Wingspan: 34 in [865mm]
Wing Area: 390 sq in [25.2dm2]
Weight: 22.4 - 25.2 oz [635 – 715g]
Wing Loading: 8.3 – 9.3 oz/sq ft [25 – 28g/dm²]
Length: 27 in [685mm]
Radio: 4-Channel (minimum) with Micro Receiver, Four Micro Servos
Motor: ElectriFly™ RimFire™ 28-30-950 Brushless
Propeller: Great Planes® 10x3.5 Slo-Flyer Electric Propeller (GPMQ6655)
ESC: ElectriFly™ SS-25
Battery: 11.1V, 1250mAh LiPo (must deliver 15 amps continuous)
™
WARRANTY
Great Planes® Model Manufacturing Co. guarantees this kit to
be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date
of purchase. This warranty does not cover any component parts
damaged by use or modifi cation. In no case shall Great Planes’ liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further,
Great Planes reserves the right to change or modify this warranty
without notice.
In that Great Planes has no control over the fi nal assembly or
material used for fi nal assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor
accepted for any damage resulting from the use by the user of
the fi nal user-assembled product. By the act of using the userassembled product, the user accepts all resulting liability.
If the buyer is not prepared to accept the liability associated
with the use of this product, the buyer is advised to return
READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.
this kit immediately in new and unused condition to the place
of purchase.
To make a warranty claim send the defective part or item to Hobby
Services at the address below:
Hobby Services
3002 N. Apollo Dr., Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822 USA
Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as
much contact information as possible (daytime telephone number,
fax number, e-mail address), a detailed description of the problem
and a photocopy of the purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the
package, the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible.
You’ll be proud to add the Great Planes SPAD XIII EP to your
WWI hangar. This particular SPAD bears the markings of the
famous 94th Aero Squadron, distinguished by their famous
“hat in the ring.” The American 94th Aero Squadron scored 70
kills by the end of the war, and 26 of these are credited to their
number one ace Captain Eddie Rickenbacker. You can now
relive those days fi ghting German Fokker D.VII’s and DR.I’s
in your backyard. Perform lazy eights, chandelles, hammer
head stalls, and dizzying spins: the Great Planes SPAD XIII
EP is stable enough to handle all of these with ease and
confi dence. So grab a friend and let’s start a dog-fi ght!
Learn where the 94th Aero is today. Go to:
www.langley.af.mil/library/factsheets/
and click on “94th Fighter Squadron.”
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to
the SPAD XIII EP visit the Great Planes web site at www.
greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, and then select
the SPAD XIII EP. If there is new technical information or
changes to this model a “tech notice” box will appear in the
upper left corner of the page.
AMA
We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)
and a local R/C club. The AMA is the governing body of model
aviation and membership is required to fl y at AMA clubs.
Though joining the AMA provides many benefi ts, one of the
primary reasons to join is liability protection. Coverage is not
limited to fl ying at contests or on the club fi eld. It even applies
to fl ying at public demonstrations and air shows. Failure to
comply with the Safety Code (excerpts printed in the back of
the manual) may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally,
training programs and instructors are available at AMA club
sites to help you get started the right way. There are over
2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the country. Contact the
AMA at the address or toll-free phone number below.
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302
Tele: (800) 435-9262
Fax (765) 741-0057
Or via the Internet at:
IMPORTANT!!! Two of the most important things you can do
to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid
fl ying near full-scale aircraft and avoid fl ying near or over
groups of people.
2
www.modelaircraft.org
PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF
& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1. Your SPAD XIII ARF should not be considered a toy, but
rather a sophisticated, working model that functions very
much like a full-size airplane. Because of its performance
capabilities, the SPAD XIII, if not assembled and operated
correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or spectators
and damage to property.
2. You must assemble the model according to the instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing so
may result in an unsafe or unfl yable model. In a few cases
the instructions may differ slightly from the photos. In those
instances the written instructions should be considered
as correct.
3. You must take time to build straight, true and strong.
4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in fi rst-class
condition, and a correctly sized engine and components
throughout the building process.
5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.
6. You must check the operation of the model before every
fl ight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.
7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not fl own
this type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for
your fi rst fl ights. If you’re not a member of a club, your local
hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.
8. While this kit has been fl ight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high stress fl ying, such
as racing, or if an engine larger than one in the recommended
range is used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to
reinforce the high stress points and/or substituting hardware
more suitable for the increased stress.
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING
AND USAGE
WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included
with the battery. Failure to follow all instructions could cause
permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings,
and cause bodily harm!
• ONLY use a LiPo approved charger. NEVER use a
NiCd/NiMH peak charger!
• NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.
• ONLY charge through the “charge” lead. NEVER charge
through the “discharge” lead.
• NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C.
• ALWAYS set charger’s output volts to match battery volts.
• ALWAYS charge in a fi reproof location.
• NEVER trickle charge.
• NEVER allow battery temperature to exceed 150°F (65°C).
• NEVER disassemble or modify pack wiring in any way
or puncture cells.
• NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell.
• NEVER place on combustible materials or leave
unattended during charge or discharge.
• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
REQUIRED ITEMS
This is a partial list of items required to fi nish the SPAD XIII
EP. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.
Radio Equipment
A 4-channel radio system with four micro servos and a micro
receiver are required for this plane. Many radio systems are
suitable, but we have chosen the following for this build-up.
