Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF
Assembly Manual
Specifications
Wingspan: 38.2 in (970mm)
Length: 23.7 in (600mm)
Wing Area: 210 sq in (13.5 sq dm)
Weight w/o Battery: 8.00–8.70 oz (227–247 g)
Weight w/Battery: 9.00–9.70 oz (255–275 g)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Product Registration
Introduction ........................................................... 2
Important Warranty Information .............................. 2
Using the Manual ................................................... 2
Age Requirements .................................................. 2
Product Registration................................................ 2
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout .................................... 2
UltraCote Covering Colors ...................................... 2
Recommended Radio Equipment ............................. 3
Optional Accessories .............................................. 3
Brushless Outrunner Setup ...................................... 3
Required Tools and Adhesives ................................. 3
Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries ........................... 3
Warning ................................................................ 3
Covering Warning ................................................. 3
Landing Gear Installation ........................................ 4
Servo Installation .................................................... 4
Receiver and Speed Control Installation ................... 5
Linkage Installation ................................................. 7
Motor and Cowling Installation for
use with Prop Saver........................................... 9
Motor and Cowling Installation for
use with Prop Adapter ..................................... 11
Battery Installation ................................................ 13
Front Windscreen Installation ................................ 13
Aileron Servo Installation ...................................... 14
Wing Attachment, Struts and
Top Windscreen Installation ............................. 17
Control Throws..................................................... 18
Center of Gravity ................................................. 19
Range Test Your Radio .......................................... 19
Flying Your L-4 Grasshopper ................................. 20
Safety Do’s and Don’ts for Pilots ............................ 20
Daily Flight Checks ............................................... 20
Warranty Information ........................................... 20
CE Compliance Information for
the European Union ........................................ 22
2009 Official Academy of
Model Aeronautics Safety Code ....................... 22
Combining the compact size of a classic balsa freeflight model with full 4-channel control, the Piper L-4
Grasshopper 250 is an exciting alternative to the usual
park flyer experience. Its exceptionally low parts count
and time saving features like the magnetically-secured
plug-in wings make assembly about as easy as it gets
for an ARF.
In the air, its docile flight characteristics and gorgeous
scale appearance will reward you with one of the most
enjoyable park flying experiences available. Plus, it’s
small enough and slow enough to fly in a large indoor
venue whenever the park isn’t an option.
Important Warranty Information
Please read our Warranty and Liability Limitations
section on Page 20 before building this product. 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.
Using the Manual
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 its completion. Steps with a single circle () are
performed once, while steps with two circles ( )
indicate that the step will require repeating, such as for
a right or left wing panel, two servos, etc.
Remember to take your time and follow the directions.
Age Requirements
Age Recommendation: 14 years or over. This is not
a toy. This product is not intended for use by children
without direct adult supervision.
Register your product online at:
www.e-fliterc.com/register/
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout
EFL5026 Fuselage
EFL5027 Wing Panels L&R
EFL5028 Tail Set
EFL5029 Landing Gear
EFL5030 Cowling
EFL5031 Main Wheel Set
EFL5032 Windshields
EFL5033 Hardware
EFL5034 Pushrods
EFL5035 Main Struts
UltraCote® Covering Colors
HANU874 Black
HANU0811 ParkLite™ Olive Drab
HANU0816 ParkLite™ Gray
HANU870 White
2 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Recommended Radio Equipment
Optional Accessories
Warning
You will need a minimum of a 4-channel transmitter,
receiver and four servos. You can choose to purchase
a complete radio system. If you are using an
existing transmitter, just purchase the other required
equipment separately. We recommend the crystalfree, interference-free Spektrum™ DX6i 2.4GHz DSM®
6-channel system. If using your own transmitter, we
recommend using four 6.0-Gram Super Sub-Micro
servos from Spektrum.
If you own a Spektrum radio, just add an AR6300
™
DSM2
servos. The SPMAR6300F flight pack works perfectly
for this application. We show the installation of the
AR6300 receiver in the manual.
