tidy.
20 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
6. Enlarge the outer hole in the servo arm using a
inch (1.5mm) drill bit. Attach a pushrod control connector
to a long 3D servo horn. Remove the remaining arm using
a hobby knife or side cutters.
1
/
16
-
7. Turn the radio system on and center all the trims and
sticks. Also make sure you are starting with a clean
program if using a programmable radio. Check the
operation of the servos at this time.
8. With the radio system on, attach the servo horn to
the aileron servo. Position the servo arm parallel to the
aileron hinge line.
21E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
9. Attach the 5
of the control horn.
3
/
-inch (133mm) pushrod to the outer hole
8
11. Repeat Steps 5 through 12 for the remaining aileron
servo.
10. With the radio system still on, physically center the
aileron. Use the screw from the pushrod control connector
12. Slide the plywood pushrod support on the 11-inch
(282mm) elevator linkage.
to secure the pushrod to the connector.
22 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
14. The installation of the elevator linkage follows the same
procedure as the aileron linkage. Remove the covering for
the pushrod guide only on the side that the guide inserts
from. Position the guide so the linkage can move freely. Use
thin CA to glue the guide to the fuselage.
15. The last linkage to install is for operating the rudder.
The long 13-inch (330mm) carbon pushrod is used for the
rudder. Follow the same procedure as the elevator pushrod,
including the installation of the pushrod guide.
23E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Power System Installation
Required Parts
Assembled airframe
Motor offset shim (2)
Stick mount w/hardware
Brushless motor
20-Amp Brushless ESC (EFLA311B)
910–1320mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po (THP13203SPL or THP9103SJPL)
Propeller
EC3 Device & Battery Connector, Male/Female (EFLAEC303)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Razor saw
Medium CA
Ruler
Hook and loop tape
Drill
1
/
Drill bit:
Note: The following steps show the installation
procedures using our E-flite Outrunner BL motor. You can
use an Inrunner motor with a gearbox as an alternative
setup.
-inch (1.5mm)
16
1. Mount your particular motor to the stick type mount using
the hardware provided with the mount.
Note: Use the included spacers when installing the
Park 450 motor.
2. Cut the Motor Stick to a length of 1
1
/
-inch (28mm) as
8
shown when using a Park 400 motor. When using a Park
450 motor, cut the motor stick to a length of
7
/
-inch (22mm).
8
24 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
3. Use medium CA to glue the two motor offset shims to
the sides of the motor stick. This is necessary to provide the
correct thrust angle for the motor. Make sure the thin end on
the left shim is towards the front, and the shim on the right
has the thick end of the shim towards the front.
4. Slide the motor mount onto the motor stick. Use a drill and
1
/
-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill a pilot hole for the screw
16
into the motor stick. Use the 1.5mm x 10mm screw to secure
the mount to the motor stick.
Note: The left and right of the aircraft are as viewed
while sitting in the pilot seat. The photo above shows a
view of the right side of the fuselage.
Note: You can also drill an extra screw in to the opposite
side of the mount forward of the one shown to help
reduce wear on the motor stick.
25E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Note: Check that your motor has right thrust. The motor
will be angled towards the right when viewed from the
top of the aircraft as shown.
Important Information About Your Brushless ESC
5. Solder any necessary connectors onto the speed control
for the motor and battery. Plug the motor into the speed
control. Attach the speed control to the fuselage using hook
and loop tape. Plug the speed control into the throttle port of
your receiver.
Make sure your ESC brake is programmed to Off. Also,
be sure to use an ESC with the proper 9V cutoff when
using 3-cell Li-Po packs, or 6V cutoff when using 2-cell
Li-Po packs.
26 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
6. Attach the battery to the side of the fuselage using
hook and loop tape. The exact position of the battery can
be changed forward or back, depending on what is
necessary to achieve the correct center of gravity. Turn on
the radio system and plug the battery into the speed
control. Use the throttle to check that the motor rotates
counterclockwise when viewed from the front. If not, follow
the directions included with your speed control to change
the direction of the motor rotation.
