Pitts Model 12 15e ARF
Assembly Manual
Specifications
Wingspan: 40 in (1015mm)
Length: 39 in (990mm)
Wing Area: 555 sq in (35.8 sq dm)
Weight w/ Battery: 48–50 oz (1360–1420 g)
Weight w/o Battery: 43–45 oz (1220–1275 g)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Specifications ...................................................................... 1
Introduction ......................................................................... 2
Scale Outline and History .................................................... 2
Using the Manual ................................................................ 3
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout ................................................. 3
Required Radio Equipment ................................................... 3
Important Information About Motor Selection ........................ 4
Lightweight 3D Outrunner Setup ........................................... 4
Sport Outrunner Setup ......................................................... 4
Optional Accessories ........................................................... 4
Required Tools and Adhesives .............................................. 4
Notes Regarding Servos and ESC ........................................ 5
Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries ........................................ 5
Warning ............................................................................. 5
Warranty Period ................................................................. 5
Limited Warranty ................................................................ 5
Damage Limits .................................................................... 6
Safety Precautions ............................................................... 6
Questions, Assistance, and Repairs ...................................... 6
Inspection or Repairs ........................................................... 6
Warranty Inspection and Repairs ......................................... 6
Non-Warranty Repairs ........................................................ 7
Safety, Precautions, and Warnings ....................................... 7
Hinging the Control Surfaces ............................................... 8
Wing Installation ............................................................... 11
Stabilizer Installation ......................................................... 14
Rudder Installation ............................................................. 16
Landing Gear Installation ................................................... 18
Radio Installation ............................................................... 21
Motor Installation .............................................................. 27
Final Detail Installation ....................................................... 30
Control Throws .................................................................. 32
Center of Gravity .............................................................. 33
Range Test Your Radio ....................................................... 33
Preflight ............................................................................ 34
Flying Your Pitts Model 12 15e ARF ................................... 34
2007 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code ... 35
The E-flite® Pitts Model 12 15e ARF is a 3D-capable, sport
replica of one of aviation’s hottest aerobatic machines. Designed
by veteran world class competitor, Quique Somenzini, it will
give intermediate to expert pilots a thrilling scale aerobatic
experience unlike any other. The large wing area and light
wing loading of its biplane design offers very forgiving flight
characteristics while keeping roll response crisp and precise.
E-flite’s Power 15 and Power 25 brushless outrunner motors are
excellent power choices, depending on your skill level. Sport
aerobatics or stick-bending 3D, the Pitts Model 12 15e will do
whatever you ask and will look good doing it.
Scale Outline and History
Designed by Quique Somenzini, this Pitts Model 12's outline
is accurate with the following exceptions. The vertical fin and
rudder area has been increased slightly to deliver an improved
feel and handling qualities during aggressive 3D maneuvering.
The horizontal stab has been raised slightly for the same reason.
The airplane modeled is owned by Keyes Kaitis of Joliet, Illinois.
You will see the full-size aircraft on the top of the box. We have
deviated from the scale paint scheme in a few minor areas.
First, our cowling front ring, landing gear, and wheel pants are
painted silver. The real aircraft is polished aluminum in these
areas. This is something we cannot currently duplicate. Next
we have changed the trim scheme on the bottom of the wings.
This was done to ensure there was a contrast from the top to the
bottom wing to aid during 3D flight for our customers. Other
than these deviations, we have tried to maintain the lines of the
Pitts Model 12 as it is currently flown.
We would like to personally thank both Keyes Kaitis and Mark
Streitz for their help on this project. Without the efforts of these
two men, we would not have been able to bring you this replica
of the Pitts Model 12.
2 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Using the Manual
Required Radio Equipment
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.
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout
Large Replacement Parts
EFL2551 Wing Set w/ailerons
EFL2552 Fuselage w/rudder
EFL2553 Tail set
EFL2554 Cowling
EFL2555 Landing gear
EFL2556 Wheel pants
EFL2557 Pushrod set
EFL2558 Canopy
You will need a minimum 6-channel transmitter (for proper
mixing and dual rate capabilities), crystals, micro receiver, and
four micro servos. You can choose to purchase a complete radio
system that includes all of these items or, if you are using an
existing transmitter, just purchase the other required equipment
separately. We recommend the crystal-free, interference-free
Spektrum
own transmitter, we recommend the JR SPORT
servos.
If you own the Spektrum DX7 radio, just add the AR7000 DSM2
7-channel receiver and four of our JR SPORT MC35 Micro servos.
