E-flite Ultimate 20-300 10 ARF User Manual

Ultimate 20-300 10 ARF

Assembly Manual

Specifications

Wingspan: 38 in (960mm)
Length: 41 in (1045mm)
Wing Area: 473.5 sq in (30.5 sq dm)
Weight w/o Battery: 34–36 oz (965–1020 g)
Weight w/Battery: 39–41 oz (1105–1160 g)

Table of Contents

Introduction

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

Using the Manual ................................................................ 2

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

Covering Colors .................................................................. 3

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

Required Tools and Adhesives .............................................. 4

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

Brushless Outrunner Setup ................................................... 4

Optional Accessories ........................................................... 4

Notes Regarding Servos and ESC ........................................ 4

Note on Lithium Polymer Batteries ........................................ 4

Warning ............................................................................. 4

Warranty Information .......................................................... 5

Safety, Precautions, and Warnings ....................................... 7

Hinging the Ailerons ............................................................ 7

Aileron Servo Installation ................................................... 10

Stabilizer Installation ......................................................... 15

Hinging the Rudder and Stabilizer ...................................... 19

Rudder and Elevator Servo Installation ................................ 22

Receiver and Landing Gear Installation ............................... 24

Motor and Cowling Installation .......................................... 25

Upper Wing and Canopy Installation ................................. 29

Control Throws .................................................................. 32

Final Control Throws .......................................................... 34

Center of Gravity .............................................................. 35

Preflight ............................................................................ 35

Range Test Your Radio ....................................................... 36

Flying Your Ultimate 20-300 .............................................. 36

Instructions for Disposal of WEEE by

Users in the European Union ................................... 36

2008 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code ... 37

Building and Flying Notes .................................................. 38

E-flite's Ultimate 20-300 10 ARF is a sport replica of the
rare two-place aerobatic aircraft. The large wing area and
light wing loading of its biplane design provide smooth flight
characteristics and precise response. The Ultimate is designed
around E-flite's Power 10, which provides excellent power
for any aerobatic maneuver. The Ultimate's features include:
UltraCote
authentic Ultimate style spinner, fiberglass cowl and wheel
pants, plastic molded wing fillets, and a lightweight balsa and
plywood frame. The features and level of prefabrication of
the Ultimate allows the modelers to have the ability to fly this
incredible biplane in less time than similar models.

Intermediate pilots will enjoy the ability to grow their skills
rapidly with the Ultimate, while advanced pilots will enjoy
maximum performance with no extra effort.

®

and UltraCote Lite covering, steerable tail wheel,

Using the Manual

This manual is divided into sections to help make assembly
easier to understand, and to provide breaks between each
major section. In addition, check boxes have been placed next
to each step to keep track of 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.

2 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Contents of Kit/Parts Layout

Required Radio Equipment

Replacement Parts

EFL2751 Fuselage
EFL2752 Top Wing w/Ailerons, Left and Right
EFL2753 Bottom Wing w/Ailerons, Left and Right
EFL2754 Tail Set
EFL2755 Outer Wing Struts
EFL2756 Cowl
EFL2757 Canopy
EFL2758 Spinner
EFL2759 Landing Gear
EFL2760 Wheel Pants
EFL2761 Axles
EFL2762 Wheels
EFL2763 Hardware Set
EFL2764 Pushrod Set

You will need a minimum 5-channel transmitter, receiver, and four
sub-micro 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
crystal-free, interference-free Spektrum
6-channel system. If using your own transmitter, we recommend
the Spektrum 7.5-gram Super Sub-Micro Digital Programmable
Servos. When using the Spectrum DS75 servos with the Ultimate
20-300 you must use the Spectrum Digital Servo Programmer
(SPMDSP). This will allow you to get the proper travel, resolution
and geometry.

If you own the Spektrum DX6i radio, just add the AR6200

™

DSM2
Super Sub-Micro Digital Programmable Servos.

