E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF User Manual
Rhapsody 25e ARF
Assembly Manual
Notice
Notice ................................................................... 2
All instructions, warranties and other collateral
documents are subject to change at the sole
discretion of Horizon Hobby, Inc. For up-to-date
product literature, visit http://www.horizonhobby.
com and click on the support tab for this product.
Meaning of Special Language
The following terms are used throughout the product
literature to indicate various levels of potential harm
when operating this product:
NOTICE: Procedures, which if not properly followed,
create a possibility of physical property damage
AND a little or no possibility of injury.
CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed,
create the probability of physical property damage
AND a possibility of serious injury.
WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed,
create the probability of property damage, collateral
damage, and serious injury OR create a high
probability of superficial injury.
WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual
to become familiar with the features of the product
before operating. Failure to operate the product
correctly can result in damage to the product, personal
property and cause serious injury.
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. Do not
attempt disassembly, use with incompatible components
or augment product in any way without the approval
of Horizon Hobby, Inc. This 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 serious injury.
2 E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
Meaning of Special Language ................................. 2
Introduction ........................................................... 2
Important Information Regarding
Warranty Information ........................................ 2
Specifications ......................................................... 2
Using the Manual ................................................... 2
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout .................................... 3
Covering Colors ..................................................... 3
Hardware/Accessory Sizes ..................................... 3
Recommended Radio Equipment ............................. 3
Power 25 Motor Setup ........................................... 3
Power 32 Motor Setup ........................................... 3
Required Tools and Adhesives ................................. 3
Optional Accessories .............................................. 3
Warnings .............................................................. 4
Rudder and Stabilizer Installation ............................ 4
Landing Gear Installation ........................................ 5
Motor, Speed Control and Cowling Installation ......... 7
Aileron Servo Installation ........................................ 9
Rudder and Elevator Servo Installation ................... 11
Bottom Wing and Receiver Installation ................... 13
Top Wing Installation ............................................ 14
Removing the Wing Panels ................................... 17
Motor Battery, Propeller and Pilot Installation ......... 17
Center of Gravity ................................................. 18
Control Throws..................................................... 19
Preflight ............................................................... 19
Flying Your Rhapsody 25e ARF ............................. 20
Range Test Your Radio .......................................... 20
Safety Do’s and Don’ts for Pilots ............................ 20
Daily Flight Checks ............................................... 20
Warranty and Repair Policy .................................. 21
Warranty Services ................................................ 21
Compliance Information for the European Union .... 22
2010 Official Academy of
Model Aeronautics Safety Code ....................... 22
Table of Contents
The Rhapsody 25e combines modern styling with
classic lines to give you a one-of-a-kind sport biplane
that’s a real standout. On the ramp, its striking
Ultracote® trim scheme, along with the factory-painted
fiberglass cowl and wheel pants, will turn more than
a few heads. In the air, its crisp roll rates and smooth,
predictable flight characteristics will let you enjoy a
wide range of sport aerobatics without any surprises.
Best of all, you can have the Rhapsody 25e flying in
just an evening or two thanks to handy features like the
bolt-on tail and included wing jigs that make assembly
a breeze.
Important Information
Regarding Warranty Information
Please read our Warranty and Liability Limitations
section on Page 21 before building this product. If you
as the Purchaser or user are not prepared to accept the
liability associated with the use of this Product, you are
advised to return this Product immediately in new and
unused condition to the place of purchase.
Wingspan: 47.0 in (1190mm)
Length: 39.0 in (990mm)
Wing Area: 530 sq in (34.0 sq dm)
Weight with Battery: 4.40–4.60 oz (1.90–2.10 kg)
Weight w/o Battery: 3.70–3.90 oz (1.60–1.80 kg)
This manual is divided into sections to help make
assembly easier to understand, and to provide breaks
between each major section. In addition, check boxes
have been placed next to each step to keep track
of its completion. Steps with a single circle () are
performed once, while steps with two circles ( )
indicate 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.
Introduction
Specifications
Using the Manual
Contents of Kit/Parts Layout
Recommended Radio Equipment
Required Tools and Adhesives
Replacement Parts
EFL4176001 Bottom Wing Set
EFL4175002 Top Wing Set
EFL4175003 Fuselage with Hatch
EFL4175004 Tail Set
EFL4175005 Wing Strut Set
EFL4175006 Cowling
EFL4175007 Wing Truss Set
EFL4175008 Wheel Pant Set
EFL4175009 Decal Set
EFL4175010 Pushrod Set
EFL4175011 Main Gear
EFL4175012 Wing Spar Set
EFL4175013 Wing Cabane Set
EFL4175015 Hardware Set
Covering Colors
White HANU870
Deep Blue HANU873
Gold HANU879
Hardware/Accessory Sizes
Main wheel diameter 2.5-inch (63.0mm)
Tail wheel diameter 1-inch (25.0mm)
Bottom wing bolt 6-32 x 1-inch
socket head bolt
Top/bottom wing retention bolt 4-40 x 1/2-inch
socket head bolt
You will need a minimum 4-channel transmitter,
receiver and four servos. You can choose to purchase
a complete radio system. If you are using an
existing transmitter, just purchase the other required
equipment separately. We recommend the crystalfree, interference-free Spektrum™ DX6i 2.4GHz DSM®
6-channel system. If using your own transmitter, we
recommend the following radio equipment.