Complete Radio System
SPM2710 DX7 DSM 7CH system
Or Purchase Separately
JRPR720UL UltraLite 7-Channel ScanSelect
Or
SPMAR6200 AR6200 DSM2 6-Channel Receiver Ultralite
™
DX7 2.4GHz DSM® 7-channel system. If using your
™
MC35 Micro
FM Receiver (72MHz)
(for DX7 only)
™
Or
SPM6070 AR7000 DSM2 7CH Rx (for DX7 only)
And
JSP20030 MC35 Micro Servo (4)
EFLREX6L 6-inch lightweight extension (2)
EFLREX9L 9-inch lightweight extension (2)
3E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Important Information About
Optional Accessories
Motor Selection
We recommend the E-flite® Power 15 Brushless Outrunner,
950Kv (EFLM4015A) to provide you with lightweight 3D
performance, or the Power 25 Brushless Outrunner, 870Kv
(EFLM4025A) for sport performance.
Lightweight 3D Outrunner Setup
EFLM4015A Power 15 BL Outrunner, 950Kv
EFLA1060 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode
BEC Brushless ESC
THP20704SX 2070mAh 4-Cell 14.8V Li-Po
APC11080E 11 x 8 Electric Prop
EFLAEC303 EC3 Device & Battery Connector,
Male/Female
EFLC3005 Celectra
This is a high-power performance setup for strong 3D flights.
™
1- to 3-Cell Li-Po Charger
Sport Outrunner Setup
EFLM4025A Power 25 BL Outrunner, 870Kv
EFLA1060 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode
BEC Brushless ESC
THP42003S2PPL 4200mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po
APC12080E 12 x 8 Electric Prop
EFLAEC303 EC3 Device & Battery Connector,
Male/Female
EFLC3005 Celectra 1- to 3-Cell Li-Po Charger
This is a high-power performance setup for sport flights.
EFLA110 Power Meter
Required Tools and Adhesives
Tools & Equipment
EFLA250 Park Flyer Tool Assortment, 5-piece
Or Purchase Separately
EFLA257 Screwdriver, #0 Phillips (or included with
EFLA250)
EFLA251 Hex Wrench: 3/32-inch (or included with
EFLA250)
Drill
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Felt-tipped pen
Threadlock
T-pins
Thin CA
Medium CA
Paper towels
Hobby knife (#11 blade)
6-minute epoxy
Pliers
Ruler
Square
Sandpaper
5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit
30-minute epoxy
Phillips screwdriver: #0, #1
Masking tape
Canopy glue
Rotary tool
3mm ball driver
Pin drill
Side cutters
4 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Notes Regarding Servos and ESC
WARNING: Use of servos other than those we recommend may
overload the BEC of the recommended Electronic Speed Control
(ESC). We suggest the use of only the servos we recommend
when utilizing the recommended ESC’s BEC, or the use of a
separate BEC (like the UBEC) or receiver battery pack when
using other servos.
Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries
Lithium Polymer batteries are significantly more
volatile than alkaline or Ni-Cd/Ni-MH batteries used
in RC applications. All manufacturer’s instructions
and warnings must be followed closely. Mishandling
of Li-Po batteries can result in fire. Always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions when disposing of Lithium
Polymer batteries.
Warning
An RC aircraft is not a toy! If misused, it can cause serious
bodily harm and damage to property. Fly only in open areas,
preferably at AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) approved
flying sites, following all instructions included with your radio.
Keep loose items that can get entangled in the propeller away
from the prop, including loose clothing, or other objects such as
pencils and screwdrivers. Especially keep your hands away from
the propeller.
Warranty Period
Limited Warranty
(a) This warranty is limited to the original Purchaser
("Purchaser") and is not transferable. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT
AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE
REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER. This warranty covers only those
Products purchased from an authorized Horizon dealer. Third
party transactions are not covered by this warranty. Proof of
purchase is required for warranty claims. Further, Horizon
reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without
notice and disclaims all other warranties, express or implied.
(b) Limitations- HORIZON MAKES NO WARRANTY OR
REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ABOUT 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.
5E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Damage Limits
Questions, Assistance, and Repairs
HORIZON SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSS OF PROFITS OR
PRODUCTION OR COMMERCIAL LOSS IN ANY WAY
CONNECTED WITH THE PRODUCT, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM IS
BASED IN CONTRACT, WARRANTY, NEGLIGENCE, OR STRICT
LIABILITY. Further, in no event shall the liability of Horizon
exceed the individual price of the Product on which liability
is asserted. As Horizon has no control over use, setup, final
assembly, modification or misuse, no liability shall be assumed
nor accepted for any resulting damage or injury. By the act of
use, setup or assembly, the user accepts all resulting liability.
