E-flite Taylorcraft 450 ARF User Manual

Taylorcraft 450 ARF

Assembly Manual

Specifications

Wingspan: 46 in (1170mm)
Length: 36 in (915mm)
Wing Area: 370 sq in (23.87 sq dm)
Weight w/o Battery: 29–31 oz (680–740 g) Weight w/
Battery: 24–26 oz (820–880 g)

Table of Contents

Introduction

Specifications ...................................................................... 1

Introduction ......................................................................... 2

Using the Manual ................................................................ 3

Contents of Kit/Parts Layout ................................................. 3

Required Radio Equipment ................................................... 3

Important Information About Motor Selection ........................ 4

Sport Outrunner Setup ......................................................... 4

High Power 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

Aileron Servo Installation ..................................................... 8

Joining the Wing Panels .................................................... 14

Tail Installation .................................................................. 19

Servo Installation ............................................................... 23

Landing Gear Installation ................................................... 25

Motor and Cowling Installation .......................................... 28

Final Radio Installation ...................................................... 32

Window and Strut Installation ............................................ 34

Control Throws .................................................................. 36

Center of Gravity .............................................................. 37

Range Test Your Radio ....................................................... 37

Preflight ............................................................................ 38

Flying Your Taylorcraft ....................................................... 38

2007 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code ... 39

Many a plane has been called a “classic” but few deserve the
title more than Clarence Taylor’s legendary creation. Designed
to be the premier general aviation airplane of its day, the
Taylorcraft has inspired aviators who fly simply for the fun of it
for over 50 years.

E-flite has perfectly captured the spirit of the Taylorcaft with
this outstanding ARF that boasts true-to-scale lines and is an
absolute joy to fly. To keep the scale lines unspoiled, E-flite has
designed the Taylorcraft 450 with internal servo mounts that
are concealed from view. A classic cream and red UltraCote
trim scheme, cockpit details and factory painted fiberglass parts
further enhance the realism. In the air the Taylorcraft 450 offers
a nice balance between maneuverability and stability that will
please both newer and experienced pilots.

2 E-flite Taylorcraft 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

Replacement Parts

EFL2626 Wing Set w/Ailerons
EFL2627 Fuselage
EFL2628 Tail Set
EFL2629 Cowling
EFL2630 Landing Gear & Covers
EFL2631 Wheel Pants
EFL2632 Pushrod Set
EFL2633 Fuselage Hatch
EFL2634 Window Set
EFL2635 Wing Strut Set

You will need a minimum 4-channel transmitter, crystals (for
72MHz), micro receiver, and four sub-micro servos. You can
choose to purchase a complete radio system that includes
all of these items or, if you are using an existing transmitter,
just purchase the other required equipment separately. We

™

recommend the crystal-free, interference-free Spektrum
DX6i 2.4GHz DSM 6 channel system, which includes a micro
receiver. You will need to purchase 4 sub-micro 7.5 gram
servos. If using your own transmitter, we recommend the use of

™

a JR SPORT
Sub-Micro servos.

Complete Radio System

SPM6600 DX6i DSM 6CH Radio System

Or Purchase Separately

JSP30610 6-Channel UltraLite Rx w/o Crystal, Positive Shift JR/

JSP30615 6-Channel UltraLite Rx w/o Crystal, Negative Shift

JRPXFR** FM Receiver Crystal (JR only,

Or

SPM6000 AR6000 DSM 6-Channel Park Flyer Receiver

6-channel UltraLite receiver and E-flite® S75 Super

AIR (72MHz)

Fut/HRC (72MHz)

not AR6000)

(DX6 users only)

Or

SPM6100 AR6100 DSM3 Micro Lite 6-Channel Receiver, Air

(DX7 users only)

And

EFLRS75 7.5-gram Sub-Micro Servo (4)
EFLREX6L 6-inch Extension Lead (2)
JSP98020 Y-harness

3E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Important Information About Motor

Optional Accessories

Selection

We recommend the E-flite® Park 450 Brushless Outrunner,
890Kv (EFLM1400) to provide you with excellent sport and
aerobatic power and a worry-free outrunner motor. The
Taylorcraft does not include a propeller, but we recommend our
10X8 Electric Prop (EFLP1080E).

