P-38/F-5E Lightning 400 ARF
Assembly Manual
Specifications
Wingspan: 48 in (1219mm)
Length: 35 in (889mm)
Wing Area: 307 sq in (19.8 sq dm)
Weight w/o Battery: 28–35 oz (794–992 g)
Weight w/Battery: 33–40 oz (936–1134 g)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Specifications ........................................................................1
Introduction ...........................................................................2
Using the Manual ..................................................................
Replacement Parts ..................................................................
Required and Recommended Radio Equipment ........................
Important Information About Motor Selection ...........................
Recommended Brushed Motor Power System Setup ..................
Recommended Brushless Motor Power System Setup .................
Optional Accessories .............................................................
Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries ...........................................
Required Tools and Adhesives .................................................
Warning ...............................................................................6
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 ..........................................
Elevator Servo Installation .......................................................
Rudder Installation (Optional) ...............................................
Brushless Motor Installation ...................................................
Brushed Motor Installation ....................................................
Aileron Servo Installation ......................................................
Landing Gear and Drop Tank Installation (Optional) ...............
Final Assembly ....................................................................
Center of Gravity .................................................................
Control Throws ....................................................................
Range Test Your Radio ..........................................................
Preflight ..............................................................................34
2007 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code .......
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Thank you for purchasing the E-flite® P-38/F-5E Lightning 400
ARF. The P-38/F-5E is a highly detailed, highly prefabricated
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and factory assembled model of one of the most capable
reconnaissance aircraft of the Allied arsenal during WWII.
Owing to its significant amount of prefabrication and factory
assembly, the P-38/F-5E can be assembled in about 2 to 4
hours. The factory installed motor mount sticks allow for the use
of inrunner motors and gearboxes, or outrunner motors using the
included outrunner stick mounts. The included 10x8E counter-
rotating props help to ensure the easiest and smoothest twin-motor
flying experience ever by offering dead straight-ahead tracking
during acceleration for takeoffs and in flight. They also substantially
reduce adverse yaw should you ever happen to lose a motor during
flight, and work perfectly with the recommended power systems.
And although the P-38/F-5E is not intended for first-time pilots,
its superior design offers flying characteristics unlike any other
similar model in its class, capable of being flown by most pilots with
aileron-equipped model experience. The P-38/F-5E can be flown
from smooth surfaces using the included landing gear and optional
steerable nose wheel, or from grass with the landing gear and
included drop tanks removed.
Few warbirds carry the mystique of the P-38/F-5E Lightning, and
we hope you enjoy flying your new model.
2 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Using the Manual
Replacement Parts
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 (
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.
EFL6030 Cowl and Nose Cover Set
EFL6031 Hardware and Pushrod Set
EFL6032 Landing Gear Set
EFL6034 Decal Set
EFLA284 Spinner, 2
EFLA284R Spinner, 2
1
/4" Gray
1
/4" Gray, Reverse Rotation
EFLM1915 Outrunner Stick Mount
EFLP1080E 10x8 Electric Prop
EFLP1080ER 10x8 Electric Prop, Reverse Rotation
3E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Required and Recommended Radio Equipment
You will need a 3-channel or greater transmitter (at least 4-channel
with optional rudders and/or steerable nose wheel), crystals (if
applicable), micro receiver, and 3 sub-micro servos (or up to 6
if using the optional rudders and steerable nose wheel). You can
choose to purchase a complete radio system that includes most
of these items or, if you are using an existing transmitter, simply
purchase the other required equipment separately.
Note: We highly recommend the crystal-free, interferencefree Spektrum® DX6 2.4GHz DSM® 6-channel radio
system (SPM2460). The complete system includes four
S75 sub-micro servos and a 6-channel micro receiver.
Purchase Separately
SPM6000 AR6000 DSM 6-Channel Receiver
(For Spektrum Transmitters)
Or
JSP30600 RS600 6-Channel Universal FM Receiver
w/o Crystal (For Any FM Transmitter)
Or
JRPR790 7-Channel ScanSelect PCM Receiver
(For JR PCM Transmitters)
JRPXFR** Receiver Crystal (for JR Receivers)
And
EFLRS75 7.5-Gram Sub-Micro S75 Servo (3 required,
or up to 6 with optional rudders and steerable
nose wheel)
EFLRYH3 3" Y-Harness (1, or up to 3 with brushless
power system and optional rudders)
JRPA096 Servo Extension 9" Standard, Gold (2 required,
or up to 4 with brushless power system)
JRPA100 Servo Extension 12" Standard, Gold (1 required,
or up to 3 with optional rudders)
Note: When using our recommended Brushless Power
System, you do not need to use a separate BEC or
receiver battery pack to power the radio gear as long as
you are using our recommended servos. This is because
the BECs of the two brushless ESCs are working in
parallel, allowing them to support up to 6 servos.