Complete Radio System

SPM6600 DX6i DSM 6CH system

Or Purchase Separately

SPMAR6200 AR6200 DSM2 6-Channel Receiver Ultralite

6-channel receiver and four of our Spektrum 7.5-gram

(for DX6i or DX7)

™

DX6i 2.4GHz DSM®

Covering Colors

Scale White HANU973
Deep Blue HANU873
Silver HANU881
Bright Yellow HANU872

And

SPMDSP Spektrum Digital Servo Programmer
SPMDSP75 7.5-gram Super Sub-Micro Digital

Programmable Servo (4)
EFLREX3L 3-inch Extension, Lightweight
EFLREX6L 6-inch Extension, Lightweight (4)
EFLREX9L 9-inch Extension, Lightweight
EFLREX12L 12-inch Extension, Lightweight

3E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Required Tools and Adhesives

Tools & Equipment

Felt-tipped pen Ball driver: 3/32-inch
Low-tack masking tape Mixing sticks
Paper towels Pin drill
Rubbing alcohol Mixing cups
Drill bits: 1/16-inch (1.5mm) Hobby knife (#11 blade)
Phillips screwdriver: #0, #1 Straight edge/Ruler
Side cutters Adjustable wrench, small
Sandpaper Scissors

Adhesives

Thin CA Medium CA
Threadlock 6-minute Epoxy (HAN8000)
Canopy glue

Important Information About

Motor Selection

We recommend the E-flite Power 10 Brushless Outrunner Motor,
1100Kv (EFLM4010A) for maximum performance.

Brushless Outrunner Setup

EFLM4010A Power 10 Brushless Outrunner Motor

1100Kv
EFLA1040 40-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC Brushless
EFLB21003S E-flite 3S 11.1V 2100mAh 20C Li-Po or

Thunder Power 3S 11.1V 2200mAh 25C

eXtreme V2 Li-Po (THP22003SXV)
EFLAEC311 EC3 Extension Lead w/6" Wire, 16GA
APC12060E 12x6 Electric Propeller

Notes Regarding Servos and ESC

WARNING: Use of servos other than those we suggest may
overload the BEC of the recommended Electronic Speed Control
(ESC). Please use only the servos listed 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.

Optional Accessories

EFLA110 Power Meter
EFLC3005 Celectra
EFLC505 Intelligent 1- to 5-Cell Balancing Charger

4 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

™

1- to 3-Cell Li-Po Charger

Warranty Information

Warranty Period

Horizon Hobby, Inc., (Horizon) warranties that the Products purchased
(the “Product”) will be free from defects in materials and workmanship
at the date of purchase by the Purchaser.

Limited Warranty

(a) This warranty is limited to the original Purchaser ("Purchaser") and
is not transferable. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER
THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER.
This warranty covers only those Products purchased from an
authorized Horizon dealer. Third party transactions are not covered
by this warranty. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims.
Further, Horizon reserves the right to change or modify this warranty
without notice and disclaims all other warranties, express or implied.

(b) Limitations- HORIZON MAKES NO WARRANTY OR
REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ABOUT 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.

Damage Limits

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.

5E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Questions, Assistance, and Repairs

Non-Warranty Repairs

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 non-warranty expenses and a brief
summary of the problem. Your original sales receipt must also be
included for warranty consideration. Be sure your name, address, and
RMA number are clearly written on the outside of the shipping carton.

Warranty Inspection and Repairs

To receive warranty service, you must include your original
sales receipt verifying the proof-of-purchase date. Provided warranty

conditions have been met, your Product will be repaired or replaced
free of charge. Repair or replacement decisions are at the sole
discretion of Horizon Hobby.

Should your repair not be covered by warranty the repair
will be completed and payment will be required without
notification or estimate of the expense unless the expense
exceeds 50% of the retail purchase cost.

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

By submitting the

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

or

Horizon Hobby UK

Units 1-4, Ployters Road

Staple Tye - Southern Way

Harlow

Essex

CM187NS

United Kingdom

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 or visit horizonhobby.com to find
our distributor for your country for support with any questions
or concerns regarding this product or warranty.

6 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Safety, Precautions, and Warnings

Hinging the Ailerons

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.