Sport Outrunner Setup

EFLM1400 Park 450 Brushless Outrunner Motor, 890Kv
EFLA1025 25-Amp Pro Brushless ESC
EFLB21003S 11.1V 2100mAh 3-Cell Li-Po, 16GA
THP21003SPL 2100mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po, 16GA
EFLP1080E 10 x 8 Electric Prop
EFLC3005 Celectra

Or

THP21003SPL 2100 mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po, 16GA

™

1- to 3-cell Li-Po Charger

High Power Setup

EFLM1505 Park 480 Brushless Outrunner Motor, 1020Kv
EFLA312B 40-Amp Brushless ESC
APC12060E 12x6 Electric prop
EFLB21003S 11.1V 2100mAh 3-Cell Li-Po, 16 GA

Or

THP21003SPL 2100 mAh 3-Cell 11.1V Li-Po, 16GA

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)
#1 Phillips screwdriver #2 Phillips screwdriver
Card stock Epoxy brush
Felt-tipped pen Hex wrench: 3/32-inch
Hobby knife (#11 blade) Hobby scissors
Low-tack masking tape Mixing sticks
Paper towels Pencil
Pin drill Pliers
Rubbing alcohol Ruler
Side cutters Square
String Medium grit sandpaper
Drill bits: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 3/32-inch (2mm)

Adhesives

6-minute epoxy (HAN8000) 30-minute epoxy (HAN8002)
Canopy glue Thin CA
Medium CA Threadlock

4 E-flite Taylorcraft 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 Taylorcraft 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
[e-mail], 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 Taylorcraft 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 Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Aileron Servo Installation

Required Parts

Wing w/ailerons (R&L) Servo arm (medium length)
Micro pushrod connector (2) Pushrod connector backplate (2)
Servo mounting plate (R&L) Control horn (2)
Sub-micro servo (2) Y-harness
6-inch (152mm) servo extension (2)
2mm x 4mm machine screw (2)
2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw (8)

Pushrod wire, 3
5/16 x 5/16 x 1/2-inch (8 x 8 x 12mm) mounting block (4)

3

/

-inch (95mm) (2)

4

  2. Slide a micro pushrod connector into the hole drilled

in the previous step.

Required Tools and Adhesives

Pin drill Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Side cutters String
Pencil 6-minute epoxy
#1 Phillips screwdriver Low-tack masking tape

  1. Use a pin drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to

enlarge the outer hole in a medium length servo arm.

  3. Use a pushrod connector backplate to secure the

connector to the servo arm.

  4. Use side cutters to remove the remaining arm so it

won't interfere with the operation of the servo.

8 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

  5. Turn on the transmitter and center the aileron stick

and trim. Check that any programming has been cleared
if you are using a programmable radio. Plug the aileron
servos into a Y-harness, then into the receiver and check
the operation of the servos. Attach the arm perpendicular
to the servo.

  7. Locate the correct servo mounting plate for your wing.

The notch in the correct plate will align with the notch in
the wing as shown below.

  6. Secure a 6-inch (152mm) servo extension to the

servo lead using your favorite brand of servo wire keeper
or tape.

9E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

  8. Position the servo on the mounting plate so the arm is

centered in the notch.

  10. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the 5/16 x 5/16 x 1/2-

inch (8 x 8 x 12mm) mounting blocks on the plate.

  9. Use a pencil to mark the location of the servo

mounting tabs on the plate.

10 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

  11. Use a pin drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to

drill the two mounting holes for the servo in the blocks.

  12. Use the hardware provided with the servo to secure it

to the blocks using a #1 Phillips screwdriver.

  13. Attach a weight to a piece of string. Lower the string

into the opening in the wing for the servo.