Note: When using our recommended Brushed Power
System, you MUST use a separate BEC or receiver
battery pack to power the radio gear if using more than
3 servos. This is because the BEC of the single brushed
ESC cannot reliably support more than 3 servos.
We recommend the use of a separate BEC (like the Ultimate BEC),
or a receiver pack and switch:
EXRB100 Expert 720mAh Ni-MH 4.8V Rx Pack
EXRA050 Expert Standard Switch
4 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Important Information About Motor
Recommended Brushless Motor Power
Selection
The P-38/F-5E has been extensively tested with the motors and
power systems we recommend. The use of motors, especially
those capable of higher power output than those suggested, is not
recommended.
Recommended Brushed Motor Power
System Setup
This power system offers very scale-like performance and plenty of
power for all aerobatic maneuvers.
DYN8840 14GA Silicone Wire 3', Red*
DYN8841 14GA Silicone Wire 3', Black*
EFLA239 Female Bullet Plug w/Lead (2 required if
not soldering motors directly to ESC leads)
EFLAEC303 EC3 DEVice and BATTery Connector/Male
and Female
EFLM232 480 Motor w/19T 0.5 Module Pinion
(2 required)
EFLM236 400 Gearbox w/56T 0.5 Module Spur Gear
(2 required)
CSEP20P Pixie 20P Sub-Micro Brushed Motor ESC
(1 required)
THP20703SX 2070mAh 3S 11.1V Li-Po, 13GA (1 required)
Note: If you intend to fly mostly at full throttle, especially
in warm conditions, we suggest using a 30–35 amp
ESC, like the Castle Creations Pegasus 35P (CSEP35P).
System Setup
This power system offers beyond scale-like performance with
more power than necessary for all aerobatic maneuvers. It offers
unlimited vertical and very good speed.
EFLA1025 25-Amp Pro Brushless ESC w/EC3 (2 required)
EFLAEC303 EC3 DEVice and BATTery Connector/
Male and Female
DYN8840 14GA Silicone Wire 3', Red*
DYN8841 14GA Silicone Wire 3', Black*
EFLM1400 Park 450 Brushless Outrunner Motor, 890Kv
(2 required)
THP20703SX 2070mAh 3S 11.1V Li-Po, 13GA (1 required)
*16GA silicone wire can be substituted
Optional Accessories
EFLA110 Power Meter
EFLC3005 Celectra™ 1- to 3-Cell Li-Po DC Charger
HAN172 Hangar 9
®
Digital Servo and Rx Current Meter
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.
*16GA silicone wire can be substituted
5E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Required Tools and Adhesives
Limited Warranty
Tools & Equipment
#0 Phillips Screwdriver (EFLA258)
#1 Phillips Screwdriver (EFLA257)
1.5mm Hex Driver/Wrench (EFLA253)
Tapered Reamer (DYN5515)
Pin Vise/Drill (XAC7144)
Drill bit: .050"
Hobby Knife (XAC3201)
Needle-nose pliers
Razor Saw (Optional for brushless motor power
system installation)
Thin or Medium Foam Safe CA (Optional for rudder hinge
installation; EFLA209)
Clear tape
Felt-tipped pen (Optional for rudder hinge installation)
Soldering iron and solder
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
(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 NONINFRINGEMENT, 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.
6 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning 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.
7E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning 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.
8 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Elevator Servo Installation
Required Parts
• Fuselage/center section assembly
• Double-sided tape • Receiver
• Servo w/hardware
• Servo extension, 12 in (305mm)
• Pushrod wire w/clevis, 10
Required Tools and Adhesives
• Phillips screwdriver (small)
1. Carefully remove the center section hatch from the
fuselage by lifting it from the rear.
3
/4 in (273mm)
2. Remove the servo cover from the bottom of the left
boom by lifting it from the rear.