Required Parts

Top wing Top ailerons (right and left)
Bottom wing Bottom ailerons (right and left)
CA hinge (16)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Felt-tipped pen Straight edge/ruler
Hobby knife Thin CA
Scissors

 1. Use scissors or a hobby knife to cut each hinge away

from the others.

 2. Use a felt-tipped pen to mark the center of four

CA hinges. This will help in positioning them equally
in the aileron and wing.

• 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 Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 3. Position the hinges in the pre-cut slots in the

aileron. Slide the hinges into the aileron up to the
mark made in the previous step.

 5. Make sure the aileron does not bind at the center

of the wing.

 4. Slide the aileron in position with the hinges

inserted in the slots of the wing. Check that the end
of the aileron is aligned with the wing tip using a
straight edge.

 6. Use a hobby knife with a #11 blade to set the

gap between the aileron and wing. The blade should
barely slide between the two surfaces. Doing so will
allow achieving the control throws listed with the
smallest gap possible.

8 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Note: If the control surface is tight against the main

surface, it will limit the amount of control throw the
surface can achieve.

 7. Apply thin CA to the top and bottom of each

hinge. Make sure to saturate the hinges, applying
the CA to the slot in the hinge so it penetrates fully
into the hinge for the best bond between the aileron
and wing.

 9. Repeat Steps 2 through 8 to attach the aileron to

the top wing. You should now be done with the aileron
installation.

 8. Repeat Steps 2 through 7 for the remaining aileron on

the bottom wing.

 10. Once the CA has fully cured, lightly pull on each

surface to make sure that each hinge has been fully
saturated with CA.

9E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Aileron Servo Installation

Required Parts

Top wing Bottom wing
Control horn (2) Interconnect horn (4)
Aileron servo (2) Silicone clevis retainer (2)
Nylon connector backplate (2) Machine screw, 2mm x 4mm (2)
6-inch (152mm) servo extension (2)
Lightweight screw lock connector (2)
Servo linkage, 2.5-inch (62mm) (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Medium CA Thin CA
Side cutters Hobby knife
Low-tack tape Pin drill
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm) Phillips screwdriver: #0, #1
Felt-tipped pen

 1. Slide the control horn into the pre-drilled holes in

the aileron. Use a felt-tipped pen to mark the area
around the base of the control horn. Remove the
horn and use a hobby knife to cut the covering away
from the area inside the outline. Use side cutters to
trim 2-3mm off of the aft lug on the control horn.
This will eliminate the lug protruding through the
other side of the aileron. Use medium CA to glue the
control horn in the holes in the aileron. Make sure
the horn rests flush with the surface of the aileron.

Note: The aileron control horns do not require
back plates.

10 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 2. Use a hobby knife to trim the covering from the

Align horn to aileron centerline

slot in the aileron. Leave the covering on the top
for aesthetic purposes. Use medium CA to glue the
interconnect horn in the aileron. Make sure to center
the horn in the aileron before the CA fully cures.

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

aileron servo so it will not unplug inside the wing.

Hint: Use a piece of string or some tape to secure the
two plugs together so that they cannot pull apart inside
the wing.

 3. Repeat Step 2 for the top aileron at this time.

 5. A string has been placed inside the wing to pull the

servo extension to the center of the wing. Tie this string to
the end of the servo extension as shown.

11E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 6. Use the string to pull the extension through the hole at

the center of the bottom wing.

 7. Position the servo in the opening. Use a pin drill and

1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill the holes for the servo
mounting screws. Use care not to slip and puncture the
covering on the top of the wing.

Hint: Use low-tack tape to keep the ailerons from moving
during the servo installation.

 8. Apply 2–3 drops of thin CA into each hole to harden

the surrounding wood. This will keep the screws secure
in the holes. Install the servo using the screws provided
with the servo and a #0 Phillips screwdriver.

12 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 9. Repeat Steps 1 through 8 for remaining control

horns and servo.

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

to enlarge the hole that is 1/2-inch (13mm) from the
center of the servo horn.