Important Information About Your Propeller
It is also very important to check to be sure the
propeller is balanced before installing onto the shaft. An
unbalanced propeller may strip the gears or cause poor
flight characteristics.
Note: If it is necessary to enlarge the hole in the
propeller, make sure to check the balance of the
propeller afterwards.
7. Attach the propeller using the adapter included
with the motor.
Note: Never check the motor rotation on the bench
with the propeller installed. The plane could move and
cause serious injury. Always check the motor without the
propeller to avoid injury.
27E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Note:The following image shows the installation of the
Park 450 motor with correct spacers between the motor
and mount.
Control Throws
1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver of your Edge 540
BP. Check the movement of the rudder using the transmitter.
When the stick is moved right, the rudder should also move
right. Reverse the direction of the servo at the transmitter if
necessary.
2. Check the movement of the elevator with the radio system.
Moving the elevator stick down will make the airplane
elevator move up.
3. Use a ruler to adjust the throw of the elevator, ailerons
and rudder. Adjust the position of the pushrod at the control
horn to achieve the following measurements when moving the
sticks to their endpoints.
Note: Measurements are taken at the widest point on
the surface.
Ailerons
Low Rate: 1-inch (25mm) with 20% Expo (Up/Down)
High Rate: 2-inch (50mm) with 40% Expo (Up/Down)
Elevator
Low Rate: 2-inch (50mm) with 20% Expo (Up/Down)
3
/
High Rate: 2
-inch (70mm) with 45% Expo (Up/Down)
4
Rudder
1
3
/
-inch (89mm) (Left/Right)
2
These are general guidelines measured from our own flight tests.
You can experiment with higher rates to match your preferred
style of flying.
28 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Center of Gravity
Range Test Your Radio
An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight is properly
balancing the model.
Caution: Do not inadvertently skip this step!
The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) location for the Edge
1
/
540 BP is 4
-inch (114mm) behind the leading edge of the
2
wing against the fuselage.
1. Before each flying session, be sure to range check your
radio. This is accomplished by turning on your transmitter
with the antenna collapsed. Turn on the receiver in your
airplane. With your airplane on the ground and the
engine running, you should be able to walk 30 paces
(approximately 100 feet) away from your airplane and still
have complete control of all functions.
If not, don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio equipment
checked out by the manufacturer.
2. Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator, rudder
and throttle) move in the correct direction.
3. Be sure that your transmitter batteries are fully charged,
per the instructions included with your radio.
After the first flights, the CG position can be adjusted for your
personal preference.
29E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
Preflight
Flying Your Edge 540 BP
Check Your Radio
Before going to the field, be sure that your batteries are fully
charged per the instructions included with your radio. Charge
both the transmitter and receiver pack for your airplane. Use
the recommended charger supplied with your particular radio
system, following the instructions provided with the radio. In
most cases, the radio should be charged the night before going
out flying.
Before each flying session, be sure to range check your radio.
See your radio manual for the recommended range and
instructions for your radio system. Each radio manufacturer
specifies different procedures for their radio systems. Next, start
the motor. With the model securely anchored, check the range
again. The range test should not be significantly affected. If it is,
don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio equipment checked out by
the manufacturer.
Note: Keep loose items that can get entangled in
the propeller away from the prop. These include
loose clothing, or other objects such as pencils and
screwdrivers. Especially keep your hands away from the
propeller.
Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator, rudder and
throttle) move in the correct direction.
Check the radio installation and make sure all the control
surfaces are moving correctly (i.e. the correct direction and with
the recommended throws). Test run the motor and make sure
it transitions smoothly from off to full throttle and back. Also
ensure the engine is installed according to the manufacturer’s
instructions, and it will operate consistently.
Flying the Edge 540 BP is about as fun as it can get at the park.