3. Locate a 10 3/4 in (273mm) pushrod wire and remove
the clevis. Slide the wire into the pre-installed tube in the
fuselage threaded end first. The correct tube will exit near
the elevator control horn.
9E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
4. Thread the clevis back onto the pushrod wire.
5. Secure a 12 in (305mm) servo extension onto the
servo lead. Use string to secure the servo lead to the
servo extension.
6. Pass the extension forward in the boom and
underneath the plywood servo tray. The extension will
exit the boom in the opening for the wing.
10 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
7. Position the elevator servo in the servo tray on the
side with the "S9" decal with the output shaft towards the
front of the boom. Secure the servo using the hardware
provided with the servo.
9. Attach the receiver to the fuselage using the included
double-sided tape. Plug the elevator servo extension into
the elevator channel of the receiver.
Note: Use the manufacturer's instructions for routing
your antenna. Never cut the receiver antenna as this will
greatly reduce the range of your radio system.
8. Route the servo extension through the channel in the
bottom of the wing to the center fuselage.
10. Turn on the transmitter and apply power to the
receiver. Check that the elevator servo is operating
properly. Center the elevator trim and control stick and
set any sub-trims to 0.
11E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
11. With the radio system still powered on, attach
the pushrod wire to the servo arm. It may be necessary
to enlarge the hole in the servo arm using a drill bit
or sharp hobby knife so the Z-bend can move freely
in the arm, but with no slop. Install the servo arm on
the servo so it is as close to perpendicular with the
pushrod as possible. Secure the servo arm to the
servo using the screw provided with the servo. Thread
the clevis on the pushrod in or out to adjust the length
of the pushrod, positioning the elevator level with the
stabilizer when the servo is centered.
12. Replace the servo hatch cover once the linkage
has been installed. Turn off the radio system at this
time as well.
13. Elongate the two openings near the nose gear
rearward 3/8 in (10mm). Angle the foam back to
the holes to allow for more airflow through and over
the battery.
Note: Step 13 is optional to help with cooling of the ESC
and battery. It is suggested to enlarge the openings if
you plan to fly aggresive and at high throttle settings.
12 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Rudder Installation (Optional)
Required Parts
• Fuselage/center section assembly
• CA hinge (6) • Y-harness
• 2mm x 12mm screw (4)
• Servo w/hardware (2)
• Control horn w/backplate (2)
• Servo extension, 12 in (305mm) (2)
• Pushrod wire w/clevis, 10
Required Tools and Adhesives
• Hobby knife • Felt-tipped pen
• Thin or medium foam-safe CA
Note: The installation of the rudders is optional. If you
choose not to install the rudders, skip to the next section
for the installation of your motor system.
1. Use a hobby knife with a sharp blade to separate the
rudder from the fin at the molded hinge line.
3
/4 in (273mm) (2)
2. Use a hobby knife to cut three slots into the rudder
as shown.
13E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
3. If using medium foam-safe CA, apply a small amount
to one half of the hinge. Make sure to apply CA to
both sides of the hinge where it will be inserted into the
rudder. If using thin foam-safe CA, the hinges can be
inserted into slots in the rudder and fin without glue. Then
the CA can be applied in the middle of the hinge so that
it will soak into both surfaces.
4. Slide the hinge into the slot made in the previous step.
Install the three hinges into the rudder.
14 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
5. Attach the control horn to the outside of the rudder
using the backplate and two 2mm x 12mm screws.
Note: Make sure to mount the horn on the outside of
each rudder.
6. Position the rudder against the fin. Use a felt-tipped
pen to mark the location of the hinges onto the fin.
7. Use a hobby knife to cut slots for the hinges in the fin.
15E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
8. Test fit the rudder. Check that it can move freely
without binding against the elevator. Trim the rudder or
hinge slots in the fin as necessary. Complete the rudder
installation by applying foam-safe CA to the hinges and
sliding the hinges into the slots in the fin. Be sure to set
just enough gap between the fin and rudder to allow free
movement of the rudder to the left and right.
9. Install the rudder servo using the same procedure used
for the elevator servo.
16 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
10. Repeat Steps 1 though 9 to install the second rudder
servo. The control horn is mounted on the rudder facing
away from the elevator. The rudder servo is positioned
with the servo arm pointing to the inside of the boom.