Transmitter
Receiver and Servos
Servos only
Receiver only
Also required
receiver and four 6.0-Gram Super Sub-Micro
SPMR6600 DX6i 6-Channel Full Range
w/o Servos or Receiver
SPMAR6300F AR6300 DSM2 Nanolite
6-Channel Receiver FlightPack
SPMDSP60J 6.0-Gram Super Sub-Micro
Digital Programmable Servo
JST (4)
SPMAR6300 AR6300 DSM2 Nanolite
6-Channel Receiver, Air
SPMYHJST3UL 3-inch Y-Harness JST Ultra
Lightweight
SPMEXJST3UL 3-inch JST Extension Ultra
Lightweight
OR
SPMEXJST6UL 6-inch Y-Harness JST Ultra
Lightweight (2)(Optional for
computer radios)
The Spektrum trademark is used with permission
of Bachmann Industries, Inc.
EFLA110 Power Meter
EFLC3005 Celectra™ 1- to 3-Cell
Li-Po Charger
EFLC505 Intelligent 1- to 5-Cell
Balancing Charger
Brushless Outrunner Setup
EFLM1130 Park 250 Brushless Outrunner
Motor, 2200Kv
GWSEP6050 6 x 5 Slow Flyer Propeller
EFLA1010 10-Amp Pro Brushless ESC
EFLB4302SJ 430mAh 2S 7.4V 20C Li-Po,
20AWG JST
Optional battery:
THP7302SJPL2 730mAh 2S 7.4V 20C
Pro Lite V2 Li-Po, JST
Required Tools and Adhesives
Tools & Equipment
Cardstock Clear tape
Hobby scissors Hobby knife (#11 blade)
Low-tack tape Medium grit sandpaper
Pencil Pin vise
Pliers Ruler (EFLA264)
Hex wrench: .050-inch
Phillips Screwdriver: #00, #0
Flat blade screwdriver: 1.5mm
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm)
Adhesives
Medium CA
Threadlock
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.
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.
Covering Warning
The Piper L-4 Grasshopper is built very light to achieve
the best flight performance possible. When using an
iron or heat gun to shrink the covering or to tighten
up any wrinkles, it is very important that care is
taken not to warp any of the surfaces. It is possible to
induce warps into the surfaces during this procedure.
We suggest taking your time and care to make sure
that no warps are caused as this will affect the flight
performance of the airplane.
During the course of building your model we suggest
that you use a soft base for the building surface.
Such things as a foam stand, large piece of bedding
foam or a thick bath towel will work well and help
protect the model from damage during assembly.
This is not shown in the assembly photographs to
display the detail of the actual building of the model.
Your L-4 Grasshopper has been assembled using the
techniques that keep the weight as low as possible
for the best flight performance. Please handle the
airframe with care during assembly and during
transportation to keep from damaging it accidentally.
3E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Landing Gear Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Landing gear
Required Tools and Adhesives
Medium CA
2. Press the landing gear in the slots in the bottom
of the fuselage. The landing gear should fit flush
against the fuselage.
Servo Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Servo with hardware (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Phillips screwdriver: #00, #0
1. Locate the landing gear. The gear will fit in the
two slots on the bottom of the fuselage. Note that
the straight edge and the wheels will be to the front
of the aircraft.
Use care not to damage the fuselage
when installing the landing gear.
1. Use a #00 Phillips screwdriver to remove the
servo horns from the rudder and elevator servos.
Set the horns and screws aside for later.
3. The landing gear will fit snugly into the slot
in the fuselage. If you do not plan to remove the
landing gear at any time then we suggest that you
tack glue it in the slot with medium CA. If you do
not glue the landing gear in, you will need to check
it periodically to make sure that it does not become
loose over time.
2. Use the tab on the battery hatch to remove it
from the fuselage. Set the battery hatch aside in a
safe place for later.
4 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
4. Insert the second servo in the fuselage. Slide it to
the other side of the fuselage and align both servos
with the predrilled holes in the servo rails.
Receiver and
Speed Control Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Receiver
Adapter plug Y-harness
Hook and loop tape Speed control
Servo extension, 3-inch (76mm)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Hobby scissors
3. Place one of the servos in the fuselage. You will
notice a slot in the rear servo rail. This is clearance
for the servo wire. The output shaft will face to
the rear of the aircraft. Once the servo is set on
the rails slide it to one side of the fuselage. Do not
secure the servo until instructed to do so.
5. Use a #0 Phillips screwdriver and the screws
provided with the servos to secure them in the
fuselage.