  14. Tip the wing up and allow the weight to drop to the

center of the wing.

11E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

  15. Tie the string to the servo extension and pull it

through the wing to the center section.

  16. Attach the servo mounting plate to the wing

using four 2mm x 6mm sheet metal screws using a
#1 Phillips screwdriver.

  17. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the aileron servo horn in

position. Make sure to press the horn fully into the slot in
the aileron.

12 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

  18. Attach the 3

3

/

-inch (95mm) aileron pushrod to the

4

middle hole of the control horn.

  19. Slide the opposite end of the pushrod through the

connector on the servo arm.

  20. Use a piece of low-tack tape to hold the aileron in

neutral. You can leave the tape in place until you are
ready to set the control throws to help prevent moving the
aileron and possibly stripping the servo gears.

  21. With the radio on, check the operation of the aileron

servo again. Use a 2mmx 4mm machine screw and
a #1 Phillips screwdriver to secure the pushrod to the
connector. Use side cutters to remove any excess wire
extending beyond the connector.

 22. Repeat Steps 1 though 21 for the remaining aileron

servo and linkage.

13E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Joining the Wing Panels

Required Parts

Wing (R&L) Wing joiner
Wing dowel (2) Skylight window
Wing bolt brace
2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw (8)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Pencil 30-minute epoxy
Mixing stick Epoxy brush
Hobby knife w#11 blade Felt-tipped pen
Medium CA Low-tack masking tape
Medium grit sandpaper Paper towels
Rubbing alcohol #1 Phillips screwdriver

 1. Use a pencil to mark the wing panel and joiner so you

can return the joiner into the orientation in which it was
fit into the wing panels.

 2. Slide the wing joiner into the wing panel. It may be

necessary to sand it lightly for the best fit.

 3. Use a pencil to draw a line on the joiner against

the wing.

14 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 4. Slide the joiner into the other wing panel. It should

slide in the panel up to or farther than the line drawn in
the previous step. If not, sand the end of the joiner so it
will slide in at least up to the line.

 6. Mix around 1/2 oz (15ml) of 30-minute epoxy. Apply

epoxy to the joiner, including any edges that will come in
contact with the wing panel when it is installed.

 7. Apply epoxy inside the opening in the wing as well.

 5. Fit the two panels together. They should fit tight against

each other with no gaps.

15E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 8. Finally, apply epoxy to the root ribs that will come in

contact with each other. Slide the panels together and use
low-tack tape to hold the two panels together until the
epoxy has fully cured.

 9. Use medium CA to glue the wing dowels in position.

They will slide in the wing until they are flush with the
back side of the wing center section.

 10. Attach the skylight to the wing using eight 2mm x

6mm sheet metal screws using a #1 Phillips screwdriver.
Leave the screws slightly loose until they have all been
started so you can adjust the position of the window.

 11. Lightly score the wing bolt brace so it can bend to

conform to the dihedral in the wing when installed.

16 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 12. Position the brace on the trailing edge of the wing.

Use a felt-tipped pen to trace the outline of the brace on
the wing.

 13. Use a hobby knife with a new #11 blade to remove

the covering 1/16-inch (1.5mm) inside the line drawn in
the previous step.

Hint: Use two of the 4-40 bolts through the holes in the
brace and wing to keep it in position while tracing it with
the pen.

Note: Use light pressure to avoid cutting into the
underlying structure. A soldering iron of hot knife can be
used as an option, reducing the chances of cutting into
the wood.

17E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 14. Remove the covering, exposing the underlying wood.

 15. Use a paper towel and rubbing alcohol to remove

the lines drawn on the wing.

 16. Use medium CA to glue the brace to the wing. Hold

the brace tightly against the wing until the CA cures.