11. Install the servo hatches back into position.
17E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Brushless Motor Installation
Required Parts
• Fuselage/center section assembly
• Brushless outrunner motor (2)
• Outrunner stick mount (2) • 1.5mm x 12mm screw (2)
• Brushless ESC (2) • 14- or 16-Gauge silicone wire
• 3mm x 10mm machine screw (4) • 4mm spacer (4)
• Propeller (standard and reverse rotation)
• Spinner assembly (standard and reverse rotation)
Required Tools and Adhesives
• Phillips screwdriver • Double-sided tape
• Razor saw • Hobby knife
• Soldering iron • Solder
Note: The P-38/F-5E Lightning includes standard and
reverse rotation propellers and spinners. This allows the
use of counter-rotating propellers, just like the full-scale
P-38/F-5E used, for improved handling and tracking
during acceleration for takeoffs and flight. Make sure to
note the direction of the propellers and spinners when it
comes time to install them on the aircraft.
1. Attach the outrunner motor to the outrunner motor
mount using four 3mm x 10mm machine screws and four
4mm spacers.
2. Use a razor saw to cut the motor mount stick to
1
a length of 1
/4 in (31mm) for the E-flite Park 450
outrunner motor.
18 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Hint: Use a hobby knife to cut a notch in the boom so
you can use the razor saw to cut the mount.
Note: The dimension of 1 1/4 in (31mm) is for the E-flite
Park 450 Brushless motor (EFLM1400). Using a different
motor will change the length required for the mount.
Important Information About Your Brushless ESC
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.
3. Remove the EC3 connecter from the electronic speed
controls. Cut a 16 in (406mm) length of red and black
wire (14- or 16-gauge) for each ESC and solder them
to the end of the battery leads on the speed control to
extend them into the fuselage. Route the servo lead and
battery connection through the channel in the bottom of
the wing and into the center fuselage. Use double-sided
tape to secure the ESC inside the boom where it can get
air flow through the opening in the cowling.
4. Plug the motor leads into the speed control motor
leads. Check the motor stick to make sure it is secure
in the boom. Apply foam-safe CA as necessary to
make sure the motor stick is secure. Then slide the
mount onto the stick and secure it using the included
1.5mm x 12mm screw.
19E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
5. Solder both sets of motor leads together with a male
EC3 connector. Make sure to solder the positive to
positive and negative to negative. Check operation of the
motors. The left-hand motor (when viewed from behind)
should rotate counterclockwise when viewed from the
front. The right-hand motor (when viewed from behind)
should rotate clockwise when viewed from the front.
6. Remove the backing from the factory installed double-
sided tape on the sides of the boom. Slide the cowling
onto the boom, pressing it against the tape once you
have confirmed proper alignment.
Note: If either motor is running in the opposite direction
that it should, simply reverse any two of the wire leads
that connect to the ESC.
20 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
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.
Important Information About Your Propeller
It is very important to check to be sure the propeller is
balanced before installing on the propeller shaft. An
unbalanced propeller may damage the motor, airframe
and other components, or cause poor flight and
performance characteristics.
Note: If it is necessary to enlarge the hole in the
propeller, make sure to check the balance of the
propeller afterwards.
7. Install the propeller and spinner backplate as
shown using the adapter included with the motor.
The spinner backplate will actually be installed in
front of the propeller, and it will be necessary to use
a drill bit or reamer to enlarge the hole in the prop
and spinner backplate so they will fit the prop adapter
shaft. Also, you will need to install the thick washer
included in the kit between the spinner backplate and
prop adapter nut so that the nut can seat properly on
the backplate when secured.
Note: Pay close attention to the orientation of the
propellers as shown in the photos.
21E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
8. Snap the spinner cone onto the spinner backplate.
9. Repeat Steps 1 through 8 to install the remaining
motor. When checking the second motor in Step 5
(without the propeller installed), the motors will rotate
opposite directions as shown in the photo.
Brushed Motor Installation
Required Parts
• Fuselage/center section assembly
• Gearbox assembly (2) • 14 or 16GA silicone wire
• Brushed motor (2) • 1.5mm x 12mm screw (2)
• Electronic speed control • Double-sided tape
• Propeller (standard and reverse rotation)
• Spinner assembly (standard and reverse rotation)
Required Tools and Adhesives
• Phillips screwdriver • Double-sided tape
• Soldering iron • Solder
Note: The P-38/F-5E Lightning includes standard and
reverse rotation propellers and spinners. This allows the
use of counter-rotating propellers, just like the full-scale
P-38/F-5E used, for improved handling and tracking
during acceleration for takeoffs and flight. Make sure to
note the direction of the propellers and spinners when it
comes time to install them on the aircraft.