If you own the Spektrum DX6i radio, or you are using
a different DSM2 radio, just add the AR6200 DSM2
6-channel receiver and four JR SPORT™ MN48 servos.
Complete Radio System
SPM6600 DX6i DSM2 6CH system
Or Purchase Separately
SPMAR6200 AR6200 DSM2 6-Channel Full-
Range Receiver (for DX6i or
DX7)
JSP20040 MN48 Servo (4)
EFLRYH3 3-inch Y-Harness, Lightweight
Power 25 Motor Setup
EFLM4025A Power 25 Brushless Outrunner
Motor, 870Kv
EFLA1040 40-Amp Pro Switch-Mode
BEC Brushless ESC
APC12080E APC 12 x 8 Electric Propeller
EFLB32003S30 3200mAh 3S 11.1V 30C LiPo,
12AWG EC3
Power 32 Motor Setup
EFLM4032A Power 32 Brushless Outrunner
Motor, 770Kv
EFLA1060 60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode
BEC Brushless ESC
APC13065E APC 13 x 6.5 Electric Propeller
EFLB32004S30 3200mAh 4S 14.8V 30C LiPo,
12AWG EC3
Tools & Equipment
Flat file Pin vise
Side cutter Scissors
Covering Iron Ruler
Nut driver: 1/4-inch
Phillips screwdriver: #1, #2
Drill bit: 5/64-inch (2mm)
Hobby knife with #11 blade
™
Hex wrench: 1.5mm, 3/32-inch, 7/64-inch
Open end or box wrench: 1/2-inch, 12mm
Adhesives
Threadlock Thin CA
Medium CA
EFLA110 Power Meter
EFLC505 Intelligent 1- to 5-Cell
EFLAEC312 Charge Lead with 12-inch
EFLA151 Civilian Pilot, Blue
EFL4539 Dummy Motor
Optional Accessories
Balancing Charger
Wire and Jacks, 16AWG
The Spektrum trademark is used with permission
of Bachmann Industries, Inc.
All other marks are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Horizon Hobby, Inc.
3E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
Warnings
Read and follow all instructions and safety precautions
before use. Improper use can result in fire, serious
injury and damage to property.
COMPONENTS
Use only with compatible components. Should any
compatibility questions exist please refer to the product
instructions, the component instructions or contact
Horizon Hobby, Inc.
FLIGHT
Fly only in open areas to ensure safety. It is
recommended flying be done at AMA (Academy of
Model Aeronautics) approved flying sites. Consult local
laws and ordinances before choosing a location to fly
your aircraft.
PROPELLER
SMALL PARTS
This kit includes small parts and should not be left
unattended near children as choking and serious injury
could result.
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.
Rudder and Stabilizer Installation
Required Parts
Stabilizer assembly Fuselage assembly
Fin assembly 4-40 locknut (2)
#4 washer (4)
4-40 x 1/2-inch machine screw (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Threadlock Nut driver: 1/4-inch
Thin CA Phillips screwdriver: #1
Make sure to use threadlock on all metal-to-
metal fasteners so they don’t vibrate loose.
1. Locate the stabilizer and fin assemblies. Insert
the threaded rods on the bottom of the fin into the
holes in the stabilizer. Note the trim scheme of the
stabilizer in the photos.
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 as
injury can occur.
BATTERIES
Notes on Lithium Polymer Batteries
When misused, lithium polymer batteries are
significantly more volatile than alkaline or Ni-Cd/
Ni-MH batteries used in RC applications. Always
follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using
and disposing of any batteries. Mishandling of Li-Po
batteries can result in fire and explosion causing
serious injury and damage.
During the course of building your Rhapsody 25e we
suggest you use a soft base for the building surface.
Such things as a foam stand, large piece of bedding
foam or a thick bath towel will work well and help
protect the model from damage during assembly.
4 E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
2. Slide a #4 washer on each of the threaded rods
from the bottom side of the stabilizer. Use two 4-40
lock nuts to secure the fin to the stabilizer. Tighten
the nuts using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3. Position the assembly at the rear of the fuselage.
The stabilizer will rest on the fuselage as shown.
4. Slide a #4 washer on a 4-40 x 1/2-inch
machine screw. Apply a small amount of threadlock
on the screw, then use the screw to secure the tail
assembly to the fuselage. You will need to use two
screws and washers and a #1 Phillips screwdriver
to complete this step. Wick thin CA along the joint
between the vertical fin post and fuselage.
Landing Gear Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Landing gear
4-40 x 3/8-inch socket head screw (2)
Axle with lock nut (2)
#4 washer (2) #6 washer (2)
Wheel pant (left and right)
Main wheel, 21/2-inch (63mm) (2)
5/32 wheel collar with setscrew (4)
6-32 x 1/2-inch socked head machine screw (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Threadlock Flat file
Ruler Felt-tipped pen
Open end or box wrench: 1/2-inch, 12mm (2)
Hex wrench: 1.5mm, 3/32-inch, 7/64-inch
Make sure to use threadlock on all metal-to-
metal fasteners so they don’t vibrate loose.
