GRAUPNER Super Decathlon Assembly Instructions Manual

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

1

for Order no. 9399

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

SUPER DECATHLON

RC electric motor aircraft model for 3 LiPo cells with about

2500 mAh

A HoTT remote controller with 5 functions is needed

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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Please be sure to observe the safety instructions in the appendix of these assembly
instructions. If the model is given to another person then the complete assembly instructions
must be given along with the model as a reference.

General

The SUPER DECATHLON model is a particularly attractive semi-scale model
equipped with many authentically replicated details. The model is extensively
prefabricated. However, the assembly steps described below are to be carried out
with great care in order to ensure the safe and successful implementation of the
model. Flying weight may not exceed 1700 g.

RC accessories (not included)
MX-16 COMPUTERSYSTEM 2.4 GRAUPNER HoTT Order no. 33116

Charger, ULTRAMAT 8 Order no. 6411
LiPo battery, 20C 3/2500 11.1 V G3.5 Order no. 7633.3
Charger cable, G3.5 Order no. 2970.L
Receiver battery (for position lights) Order no. 2583
BEC adapter lead (for position lights) Order no. 3029.10
Velcro ribbon Order no. 3368.1
Float set Order no. 9399.15

Necessary tools and adhesives

(not included)

Fast setting glue Order no.5821
Activator for fast setting glue Order no. 953.150
Also needed: Phillips screwdriver, flat pliers, scissors, 1.5 mm Allen wrench, pulp­fiber paper, protective gloves, safety goggles

Assembly instructions

Please read the assembly instructions thoroughly before starting with assembly in
order to gain an overview of the assembly process. For each assembly step, remove
the parts needed from their transparent packages and gather the necessary tools
and adhesives. Assembly work should always be done on a clean, flat surface or on
a foam-rubber pad. When not otherwise specified, use fast setting glue with activator
as an adhesive. The best technique is to coat one surface with glue and spray
activator on the other surface. One should be particularly careful that no glue residue
gets onto one's hands or on the model's exterior surfaces. Fast setting glue and
activator spray dissolve paint on surfaces so do not use too much glue. If necessary,
dab off excess glue right away with pulp-fiber paper.

Attention: Fast setting glue must never come into contact with human body
parts or get into eyes. Because of this we recommend that safety goggles be
worn when working with glue. Always store the glue out of the reach of
children. For reasons of safety, use only the above named glue.

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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Fuselage with tail surfaces, tail-wheel coupling and main landing gear
Put the rudder and elevator servos into their neutral positions with a servo tester
(order no. 764) or RC system. Now push on the tail assembly parts, initially without
glue, to try out their fit. Attention; do not use activator spray to glue the tail assembly
in place.

The elevator assembly can be glued on; when doing this be sure to also wet its
contact surfaces in the fuselage with glue. Glue in the rudder assembly. Attention;
after applying the glue, push the assembly in rapidly, otherwise the glue may stick to
the parts before they are fully seated. In any case, do not use activator spray for this
glue process.

Tail-wheel assembly

The figure shows the glued on tail assembly and screwed on tail wheel assembly. Do
not screw down the guide screw tight as this would block the rudder.

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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Easily recognized on the figure, the rudder rod is hung into the outermost hole of the
rudder arm. This setting is optimal for simple flight but if emphasis is to be put on
agile aerobatic characteristics then hook the rod in one of the more inboard holes.

The figure shows the rudder coupling's length adjustment and how to hold the rod
securely with flat pliers.

Main landing gear with wheel spats

The figure shows the prepared parts of the main landing gear.
Remove the locking screw in the wheel spat then turn the wheel, together with the
wheel spat, onto the wheel axle. When the wheel spat is turned in securely and the
wheel still turns freely, fix the wheel spat in place on the landing gear bow with the
locking screw.

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

5

The figure shows the assembled right wheel spat, the left wheel spat is assembled in
the same manner. Now fasten the landing gear bow to the fuselage with the M4 x
25 mm long countersunk head screws. With this step, the fuselage assembly is
already complete.