1. Plug the 3-inch (76mm) extension into the
aileron port of the receiver and the Y-harness into
the extension. The adapter will be plugged into the
port for the throttle/speed control. It will also be
easier to bind the receiver to the transmitter now
before installing it in the fuselage.
2. Plug the rudder and elevator servos into their
respective ports of the receiver.
5E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
3. Use hobby scissors to cut a piece of hook and
loop tape that is the same width as your receiver.
4. Apply the hook and loop tape to the bottom of
the receiver.
6. Use hobby scissors to cut another piece of hook
and loop tape to the size of your speed control.
Apply the hook and loop tape to the speed control
and place the speed control in the motor box as
shown.
7. Use hobby scissors to cut a piece of hook and
loop tape the size of the battery. Place the hook
part of the tape on the bottom of the motor box as
shown.
8. Connect the lead from the speed control to the
adapter plugged into the throttle channel of the
receiver. Tuck the leads neatly inside the fuselage
so it doesn’t interfere with the battery when it is
installed.
5. Insert the receiver into the fuselage. It will fit
above the motor box and battery tray as shown
in the photo. Route the Y-harness up through the
fuselage so that it can be accessed later.
6 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Linkage Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Micro pushrod keeper (2)
Radio system Flight battery
2mm x 4mm machine screw (2)
Micro brass pushrod connector with backplate (2)
Rudder pushrod wire, 17-inch (432mm)
Elevator pushrod wire, 163/4-inch (425mm)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Threadlock Pin vise
Pliers Ruler
Phillips screwdriver: #00, #0
Drill bit: 5/64-inch (2mm)
3. Slide a micro pushrod keeper over the end of
the pushrod wire.
5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 to install and secure
the 163/4-inch (425mm) elevator pushrod wire to
the outer hole of the elevator control horn.
1. Slide the 17-inch (432mm) rudder pushrod into
the tube inside the fuselage.
2. Insert the bend in the pushrod wire through the
outer hole of the rudder control horn.
4. Use a small pair of pliers to snap the micro
pushrod keeper onto the pushrod wire.
6. Use a pin vise and 5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit to
enlarge the hole on the servo horn that is 7/16inch (11mm) from the center of the servo horn.
7. Insert a micro brass pushrod connector into the
hole made in the previous step.
7E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
8. Use pliers to install the backplate on the
connector to secure the connector to the servo horn.
9. Repeat Steps 6 through 8 to prepare a second
servo horn.
11. Use a ruler to make sure the rudder and fin are
in alignment with each other.
Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal fasteners
to prevent them from vibrating loose.
12. Use a #00 Phillips screwdriver to install the
2mm x 4mm machine screw to secure the pushrod
wire to the brass connector.
13. Repeat Steps 10 through 12 to install the
elevator servo horn and secure the pushrod wire to
the connector.
10. Turn the radio system on and check the
operation of the rudder and elevator servos. Make
sure the sticks and trims for the rudder and elevator
are centered. Slide the brass connector on the
pushrod wire for the rudder. Secure the servo horn
on the rudder servo so it is perpendicular to the
rudder servo.
8 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Remember to unplug the motor battery and
turn off the radio system before proceeding.
Motor and Cowling Installation
for use with Prop Saver
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Motor with hardware
Cowling Propeller
2mm x 16mm sheet metal screw (2)
1.5mm x 7mm sheet metal screw (4)
Plywood motor mount spacer, 5mm (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Hobby scissors Low-tack tape
Cardstock Phillips screwdriver: #0
Low-tack tape Pin vise
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Flat blade screwdriver: 1.5mm
Note: The following steps are for the use
of the prop saver on the park 250. If you
choose to use the Prop Adapter option of the
Park 250 then you should skip to page 11.
2. Attach the motor mount to the firewall using the
two 5mm plywood spacers and two 2mm x 16mm
sheet metal screws. A #0 Phillips screwdriver will
be required to tighten the two screws. Note that
there are two different hole location/distances on
the firewall. The Park 250 will use the upper left
and the lower right when looking at the firewall
from the front of the airplane.
4. Connect the leads from the motor to the speed
control.
If you use all E-flite components in the
power system, you can connect the ESC and
motor wires by matching the colors and the
motor will spin in the correct direction.
1. Locate the motor mount and two 5mm plywood
motor mount spacers.
Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal fasteners
to prevent them from vibrating loose.