1. Slide a #6 washer on a 6-32 x 1/2-inch socket
head machine screw. Apply a drop of threadlock
on the screw. Use two screws and washers to
secure the landing gear to the fuselage using a
7/64-inch hex wrench or ball driver. Please make
sure the landing gear angles forward.
Important: Do not over-tighten the nuts as this
could damage the stabilizer.
5E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
2. Use open end or box wrenches to secure the
landing gear axle to the landing gear. You will
need 1/2-inch and 12mm wrenches to tighten the
axle to the gear.
4. Slide a 5/32-inch wheel collar on the axle and
use a 1.5mm hex wrench to tighten the setscrew on
the flat made in the previous step. Slide the wheel in
position and use a second wheel collar and 1.5mm
hex wrench to secure the wheel on the axle. Check
that the wheel can rotate freely on the axle. If not,
reposition the wheel collars so they are not binding
against the wheel. Make sure to use threadlock on
the setscrews so they don’t vibrate loose.
5. Slide a #4 washer on a 4-40 x 3/8-inch socket
head machine screw. Apply a drop of threadlock to
the screw. Use the screw to attach the wheel pant to
the landing gear as shown. Use a 3/32-inch hex
wrench to tighten the screw.
3. Use a flat file to make two 1/4-inch (6mm) wide
flat areas on the axle for the setscrews in the wheel
collars. Position the flats 1/4-inch (6mm) and 11/8inch (28mm) from the outer end of the axle as shown.
6 E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
6. Repeat Steps 2 through 5 to install the remaining
wheel to the landing gear.
Motor, Speed Control and
Cowling Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly
Cowling
4-40 x 3/8-inch socket head machine screw (4)
#4 washer (4)
Hook and loop tape
Hook and loop strap (2)
Required Parts (Power 25)
Power 25 brushless outrunner
X-mount with screws
Electronic speed control, 40-amp
4-40 x 3/8-inch socket head screw (4)
#4 washer (4)
Required Parts (Power 32)
Power 32 brushless outrunner
X-mount with screws
Electronic speed control, 60-amp
4-40 x 3/4-inch socket head screw (4)
#4 washer (4)
Aluminum spacer, 1/4-inch (6mm) (4)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Hex wrench or ball driver: 3/32-inch
Phillips screwdriver: #1, #2
Threadlock
Optional Parts
Dummy motor (EFL4539)
Paint Colors for Dummy Radial
Aluminum
Black
Yellow
Light Gray
Make sure to use threadlock on all metal-to-
metal fasteners so they don’t vibrate loose.
2. Use the screws included with the motor to attach
the X-mount to the rear of the motor.
Make sure to use threadlock on all metal-to-
metal fasteners so they don’t vibrate loose.
3A. Attach the Power 25 motor to the firewall using
four 4-40 by 3/8-inch socket head machine screws
and four #4 washers. Use a 3/32-inch hex wrench
to tighten the screws.
3B. Attach the Power 32 motor to the firewall using
four 4-40 by 3/4-inch socket head machine screws
and four #4 washers. Place the four 1/4-inch
(6mm) aluminum spacers between the mount and
firewall as shown. Use a 3/32-inch hex wrench to
tighten the screws.
1. Remove the hatch cover from the top of the
fuselage by lifting the rear of the hatch. The front is
held in place using two dowels.
The blind nuts in the firewall for the motor
can be repositioned for a variety of motor
installations. You will need to adjust their position
to suit your particular motor selection.
7E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
4. The tabs on the cowl have markings so the
cowl can be oriented on the firewall. The L and R
indicate the left and right as viewed as if sitting in
the cockpit.
Note: We used the following colors when
painting the engine: Make sure to paint the
motor before gluing it in the cowling.
5. (Optional) 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. Use the following colors
to paint the dummy radial engine.
6. Route the motor leads through the firewall and
into the fuselage. Use four 4-40 x 3/8-inch socket
head screws and four #4 washers to attach the
cowl to the firewall. Use a 3/32-inch ball driver to
tighten the screws. The R for the right side of the
cowl can be seen in the photo below.
Matching the colors between the ESC and motor
when they are connected results in the correct
motor direction if using all E-flite components.
7. Connect the leads from the motor to the speed
control. Use hook and loop tape to secure the
speed control in the fuselage. Mount the speed
control switch in the fuselage using the hardware
provided with the speed control.
8. Insert the hook and loop straps through the battery
tray as shown. The battery will be installed later in
the manual after the wings have been installed, but
installing the strap now will be much easier. Apply
a strip of hook and loop tape on the battery tray to
keep the battery from sliding fore or aft on the tray.
Rocker Shafts – Aluminum
Engine Cylinders – Black
Plug Wires – Yellow
Center Crankcase – Light Gray
8 E-flite Rhapsody 25e ARF Assembly Manual
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