❏ Four Futaba
minimum 20oz-in torque micro servos
❏ Futaba R114F FM Micro Receiver (Low Band – FUTL0442,
High Band – FUTL0443)
❏ Futaba FM Single Conversion Short Crystal
(Low Band – FUTL62**, High Band – FUTL63**)
❏ One Y-harness (FUTM4130 or FUTM4135 for
digital servos)
❏ One Servo Mounting Screw Set (FUTM2550)
®
S3114 Micro HT Servo (FUTM0414) OR
We, as the kit manufacturer, provide you with a top quality,
thoroughly tested kit and instructions, but ultimately the
quality and fl yability of your fi nished model depends
on how you build it; therefore, we cannot in any way
guarantee the performance of your completed model,
and no representations are expressed or implied as to
the performance or safety of your completed model.
Remember: Take your time and follow the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.
Motor, ESC & Propeller
Recommendations
The SPAD XIII EP was tested extensively to fi nd the best
“power package” that offers light weight, long fl ight time, and
excellent thrust. The power system we have chosen has more
than enough power to get you out of trouble. Choosing larger
propellers will damage the motor and/or speed control. The
order numbers for these are provided.
3
❏ Great Planes RimFire
Motor (GPMG4560)
™
28-30-950 Brushless Out-runner
❏ Great Planes Silver Series 25A Brushless ESC 5V/2A
BEC (GPMM1820)
❏ Great Planes 10x3.5 PowerFlow
(draws 15 amps max.)
™
Propeller (GPMQ6655)
❏ Great Planes 3.5mm Male/2.5mm Female Bullet
Connector Adapters (GPMM3122)
❏ Great Planes 3mm to 5mm Prop Adapter (GPMQ4959)
❏ Great Planes Double-Sided Servo Tape 1"x3' (GPMQ4442)
❏ Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❏ Rotary tool (Dremel
❏ Great Planes Pro Thread locker (GPMR6060)
❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏ 220 grit sandpaper
❏ Bru Line
®
hemostat – curved 5-1/2" (BRUR1303)
Optional Supplies & Tools
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
• When you see the term test fi t in the instructions, it means
that you should fi rst position the part on the assembly
without using any glue, then slightly modify or custom fi t
the part as necessary for the best fi t.
• Whenever the term glue is written you should rely upon
your experience to decide what type of glue to use. When
a specifi c type of adhesive works best for that step, the
instructions will make a recommendation.
• Photos and sketches are placed before the step they
refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following steps
to get another view of the same parts.
• The stabilizer and wing incidences and motor thrust
angles have been factory-built into this model. However,
some technically-minded modelers may wish to check
these measurements anyway. To view this information visit
the web site at www.greatplanes.com and click on
“Technical Data.” Due to manufacturing tolerances which
will have little or no effect on the way your model will fl y,
please expect slight deviations between your model and
the published values.
KIT INSPECTION
Before starting to build inspect the parts to make sure they
are of acceptable quality. If any parts are missing or are not of
acceptable quality, or if you need assistance with assembly,
contact Product Support. When reporting defective or
missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written
in the Kit Contents list.
Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the SPAD XIII EP.
ST
❏ 21
❏ 21
Century® sealing iron (COVR2700)
ST
Century iron cover (COVR2702)
❏ 2 oz [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏ 4 oz [113g] aerosol CA activator (GPMR634)
❏ Masking tape (TOPR8018)
❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
Great Planes Product Support
3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822
Telephone: (217) 398-8970, ext. 5
Fax: (217) 398-7721
E-mail: airsupport@greatplanes.com
4
KIT CONTENTS
1
2
1. Fuselage w/Cowl, Battery Hatch
2. Wheels
3. Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevators
5
7
6
8
9
4. Fin w/Rudder
5. Cabane Struts
6. Interplane Struts
3
4
7. Landing Gear
8. Upper Wing w/Ailerons
9. Lower Wing
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS
Replacement parts for the ElectriFly SPAD XIII EP are
available using the order numbers in the Replacement Parts
List that follows. The fastest, most economical service can
be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order company.
To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Great Planes web site
at www.greatplanes.com. Choose “Where to Buy” at the
bottom of the menu on the left side of the page. Follow the
instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian
or International dealer.
Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services by
calling (217) 398-0007, or via facsimile at (217) 398-7721,
but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will
apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged
sales tax. If ordering via fax, include a Visa or MasterCard
number and expiration date for payment.
Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:
Hobby Services
3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign IL 61822
Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed
in the Replacement Parts List. Payment by credit card or
personal check only; no C.O.D.
If additional assistance is required for any reason contact
Product Support by e-mail at productsupport@greatplanes.
com, or by telephone at (217) 398-8970.
Replacement Parts List
Order # Description How to Purchase
Missing pieces ....... Contact Product Support
Instruction manual . Contact Product Support
Full-size plans .......................... Not available
Contact your hobby supplier for the following parts:
GPMA3100 Top Wing
GPMA3101 Bottom Wing
GPMA3102 Fuselage w/Belly Pan
GPMA3103 Tail Surface Set
GPMA3104 Wing Struts and Cabanes Set
GPMA3105 Landing Gear Set w/Wheels
GPMA3106 Cowl, Exhaust, Guns, Battery & Servo Hatches
GPMA2997 WWI Pilot Figure
GPMA3108 Motor Mount and Hardware Bag
5
5
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Before you begin assembling your model, inspect it for
wrinkled covering and areas where the covering may not be
tacked down adequately. Areas like the servo bay openings,
the radio antenna hole (bottom of fuse), and the slots for
the horizontal stabilizer and fi n should be tacked down
before trimming them with a knife. The covering should
be tacked down to the wood using just enough heat to
soften the adhesive backing. Low heat should be enough
to accomplish this. More heat may be required to begin to
tighten the covering.