3. The motor can now be attached to the mount.
Follow the directions provided with the motor and
use a 1.5mm flat blade screwdriver to secure the
motor to the mount.
5. Secure the motor and speed control leads so
they do not interfere with the operation of the
motor.
9E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
6. Use hobby scissors to cut four pieces of
cardstock that are 1/4-inch x 2-inch (6mm x
50mm). Use low-tack tape to attach them on the
fuselage so they align with the cowl mounting tabs
on the fuselage.
8. Install the propeller on the adapter. Follow the
instructions provided with the motor to secure the
propeller to the motor.
10. Use a #0 Phillips screwdriver to install the four
1.5mm x 7mm sheet metal screws that secure the
cowl to the fuselage.
7. Slide the cowling in position, making sure the
cardstock is on the outside of the cowling.
Use low-tack tape to keep the cowl in
position while drilling the holes.
9. Position the cowling so the front of the motor
is centered in the opening of the cowl and that
the propeller does not rub against the cowl. The
cowling should be slid just far enough back that
it does not cover the battery tray on the bottom
of the plane. If the cowling needs to be located
farther back than this, the motor will need to be
slid forward in the mount. Sight the cowling from
the front and the side to make sure that it is aligned
correctly to the fuselage. Use a pin vise and 1/16inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill the four holes for the
cowl mounting screws.
Use a brown sharpie marker to go over the
orange prop in a smooth curved pattern to get
a simulated wood finish on the propeller.
10 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Motor and Cowling Installation
for use with Prop Adapter
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Motor with hardware
Cowling Propeller
2mm x 7mm sheet metal screw (2)
1.5mm x 7mm sheet metal screw (4)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Hobby scissors Low-tack tape
Cardstock Phillips screwdriver: #0
Pin vise Hex wrench: .050-inch
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Flat blade screwdriver: 1.5mm
1. Attach the motor mount to the firewall using
the screws provided with the motor. A #0 Phillips
screwdriver will be required to tighten the two
screws.
2. The motor shaft must be repositioned to accept
the propeller adapter. Follow the instructions
provided with the motor to reposition the motor
shaft. Use care not to damage the motor.
Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal fasteners
to prevent them from vibrating loose.
4. Connect the leads from the motor to the speed
control.
If you use all E-flite components in the
power system, you can connect the ESC and
motor wires by matching the colors and the
motor will spin in the correct direction.
3. The motor can now be attached to the mount.
Follow the directions provided with the motor and
use a 1.5mm flat blade screwdriver to secure the
motor to the mount.
5. Secure the motor and speed control leads so
they do not interfere with the operation of the
motor.
11E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
6. Slide the propeller adapter on the motor and use
a .050-inch hex wrench to tighten the setscrew that
secures the adapter to the motor shaft.
7. Use hobby scissors to cut four pieces of
cardstock that are 1/4-inch x 2-inch (6mm x
50mm). Use low-tack tape to attach them on the
fuselage so they align with the cowl mounting tabs
on the fuselage.
8. Slide the cowling in position, making sure the
cardstock is on the outside of the cowling.
9. Install the propeller on the adapter. Follow the
instructions provided with the motor to tighten the
adapter to secure the propeller.
Use low-tack tape to keep the cowl in
position while drilling the holes.
10. Position the cowling so the adapter is centered
in the opening of the cowl and that the propeller
does not rub against the cowl. The cowling should
be slid just far enough back that it does not cover
the battery tray on the bottom of the plane. If the
cowling needs to be located farther back than
this the motor will need to be slid forward in the
mount. Sight the cowling from the front and the
side to make sure that it is aligned correctly to the
fuselage. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
drill bit to drill the four holes for the cowl mounting
screws.
11. Use a #0 Phillips screwdriver to install the four
Use a brown sharpie marker to go over the
orange prop in a smooth curved pattern to get
1.5mm x 7mm sheet metal screws that secure the
cowl to the fuselage.
a simulated wood finish on the propeller.
12 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Battery Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Motor battery
Battery hatch
1. Position the battery in the battery compartment
as shown. Using the recommended equipment the
battery will be located all the way forward against
the cowling for the correct CG.
Front Windscreen Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Front windscreen
Windscreen support (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Hobby scissors Medium CA
Clear tape
1. Route the Y-harness to the root ribs of the
fuselage as shown.