If you as the Purchaser or user are not prepared to accept the
liability associated with the use of this Product, you are advised
to return this Product immediately in new and unused condition
to the place of purchase.
Law: These Terms are governed by Illinois law (without regard to
conflict of law principals).
Safety Precautions
This is a sophisticated hobby Product and not a toy. It must be
operated with caution and common sense and requires some
basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this Product in a safe
and responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the
Product or other property. This Product is not intended for use
by children without direct adult supervision. The Product manual
contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is
essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in
the manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate
correctly and avoid damage or injury.
Your local hobby store and/or place of purchase cannot provide
warranty support or repair. Once assembly, setup or use of the
Product has been started, you must contact Horizon directly.
This will enable Horizon to better answer your questions and
service you in the event that you may need any assistance.
For questions or assistance, please direct your email to
productsupport@horizonhobby.com, or call 877.504.0233 toll
free to speak to a service technician.
Inspection or Repairs
If this Product needs to be inspected or repaired, please call for
a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Pack the Product
securely using a shipping carton. Please note that original boxes
may be included, but are not designed to withstand the rigors
of shipping without additional protection. Ship via a carrier that
provides tracking and insurance for lost or damaged parcels, as
Horizon is not responsible for merchandise until it arrives and
is accepted at our facility. A Service Repair Request is available
at www.horizonhobby.com on the “Support” tab. If you do not
have internet access, please include a letter with your complete
name, street address, email address and phone number where
you can be reached during business days, your RMA number,
a list of the included items, method of payment for any nonwarranty expenses and a brief summary of the problem.
Your original sales receipt must also be included for warranty
consideration. Be sure your name, address, and RMA number
are clearly written on the outside of the shipping carton.
Warranty Inspection and Repairs
To receive warranty service, you must include your original
sales receipt verifying the proof-of-purchase date. Provided
warranty conditions have been met, your Product will be
repaired or replaced free of charge. Repair or replacement
decisions are at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby.
6 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Non-Warranty Repairs
Safety, Precautions, and Warnings
Should your repair not be covered by warranty the repair
will be completed and payment will be required without
notification or estimate of the expense unless the expense
exceeds 50% of the retail purchase cost. By submitting the item
for repair you are agreeing to payment of the repair without
notification. Repair estimates are available upon request. You
must include this request with your repair. Non-warranty repair
estimates will be billed a minimum of ½ hour of labor. In
addition you will be billed for return freight. Please advise us
of your preferred method of payment. Horizon accepts money
orders and cashiers checks, as well as Visa, MasterCard,
American Express, and Discover cards. If you choose to pay
by credit card, please include your credit card number and
expiration date. Any repair left unpaid or unclaimed after 90
days will be considered abandoned and will be disposed of
accordingly. Please note: non-warranty repair is only available
on electronics and model engines.
Electronics and engines requiring inspection or repair should be
shipped to the following address:
Horizon Service Center
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
All other Products requiring warranty inspection or repair should
be shipped to the following address:
Horizon Product Support
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
Please call 877-504-0233 with any questions or concerns
regarding this product or warranty.
As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for
operating it in a manner that does not endanger yourself
and others or result in damage to the product or the property
of others.
Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any
optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery
packs, etc.) that you use.
This model is controlled by a radio signal that is subject to
interference from many sources outside your control. This
interference can cause momentary loss of control so it is
necessary to always keep a safe distance in all directions
around your model, as this margin will help to avoid collisions
or injury.
• Always operate your model in an open area away from cars,
traffic, or people.
• Avoid operating your model in the street where injury or
damage can occur.
• Never operate the model out into the street or populated
areas for any reason.
• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
• Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any
optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable battery
packs, etc.) that you use.
• Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of
the reach of children.
• Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid water exposure
to all equipment not specifically designed and protected for
this purpose.
7E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Hinging the Control Surfaces
Required Parts
Top wing w/ailerons Bottom wing w/ailerons
Stabilizer/elevator CA hinge (22)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Rotary tool Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Thin CA T-pins
Hobby knife
1. Use a rotary tool and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to
drill a hole in the center of each hinge. This will act as a
tunnel, allowing the thin CA to fully penetrate each hinge.
2. Place a T-pin in the center of four of the CA hinges.
This will help in centering the hinge when installed.