A very light wing loading and extreme control throws make for
some exciting 3D flying. Verify that your CG is at the correct
location as per the manual and that you have your rates set
up to your liking. Verify all control throws are in the correct
direction and the motor spins in the correct direction as well.
Point the model into the wind and add some throttle trim until
the motor begins to turn. This will be your flight idle. Now,
apply power slowly. You will find the model will become
airborne very quickly and at a low speed. This model excels
at flying slow and easy as well as slow and extreme. Trim the
model for level flight at half throttle. Only use full throttle for
maneuvering. Do not fly this model fast or at full throttle in level
flight. Doing this will result in the flight controls fluttering and a
potential catastrophic failure of the airframe.
You will find you can adjust the CG to your liking by moving the
battery pack fore or aft on the fuselage. Also keep the battery
on the fuselage mounted high (at least at wing centerline or
above) to help in hovering maneuvers and harriers.
To land the Edge 540 BP just reduce the throttle to idle and feed
in up elevator until the model settles into a slightly nose-high
attitude. Gently fly the model down to the landing spot with a
final flair at touchdown. You will find the model will have a very
short roll out. We hope you enjoy the Edge 540 BP as much as
we do.
Happy landings.
Check all the control horns, servo horns, and clevises to make
sure they are secure and in good condition. Replace any items
that would be considered questionable. Failure of any of these
components in flight would mean the loss of your aircraft.
30 E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
2007 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code
GENERAL
1) I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows
or model flying demonstrations until it has been proven to be
airworthy by having been previously, successfully flight tested.
2) I will not fly my model higher than approximately 400 feet within 3
miles of an airport without notifying the airport operator. I will give
right-of-way and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
Where necessary, an observer shall be utilized to supervise flying
to avoid having models fly in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the flying
site I use, and I will not willfully or deliberately fly my models in a
careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.
4) The maximum takeoff weight of a model is 55 pounds, except
models flown under Experimental Aircraft rules.
5) I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name and
address or AMA number on or in the model. (This does not apply
to models while being flown indoors.)
6) I will not operate models with metal-bladed propellers or with
gaseous boosts, in which gases other than air enter their internal
combustion engine(s); nor will I operate models with extremely
hazardous fuels such as those containing tetranitromethane or
hydrazine.
RADIO CONTROL
1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground range
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.
2) I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until I
become a qualified flier, unless assisted by an experienced helper.
3) At all flying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be established
in front of which all flying takes place with the other side for
spectators. Only personnel involved with flying the aircraft are
allowed at or in front of the flight line. Intentional flying behind the
flight line is prohibited.
4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
(Only properly licensed Amateurs are authorized to operate
equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.)
5) Flying sites separated by three miles or more are considered safe
from site-to-site interference, even when both sites use the same
frequencies. Any circumstances under three miles separation
require a frequency management arrangement, which may be
either an allocation of specific frequencies for each site or testing
to determine that freedom from interference exists. Allocation plans
or interference test reports shall be signed by the parties involved
and provided to AMA Headquarters.
Documents of agreement and reports may exist between (1) two
or more AMA Chartered Clubs, (2) AMA clubs and individual
AMA members not associated with AMA Clubs, or (3) two or
more individual AMA members.
6) For Combat, distance between combat engagement line
and spectator line will be 500 feet per cubic inch of engine
displacement. (Example: .40 engine = 200 feet.); electric motors
will be based on equivalent combustion engine size. Additional
safety requirements will be per the RC Combat section of the
current Competition Regulations.
7) At air shows or model flying demonstrations, a single straight line
must be established, one side of which is for flying, with the other
side for spectators.
8) With the exception of events flown under AMA Competition rules,
after launch, except for pilots or helpers being used, no powered
model may be flown closer than 25 feet to any person.
9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch a
powered model in flight.
31E-flite Edge 540 BP ARF Assembly Manual
10345
© 2007 Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
(877) 504-0233
horizonhobby.com
E-fliteRC.com
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