3. Fit the front windscreen to the fuselage. If the
windscreen needs trimmed, use hobby scissors to
do so. The outer edges of the windscreen under the
root rib can be cut at this time for a better fit.
4. Use clear tape in small pieces at the top and
on the sides to hold the windscreen in place. You
can glue the windscreen on if you would like but
it is not suggested just in case you need to do any
maintenance to the airplane at a later date.
2. Reposition the battery hatch on the bottom of the
fuselage. Magnets will keep the hatch in position
during flight.
2. Use medium CA to glue the windscreen supports
in position. Make sure to center the supports at the
top as shown.
13E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Aileron Servo Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Flight battery
Radio system
Wing panel (right and left)
Hardwood servo mounting block (4)
Servo with hardware (2)
Aileron pushrod wire, 23/8-inch (61mm)
1.5mm x 5mm sheet metal screw (8)
2mm x 4mm machine screw (2)
Micro brass pushrod connector with backplate (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Threadlock Pencil
Pin vise Phillips screwdriver: #00, #0
Medium CA Medium grit sandpaper
Hobby knife with #11 blade
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm)
1. Remove the aileron servo cover from one wing
panel. Place the aileron servo on the cover so the
servo arm is aligned with the edge of the cover and
centered in the slot as shown. Make sure the servo
does not hang over the edges of the servo cover.
It may be necessary to remove the servo horn
from the servo so it can be properly positioned on
the servo cover. Use a #00 Phillips screwdriver to
remove and reposition the servo horn if necessary.
2. Use a pencil to trace the outline of the edges of
the servo and tabs onto the aileron servo cover.
3. Use medium grit sandpaper to roughen the end
of the servo mounting blocks that will fit against the
aileron servo cover.
4. Use medium CA to glue two servo mounting
blocks to the aileron servo cover against the outside
of the lines that were drawn. Allow the CA to fully
cure before proceeding.
14 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
5. Use a hobby knife with a #11 blade to trim the
servo mounting block to provide clearance for the
aileron servo lead.
7. Use the screws provided with the servo and a #0
Phillips screwdriver to secure the servo to the servo
mounting blocks.
8. Use a #00 Phillips screwdriver to remove the
servo horn from the aileron servo. Use a pin vise
and 5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit to enlarge the hole
on the servo horn that is 7/16-inch (11mm) from
the center of the servo horn.
9. Insert a micro brass pushrod connector into the
hole made in the previous step.
10. Use pliers to install the backplate on the
connector to secure the connector to the servo horn.
6. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch drill bit to drill
the holes in the servo mounting block for the servo
mounting screws.
15E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
11. Turn the radio system on and check the
operation of the aileron servo. Make sure the
stick and trim for the aileron are centered. Use a
#00 Phillips screwdriver and the screw that was
removed from the servo to attach the servo horn
perpendicular to the servo centerline as shown.
12. Tie the string located in the wing around the
end of the servo lead.
13. Carefully pull the string to pull the servo lead
through the wing.
14. Place the aileron servo cover in position. Use
four 1.5mm x 5mm sheet metal screws and a #00
Phillips screwdriver to secure the cover in the wing.
15. Insert the Z-bend on the 23/8-inch (61mm)
aileron pushrod wire through the center hole of the
aileron control horn. The wire should be inserted
through the inside or wing root end of the horn
first.
Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal fasteners
to prevent them from vibrating loose.
16. Turn the radio system on and check the
operation of the aileron servo. Make sure the
stick and trim for the aileron is centered. Slide the
pushrod wire through the brass connector. Center
the aileron so it is aligned with the trailing edge
of the wing. Secure the pushrod wire to the brass
connector using a 2mm x 4mm machine screw and
a #0 Phillips screwdriver.
17. Repeat Steps 1 through 16 to install the
remaining aileron servo and linkage.
16 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Wing Attachment, Struts and
Top Windscreen Installation
Required Parts
Assembled fuselage Carbon wing tube
Wing strut (right and left)
Top windscreen
Assembled wing panel (right and left)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Clear tape Hobby scissors
3. Continue sliding the wing into position,
guiding the aileron servo lead in the fuselage.
Now is a good time to plug the aileron leads
into the Y-harness. The wing will fit tight against
the fuselage and snap into position. It is held in
position by a magnet and the wing struts.