❏ 2. Using a 4-40 x 3/4" machine screw with a washer,
temporarily install the lower wing to the fuselage. Fitting the
lower wing will help you align the horizontal tail.
❏ 3. Lay the pre-hinged horizontal stabilizer assembly on a
fl at surface. Make sure that the elevators lie fl at on the table
and that the stab does not have any twist in it. Any twist
can be easily corrected at this point using a covering iron
on a medium heat setting. Twist the surface to the desired
position and heat the covering until it begins to shrink.
WARNINGS:
• Do not over shrink the covering or it will cause the control
surfaces or wings to twist
• Do not iron over decals
• Use only LOW heat over trim
INSTALL THE TAIL
Prepare for Tail Installation
❏ 1. Locate the wooden 3 x 20mm dowels. Holes are
provided in the leading edge of the lower wing. Test fi t each
dowel making sure that the dowel sticks out 1/4" [6mm] from
the LE of the wing. When you are satisfi ed with the fi t, wick
5 to 7 drops of thin CA into the dowel joint.
❏ 4. Insert the vertical fi n into the top of the horizontal
stabilizer. Align the fi n vertically and apply a bead of medium
CA to both sides of the joint.
666
Install the Tail to the Fuselage
AA
A = A
B = B
❏ 1. Remove the small block of wood protecting the upper
structure of the aft fuselage. It may be glued in place, so
a hobby knife may be needed. While you’re at it, trim away
any covering in the slots that may prevent you from having a
good glue joint when you install the tail.
❏ 2. Slide the fi n and stab into the fuselage from behind
the fuse.
B
B
❏ 4. Align the horizontal stab so that the tips of the stab are
the same distance from the aft corner of each wing tip. Align
the horizontal stab so that it is parallel with the bottom wing.
You can do this by setting the model on a fl at surface, taking
a few steps back, and viewing it from behind.
❏ 5. When you’re satisfi ed with the positioning of the tail,
apply a bead of medium CA into the left and right stab to
fuse joints and also the fi n to fuse joint. Be sure to apply CA
to the bottom of the stab to fuse joint also.
❏ 3. Using a straight edge, align the TE of the fi n so that it is
fl ush with the TE of the fuselage.
❏ 6. Prepare three CA hinges using T-pins as shown. The T-pin
will help keep the hinge centered as you install the rudder.
7
❏ 7. Fit the three hinges into the slots of the vertical fi n. If the
slots are too tight or the hinge won’t slide in all the way, you
can use the back side of your hobby knife blade to dig them
out or make them a bit deeper.
INSTALL THE MOTOR & ESC
❏ 1. Remove the steel Y-mount and the brass collar from the
motor. These will not be used.
❏ 8. Fit the rudder onto the hinges until it contacts the T-pins.
Remove the T-pins. Defl ect the rudder as you push in on it and
add at least 3 drops of thin CA to both sides of each hinge.
Let the hinges air-dry without adding any CA accelerator.
❏ 9. Remove the bottom wing from the fuselage and retain
the screw and washer.
❏ 2. Remove the two 2.5 x 6mm screws from the motor.
Apply thread locking compound to the threads and reinstall
the screws.
❏ 3. Apply thread locking compound to three 3 x 6mm screws
and use these to attach the supplied Y-mount to the motor.
8
❏ 4. Locate three 4-40 x 1" machine screws, one 10mm
standoff tube, two 14mm standoff tubes, and nine washers.
Note: Unlike the 3x25mm size, the 4-40x1" screws have a
coarse thread pitch. Test-fi t, and use the screws that thread
into the blind nuts properly. Apply thread locking compound to
the screws and install the motor to the fi rewall as shown with
the 10mm standoff tube in the bottom position. Make sure that
the motor wires are routed through the left side of the fuse.
❏ 5. After you have tightened the screws, rotate the motor
by hand to check for free rotation. If the motor does not rotate
freely, you may have to remove it and use sandpaper (or a
Dremel tool) to grind down the bottom of the battery tray or
any obstruction.
❏ 7. Coat the underside of the battery tray with thin CA as
shown. Apply a few thin lines of CA and dab up the excess
CA with a paper towel. Allow the CA to dry. This will prepare
the surface of the battery tray where the ESC and receiver
will mount.
❏ 8. From the supplied double-sided foam tape, cut a 1"
[25mm] piece and apply it to the back side of your ESC.
Remove the backing paper and stick the ESC to the back of
the battery tray as shown. Route the battery leads into the
battery compartment and connect the motor leads.
❏ 6. Install three 3.5mm male/2mm female bullet connector
adapters onto the ESC motor leads (GPMM3122).
❏ 9. Prepare the battery strap using the supplied hook and loop
material as shown. Overlap the two strips by 1-1/4" [32mm].
9
❏ 10. Install the hook and loop battery strap on the battery
tray from the bottom.