The wing

Make a "dry run" assembly (i.e. without glue) of both wing halves first. When gluing
the wing halves, be sure everything is properly aligned then press them together
tightly.

Glue in the CFRP wing spar then finish by gluing on the spar cover. Check the
stability of the spar's glue bond with a stress test.

RC installation

Position the HoTT receiver between the two seats in the model's cabin to ensure its
fit there. Later on it will be fixed in place there with Velcro ribbon. For the time being,
just lay the receiver loosely on the fuselage then plug the servos into the receiver so
the wing's flap functions can be adjusted and tested. We recommend the following
receiver socket layout: the speed controller in socket 1, the left aileron servo in
socket 2, elevator servo in socket 3, rudder servo in socket 4, right aileron servo in
socket 5 and the V-cable for the landing flaps in socket 6. Attention: When the G3.5

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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plug-in connection is made, as shown in the photo below, the receiver will be
switched on. From this moment on, never touch the propeller and have a helper keep
a good grip on the fuselage so that, if the motor should unexpectedly start, the
propeller can turn freely without anything getting into its turning radius. Bind the
receiver to the transmitter as described in the RC system's manual.

The figure shows the open battery compartment with installed battery and the G3.5
plug-in connector is connected. The battery is fixed in place with blocks of rigid foam.

The wing struts

The model has been designed with wing struts, just like the aircraft it was modeled
after. This gives the model a particularly attractive semi-scale appearance. The
forward strut bears the main load and, because of this, has a larger diameter than the
rear strut. The struts have a streamlined cross-section. Secure the struts with the
screws provided. When this is done, be sure the pointed edges of the struts are
oriented toward the rear of the model.

The figure shows the finished wing assembly with wing struts and the closed battery
compartment.

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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The position lights

These have an operating voltage of 4.8 to 6.0 V and are already installed. We
recommend their operation with a 4.8 V receiver battery connected with a BEC
adapter cable. The battery can be fixed in the cabin with Velcro ribbon.

The rudder check

If necessary, change servo operating direction by using the Servo reverse menu. If
the greatest possible throw for control surfaces is desired, attach the rods or cables
to the innermost hole of the control surface's control arm. If the pilot has little flying
experience, we recommend the rods always be attached in the outermost hole.
Recommended maximum throw as measured on the given control surface edge:
ailerons 20 mm each, landing flaps 25 mm, elevators 20 mm each, rudder 30 mm.

Balancing

Balancing is done when the model is in a flight-ready condition – except that the LiPo
battery is disconnected. The model's center of gravity should be 60 to 65 mm behind
the front edge of the wing. The battery should be pushed forward for this. The center
of gravity point is tested by supporting the model with two fingers beneath the wings.
The model should stop rocking back and forth at a horizontal attitude.

Flying

Perform trial flights of the finished model with neutral-adjusted control surfaces on a
day with no wind or only a light breeze. A short-cut lawn which is smooth and in an
open area is an optimal location for trial flights. The model should take off from the
ground in the direction exactly into the wind. Once the model has lifted off, put it
into a gentle, straight climb with minimum aileron and elevator corrections. Make the
landing exactly into the wind at minimum motor speed. Reduce the model's landing
approach speed by extending the landing flaps and doses of elevator throw.

GRAUPNER Modellbau wishes you many pleasant flights with this new flying model.
SUPER DECATHLON

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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Replacement parts (not included)

9399.5 landing gear bow
.7 motor cowl
.8 wheel spat pair

1326.12x6 propeller

Technical data

Scale 1:7
Wingspan about 1400 mm
Length about 1000 mm
Wing area about 32 dm²
Tailplane area about 6 dm²
Total surface area about 38 dm²
Total wing load about 36 g/dm²
Flying weight about 1400 g*
* without float set, without auxiliary battery for position lights

Environmental protection notices

The symbol on this product, its operating instructions or packaging gives notice that this product may
not be discarded as common household waste at the end of its service life. It must be turned over to
a recycling collection point for electric and electronic apparatus.