1. Slide the carbon wing tube into the socket in one
of the wing panels. The tube will slide easily into
the socket. Do not force the tube farther than it will
easily slide.
2. Slide the tube into the socket in the fuselage.
5. Position the wing strut in the fitting at the
fuselage. The strut slides rearward into the fitting.
IMPORTANT NOTE
The wings struts for the Piper L-4 are
functional and must be used.
4. Make sure you have the correct strut on the
correct side. The wider strut will always face
forward. The strut should naturally align with the
fittings on the wing. If not, you will need to use the
opposite strut.
17E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
6. Gently squeeze the strut inward so it can be
installed in the fittings on the wing.
7. Make sure that the strut is installed in both
fittings on the wing.
9. If you have not already done so, connect the
aileron servo leads to the Y-harness from the
receiver. Fit the top windscreen to the fuselage.
Trim with hobby scissors as necessary to fit it to
the fuselage. For a better fit you can trim the side
edges off of the top windscreen. Use clear tape at
the front and rear to hold the windscreen on.
Control Throws
1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver of your
model. 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 toward the
bottom of the transmitter will make the airplane
elevator move up.
3. Check the movement of the ailerons with the
radio system. Moving the aileron stick right will
make the right aileron move up and the left aileron
move down.
4. Use a ruler to adjust the throw of the elevator,
ailerons and rudder.
8. Repeat Steps 3 through 7 to install the remaining
wing panel and strut.
18 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Aileron Low Rate Exponential
Up 3/8-inch (10mm) 0%
Down 5/16-inch (8mm) 0%
Aileron High Rate
Up 1/2-inch (12mm) 10%
Down 3/8-inch (10mm) 10%
Elevator Low Rate
Up 9/32-inch (7mm) 0%
Down 9/32-inch (7mm) 0%
Elevator High Rate
Up 3/8-inch (10mm) 10%
Down 3/8-inch (10mm) 10%
Rudder Low Rate
Left 1/2-inch (12mm) 5%
Right 1/2-inch (12mm) 5%
Rudder High Rate
Left 13/16-inch (20mm) 15%
Right 13/16-inch (20mm) 15%
Measurements are taken at the inner or
widest point on the control surface.
Center of Gravity
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
your model is 1
from the leading edge of the wing at the root. Make
sure to measure from the farthest point forward for
accuracy. Mark the location for the Center of Gravity
on the bottom of the wing next to the fuselage as
shown.
With the model upright, adjust components as
necessary so the model hangs level or slightly nose
down. This is the correct balance point for your model.
You might find that you need to shift the battery slightly
to either the front or back of the fuselage to achieve
the correct balance.
It may be necessary to add a small amount of weight
(0.25–0.6 ounces) inside the cowling to correctly
balance your model. Using the optional Thunder Power
730mAh battery will not require the addition of any
weight to your model.
9
/16- to 115/16-inches (40–50mm) back
Range Test Your Radio
Before each flying session, and especially with a new
model, it is important to perform a range check. It
is helpful to have another person available to assist
during the range check. If you are using a Spektrum
transmitter, please refer to your transmitter’s manual for
detailed instructions on the range check process.
1. With the model resting on the ground, stand 30
paces (approximately 90 feet) away from the model.
2. Face the model with the transmitter in your
normal flying position. Be sure the throttle is in the
full down position and plug the flight battery into
the speed control.
3. As you move the controls, watch to be sure the
airplane’s motor and controls operate smoothly.
You should have total control of the model at 30
paces (90 feet).
4. If control issues exist, call the Horizon Support
Team at 1 877 504 0233 or go to horizonhobby.
com to find a local Spektrum distributor in your
country for service if you are using a Spektrum
radio system.
These are general guidelines measured from our own
flight tests. You can experiment with higher rates to
match your preferred style of flying.
Travel Adjust, Sub-Trim and Dual Rates are
not listed and should be adjusted according
to each individual model and preference.
After the first flights, the CG position can be adjusted
for your personal preference.
19E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Flying Your L-4 Grasshopper
Daily Flight Checks
Warranty Information
Flying the Piper L-4 Grasshopper is a pleasure. With
the lightweight construction and low wing loading
takeoffs are easy as well as landings. Low level
reconnaissance passes across the field are a breeze.