INSTALL THE ELEVATOR
& RUDDER SERVOS
❏ 1. Use your radio to center your servos. With the servos
centered, reposition each servo arm so that one of the two
long arms is perpendicular to the servo case. You will need
one servo with the arm on the left side of the case and
one with the arm on the right side of the case. Clip off the
remaining unused arms.
❏ 4. Install the rudder and elevator servos as shown with the
servo leads facing aft. Do not run the leads forward. They will
interfere with the operation of the motor.
❏ 5. Plug a Y-harness into your receiver in the aileron
channel. This is Channel 1 on most Futaba radios. Apply a
1" [25mm] piece of double-sided foam tape to the back side
of your receiver.
❏ 2. Use a #55 [1.3mm] drill bit and enlarge the servo arm
holes. If you don’t have a #55 drill bit, use your hobby knife
to enlarge the holes.
❏ 3. Locate two Screw-Lock pushrod connectors, two
2-56 x 3/16" screws, and two plastic locking collars. Install
these on the rudder and elevator servos in the holes shown
if you are using Futaba micro servos.
If you are using a 2.4G radio,
you should omit the next step.
❏ 6. Find the antenna support plate beneath the covering.
Find the pre-drilled hole in the center of the plate and use a
hobby knife or a T-pin to poke through the covering.
10
❏ 7. Plug the elevator and rudder servos into their proper
channels on the receiver. Plug the ESC into the receiver.
Mount the receiver in the airplane as shown. Route the
antenna out of the fuselage and tape it to the lower fuse near
the opening where the tail skid will mount. NOTE: On Futaba
radios, Channel 2 is the elevator, Channel 3 is the ESC, and
Channel 4 is the rudder.
❏ 8. Insert the 1 x 550mm elevator and rudder pushrods into
the pushrod guide tubes as shown. Do not attach these to
the servos yet.
❏ 9. Find the pushrod support and position it in the fuse as
shown. Do not glue it in place yet. Route the antenna and the
ESC signal lead through the right side of the support. Route
the ESC motor leads and the aileron Y-harness through the
left side as shown.
❏ 10. Slide the elevator and rudder pushrods through
the pushrod support and into the Screw-Lock™ pushrod
connectors on the servos. Adjust the vertical position of
the pushrod support until the pushrods are centered in the
support holes. When you are satisfi ed, glue the support
to the back side of the fuselage bulkhead. NOTE: Do not
tighten the screws on the pushrod connectors.
11
❏ 11. Locate two control horns. Use 220 grit sandpaper to
lightly sand the tab portion of the horns.
❏ 12. Attach a control horn to the rudder pushrod. Install
the pushrod through the outermost hole of the horn. Install a
plastic retainer.
❏ 14. Attach a control horn to the 1 x 550mm elevator
pushrod. Install the pushrod through the outermost hole of
the horn. Install a plastic retainer. Glue the elevator horn to
the right elevator.
❏ 15. At this point (while the motor wires are still easy to
get to), you should check the rotation direction of the motor.
Turn on your transmitter and plug your airplane’s battery into
the ESC. Refer to the instruction manual that came with your
ESC to arm the motor. Check to see that the motor rotates
counter-clockwise as viewed from the front with the airplane
facing directly toward you. If it rotates backwards, reverse
any two motor leads.
❏ 13. Glue the rudder horn to the rudder using thin CA. Make
sure that the horn is perpendicular to the rudder before you
glue it.
12
PREPARE THE WINGS
Install the Aileron Servos
❏ ❏ 1. Enlarge the outer hole of the two remaining control
horns using a #55 drill bit. Glue the control horns to the
ailerons using thin CA.
WITH SERVOS CENTERED, POSITION
EACH ARM ONE SPLINE FORWARD.
❏ ❏ 4. As an alternative to gluing the servos in place, we
have provided 7 x 7 x 12mm wood blocks that you may use
to attach the servos to the servo bay covers. If you choose to
use these, make sure that you align the servo as detailed in
the previous step and then glue the blocks to the cover using
medium CA.
FORWARD
❏ ❏ 2. Center both aileron servos. Reposition each servo
arm so that the long arm is one spline forward from being
perpendicular to the servo case. Clip off the remaining arms.
❏ ❏ 3. Clean each servo case with denatured alcohol.
Remove any label that will prevent you from gluing the servo
case directly to the servo bay cover and scuff the surface of
the case with some sand paper. To make it easier to remove
in the future, you may wrap the case in electrical tape or
heat-shrink tubing before you glue it in. Use medium CA to
glue a servo to the servo bay cover so that the tip of the servo arm is centered in the opening. NOTE: This will set
the servo output shaft aft about 1/8" [3mm] from the center
of the opening.
❏ ❏ 5. Connect each servo to a servo extension. Use heat
shrink tubing or one drop of medium CA applied to the
connector body to secure the servo lead to the extension.
Pull the extension leads through the center of the wing.
❏ ❏ 6. Use eight 2 x 7mm sheet metal screws to secure the
servo bay covers to the upper wing. Thread in each screw and
then remove it. Remove the cover and wick one drop of thin CA
into each hole. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws.
13
❏ ❏ 7. Install a Screw-Lock pushrod connector in the outer
hole of each aileron control horn. Position the connector
body on the outboard side of the horn. Secure it to the horn
with a plastic retainer, placing a 2mm washer between the
horn and the retainer.