Note: The hinges in your kit will differ from those
pictured. The hinges in your kit are narrower than shown
and result in an easier moving flight control surface.
3. Place the four hinges into the slots in the wing. The
T-pins will rest against the edge of the wing.
Note: It is suggested to drill the CA tunnel in the top and
bottom wings, ailerons, stabilizer, elevator, rudder and
fuselage at this time as well.
8 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
4. Slide the aileron on the hinges. Remove the T-pins and
align the wing tip and aileron tip. Apply enough thin
CA to the top and bottom of each hinge to saturate the
hinge. Allow the CA to cure before proceeding to the
next step.
5. Carefully pull on the aileron to make sure the hinges
are secure. If not, reglue the hinges in question.
6. Flex the aileron up and down a number of times to
break in the hinges.
Note: Do not use CA accelerator while gluing the
hinges. The CA must be allowed to soak into each
hinge naturally. If not, the bond between the hinge and
surrounding wood could fail in flight.
Note: Placing a #11 hobby knife blade between the
wing trailing edge and the leading edge of the aileron
will ensure you will get maximum deflection without
binding for 3D flight.
9E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
7. Install the aileron in the top wing at this time. Follow
the hinging procedure as described for the bottom wing.
8. Use six CA hinges to attach the stabilizer to the
elevator. Again, follow the hinging process as described.
10 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Wing Installation
Required Parts
Top wing w/ailerons Pre-covered wing bolt support
3mm washer 2mm blind nut
Wing strut (2) 2mm nut (12)
Bottom wing w/ailerons 2mm washer (12)
2mm x 10mm machine screw (12)
3mm x 25mm machine screw
1 x 9/64-inch (25 x 3.5mm) wing dowel (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Hobby knife 6-minute epoxy
Felt-tipped pen 3mm ball driver
Threadlock Medium CA
Pliers Phillips screwdriver: #0, #1
1. Use a sharp hobby knife to remove the covering from
the holes in the leading edge of the bottom wing for the
wing dowels.
2. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the 1 x 9/64-inch (25 x
3.5mm) wing dowels into the wing. Make sure to leave
3/8-inch (10mm) of the dowels exposed forward of the
leading edge.
3. Remove the covering for the wing bolt on the bottom
wing. Place the pre-covered wing bolt support in position
and trace around the support using a felt-tipped pen.
11E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
4. Use a hobby knife to remove the covering from inside
the line drawn in the previous step. Use medium CA to
glue the support onto the bottom wing.
5. Use the 3mm x 25mm machine screw to draw the
3mm blind nut in position under the wing support plate
in the fuselage.
6. Slide the dowels into the fuselage and use the
3mm x 25mm machine screw and 3mm washer to
attach the bottom wing to the fuselage.
7. Locate the two wing struts. Use the photo to determine
the top and bottom of the struts. Use a hobby knife to
expose the holes for mounting the struts.
12 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Note: Please use threadlock on all wing strut screws and
nuts in the following steps.
Note: You will find the holes larger than 2mm on the
attachment fittings for the wing struts. This enables you
to adjust the wings slightly so as to not create any warps
when you tighten the screws down.
8. Attach the struts to the bottom wing using four
2mm x 10mm machine screws, four 2mm washers
and four 2mm nuts.
9. Position the top wing. The tabs at the cabane struts
(center of the wing) of the wing will be on the outside of
the cabane struts. Secure the outer struts to the top wing
using four 2mm x 10mm machine screws, four 2mm
washers and four 2mm nuts.
10. Secure the cabane struts to the top wing using four
2mm x 10mm machine screws, four 2mm washers
and four 2mm nuts.
13E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Stabilizer Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage w/wings Stabilizer/elevator
Required Tools and Adhesives
Thin CA Hobby knife
Ruler Felt-tipped pen
1. Use a hobby knife to remove the covering for the
horizontal stabilizer from the fuselage.
2. Slide the stabilizer in the slot. Center the stabilizer as
shown in the image below.
3. Make sure the stabilizer is parallel to the wings as
shown. Lightly sand the slot in the fuselage as necessary
to correct for any misalignment.
14 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
4. Align the stabilizer so it is in alignment with the
wings as shown.
5. Double-check the alignment of the stabilizer. Use a
felt-tipped pen to trace the outline of the fuselage onto
the stabilizer.
6. Use a hobby knife with a new blade to trim the
covering inside the line drawn in the previous step.
Note: Use care not to cut into the underlying wood of the
stabilizer. This could significantly reduce the strength of
the stabilizer and cause it to fail in flight.