 11. Use a hobby knife to remove the webbing from the

underside of the servo horn so the connector backplate
will rest flush against the horn.

 12. Use side cutters to remove the unused arm from

the servo horn.

13E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 13. Slide the lightweight screw lock connector into the

hole drilled back in Step 10.

 14. Use the connector backplate to secure the connector.

 16. Attach the clevis to the outer hole of the control horn

and slide the retainer onto the clevis to keep it secure.

 17. Slide the linkage through the hole in the lightweight

linkage connector and attach the horn to the servo.

 15. Slide a clevis retainer onto the clevis of the 2.5-inch

(62mm) servo linkage.

14 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Note: The servo horn should be installed parallel to the

hinge line to produce the correct linkage geometry.

Important: The suggested digital servos will require
programming before setting the control throws. This will
be covered in the manual before the throws are set.

 18. Use a 2mm x 4mm machine screw and #1 Phillips

screwdriver to secure the linkage to the connector.

Stabilizer Installation

Required Parts

Bottom wing Fuselage
#4 washer, silver (2) Stabilizer
Socket head screw, 4-40 x 1-inch (2)
Elevator joiner wire

Required Tools and Adhesives

Ball driver: 3/32-inch Felt-tipped pen
Hobby knife Thin CA
Sandpaper

 1. Attach the bottom wing to the fuselage using a two

4-40 x 1-inch socket head screws and two #4 washers.
Use the larger silver washers when attaching the bottom
wing. Use a 3/32-inch ball briver to tighten the socket
head screws.

Hint: The aileron should be centered and the servo
horn aligned with the aileron hinge line before
tightening the screw.

 19. Repeat Steps 10 through 18 for the remaining

servo linkage.

15E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 2. Slide the stabilizer into the slot at the rear of the

A A

A=A

Position stabilizer parallel to bottom wing

fuselage. Slide the stabilizer forward, then align it side­to-side with the fuselage.

 3. Measure from each wing tip to each stabilizer tip.

The distances on the right must match those on the left.
Reposition the stabilizer to achieve equal measurements.

 4. Stand back and view the aircraft from the rear. The

stabilizer must be parallel to the bottom wing. It may be
necessary to lightly sand the opening in the fuselage for
the stabilizer to correct this alignment.

16 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 5. Once aligned, use a felt-tipped pen to trace the outline

of the fuselage onto the top and bottom of the stabilizer.

 6. Remove the stabilizer from the fuselage. Use a hobby

knife with a new #11 blade to trim the covering slightly
INSIDE the lines drawn on the stabilizer. Use light
pressure so you do not cut into the underlying wood.
Remove the covering from the inside of the cut lines on
the top and bottom of the stabilizer.

Important: Cutting into the underlying wood will weaken
the stabilizer and it could fail in flight.

Hint: Use a soldering iron or hot knife to cut the
covering, as they will melt it and require less pressure,
reducing the chances of cutting into the underlying wood.

17E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 7. Slide the elevator joiner wire into the slot for the

stabilizer before gluing the stabilizer into position.

Hint: To avoid leaving the marks of the lines from the pen
where the location marks are made on the stabilizer, use
alcohol and a paper towel to remove the lines from the
top of the stabilizer first. Then slide the stabilizer in and
wick thin CA on the top left and right joint first, using the
bottom lines for the alignment. Now use the alcohol and
paper towel to remove the lines from the bottom and glue
those joints last.

 8. Slide the stabilizer back into the fuselage and double-

check the alignment as described in Steps 2 through 4.
Wick thin CA into the joint between the fuselage and
stabilizer to glue it in position. Remember to apply CA to
the top and bottom, left and right joints.

18 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Hinging the Rudder and Stabilizer

Required Parts

Elevator (left and right) Rudder
Tail wheel assembly Fuselage
CA hinge (10) Control horn
Control horn backplate

Required Tools and Adhesives

Medium CA Felt-tipped pen
Hobby knife Thin CA
6-minute epoxy Mixing sticks
Mixing cups Rubbing alcohol
Paper towels

Note: The first few steps of installing the elevators is
necessary to make sure everything will operate properly.
Do not use any adhesives until instructed to do so.