The L-4 is not meant for aerobatics but the occasional
loops or wing overs are not a problem.
The L-4 Grasshopper is capable of flying in light winds
up to 7 mph. The optional 730mAh battery pack will
add that little extra weight to help penetrate mild winds
and extend the flight time. Touch and go’s are a blast.
The L-4 Grasshopper carries itself very well on final
approach. It is happy with a descending approach
to maintain the speed during final. Touch downs are
easily accomplished in a main wheels first or threepoint state.
We hope you enjoy flying your L-4 Grasshopper as
much as we do.
Happy Landings!
Safety Do’s and Don’ts for Pilots
• Checkallcontrolsurfacespriortoeachtakeoff.
• Donotflyyourmodelnearspectators,parking
areas or any other area that could result in injury to
people or damage of property.
• Donotflyduringadverseweatherconditions.Poor
visibility can cause disorientation and loss of control
of your aircraft. Strong winds can cause similar
problems.
• Donottakechances.Ifatanytimeduringflightyou
observe any erratic or abnormal operation, land
immediately and do not resume flight until the cause
of the problem has been ascertained and corrected.
Safety can never be taken lightly.
• Donotflynearpowerlines.
1. Check the battery voltage of the transmitter
battery. Do not fly below the manufacturer’s
recommended voltage. To do so can crash
your aircraft.
When you check these batteries, ensure that you have
the polarities correct on your expanded scale voltmeter.
2. Check all hardware (linkages, screws, nuts,
and bolts) prior to each day’s flight. Be sure that
binding does not occur and that all parts are
properly secured.
3. Ensure that all surfaces are moving in the
proper manner.
4. Perform a ground range check before each
day’s flying session.
5. Prior to starting your aircraft, turn off your
transmitter, then turn it back on. Do this each time
you start your aircraft. If any critical switches are
on without your knowledge, the transmitter alarm
will sound a warning at this time.
6. Check that all trim levers are in the
proper location.
7. All servo pigtails and switch harness plugs
should be secured in the receiver. Make sure that
the switch harness moves freely in both directions.
WARRANTY PERIOD
Exclusive Warranty- 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.
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.
20 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
DAMAGE LIMITS
QUESTIONS, ASSISTANCE, AND REPAIRS
NON-WARRANTY 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.
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 1/2 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. Please note: non-warranty
repair is only available on electronics and model
engines.
United States:
Electronics and engines requiring inspection or repair
should be shipped to the following address:
Horizon Service Center
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
USA
All other Products requiring warranty inspection or
repair should be shipped to the following address:
Horizon Product Support
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
USA
Please call 877-504-0233 or e-mail us at
productsupport@horizonhobby.com with any questions
or concerns regarding this product or warranty.
21E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
United Kingdom:
Electronics and engines requiring inspection or repair
should be shipped to the following address:
Horizon Hobby UK
Units 1-4 Ployters Rd
Staple Tye
Harlow, Essex
CM18 7NS
United Kingdom
Please call +44 (0) 1279 641 097 or e-mail us at
sales@horizonhobby.co.uk with any questions or
concerns regarding this product or warranty.
Germany:
Electronics and engines requiring inspection or repair
should be shipped to the following address:
Horizon Technischer Service
Hamburger Strasse 10
25335 Elmshorn
Germany
Please call +49 4121 46199 66 or e-mail us at
service@horizonhobby.de with any questions or
concerns regarding this product or warranty.
CE Compliance Information for the
European Union
INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF WEEE BY USERS IN
THE EUROPEAN UNION
This product must not be disposed of with other waste.
Instead, it is the user’s responsibility to dispose of their
waste equipment by handing it over to a designated
collection point for the recycling of waste electrical
and electronic equipment. The separate collection
and recycling of your waste equipment at the time
of disposal will help to conserve natural resources
and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that
protects human health and the environment. For more
information about where you can drop off your waste
equipment for recycling, please contact your local city
office, your household waste disposal service or where
you purchased the product.
Age Recommendation: 14 years or over. Not a toy.
Not intended for use by children without direct adult
supervision.
2009 Official Academy of Model
Aeronautics Safety Code
GENERAL
1. A model aircraft shall be defined as a non-humancarrying device capable of sustained flight in
the atmosphere. It shall not exceed limitations
established in this code and is intended to be used
exclusively for recreational or competition activity.