❏ ❏ 8. Install a 1 x 65mm Z-bend pushrod through the
outer hole of each aileron servo arm. Connect the pushrods
to the ailerons.
Install the Strut Mounts
❏ 2. Install the four strut mounts marked “B” in the top of the
lower wing in the LE slots. Use the sketch above to help you
orient these properly before you glue them. Install the “C”
strut mounts in the TE slots of the lower wing.
INSTALL THE WINGS
Upper Wing x 12
A
C
Lower Wing x 4Lower Wing x 4
FORWARD
❏ 1. Locate the twelve strut mounts marked “A.” Test fi t
these in the bottom of the top wing as shown. When you’re
satisfi ed with the fi t, glue these to the wing using thin CA.
B
❏ 1. Prepare the eight interplane wing struts as shown using
sixteen 2 x 7mm sheet metal screws. Attach the interplane
wing struts to the upper wing on the outboard side of each
strut mount. Do not tighten the struts yet.
14
❏ 2. Test fi t the cabane struts to the fuselage as shown. Use
a 1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit to drill a hole for the screw where
shown. NOTE: Gluing these in place is optional and can be
done after you are assured of a proper fi t of the upper wing.
❏ 3. Install the upper wing using six 2 x 7mm sheet metal
screws. Install two 2 x 7mm sheet metal screws in the lower
legs of the forward cabanes.
❏ 5. Connect the aileron leads to the Y-harness. Use a
drop of glue to attach the aileron Y-harness to the fuse side.
Place it in a location that will neatly keep wires away from
the pushrods.
❏ 6. Use a 4-40 x 3/4" machine screw and washer to attach
the lower wing to the fuse.
❏ 4. Route the aileron servo leads through the slot in the
fuselage. Use a tie strap to secure them to the cabane strut.
❏ 7. Attach the interplane wing struts to the lower wing.
15
INSTALL THE LANDING GEAR
❏ 1. Locate two 3 x 25mm fi ne thread machine screws
and four 3mm nuts. Apply thread locking compound to each
screw and install each to a wheel using one 3mm nut. To
achieve the proper spacing, turn the nut until it contacts the
wheel and then back it off 1/2 of a turn.
❏ 4. Install the 4 x 150mm axle tube.
❏ 2. Install a wheel and axle assembly to each landing gear
leg using a 3mm nut. Hold the outboard nut while you tighten
the inboard nut.
❏ 5. Install the tail skid using your choice of glue.
❏ 3. Use four 2-56 x 3/8" machine screws and four small
washers to attach the landing gear legs to the bottom wing.
16
INSTALL THE COWL & PROPELLER
❏ 1. Install the cowl. Make sure that the cowl magnets are
fi rmly engaged and that the cowl is secure. NOTE: The
heads of the motor screws may interfere with the cowl’s grill.
Please trim the grill if this is the case.
❏ 2. Balance your propeller using the method described in
the “Balance Propellers” section.
FINISH THE MODEL
❏ 3. Fit a 3mm to 5mm prop adapter (GPMQ4959) to the
motor shaft. Install the propeller (GPMQ6655), the prop
washer, and the prop nut onto the prop adapter. Tighten the
prop nut.
The actual SPAD XIII was covered in fabric and had a
“doped” fi nish brushed onto it. This gave it a semi-gloss
or dull fi nish. Depending on how much you care to detail
or personalize your SPAD, you may choose to replicate
this fi nish. Use some green 3M Scotch Brite™ to scuff the
surface of the plastic fi lm covering, working in a fore-aft
motion. This will dull the fi nish and simulate brush marks.
It also gives your model a “weathered” look. Try working
in an inconspicuous area fi rst.
❏ 1. Trim the covering from the holes in the fuse where the
left and right exhaust stacks will mount.
17
❏ 2. Apply glue to the exhaust stacks and install them onto
the fuse. R/C-56 Glue (JOZR5007) is recommended.
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY
Center the Controls & Check the
Control Directions
WARNING: Once the battery is connected to the ESC,
stay clear of the propeller!
❏ 1. Turn on the transmitter, center the trims, and move the
throttle stick all the way down. Plug your airplane’s battery
into the ESC and check to see that all servo arms are
positioned properly. If necessary, remove the servo arms
from the servos and reposition them so they are centered.
Reinstall the screws that hold on the servo arms.
❏ 3. Turn the model over and glue the belly fairing to the
bottom wing using R/C-56 Glue. Medium CA is also suitable,
but only one small drop should be used at the LE former
and at the TE former so that the panel can be removed later.
Install the fairing with the hole facing aft.
❏ 4. Apply a strip of double-sided tape to the bottom of the
pilot fi gure and attach it to the cockpit fl oor.
❏ 2. With the transmitter and receiver still on, check all the
control surfaces to see that they are centered. If necessary,
adjust the pushrods to center the control surfaces. Apply
thread locking compound to the locking screw threads and
tighten all of the Screw-Lock pushrod connectors.
❏ 3. Install the servo bay hatch.
18
4-CHANNEL RADIO SETUP
(STANDARD MODE 2)
ELEVATOR MOVES UP
RUDDER MOVES RIGHT
RIGHT AILERON MOVES UP
LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN
FULL THROTTLE
❏ 4. Make certain that the control surfaces and the throttle
respond in the correct direction as shown in the diagram.
If any of the controls respond in the wrong direction, use
the servo reversing in the transmitter to reverse the servos
connected to those controls. Be certain the control surfaces
have remained centered. Adjust if necessary.