 1. Use a felt-tipped pen to mark the center of three CA

hinges. This will help in positioning them equally in the
elevator and stabilizer.

 2 Slide the three hinges into the elevator, using the line

to center them properly. Install the control horn in the
stabilizer on the bottom side. Use a felt-tipped pen to
mark the area around the base of the control horn.
Remove the horn and use a hobby knife to cut the
covering away from the area inside the outline. Glue the
control horn using medium CA. A control horn backplate
is also installed on the top side of the elevator. Remove
the covering under this also.

 3. Slide the elevator onto the elevator joiner wire.

19E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 4. Slide the hinges in the slots in the stabilizer.

 5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 to position the remaining

elevator half.

 6. Position the elevators so the gap between the stabilizer

tip and the balance tabs of the elevators are equal.
Check the operation of the elevator to make sure it does
not bind against the stabilizer.

 7. Mix a small amount of 6-minute epoxy and apply it

inside the hole in the elevator that the joiner wire fits into.
Follow the previous steps to position the stabilizer before
the epoxy cures. Be very careful to make sure that no
epoxy runs back out of the joiner hole. If any does use
alcohol and paper towels to remove any excess.

 8. Use a hobby knife to set the gap between the

stabilizer and elevator, similar to that of the aileron hinge
installation. Apply thin CA to the top and bottom of each
hinge. Make sure to saturate the hinges, applying the CA
to the slot in the hinge so it penetrates fully into the hinge
for the best bond between the stabilizer and elevator.

20 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 9. Use medium CA to glue the tail wheel assembly into

the slot at the bottom of the rudder.

 10. Mark four CA hinges and install them in the slots in

the rudder as shown.

 11. Attach the rudder to the fin using the hinges.

Remember to use a hobby knife to set the gap between
the rudder and fin. Apply thin CA to each side of the
hinges. Make sure to saturate the hinges, applying the
CA to the slot in the hinge so it penetrates fully into the
hinge for the best bond between the rudder and fin.

 12. After CA is fully cured, pull on all surfaces lightly to

make sure that each hinge is fully saturated and bonded.

21E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Rudder and Elevator Servo Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage Servo (2)
Control horn Silicone clevis retainer (2)
Control horn backplate Nylon connector backplate (2)
Machine screw, 2mm x 4mm (2)
9-inch (228mm) servo extension
12-inch (305mm) servo extension
Lightweight screw lock connector (2)
Servo linkage, 4-inch (98mm) (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Medium CA Thin CA
Side cutters Hobby knife
Low-tack tape Pin drill
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm) Phillips screwdriver: #1
Felt-tipped pen

 1. Slide the control horn into the pre-drilled holes in the

rudder. Use a felt-tipped pen to mark the area around
the base of the control horn. Remove the horn and use
a hobby knife to cut the covering away from the area
inside the outline. Use medium CA to attach the control
horn to the rudder. Install the control horn backplate on
the opposite side of the control horn to secure its position.
Remove the covering under this also.

 2. Prepare a long 3D servo horn by enlarging the hole

1/2-inch (13mm) from the center of the servo horn with a
pin drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit. After removing
the webbing from the underside of the horn, secure the
connector to the horn. Remove the excess from the horn
using side cutters.

 3. Secure a 9-inch (228mm) servo extension to the

elevator servo so it will not unplug inside the fuselage.
Use a 12-inch (305mm) servo extension for the rudder.

22 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Hint: Use a piece of string or some tape to secure the

two plugs together so that they cannot pull apart inside
the fuselage.

 4. Position the servo in the opening. Use a pin drill and

1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill the holes for the servo
mounting screws. Apply 2–3 drops of thin CA into each
hole to harden the surrounding wood. This will keep the
screws secure in the holes. Install the servo using the
screws provided with the servo.

 5. Install the servo arm perpendicular to the servo.

 6. Slide a clevis retainer onto the clevis of a 4-inch

(98mm) control linkage. Slide the link through the
connector and then attach the clevis to the outer hole of
the control horn.