Hint: Use either a hot knife or soldering iron to cut the
covering, as this will reduce the amount of pressure
needed to cut the covering, and in turn, reduce the
chances of cutting into the underlying wood.
15E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
7. Slide the stabilizer back in position. After checking
the alignment one last time, wick thin CA into the joint
between the fuselage and stabilizer. Allow the CA to cure
without using accelerator.
Rudder Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Rudder
Tail wheel assembly Tail wheel bracket
CA hinge (3)
#2 x 1/2-inch sheet metal screw (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Pin drill Drill bit: 5/64-inch (2mm)
30-minute epoxy Thin CA
Pliers Ruler
T-pins Phillips screwdriver: #0
Side cutters Ruler
1. Place the fin in position. Trace the outline of the
fuselage onto both sides of the fin. Remove the covering
from the bottom of the fin using the same technique used
for the stabilizer. Position the fin back onto the fuselage.
Use a square to check the alignment between the fin
and stabilizer. Lightly sand the bottom of the fin until the
alignment is correct. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the fin
to the fuselage. Check the alignment to make sure it does
not change position during the curing process.
16 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
2. Carefully bend the tail wheel assembly as shown in
the image. Use side cutters to remove the excess wire
as shown below.
3. Use a pin vise and 5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit to drill a
hole into the rudder 7/8-inch (22mm) up from the bottom
of the rudder.
4. Use a hobby knife to cut a groove from the hole to the
bottom of the rudder. This will recess the tail gear wire
when it is glued to the rudder.
5. Slide the tail wheel bracket onto the tail gear assembly.
Use 6-miniute epoxy to glue the tail wheel assembly into
the rudder. Use tape to hold the wire in position until the
epoxy fully cures.
17E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
6. Use three CA hinges to attach the rudder to the fin/
fuselage as shown. Use the directions as described in
"Hinging the Control Surfaces."
Landing Gear Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Landing gear
Wheel pant (2) 3 x 10mm machine screw (3)
3mm washer (5) 3mm nut (2)
2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw (2)
3mm wheel collar w/setscrew (2)
3mm x 30mm machine screw (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
6-minute epoxy Hobby knife
Threadlock Phillips screwdriver: #0
1. Remove the landing gear filler block from the
fuselage. Attach the landing gear to the fuselage using
three 3mm x 10mm machine screws and three 3mm
washers. Use threadlock on the screws to prevent them
from vibrating loose.
7. Use two #2 x 1/2-inch sheet metal screws to
attach the tail gear bracket to the fuselage. Make sure
the alignment does not bind against the wire when
operating the rudder.
18 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
2. Press the landing gear filler block in position. This will
transfer the location of the screws onto the block.
4. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the filler block in position
on the fuselage.
3. Use a hobby knife to trim the filler block to clear
the heads of the three screws holding the landing gear
to the fuselage.
5. Slide a 3mm x 30mm machine screw through the
wheel. Use a 3mm wheel collar and setscrew to secure
the screw in the wheel. Use threadlock on the setscrew to
prevent it from vibrating loose.
19E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
6. Fit the wheel into the wheel pant as shown.
8. With the fuselage resting on its wheels, check that the
wheel pants will clear the ground as shown.
7. Slide the screw through the bottom hole in the landing
gear. Use a 3mm nut and 3mm washer to attach the
wheel/wheel pant to the landing gear. Use threadlock on
the nut to prevent it from vibrating loose.
9. To keep the wheel pant from rotating, secure the wheel
pant using a 2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw.
10. Repeat Steps 5 through 9 for the remaining wheel
and wheel pant.
20 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Radio Installation
Required Parts
Control horn (4) Control horn backplate (4)
Pushrod wire clip (4) Aileron servo block (4)
Clevis (4) Long servo arm (2)
3mm x 30mm machine screw (2)
2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw (8)
3
3
/
-inch (95mm) pushrod wire (4)
4
Required Tools and Adhesives
Drill Drill bit: 1/16-inch )1.5mm)
Hobby knife Servo (4)
Felt-tipped pen Pliers
Pin drill Phillips screwdriver: #0
Side cutters Thin CA
30-minute epoxy Drill bit: 5/64-inch (2mm)
9-inch (228mm) servo extension (2)
1. Secure a 9-inch (228mm) servo extension to the servo
lead as shown. Use a commercially available connector
or some thread to secure the connection.
2. Remove the covering for the opening for the rudder
servo. Use the hardware provided with the servo to install
it in the fuselage.