18 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Tail Installation

Required Parts

Fin/rudder Stabilizer/elevator
Fuselage Assembled wing
#4 washer (2)
4-40 x 1-inch socket head bolt (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

30-minute epoxy Mixing stick
Square Epoxy brush
Hobby knife w/#11 blade Felt-tipped pen
Hex wrench: 3/32-inch

 1. Carefully remove the covering slightly below the edge

of the fin and on the lower tailpost.

 2. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the tab from the fin into

the stabilizer. Check that the fin and stabilizer are square
while the epoxy cures.

Note: You will want the slot for the elevator to be on the
right side of the vertical fin and rudder during the next
step.

Hint: Rest the stabilizer on two coffee cups. This will
suspend the assembly and keep the tail wheel from
causing any issues with keeping things square.

19E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 3. Position the tail assembly onto the fuselage. The tab

on the fin will extend slightly, locking into the slot in the
fuselage. Make sure the fin is straight with the center line
of the fuselage.

 4. Trace the outline of the fuselage on the bottom of the

stabilizer using a felt-tipped pen.

20 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 5. Use a hobby knife to remove the covering from inside

the lines on the bottom of the stabilizer. Again, be careful
not to cut into the stabilizer.

 6. Slide the dowels in the wing in the holes of the

fuselage.

 7. Secure the wing to the fuselage using two 4-40 x

1-inch socket head screws and two #4 washers.

21E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 8. Stand back from the aircraft about 6–8 feet (2–3

Align Parallel

meters) and check that the wing and stabilizer are
parallel. If not, lightly sand the fuselage where the
stabilizer rests to correct any alignment issues.

 9. Apply 30-minute epoxy to the exposed wood of the

stabilizer and to the fuselage where the stabilizer will
rest. Place the tail assembly on the fuselage and double­check all alignments made. Allow the epoxy to fully cure
before moving your airframe.

22 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Servo Installation

Required Parts

Control horn (2) Control horn backplate (2)
Micro pushrod connector (2) Connector backplate (2)
2mm x 4mm machine screw (2)
Pushrod wire, 24-inch (610mm) (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Medium CA Low-tack masking tape
#1 Phillips screwdriver Side cutters

  1. Pass the bend in the 24-inch (610mm) pushrod wire

through the center hole of the control horn.

  2. Slide the pushrod wire into the pre-installed pushrod

tube in the fuselage.

  3. Insert the control horn into the slot in the rudder.

Hint: Use low-tack masking tape to hold the rudder and
elevator centered while installing the servos.

23E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

  4. Snap the control horn backplate on the control horn.

Hold the horn while pressing the backplate tight against
the rudder.

  5. Apply a few drops of medium CA to the junction

between the control horn and backplate to secure
it in place.

  6. Attach the micro pushrod connector to the servo arm

using the same technique used for the aileron servo.
Mount the rudder servo using the hardware provided
with the servo. After centering the servo, secure the
pushrod using a 2mm x 4mm machine screw and #1
phillips. Use side cutters to trim the pushrod wire to the
correct length.

24 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 7. Repeat Steps 1 through 6 to install the elevator

pushrod and servo.

Landing Gear Installation

Required Parts

Landing gear Landing gear cover (2)
#4 washer (4) 4-40 locknut (4)

4-40 nut (2) 1
Wheel pant (R&L) 2mmx 8mm sheet metal screw (2)

4-40 x 1

1

/

-inch socket head screw (2)

4

4-40 x 3/8-inch socket head screw (2)
2mm x 6mm machine screw (4)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Pin drill Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Hex wrench: 3/32-inch #1 Phillips screwdriver
Felt-tipped pen Pliers
Threadlock

 1. Attach the landing gear covers to the landing gear

using four 2mm x 6mm machine screws. The front edge
of the covers will line up with the front edge of the
landing gear when installed correctly.

3

/

-inch (44mm) foam wheel (2)

4

25E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 2. Attach the landing gear to the fuselage using two 4-40

x 3/8-inch socket head screws and two #4 washers. Use
threadlock on the screws to prevent them from vibrating
loose in flight.