23E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 7. Secure the link using a 2mmx 4mm machine screw

and a #1 Phillips screwdriver.

 8. Repeat Steps 2 through 7 to install the rudder servo

and linkage. The only difference is you will use a 12-inch
(305mm) extension on the rudder servo.

Receiver and Landing Gear Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage assembly Main landing gear (right and left)
Receiver #4 washer, silver (4)
Hook and loop material 6-inch (152mm) servo extension (2)
Socket head screw, 4-40 x 1/2-inch (4)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Ball driver: 3/32-inch Threadlock

 1. Use hook and loop material to install the receiver

inside the fuselage as shown. When installing a remote
receiver, place it as far away from the main receiver as
possible, aligning the antennas perpendicular to those
of the main receiver. You can also install the two 6-inch
(152mm) extensions for the ailerons or a Y-harness if you
are not using a computer radio.

24 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 2. Use four 4-40 x 1/2-inch socket head screws

and four #4 washers to attach the main landing gear
to the fuselage. Use a 3/32-inch ball driver to tighten
the screws.

Motor and Cowling Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage assembly Motor and mount
#4 washer (4) Hook and loop tape
Hook and loop strap Cowling
Spinner Spinner backplate
Speed control Motor battery
3-inch (76mm) servo extension
EC3 extension lead w/6-inch wire, 16 GA
Machine screw, 2mm x 8mm (4)
Sheet metal screw, 2mm x 8mm (2)
Socket head screw, 4-40 x 3/8-inch (4)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Phillips screwdriver: #1, #2 Ball driver: 3/32-inch
Threadlock

 1, Attach the X-mount to the motor using the screws

provided with the motor and a #2 Phillips screwdriver.

Note: Use threadlock on the screws to prevent them from
vibrating loose.

Note: Use threadlock on the screws to prevent them from
vibrating loose.

25E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

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

3/8-inch socket head screws and four #4 washers.
Tighten the screws using a 3/32-inch ball driver.

Note: Use threadlock on the screws to prevent them from
vibrating loose.

 4. Use hook and loop material to secure the speed

control inside the fuselage in the position shown. Also
secure the switch from the speed control inside the
fuselage. A 3-inch (76mm) servo extension will be
required to connect the speed control to the receiver. A
6-inch EC3 extension will also be required to extend the
battery lead to the front of the aircraft at the battery tray.

 3. Position the speed control inside the fuselage. Pass the

wires for the motor through the lightening holes in the
fuselage and connect them to the wires from the motor.

Note: If using the E-flite 40-amp speed control, we
recommend that you tape the switch in the On position
if you are not going to mount it externally. It can be
mounted on either side of the fuselage in the holes
provided by cutting the covering out of the hole and
sliding the switch from the inside to the outside of the
fuselage.

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 have it set correctly for the batteries you are using.

26 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 5. Secure a small square of hook and loop material

inside the fuselage. This is done to keep the strap that
secures the battery from falling into the fuselage.

 6. Secure the battery inside the fuselage using the hook

and loop strap. Use a piece or two of hook and loop
material between the fuselage and battery to keep it from
moving around in flight.

 7. Check the operation of the motor at this time. It should

rotate counterclockwise when viewed from the front of the
aircraft. If not, follow the instructions provided with your
speed control to correct the situation.

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.

 8. Attach the cowling to the fuselage using four 2mm

x 8mm machine screws and a #1 Phillips screwdriver.
Pieces of tubing have been installed in the fuselage side
to accept the screws.

27E-flite Ultimate 20-300 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 or the spinner, make sure to check the balance
of each afterwards.

 9. Prepare the spinner backplate and propeller as shown

with the propeller adapter.

 10. Slide the propeller assembly onto the motor shaft.

With a gap of 3/32-inch (2.5mm) between the spinner
and cowling, tighten the adapter to secure it to the motor
shaft.

 11. Attach the spinner cone to the spinner backplate

using two 2mm x 8mm sheet metal screws and a #1
Phillips screwdriver. Make sure the propeller does not
contact the spinner cone when it is installed.