21E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
3. Thread a clevis onto a 3
3
/
-inch (95mm) pushrod
4
wire. Attach the clevis to the control horn. Align the
pushrod with the servo then use a felt-tipped pen to
mark the location for the control horn screws through the
control horn.
4. Use a pin drill with a 5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit to drill
the holes for the control horn screw.
5. Place a few drops of thin CA into each hole to harden
the surrounding wood. This will provide a better base for
the control horn when it is installed.
6. Attach the control horn using two 2mm x 10mm
machine screws and a control horn backplate.
22 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
7. Hold the rudder in neutral. Use the radio to center
the rudder servo and make sure the servo arm is
perpendicular to the servo center line. Mark the pushrod
with a felt-tipped pen where it crosses the outside hole on
the servo arm.
8. Bend the pushrod wire 90 degrees at the mark
made in the previous step. Secure the pushrod wire
to the servo arm using a pushrod wire clip. Trim any
excess pushrod wire to prevent it from rubbing the
fuselage or servo with side cutters.
23E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
9. Repeat Steps 1 through 8 for the elevator servo.
10. Install the receiver in the fuselage. Follow the
manufacturers installation instructions for proper
placement of your receiver. Plug the two extensions for
the aileron servos into the receiver at this time as well.
11. Remove the servo cover from the bottom of the
bottom wing. Use a hobby knife to remove the covering
in the cover for the servo arm.
12. Position the aileron servo onto the cover. Align
the servo arm so it exits the opening without binding
on the cover during operation. Make the position of
the servo on the cover.
24 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
13. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the aileron servo blocks
to the servo cover as shown.
14. Position the servo between the blocks. Make sure
there is a slight gap between the servo and cover, then
drill the locations for the servo screws using a 1/16-inch
(1.5mm) drill bit and drill.
15. Install a long servo arm on the servo after centering
it using the radio system. Secure the servo using the
hardware provided with the servo.
Note: Please sand the mount blocks down to where they
are flush with the servo. There will be a slight hump in
the covering when the servo is installed.
16. Tie the string to the servo lead.
25E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
17. Pull the servo lead through the wing using the string.
Use tape to keep the lead from falling back into the wing.
18. Use a drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill to drill a
hole at each of the corners of the servo cover and into
the supports. Use four 2mm x 6mm sheet metal screws to
secure the servo cover to the wing.
19. Use a 3
pushrod rod wire clip to assemble and install the linkage
between the servo and control horn. Position the control
horn on the aileron so the linkage is perpendicular to the
hinge line. You will need to install the control horn on the
aileron before installing the linkage.
3
/
-inch (95mm) pushrod wire, clevis and
4
26 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Motor Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Cowling
2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw Hook and loop strap (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Motor w/X-mount & hardware Drill
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm) Propeller
Phillips screwdriver: #0, #1 Hex wrench: 3/32-inch
6-minute epoxy Threadlock
1. Attach the X-mount to the motor using the hardware
provided with the motor. Use threadlock on the screws to
prevent them from vibrating loose.
2. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the four 1/2 x 1/2 x 1/2-
inch (12 x 12 x 12mm) hardwood cowl mounting blocks
to the firewall.
3. Attach the motor to the firewall using the hardware
provided with the motor. Use threadlock on the screws to
prevent them from vibrating loose.
27E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
4. Plug the motor into the speed control. Secure the speed
control under the battery tray.
6. Use a drill and 1/16-inch drill bit to drill holes through
the cowl and into the cowl mounting blocks. Secure the
cowl using four 2mm x 6mm sheet metal screws.
5. Secure the motor battery in the fuselage using the
hook and loop straps.
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 low-voltage cutoff
and it is set correctly for the batteries you are using.
7. Turn on the radio system and plug the battery into the
speed control. Use the throttle to check that the motor
rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the front. If
not, follow the directions included with your speed control
to change the direction of the motor rotation.
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.
28 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Important Information About Your Propeller
It is also very important to check to be sure the
propeller is balanced before installing onto the shaft. An
unbalanced propeller may strip the gears or cause poor
flight characteristics.
Note: If it is necessary to enlarge the hole in the
propeller, make sure to check the balance of the
propeller afterwards.
8. Use a hobby knife and rotary tool to remove the area
in the center of the dummy radial engine. Use a hobby
knife to remove the area between each of the cylinders to
allow cooling air to pass through the cowling and over
the motor. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the dummy radial
engine inside the cowling.
9. Install the propeller using the adapter provided with
your motor.