The materials can be recycled according to their markings. You make an important contribution to
protection of the environment by utilizing facilities for reuse, material recycling or other means of

exploiting obsolete equipment.
Batteries must be removed from the unit and disposed of separately at an appropriate collection point.
Please inquire with local authorities about the responsible waste collection locations.

Safety notices

Liability insurance which is in force is required to operate model aircraft. This is required by legal statute.
The entire operating/assembly instructions must be carefully read before attempting to put the model into
operation for the first time. You are solely responsible for the safe operation of your RC model aircraft.
Youths who perform assembly and/or operate the model must be responsibly supervised by an adult who
is familiar with the circumstances and potential hazards involved with RC model aircraft.

From a legal point of view, a model aircraft is an aircraft and, as such, subject to respective laws that
must absolutely be observed. The pamphlet »Model aviation law"«, order no. 8034.02, presents a
summary of these laws. This pamphlet can also be reviewed at dealerships. Furthermore, compliance
with the telecommunications regulations for remote control systems is required. Appropriate notices can
be found in the operating instructions for your remote control system.

Only those parts included in the kit as well as those original Graupner accessories and replacement parts
which we expressly recommend may be used. If a component in the drive unit is changed, safe operation
is no longer warranted and all rights under the guarantee are voided.

Avoid short circuit conditions and reverse polarity.
The high energy level of batteries present explosion and fire hazards.

A RC aircraft model can only be functional and meet expectations when it has been carefully built
according to the assembly instructions. Only cautious, considered handling during operation of the
model will prevent personal injuries and property damage. No one would get into a glider and – without
any advance training – attempt to fly it. Successful model flying also necessitates a training and practice
phase.
However, the manufacturer has no possibility to influence the assembly and operation of a RC aircraft
model. This is why emphatic notification is herewith made about the hazards, and all liability for these is
expressly rejected.

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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Please address these issues with an experienced model pilot, a club or a model aircraft school. We also
refer you to dealerships and relevant trade publications. The optimal situation is to fly from an approved
model airfield as a club member.
Adhesives contain substances which, under some circumstances, can be harmful. It is therefore
imperative that the manufacturer's respective notices and warnings are observed.

The operator must be in full possession of complete physical and mental facilities. As with driving an
automobile, operating a model aircraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not allowed.

Inform those persons passing by or watching about the hazards associated with your model before you
start it and admonish these persons to maintain a safe distance.

Always keep the necessary safe distance between the flying model and persons or obstacles; never fly
over or toward other persons!
Model flying activity may only be pursued when outdoor temperatures are between - 5 °C and + 35 °C.
Extreme temperatures can lead to changes in battery capacity, affect material characteristics and even,
for example, cause adhesive bonds to become defective.
Every model pilot is to behave such that public safety (in particular other persons and property) and
model flying activities in the area are neither endangered nor disturbed.
Never fly the model aircraft in the vicinity of high-voltage transmission lines, industrial premises,
residential areas, public streets, school yards or playgrounds and the like.

Pre-start checks
Perform checks for correct functionality before every use. Switch on the transmitter and receiver for this.

Pull out the transmitter antenna, check all control surfaces to be in their neutral positions, that they
function flawlessly and that their direction of throw is correct. Repeat these checks again when the motor
is running and a helper holds the model securely in place.

If you are a novice to model flying, it is advantageous to have an experienced helper at your side during
the checks and the first few flights.

Warnings must absolutely be observed. They point out situations and activities which, if disregarded, can
lead to severe injuries – in extreme cases even to lethal injuries or permanent disabilities.

Motor-driven propellers present a constant injury hazard. They may never come into contact with any
body part! A rapidly turning aircraft propeller can, for example, sever a finger!

Never place yourself in or in-front-of the plane of a turning aircraft propeller! A part of the propeller or the
entire propeller could break loose and be hurled away at great speed and energy to hit you or others. This
can lead to severe injuries. Be careful that no foreign object comes into contact with a turning propeller!