Set the Control Throws
To ensure a successful fi rst fl ight, fl y your SPAD XIII set up only
according to the C.G. and control surface throws specifi ed in
this manual. The throws and C.G. are not arbitrary, but have
been determined through extensive testing and accurate
record-keeping. This provides you with the best chance for
success and enjoyable fi rst fl ights that should be surprisefree. Additionally, the throws and C.G. shown are true, real
data which will allow the model to perform in the manner in
which it was intended when fl own by a pilot of the skill level
for which it was intended. DO NOT OVERLOOK THESE IMPORTANT PROCEDURES. A model that is not properly
setup may be unstable and possibly unfl yable.
The building steps earlier in this manual that show the
mechanical setup for the elevator, rudder, and aileron
linkages show you the best way to confi gure the linkages to
achieve the proper throws using Futaba micro servos and a
Futaba radio system. If you are using a different radio system
or you cannot achieve the proper control throws using our
suggested linkage confi guration, you may have to install the
pushrods in different holes on the servo arms or the control
horns. Keep in mind that changing the throws mechanically
is preferred to changing them using your radio’s end-point
adjustment. End points can be used to “fi ne-tune” to get the
proper throws.
Use a Great Planes AccuThrow gauge or a ruler to accurately
measure and set the control throw of each control surface as
indicated in the chart that follows. If your radio does not have
dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the HIGH
rate setting.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
High Rate Low Rate
ELEVATOR: 9/16" [14mm] up 3/8" [10mm] up
9/16" [14mm] down 3/8" [10mm] down
RUDDER:7/8" [22mm] left 3/4" [19mm] left7/8" [22mm] right 3/4" [19mm] right
AILERONS: 7/8" [22mm] up 1/2" [13mm] up7/8" [22mm] down 1/2" [13mm] down
NOTE: The throws are measured at the widest part of
the control surfaces.
If you wish to set the control throws using angles instead of
linear measurements, you may cut out the paper templates
that we have provided for you in the back of this manual.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
High Rate Low Rate
ELEVATOR: 18° up 13° up
18° down 13° down
RUDDER:17° left 13° left17° right 13° right
AILERONS: 20° up 10° up20° down 10° down
NOTE: The throws are measured at the widest part of
the control surfaces.
19
Balance the Model (C.G.)
❏ 1. At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fl y condition
with all of the systems in place including the motor, landing
gear, radio system, battery, and all hatches. Place the battery
in the battery compartment but do not connect it.
❏ 2. Use a felt-tip pen or 1/8" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately
mark the C.G. on the bottom of the top wing on both sides
of the fuselage. The C.G. is located 2-1/8" [54mm] back
from the leading edge of the wing.
❏ 4. If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy” and the battery
pack must be shifted forward or weight must be added to the
nose to balance. If the nose drops, the model is “nose heavy”
and the battery pack must be shifted aft or weight must be
added to the tail to balance.
❏ 5. Using a felt-tip pen, mark the position of the battery
pack in the battery compartment. This will help eliminate trim
changes or unwanted surprises each time that you change
the battery. When using different capacity batteries, you may
have to re-balance your plane and place an additional mark
in the battery compartment. Install the 2" [50mm] piece of
hook & loop material in the battery tray.
This is where your model should balance for the fi rst
fl ights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting
the C.G. up to 1/8" [3mm] forward or 1/8" [3mm] back
to change the fl ying characteristics. Moving the C.G.
forward may improve the smoothness and stability, but
the model may then require more speed for takeoff and
make it more diffi cult to slow for landing. Moving the C.G.
aft makes the model more maneuverable, but could also
cause it to become too diffi cult to control. In any case,
start at the recommended balance point and do not at
any time balance the model outside the specifi ed range.
❏ 6. If additional weight is required, use Great Planes
(GPMQ4485) “stick on” lead. A good place to add stickon nose weight is to the fi rewall (don’t attach weight to the
cowl—it is not intended to support weight). Begin by placing
increasing amounts of weight on the top of the fuse over the
fi rewall until the model balances. Once you have determined
the amount of weight required, it can be permanently attached.
If required, tail weight may be added by cutting open the
bottom of the fuse and gluing it permanently inside.
IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any weight,
recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.
Balance the Model Laterally
❏ 1. With the wing level, lift the model by the motor shaft
and the bottom of the fuse under the TE of the fuse. Do this
several times.
❏ 2. If one wing always drops when you lift the model, it means
that side is heavy. Balance the airplane by adding weight
to the other wing tip. An airplane that has been laterally
balanced will track better in loops and other maneuvers.
❏ 3. With all parts of the model installed (ready to fl y) and a
battery pack in place (do not connect it), place your fi ngers
on the marks you made and balance the model.
20
PREFLIGHT
Identify Your Model
No matter if you fl y at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or if
you fl y somewhere on your own, you should always have your
name, address, telephone number and AMA number on or
inside your model. It is required at all AMA R/C club fl ying sites
and AMA sanctioned fl ying events. Fill out the identifi cation tag
on the back cover and place it on or inside your model.
Charge the Batteries
Follow the battery charging instructions that came with your
radio control system to charge the batteries. You should
always charge your transmitter batteries the night before
you go fl ying, and at other times as recommended by the
radio manufacturer.