29E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Final Detail Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Air Intake
Plywood aileron horn (4) Clevis (2)
Pushrod connector (2) 2mm x 10mm machine screw (5)
2mm nut (5) 2mm x 8mm sheet metal screw (2)
Lower fin extension
3
7
/
-inch (197mm) pushrod wire (2)
4
Required Tools and Adhesives
Medium CA Hobby knife
Canopy glue Tape
1. Use medium CA to glue the air intake to the bottom of
the fuselage. Make sure not to glue the intake to the cowl.
2. Install the pushrod connector in the bottom control
horn. The screw will face toward the wing tip.
3. Thread a clevis on the pushrod wire. Connect the clevis
to the control horn of the top wing. With both ailerons
centered, tighten the screw to secure the pushrod to the
pushrod connector.
Note: Your intake scoop will differ slightly from the one
pictured above. It will be black in color as well, not white
as depicted in the photo. These changes were made to
ensure the accuracy of the full scale Pitts model 12 was
maintained.
30 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
4. Use canopy glue to attach the canopy to the
fuselage. Use tape to hold the canopy in position until
the glue fully cures.
Optional Accessories
Note: The tail surface flying wires are included for you
to add if you desire. They are not required for everyday
flight or even 3D flight.
1. Attach the flying wires to the fin and stabilizer using
2mm x 10mm machine screws and 2mm nuts. Use
threadlock on the nuts to prevent them from vibrating
loose.
31E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
2. The flying wires are attached to the bottom of the
stabilizer using 2mm x 10mm machine screws. They are
then attached to the fuselage using two 2mm x 8mm
sheet metal screws.
3. Use medium CA to glue the lower fin extension to the
bottom of the fuselage.
Control Throws
Use a ruler to adjust the throw of the elevator, ailerons and
rudder. Adjust the position of the pushrod at the control horn to
achieve the following measurements when moving the sticks to
their endpoints.
Note: Measurements are taken at the widest point on
the surface.
Ailerons
1
/
High Rate: 1
Low Rate: 1/2-inch (12mm) (Up/Down)
Elevator
High Rate: 1
Low Rate: 1-inch (25mm) (Up/Down)
Rudder
High Rate: 2
Low Rate: 1-inch (25mm) (Right/Left)
-inch (29mm) (Up/Down)
8
3
/
-inch (44mm) (Up/Down)
4
7
/
-inch (73mm) (Right/Left)
8
These are general guidelines measured from our own flight tests.
You can experiment with higher rates to match your preferred
style of flying.
Note: The clear fin extensions are included to enhance
the 3D flight envelope. Quique designed these and found
them to help the model in inverted harriers as well as
extreme yaw control during other high alpha manevers.
32 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Center of Gravity
Range Test Your Radio
An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight is properly
balancing the model.
Caution: Do not inadvertently skip this step!
The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) location for the Pitts
Model 12 15e ARF is 3
3
/
– 4
4
1
/
inch (95–105mm) back from
8-
the leading edge of the top wing.
3
/
Use the 3
1
/
inch (105mm) CG for 3D aerobatic flying.
4
8-
-inch (95mm) CG for sport/scale flying and the
4
After the first flights, the CG position can be adjusted for your
personal preference.
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.
Quique Somenzini's Statement
about the Pitts Model 12
The Pitts model 12 will give you what you need, a wide range of
airspeed and aerobatics. Today's aerobatics requires what the
Pitts's has, superb top speed and incredible low speed through
the entire flight envelope. Along this wide speed envelope the
Pitts does it with rock solid stability on all three axis with clean
controls and minimum coupling. This aircraft will give you a
unique feeling of good looks and performance all the time. This
great look and feeling is present from take off to landing, as if
you were flying a true mixture of biplane/monoplane!!.
The E-flite power plant delivers enough watts to make the Pitts
climb and accelerate with authority giving the Pitts the look of a
true unlimited performer.
I enjoy this biplane as it has scale appeal an can perform such
clean aerobatic lines!.
33E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
Preflight
Flying Your Pitts Model 12 15e ARF
Check Your Radio
Before going to the field, be sure that your batteries are fully
charged per the instructions included with your radio. Charge
both the transmitter and receiver pack for your airplane. Use
the recommended charger supplied with your particular radio
system, following the instructions provided with the radio. In
most cases, the radio should be charged the night before going
out flying.
Before each flying session, be sure to range check your radio.
See your radio manual for the recommended range and
instructions for your radio system. Each radio manufacturer
specifies different procedures for their radio systems. Next, start
the motor. With the model securely anchored, check the range
again. The range test should not be significantly affected. If it is,
don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio equipment checked out by
the manufacturer.