  3. Slide a 4-40 x 1

1

/

-inch-inch socket head screw

4

through the wheel. Place a washer on the screw and
thread a 4-40 locknut onto the screw. A 4-40 nut is then
tightened against the locknut. Check that the wheel can
spin freely on the screw.

  4. Pass the screw into the lower hole in the landing gear.

Secure the wheel using a 4-40 locknut.

26 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 to install the remaining wheel.

  6. Rest your model on a flat surface. Slide the wheel

pant over the wheel and position it so there is ground
clearance for the wheel pant.

  8. Drill the location marked in the previous step using a

pin drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit.

  9. Position the wheel pant back on the gear and secure it

using a 2mm x 6mm sheet metal screw.

  7. Use a felt-tipped pen to mark the location for the

wheel pant screw.

 5. Repeat Steps 6 through 9 to install the remaining

wheel pant.

27E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Motor and Cowling Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage assembly Motor w/X-mount & hardware
Speed control Cowling
Propeller 2mm x 8mm screw (4)
Hook and loop tape
4-40 x 3/8-inch socket head screw (4)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Low-tack masking tape Card stock
Thin CA Pin drill
#1 Phillips screwdriver Hex wrench: 3/32-inch
#2 Phillips screwdriver Threadlock
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 3/32-inch (2mm)

Special note:

Your Taylorcraft has been designed with a new motor
mounting system which enables you to install either a
Park 450 or Park 480 motor with no modifications from
you. The motors bolt on the same, you just need to space
out the floating blind nut system that is installed in the
firewall.

 1. Attach the X-mount to the motor using the hardware

provided with the motor. Use threadlock to prevent the
screws from vibrating loose during flight.

 2. Attach the motor to the motor box using four 4-40 x

3/8-inch socket head screws. Use threadlock to prevent
the screws from vibrating loose during flight.

28 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 3. Plug the motor wires into the speed control. Secure the

speed control to the bottom of the motor box using hook
and loop tape.

 4. This photo shows the installation of the 480 motor.

Simply follow Steps 1 through 3, only using the 480
motor instead of the 450 motor.

 5. 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.

29E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 6. Cut and tape a piece of card stock on both sides of

the fuselage to indicate the front edge of the fuselage.

 8. Attach the propeller to the adapter and slide the

assembly onto the motor shaft.

 7. Slide the cowling onto the fuselage.

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.

Note: If it is necessary to enlarge the hole in the
propeller, make sure to check the balance of the
propeller afterwards.

30 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 9. Position the cowling so the hole for the propeller is

centered with the propeller adapter, and so the propeller
will not rub against the cowling. Use low-tack tape to
hold the cowl in position for the following step.

 10. Use a pin drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit

to drill four locations (two each side) for the cowl
mounting screws.

 11. Use a 3-32-inch (2mm) drill bit to enlarge the holes

in the cowling ONLY.

 12. Apply 2–3 drops of thin CA to each of the holes in

the fuselage to harden the surrounding wood.

Note: Ensure the painted stripe on the cowl lines up with
the stripe on the fuselage

31E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 13. Secure the cowl to the fuselage using four 2mm x

8mm sheet metal screws.

 14. Secure the propeller to the motor.

Final Radio Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage assembly Receiver
Y-harness Hook and loop tape
8-inch (204mm) hook and loop strap

 1. Plug the speed control, rudder and elevator leads

to the appropriate connectors of your receiver. Plug a
Y-harness to the connector for the ailerons.

 2. Use hook and loop tape to secure the receiver under

the radio tray inside the fuselage.

32 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 3. Remove the battery hatch from the fuselage.

 4. Install the battery in the fuselage using the 8-inch

(204mm) hook and loop strap. Replace the battery door
once the battery has been installed.

33E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Window and Strut Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage Wing
Wing strut (2) 2mm x 8mm sheet metal screw (6)
Side window (R&L) Windshield
Molded seats (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Canopy glue #1 Phillips screwdriver
Hobby scissors Low-tack masking tape

 1. Use hobby scissors to trim the side windows. Lines

have been molded into the windows to use as a guide for
trimming the windows.