28 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Upper Wing and Canopy Installation

Required Parts

Fuselage Top wing
Bottom wing Canopy
2mm nut (2) 2mm washer (4)
Interplane strut (2) Machine screw, 2mm x 20mm (8)
Linkage, 7.5-inch (190mm) (2) Machine screw, 2mm x 6mm (2)
Pushrod connector backplate (2)
Lightweight pushrod connector (2)
2mm x 10mm machine screws (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

Phillips screwdriver: #1 Pin drill
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm) Low-tack tape
Adjustable wrench, small Canopy glue

 1. Use canopy glue to attach the canopy. Use

low-tack tape to keep the canopy in position until
the glue has fully cured.

 2. Install the lightweight pushrod connector to the

interconnect horn. It may be necessary to enlarge the
hole in the interconnect horn on the bottom ailerons using
a pin drill and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit. Repeat for the
other aileron.

29E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

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

the covering to access the screw holes for the interplane
struts.

 5. Use four 2mm x 20mm machine screws and a #1

Phillips screwdriver to attach the interplane struts to the
bottom wing. Install the bottom wing to the fuselage at
this time.

 4. Use the following image to orient the interplane struts

for installation.

30 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 6. With the bottom wing installed, attach the top wing

to the cabane struts using four 2mm washers, two 2mm
nuts and two 2mm x 10mm machine screws. Use a small
adjustable wrench and a #1 Phillips screwdriver to secure
the screws.

 8. After sliding a clevis retainer onto the clevis of the

7.5-inch (190mm) linkage, slide the linkage through the
pushrod connector.

 9. Attach the clevis to the interconnect horn of the top

wing and slide the clevis retainer onto the clevis.

 7. Use four 2mm x 20mm machine screws and a #1

Phillips screwdriver to secure the interplane struts to the
top wing as you did on the bottom wing.

31E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

 10. Position both ailerons in their neutral positions. Use a

2mm x 6mm machine screw and #1 Phillips screwdriver
to secure the linkage.

Control Throws

 1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver of your Ultimate

20-300. Check the movement of the rudder using the
transmitter. When the stick is moved right, the rudder
should also move right. Reverse the direction of the servo
at the transmitter if necessary.

 2. Check the movement of the elevator with the radio

system. Moving the elevator stick down will make the
airplane elevator move up.

 3. Check the movement of the ailerons with the radio

system. Moving the aileron stick right will make the right
aileron move up and the left aileron move down.

 4. Use a ruler to adjust the throw of the elevator, ailerons

and rudder. Adjust the position of the pushrod at the
control horn to achieve the following measurements when
moving the sticks to their endpoints.

 11. Repeat Steps 8 through 10 to connect the remaining

top and bottom ailerons.

32 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

One of the most important things to making a precision type
airplane fly and feel right is the servo and linkage set up. With
the Ultimate 20-300, as with any high performance airplane,
it very important that the radio, servo and linkage set up be
optimized to its full extent. This will ensure that you get the
proper travel, resolution, precision and torque out of the servo.
The steps that follow will guide you to a proper and more
precise flying Ultimate 20-300.

The setup for each airplane will differ slightly but here are the
major things that you will want to pay close attention to.

Servo Arm Length

You do NOT want the pushrod as far out on the servo arms as
you can get it. Place the pushrod in the servo arm at the nearest
hole to the center of the servo that will still achieve full travel of
the surface without binding or running the pushrod over center.

Control Horn Length

This length is also very critical. The closer the pushrod
attachment is to the surface the LESS mechanical advantage
you have on the surface.

In the case of the Ultimate these lengths have been set for you.
In general, practice never set the control horn any shorter than it
needs to be for the surface to have full deflection at the servo's
full travel.

Travel Adjust

The travel volume of the servo is not only controlling how far
the servo travels. It also has a large impact on the resolution
of the servo. On any precision/3D airplane you want to keep
the travel adjust percentage at 100% minimum. However, it is
more optimal to have the final throws of your servo to be set
around 125–135%. This will increase the resolution and torque
delivered to the surface and improve the feel of any airplane.