Note: Keep loose items that can get entangled in
the propeller away from the prop. These include
loose clothing, or other objects such as pencils and
screwdrivers. Especially keep your hands away from the
propeller.
Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator, rudder and
throttle) move in the correct direction.
Check the radio installation and make sure all the control
surfaces are moving correctly (i.e. the correct direction and with
the recommended throws). Test run the motor and make sure
it transitions smoothly from off to full throttle and back. Also
ensure the engine is installed according to the manufacturer’s
instructions, and it will operate consistently.
Flying the Pitts Model 12 15e ARF is about as fun as it can get.
A very light wing loading and extreme control throws make for
some exciting 3D flying. Verify that your CG is at the correct
location as per the manual and that you have your rates set
up to your liking. Verify all control throws are in the correct
direction and the motor spins in the correct direction as well.
Point the model into the wind and add some throttle trim until
the motor begins to turn. This will be your flight idle. Now,
apply power slowly. You will find the model will become
airborne very quickly and at a low speed. This model excels
at flying slow and easy as well as fast and extreme. Trim the
model for level flight at half throttle. Only use full throttle for
maneuvering.
You will find you can adjust the CG to your liking by moving the
battery pack fore or aft on the fuselage. Also keep the battery
on the fuselage mounted high (at least at wing centerline or
above) to help in hovering maneuvers and harriers.
To land the Pitts Model 12 15e ARF, just reduce the throttle to
idle and feed in up elevator until the model settles into a slightly
nose-high attitude. Gently fly the model down to the landing
spot with a final flair at touchdown. You will find the model will
have a very short roll out. We hope you enjoy the Pitts Model
12 15e ARF as much as we do.
Happy landings.
Check all the control horns, servo horns, and clevises to make
sure they are secure and in good condition. Replace any items
that would be considered questionable. Failure of any of these
components in flight would mean the loss of your aircraft.
34 E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
2007 Official AMA National
Model Aircraft Safety Code
GENERAL
1) I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows
or model flying demonstrations until it has been proven to be
airworthy by having been previously, successfully flight tested.
2) I will not fly my model higher than approximately 400 feet within 3
miles of an airport without notifying the airport operator. I will give
right-of-way and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
Where necessary, an observer shall be utilized to supervise flying
to avoid having models fly in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the flying
site I use, and I will not willfully or deliberately fly my models in a
careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.
4) The maximum takeoff weight of a model is 55 pounds, except
models flown under Experimental Aircraft rules.
5) I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name and
address or AMA number on or in the model. (This does not apply
to models while being flown indoors.)
6) I will not operate models with metal-bladed propellers or with
gaseous boosts, in which gases other than air enter their internal
combustion engine(s); nor will I operate models with extremely
hazardous fuels such as those containing tetranitromethane or
hydrazine.
RADIO CONTROL
1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground range
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.
2) I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until I
become a qualified flier, unless assisted by an experienced helper.
3) At all flying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be established
in front of which all flying takes place with the other side for
spectators. Only personnel involved with flying the aircraft are
allowed at or in front of the flight line. Intentional flying behind the
flight line is prohibited.
4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
(Only properly licensed Amateurs are authorized to operate
equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.)
5) Flying sites separated by three miles or more are considered safe
from site-to-site interference, even when both sites use the same
frequencies. Any circumstances under three miles separation
require a frequency management arrangement, which may be
either an allocation of specific frequencies for each site or testing
to determine that freedom from interference exists. Allocation plans
or interference test reports shall be signed by the parties involved
and provided to AMA Headquarters.
Documents of agreement and reports may exist between (1) two
or more AMA Chartered Clubs, (2) AMA clubs and individual
AMA members not associated with AMA Clubs, or (3) two or
more individual AMA members.
6) For Combat, distance between combat engagement line
and spectator line will be 500 feet per cubic inch of engine
displacement. (Example: .40 engine = 200 feet.); electric motors
will be based on equivalent combustion engine size. Additional
safety requirements will be per the RC Combat section of the
current Competition Regulations.
7) At air shows or model flying demonstrations, a single straight line
must be established, one side of which is for flying, with the other
side for spectators.
8) With the exception of events flown under AMA Competition rules,
after launch, except for pilots or helpers being used, no powered
model may be flown closer than 25 feet to any person.
9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch a
powered model in flight.
35E-flite Pitts Model 12 15e ARF Assembly Manual
10491
© 2007 Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, Illinois 61822
(877) 504-0233
horizonhobby.com
E-fliteRC.com
Loading...