2. The maximum takeoff weight of a model aircraft,
including fuel, is 55 pounds, except for those flown
under the AMA Experimental Aircraft Rules.
3. I will abide by this Safety Code and all rules
established for the flying site I use. I will not
willfully fly my model aircraft in a reckless and/or
dangerous manner.
4. I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events,
air shows, or model demonstrations until it has
been proven airworthy.
5. I will not fly my model aircraft higher than
approximately 400 feet above ground level, when
within three (3) miles of an airport without notifying
the airport operator. I will yield the right-of-way
and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale
aircraft, utilizing a spotter when appropriate.
6. I will not fly my model aircraft unless it is identified
with my name and address, or AMA number,
inside or affixed to the outside of the model
aircraft. This does not apply to model aircraft flown
indoors.
7. I will not operate model aircraft with metal-blade
propellers or with gaseous boosts (other than
air), nor will I operate model aircraft with fuels
containing tetranitromethane or hydrazine.
22 E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
8. I will not operate model aircraft carrying
pyrotechnic devices which explode burn, or propel
a projectile of any kind. Exceptions include Free
Flight fuses or devices that burn producing smoke
and are securely attached to the model aircraft
during flight. Rocket motors up to a G-series
size may be used, provided they remain firmly
attached to the model aircraft during flight. Model
rockets may be flown in accordance with the
National Model Rocketry Safety Code; however,
they may not be launched from model aircraft.
Officially designated AMA Air Show Teams (AST)
are authorized to use devices and practices as
defined within the Air Show Advisory Committee
Document.
9. I will not operate my model aircraft while under
the influence of alcohol or within eight (8) hours of
having consumed alcohol.
3. I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of
spectators until I become a proficient flier, unless I
am assisted by an experienced pilot.
4. At all flying sites a line must be established,
in front of which all flying takes place. Only
personnel associated with flying the model aircraft
are allowed at or in front of the line. In the case
of airshows demonstrations straight line must be
established. An area away from the line must be
maintained for spectators. Intentional flying behind
the line is prohibited.
5. I will operate my model aircraft using only
radio-control frequencies currently allowed by
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Only individuals properly licensed by the FCC are
authorized to operate equipment on Amateur Band
frequencies.
8. Under no circumstances may a pilot or other
person touch a model aircraft in flight while it is
still under power, except to divert it from striking an
individual.
9. Radio-controlled night flying is limited to lowperformance model aircraft (less than 100 mph).
The model aircraft must be equipped with a lighting
system which clearly defines the aircraft’s attitude
and direction at all times.
10. The operator of a radio-controlled model aircraft
shall control it during the entire flight, maintaining
visual contact without enhancement other than by
corrective lenses that are prescribed for the pilot.
No model aircraft shall be equipped with devices
which allow it to be flown to a selected location
which is beyond the visual range of the pilot.
10. I will not operate my model aircraft while using
any drug which could adversely affect my ability to
safely control my model aircraft.
11. Children under six (6) years old are only allowed
on a flightline or in a flight area as a pilot or while
under flight instruction.
12. When and where required by rule, helmets must be
properly worn and fastened. They must be OSHA,
DOT, ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE approved or
comply with comparable standards.
RADIO CONTROL
1. All model flying shall be conducted in a manner to
avoid over flight of unprotected people.
2. I will have completed a successful radio equipment
ground-range check before the first flight of a new
or repaired model aircraft.
6. I will not knowingly operate my model aircraft
within three (3) miles of any preexisting flying site
without a frequency-management agreement. A
frequency management agreement may be an
allocation of frequencies for each site, a dayuse agreement between sites, or testing which
determines that no interference exists. A frequencymanagement agreement may exist between two
or more AMA chartered clubs, AMA clubs and
individual AMA members, or individual AMA
members. Frequency-management agreements,
including an interference test report if the
agreement indicates no interference exists, will be
signed by all parties and copies provided to AMA
Headquarters.
7. With the exception of events flown under official
AMA rules, no powered model may be flown
outdoors closer than 25 feet to any individual,
except for the pilot and located at the flightline.
23E-flite Piper L-4 Grasshopper ARF Assembly Manual
Printed 08/09
© 2009 Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
USA
(877) 504-0233
horizonhobby.com
E-fliteRC.com
16025
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