Range Check
When you get to your fl ying site ground check the operational
range of the radio before the fi rst fl ight of the day. With the
transmitter antenna collapsed and the receiver and transmitter
on, you should be able to walk at least 100 feet away from the
model and still have control. Have an assistant stand by your
model and, while you work the controls, tell you what the control
surfaces are doing. Repeat this test with the motor running
at various speeds with an assistant holding the model, using
hand signals to show you what is happening. If the control
surfaces do not respond correctly, do not fl y! Find and correct
the problem fi rst. Look for loose servo or battery connections,
damaged wires or a damaged receiver crystal from a previous
crash in another model. One other possible source of radio
“noise” that could cause interference is the arrangement and
relative location of the receiver, receiver antenna and motor
wires. If possible, remount the receiver in a different location or
reroute some of the wires. Then try the range check again.
CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your
radio system state differently, the initial charge on new
transmitter and receiver batteries should be done for 15
hours using the slow-charger that came with the radio system. This will “condition” the batteries so that the
next charge may be done using the fast-charger of your
choice. If the initial charge is done with a fast-charger, the
batteries may not reach their full capacity and you may be
fl ying with batteries that are only partially charged.
Balance Propellers
Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
you fl y. An unbalanced prop can be the single most signifi cant
cause of vibration that can damage your model. Not only
will motor mounting screws and bolts loosen, possibly with
disastrous effect, but vibration may also damage your radio
receiver and radio gear.
We use a Top Flite Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer™
(TOPQ5700) in the workshop and keep a Great Planes
Fingertip Prop Balancer (GPMQ5000) in our fl ight box.
MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Failure to follow these safety precautions may result
in severe injury to yourself and others.
• Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate
electric motors.
• Use safety glasses when operating electric motors.
• Do not operate the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand;
the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.
• Keep your face and body, as well as all spectators, away from
the plane of rotation of the propeller as you operate the motor.
• Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt
sleeves, ties, scarves, long hair or loose objects such as
pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the prop.
• Always use a charger designed to charge LiPo batteries for
charging the LiPo fl ight battery.
• Never leave the LiPo battery unattended while charging. If
the battery becomes hot, discontinue charging.
AMA SAFETY CODE (EXCERPTS)
Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code. For the complete Safety
Code refer to Model Aviation magazine, the AMA web site or
the Code that came with your AMA license.
General
1) I will not fl y my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air
shows, or model fl ying demonstrations until it has been
proven to be airworthy by having been previously,
successfully fl ight tested.
2) I will not fl y my model aircraft higher than approximately
400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the
airport operator. I will give right-of-way and avoid fl ying
21
in the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary,
an observer shall be utilized to supervise fl ying to avoid
having models fl y in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the
fl ying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately fl y my
models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.
5) I will not fl y my model unless it is identifi ed with my name
and address or AMA number, on or in the model. Note:
This does not apply to models while being fl own indoors.
7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device
that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).
Radio Control
1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the fi rst fl ight of a new or repaired model.
2) I will not fl y my model aircraft in the presence of spectators
until I become a qualifi ed fl ier, unless assisted by an
experienced helper.
3) At all fl ying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be
established in front of which all fl ying takes place with the
other side for spectators. Only personnel involved with
fl ying the aircraft are allowed at or in the front of the fl ight
line. Intentional fl ying behind the fl ight line is prohibited.
4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three miles
of any pre-existing fl ying site except in accordance with
the frequency sharing agreement listed [in the complete
AMA Safety Code].
9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch
a powered model in fl ight; nor should any part of the
model other than the landing gear, intentionally touch
the ground, except while landing.
❏ 7. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place.
❏ 8. Check the control horns for secure attachment to the
control surfaces.
❏ 9. Pull/push on each of the pushrods and check to see
that the adjustable pushrod connectors do not slip.
❏ 10. Check the servo arms for secure attachment and make
sure that the arm screws are in place and are tight.
❏ 11. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA where
appropriate (servo mounting screws, etc.).
❏ 12. Check that all servo connectors are fully plugged into
their respective channels on the receiver.
❏ 13. Make sure any servo extension cords you may have
used do not interfere with other systems (servo arms,
pushrods, etc.).
❏ 14. Check the receiver for secure attachment. This must
not be “stuffed into place.”
❏ 15. Balance your model laterally as explained in the
instructions.
❏ 16. Check the C.G. according to the measurements
provided in the manual.
❏ 17. Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone
number on or inside your model.
❏ 18. Fully charge your transmitter battery and check the
battery voltage after it is charged.
❏ 19. Range-check your radio at the fl ying fi eld.
❏ 20. Confi rm that all controls operate in the correct
direction and the throws are set up according to the
manual.
❏ 21. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before
your fi rst fl ight.
FLYING
CHECK LIST
During the last few moments of preparation your mind may
be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the fi rst fl ight.
Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain
checks and procedures that should be performed before
the model is fl own. To help avoid this, a check list is provided
to make sure these important areas are not overlooked.
Many are covered in the instruction manual, so where
appropriate, refer to the manual for complete instructions.
Be sure to check the items off as they are completed.
❏ 1. Check the motor for secure attachment.
❏ 2. Check the cowl for secure attachment and proper
alignment.
❏ 3. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
❏ 4. Tighten the propeller nut and check to make sure that
a prop washer is in place.
❏ 5. Rotate the propeller a full turn. Check for free rotation
of the prop.