To set up the Ultimate properly when using the Spektrum DSP75
digital servos, it will be necessary to use the Spektrum Digital
Servo Programmer (SPMDSP). This programmer allows you to
increase and optimize the maximum allowable travel of the
servo (the stock programming of the servo does not allow for
enough travel, even when 150% ATV is used).

Please follow the steps that follow to achieve the correct and
optimum servo and linkage setup for Ultimate 20-300.

Note: The correct servo arm lengths and control surface
travels are listed below these steps.

 1. Set the nylon screw lock connector at the correct

position/length on the servo arm according to the
measurements on the next page.

 2. Attach the pushrod and clevis to the outer-most hole

on the control horn.

 3. Center the servo and attach the servo arm so it is

parallel to the hinge line.

 4. Insert the pushrod into the screw lock connector.

Center the control surface and tighten the screw down
to hold the pushrod in place.

 5. Connect a battery and servo to the programmer.

 6. Use the programmer (according to the instructions

included with the programmer) to set the center and end
point travel of each servo. Use the measurements listed
for the throws set by the programmer

Note: You are not setting the full and final control
throws/deflections at this time. The full control throws/
deflections will be adjusted by the use of the travel
adjustment in your radio in the next step because there
is a difference in the amount of travel achieved with the
programmer and transmitter.

 7. Now plug each servo into the receiver and use the

travel adjust function of radio to increase the travel of
the servos to the final control throws/deflections. This will
allow you to raise the travel adjust percentage in your
radio to the suggested 125–135%.

33E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Programmer Servo Throws

Final Control Throws

Ailerons

Up 11/16-inch (16mm)
Down 9/16-inch (13mm)

Elevator

Up 2-inch (50mm)
Down 2-inch (50mm)

Rudder

3

/

Up 2

Down 2

-inch (70mm)

4

3

/

-inch (70mm)

4

Ailerons High Rate Low Rate

Up 7/8-inch (22mm) Up 5/8-inch (16mm)
Down 3/4-inch (19mm) Down 1/2-inch (20mm)
35% Expo 20% Expo

Elevator High Rate Low Rate

Up 2

Down 2

1

/

-inch (57mm) Up 1

4

1

/

-inch (57mm) Down 1

4

3

/

-inch (44mm)

4

3

/

-inch (44mm)

4

35% Expo 20% Expo

Rudder High Rate Low Rate

Up 3-inch (76mm) Up 2-inch (50mm)
Down 3-inch (76mm) Down 2-inch (50mm)
38% Expo 25% Expo

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

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

34 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Center of Gravity

Preflight

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

1

1

/

–3

/

Ultimate 20-300 is 3

8

inch (80–90mm) back from the

2-

leading edge of the top wing. Mark the location for the Center
of Gravity on the bottom of the top wing in the center as shown.

When balancing your Ultimate 20-300, 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
speed control and/or receiver as necessary so the model hangs
level or slightly nose down. This is the correct balance point for
your model.

1

/

Use the 3

1

/

inch (90mm) CG for aerobatic flying.

3

2-

-inch (80mm) CG for sport/scale flying and the

8

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.

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

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.

35E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Range Test Your Radio

Flying Your Ultimate 20-300

 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.

Flying the Ultimate 20-300 is a pleasure. Takeoffs are easy
as well as landings. We hope you enjoy flying your Ultimate
20-300 as much as we do.

Happy Landings!

Instructions for Disposal of WEEE by

Users in the European Union

This product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead,
it is the user’s responsibility to dispose of their waste equipment
by handing it over to a designated collection point for the
recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The
separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at
the time of disposal will help to conserve natural resources and
ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health
and the environment. For more information about where you
can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact
your local city office, your household waste disposal service or
where you purchased the product.

36 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

2008 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.

37E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Building and Flying Notes

38 E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

Building and Flying Notes

39E-flite Ultimate 20-300 Assembly Manual

13465

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