1. Cut two 16 in (406mm) length pieces of either
14- or 16-gauge wire to replace the leads pre-installed
on the motor. Use a soldering iron to change out the
motor leads.
22 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
2. Install the brushed motor in the gearbox using the
hardware provided with the gearbox. Check the gear
mesh to make sure it is not set too loose or tight and
adjust as necessary.
3. Check the motor stick to make sure it is secure in the
boom. Apply foam-safe CA as necessary to make sure
the motor stick is secure. Then slide the gearbox onto the
stick and secure it using a 1.5mm x 12mm screw. Route
the motor wires through the channel in the bottom of the
wing to the center fuselage.
Important Information About Your ESC
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.
4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for the second motor.
23E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
5. Install the speed control inside the fuselage. Solder
both sets of motor leads to the speed control, positive to
positive and negative to negative.
6. Check the operation of the motors. The left-hand
gearbox shaft (when viewed from behind) should rotate
counterclockwise when viewed from the front. The righthand gearbox shaft (when viewed from behind) should
rotate clockwise when viewed from the front.
Note: If either motor is running in the opposite direction
that it should, simply reverse the two wire leads that
connect the ESC to the motor.
24 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
7. Remove the backing from the double-sided tape on
the sides of the boom. Slide the cowling onto the boom,
pressing it against the tape once you have confirmed
proper alignment.
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.
Important Information About Your Propeller
It is 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.
8. Install the propeller and spinner backplate as shown
on the prop shaft of the gearbox. The spinner backplate
will actually be installed in front of the propeller.
Note: Pay close attention to the orientation of the
propellers as shown in the photos.
25E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
9. Snap the spinner cone onto the spinner backplate.
10. Repeat Steps 6 through 9 to install the remaining
motor. When checking the second motor in Step 4
(without the propeller installed), the motors will rotate
opposite directions as shown in the photo.
Aileron Servo Installation
Required Parts
• Fuselage/center section assembly
• Double-sided tape
• 3mm x 35mm screw (2) • Wing panels
• Servo w/hardware (2) • Servo extension, 9" (228mm) (2)
• Y-harness • 3mm x 25mm screw (2)
• Pushrod wire w/clevis, 2
Required Tools and Adhesives
• Phillips screwdriver
1. Plug the Y-harness for the aileron servos into the
receiver. Connect a 9" (228mm) extension to the harness
and route the extension out where the wing will plug into
the fuselage; run the ends out each side of the wing slots
in the center section.
1
/4 in (57mm) (2)
26 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
2. Turn on the transmitter and apply power to the
receiver. Check that the aileron servo is operating
properly. Center the aileron trim and control stick
and set any sub-trims to 0. Attach the servo arm to
the servo so it is as close to perpendicular as possible
when the servo is in the neutral position.
3. Use the included double-sided tape to install the servo
in the wing with the output shaft toward the trailing edge
and control horn.
4. Remove the backing from the pre-installed double-
sided tape on the wing panel cover. Position the servo
lead in the channel in the wing and attach the wing
panel cover after removing the backing from the factoryinstalled double-sided tape. You can also use clear tape
around the edges of the bottom cover so it is more secure
during flight.
Note: If you need to remove the servo cover after you
have taped it down, use caution as it could pull up your
paint with it.
27E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
5. Attach the aileron servo pushrod and linkage
as shown.
6. Plug the servo extension and servo lead together.
7. Slide the spar from the wing panel into the tube
located in the fuselage. Slide the wing into the fuselage
and secure it using the 3mm x 45mm screw in the front
and the 3mm x 35mm screw in the rear.
Note: It may be necessary to slide the wing in and out
of the slot in the boom a few times so that the fit is not
too tight. Also, be sure that the plastic bushings located
on the bottom of the wing panel do not interfere and
damage the fuselage when installing the wing panel.
8. Repeat Steps 1 though 7 for the remaining aileron
servo and wing panel.