❏ 6. Check the wheels for free rotation, the axles and landing
gear for security, and add a drop of light machine oil to
the axles.
CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES):
If, while fl ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound
such as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control
surface fl utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such
as an aileron or elevator) or a fl ying surface (such as a
wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing
the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately,
fl utter can actually cause the control surface to detach
or the fl ying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control
followed by an impending crash. The best thing to do
when fl utter is detected is to slow the model immediately
by reducing power, then land as soon as safely possible.
Identify which surface fl uttered (so the problem may
be resolved) by checking all the servo grommets for
deterioration or signs of vibration. Make certain all
pushrod linkages are secure and free of play. If it fl uttered
once, under similar circumstances it will probably fl utter
again unless the problem is fi xed. Some things which
can cause fl utter are: Excessive hinge gap, not mounting
control horns solidly, poor fi t of clevis pin in horn, sideplay of wire pushrods caused by large bends, excessive
free play in servo gears, insecure servo mounting, and
fl ying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.
22
Takeoff
The goals of your fi rst fl ight should be to trim the airplane
and familiarize yourself with the airplane’s fl ight and landing
characteristics. You’ll want to perform a few tests at a safe
altitude to see how the airplane reacts. Take an assistant with
you or ask a friend at your fl ying fi eld to help you spot other
traffi c, adjust your trim for you, and mind the time as you fl y.
Line yourself up for a few practice landing approaches. Slow
down and line yourself up while practicing your descent.
Establish a glide slope that the airplane likes and use power
to adjust your descent rate while holding a constant pitch
angle. Power up and go around. Remember that you have
about 8 minutes of safe fl ying with the batteries we’ve
recommended here.
If you have access to a paved runway, we suggest using it to
takeoff especially for the fi rst few fl ights. Position the SPAD
XIII onto the runway pointed into the wind. Slowly advance
the throttle stick to half throttle, pulling back slightly on the
elevator to keep from nosing over. As the tail rises off the
ground, slowly increase throttle and apply a bit of up elevator
to lift the model into the air.
If you do not have access to a smooth runway or short grass, the
SPAD XIII can be hand launched. For the fi rst fl ight, have your
assistant launch the plane for you. This allows you to keep your
hands on the radio sticks and correct any trim problems that
are present. Have the person launching the plane hold it by the
fuselage just behind the lower wing. Throttle up to full power,
and have your helper give the plane a gentle toss at about a
30-degree angle upward into the wind. Climb to a comfortable
altitude and throttle back to a lower power setting.
Flight
When you get up to a safe altitude and are throttled back to
a comfortable fl ying speed, let go of the right stick and see
if the plane dives or climbs. Have your assistant add some
elevator trim and aileron trim if necessary. Fly the plane a bit
more and further adjust your throttle. Make a few more trim
changes while you fl y your traffi c pattern. Execute normal left
and right aileron turns, watching the tail to see how it drops
in each turn. Make a few more turns, adding a bit of rudder
to coordinate your turns.
While still at a safe altitude slow your airplane down and
execute a normal, straight-ahead, power-off stall. Hold full
elevator and watch how the airplane breaks at the stall. If it
“wing-walks,” keep in mind that rudder will have more effect
than ailerons will at low power settings. Knowing your stall
characteristics will prepare you to judge the airplane’s speed
on landing, so pay special attention to how the airplane feels
when it’s slowing down to a stall. If your plane enters a spin
from a stall, neutralize your elevator and ailerons and add
opposite rudder as you throttle up. The goal is to get the
stalled wing fl ying again.
Landing
Respecting your fl ying fi eld’s current traffi c pattern (landing
into the wind), enter your downwind leg at half-throttle and
maintain altitude as you set up for landing. You should
anticipate at least a 200 foot fi nal approach, so start your
base leg turn with that in mind. Your base leg will start your
descent. On base, reduce power to 1/4 throttle. Turn to fi nal
and power back. Establish a comfortable glide slope and use
the power to control your descent rate. Blipping the throttle
may help you get a feel for where your throttle should be.
When you’re over the runway, power off and settle into a
fl are. Remember that if it’s going to be a bad landing, go
around and try it again. When you land, rollout is short and
should be performed “tail-low” to keep from nosing over.
One fi nal note about fl ying your model: Have a goal or fl ight
plan in mind for every fl ight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know,
or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions
(such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to
improve your skills (though it is never a bad idea!), but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly fi nding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do a
loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction (anticipating
rudder corrections that will be required to maintain heading),
remember to throttle back at the top, and make certain you
are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A fl ight plan greatly
reduces the chances of crashing your model just because of
poor planning and impulsive moves. Remember to think.
Have a ball!
But always stay in control and fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
When you’re comfortable with stalls, try some slow speed
maneuvering. Practice making shallow left and right banking
turns at low power while holding your altitude. Pay attention to
how the airplane tries to fall into the turn. At slow speeds you
will fi nd that you will initiate a banking turn with a little aileron,
but to hold the turn you’ll need rudder and a little opposite
aileron to keep your bank angle. Try transitioning from left to
right and making turns into the wind and with the wind.
23
Please photocopy to use the templates and ID tag.
RUDDER HIGH
90˚
ELEVATOR/RUDDER
LOW
13˚
AILERON LOW
10˚
17˚
ELEVATOR HIGH
18˚
AILERON HIGH
20˚
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