 2. Use canopy glue to glue the window in from the inside

of the fuselage. Use low-tack masking tape to hold the
windows in position until the glue fully cures.

 3. Use canopy glue to glue the windshield to the

fuselage. Use low-tack masking tape to hold the
windshield in position until the glue fully cures.

34 E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 4. Use canopy glue to secure the seats inside the

fuselage. Allow the fuselage to rest on its wheels until the
glue fully cures.

 5. Test fit the struts between the fuselage and wing.

The strut end will slide under the landing gear covers
as shown. They can be turned over (top to bottom) if they
do not align with the holes in the wing and fuselage.
Secure the strut to the fuselage using a 2mm x 8mm
sheet metal screw.

35E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

 6. Secure the struts to the wing using two 2mm x 8mm

sheet metal screws.

Control Throws

Use a ruler to adjust the throw of the elevator, ailerons and
rudder. This measurement is taken at the widest part of the
control surface. Adjust the position of the pushrod at the control
horn to achieve the following measurements when moving the
sticks to their endpoints.

Note: Measurements are taken at the widest point on
the surface.

Ailerons

Low Rate: 1/2-inch (13mm) with 15% Expo (Up/Down)
High Rate: 3/4-inch (19mm) with 25% Expo (Up/Down)

Elevator

Low Rate: 1/2-inch (13mm) with 15% Expo (Up/Down)
High Rate: 7/8-inch (22mm) with 25% Expo (Up/Down)

Rudder

1

/

-inch (38mm) (Left/Right)

1

2

These are general guidelines measured from our own flight tests.
You can experiment with higher rates to match your preferred
style of flying.

36 E-flite Taylorcraft 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

3

7

/

–2

/

Taylorcraft is 2

8

inch (60–73mm) back from the leading

8-

edge of the wing. Mark the location for the Center of Gravity on
the bottom of the wing as shown.

When balancing your Taylorcraft, support the plane upright at
the marks made on the bottom of the wing with your fingers
or a commercially available balancing stand. Move the motor
battery as necessary so the model hangs level or slightly nose
down. This is the correct balance point for your model.

3

/

Use the 2

7

/

inch (73mm) CG for aerobatic flying.

2

8-

-inch (60mm) CG for sport/scale flying and the

8

 1. Before each flying session, be sure to range check your

radio. This is accomplished by turning on your transmitter
with the antenna collapsed. Turn on the receiver in your
airplane. With your airplane on the ground and the
engine running, you should be able to walk 30 paces
(approximately 100 feet) away from your airplane and still
have complete control of all functions.

If not, don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio equipment

checked out by the manufacturer.

 2. Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator, rudder

and throttle) move in the correct direction.

 3. Be sure that your transmitter batteries are fully charged,

per the instructions included with your radio.

After the first flights, the CG position can be adjusted for your
personal preference.

37E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

Preflight

Flying Your Taylorcraft

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.

Flying the Taylorcraft is a pleasure. Takeoffs are easy as well
as landings. Loops and rolls are as easy as pushing the control
stick in the desired direction with the control throws listed in the
manual. Flight times of 12 minutes with the recommended Li-Po
battery are common.

The Taylorcraft is capable of flying in light winds up to 10 mph,
and can do just about any basic aerobatic manuever you would
like to accomplish. The Taylorcraft carries itself very well on final
approach. It is happy with a descending approach to maintain
the speed during final. Touch downs are easily accomplished in
a three point state.

Please note:
If using the Park 480 motor please use the throttle respectively.

This is a high power setup which can easily push the model to a
very high speed envelope. Ensure you reduce throttle during any
down line maneuvers.

We hope you enjoy flying your Taylorcraft as much as we do.
Happy Landings!

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.

38 E-flite Taylorcraft 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.

39E-flite Taylorcraft ARF Assembly Manual

10870

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4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

[phone]

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