28 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
9. Remove the backing from the pre-installed double-
sided tape on the center section cover. Position the servo
and motor/ESC leads in the channel in the wing and
attach the center section cover after removing the backing
from the factory-installed double-sided tape. You can also
use clear tape around the edges of the cover so it is more
secure during flight.
Note: If you need to remove the center section cover after
you have taped it down, use caution as it could pull up
your paint with it.
Landing Gear and Drop
Tank Installation (Optional)
Required Parts
• Assembled airframe • Main gear (right and left)
• Nose gear • 2mm x 10mm panhead screw (4)
• Steering arm • Steering linkage
• Servo w/hardware • Double-sided tape
Required Tools and Adhesives
• Phillips screwdriver • Hex wrench: 1.5mm
Note: The installation of the landing gear and drop tanks
are optional. If you are flying from a rough surface or
in a situation that may not be conducive to having these
items installed you can select to skip this section.
1. Slide the main gear into the slots in the booms. Use
two 2mm x 10mm panhead screws to secure the gear.
29E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
2. Slide the nose gear into position. 3. Place a piece of double-sided tape onto the
bottom of the steering servo and install it in the nose
as shown. Use a 1.5mm hex wrench to secure the
steering arm on the nose gear wire so that the arm
is as close to perpendicular to the nose wheel as
possible. Install the servo arm so it is as close to parallel
with the steering arm as possible when the servo in the
neutral position. Use a knife or drill bit to enlarge the
hole in the servo arm so the linkage will fit and move
smoothly with no slop.
Note: You will need to use an unused channel and
mix the rudder to the channel for the nose gear to
operate in the correction direction. This also allows you
to adjust the nose steering servo travel independently
of the rudder servo travel. The other option is to use
a reversing Y-harness if your transmitter does not offer
programmable mixing.
30 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
4. Use glue to install the drop tanks permanently, or use
double-sided tape so they can be removed in the future.
Final Assembly
Required Parts
• Assembled airframe • Motor battery
1. Install the motor battery into the fuselage. Use the hook
and loop strap to keep it from falling out during flight.
Note: When using our recommended Brushed Motor
Power System, you MUST use a separate BEC or receiver
battery pack to power the radio gear if using more
than 3 servos.
Also, you must be sure to disable the BEC of the ESC by
removing the positive lead from the servo connector that
plugs into the throttle channel of the receiver. Failure to
do so when using a separate BEC or receiver battery
pack may result in ESC failure and a crash.
31E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
2. Install the receiver battery and switch in the fuselage
and plug the switch into the receiver. Or, you can choose
not to use a switch and simply plug and unplug the
receiver battery from the receiver directly before and
after flight.
3. Install the center section hatch to complete the
assembly of your P-38/F-5E Lightning.
32 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
Center of Gravity
Control Throws
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) range is 3/16 in (5mm)
forward of the rear panel line to 3/16 in (5mm) forward of the
front panel line for a range of 3/8 in (10mm).
1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver of your aircraft.
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 ailerons using the
transmitter. When the stick is moved right, the right
aileron will move up and the left aileron will move
down. Reverse the direction of the servo at the transmitter
if necessary.
3. Check the movement of the elevator with the radio
system. Moving the elevator stick down will make the
airplane elevator move up.
4. Use a throw gauge to adjust the throw of the elevator,
ailerons and rudder. Adjust the position of the pushrod
at the control horn, or the travel/endpoint adjustments
of your computer transmitter, to achieve the following
measurements when moving the sticks to their endpoints.
Place or lift the airplane so it is supported between the marks
made in the previous step. The plane will rest level when balanced
correctly. If not, move the motor battery forward or backward, or
add a small amount of weight to the nose or tail, to correct any
balancing problems.
Ailerons
5/8” (16mm) Up/Down
Elevator
1/2" (13mm) Up/Down
Rudders (Optional)
1/2" (13mm) Left/Right
These are general guidelines measured from our own flight tests
and serve as a good starting point. You can experiment with lower
or higher rates to match your preferred style of flying.
33E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
5. Once the control throws have been verified, slide the
clevis retainers onto the clevises to prevent them from
opening during flight.
Range Test Your Radio
Preflight
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.
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.
34 E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
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.
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.
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.
35E-flite P-38/F-5E Lightning Assembly Manual
9941
© 2007 Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
(877) 504-0233
horizonhobby.com
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