A blockage of the propeller by any kind of part must be precluded.
Therefore, check the model and all of its attached parts (e.g. propellers, RC parts, etc.) for secure seating

and possible damage before every use. The model may only be put into operation after all defects have
been corrected.

Check that the transmitter frequency to be used is free. Only then can the transmitter be switched on!
Radio frequency interference caused by unknown sources can occur anytime without warning! The model
is then out of control and unpredictable! Do not leave the remote control system unattended, this
prevents unauthorized third-parties from handling the system.

Switch on the electric motor only when nothing is in the turning area of the propeller. Never try to stop a
running propeller. Only operate the propeller with the motor when both are installed in the model.

The model's flying attitude must always be explicitly recognizable during the entire flight in order to
ensure secure control and maneuvers. If functional impairments or disturbances become evident during a
flight, a landing must be initiated immediately for reasons of safety. You must always avoid other aircraft.
The take-off/landing strip must be free of persons and other obstacles.

Always ensure the batteries are fully charged as otherwise the flawless operation of the RC system
cannot be assured.
Never use batteries which have been overheated, become defective or are damaged. The battery
manufacturer's usage instructions must always be followed.

GRAUPNER GmbH & Co. KG D-73230 KIRCHHEIM/TECK GERMANY

Changes reserved! No liability for printing errors! 3/2012

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Prior to every flight, check the entire RC system as well as the model aircraft for full functionality and
range.
In doing this, be sure to first put the transmitter control for the motor into its OFF position when the
model is initially put into operation. Thereafter, switch on the transmitter first, followed by the receiver, in
order to avoid an uncontrolled startup of the electric motor. In reverse order upon shutdown, be sure to
switch off the receiver first and only then switch off the transmitter.
Check that the aircraft's control surfaces move in the directions they should with respect to movement of
the joystick.

After use, take the battery out of the model and store it only in a discharged state, out of the reach of
children, in an environment having a temperature of between about + 5 °C to + 25 °C.

These notices are intended to call attention to the diverse hazards that can arise from improper and
irresponsible handling. Proper, conscientious model aircraft flight is a creative, enlightening, refreshing
recreational activity.

Manufacturer declaration:
If there should be an evident material or processing defect in one of the objects marketed in the Federal
Republic of Germany and purchased by a consumer (§ 13 BGB) we, the company Graupner GmbH & Co
KG, D-73230 Kirchheim/Teck, accept responsibility for eliminating the object's defect within the scope as
specified below.
The rights acquired through this manufacturer declaration cannot be asserted by the consumer when the
object's usage impairment is due to natural wear, use under competitive conditions, improper usage
(including improper installation), or external causes.
This manufacturer declaration leaves the legal or contractual provisions for defect claims and the
consumer's rights in the purchase contract with respect to the seller (dealer) unaffected.

Scope of guarantee performance
In the event of a guarantee claim, we reserve the right to choose between a repair or the replacement of
defective goods. Further reaching claims, in particular claims for compensation of costs in conjunction
with the defect (e.g. assembly/disassembly costs) and remuneration for consequential damages – when
legally permitted – are excluded. Claims based on legal regulations, in particular those associated with
product liability law, are unaffected by this.

Prerequisite to guarantee performance
The purchaser must assert claim for guarantee performance in writing, which is to be accompanied by
the original purchase receipt (e.g. invoice, receipt, delivery note) and this guarantee card. The purchaser
must also return the defective goods to the above address at his/her own cost.
The purchaser is to state in the claim the nature of the material or processing defect or the defect's
symptoms specifically enough that a review of our guarantee obligation is possible.
The transportation of the object from purchaser to us as well as return transportation is at the risk of the
purchaser.

Period of validity
This declaration is only valid during the entitlement period for making claims as stipulated by this
declaration. The entitlement period is 24 months from the item's date of purchase by the consumer from a
dealer in the Federal Republic of Germany (purchase date). If claims are made for defects after expiration
of the entitlement period or the defects in the claim are not substantiated as required by this declaration
or documents are only submitted after expiration of the entitlement period, then the purchaser is not
entitled to rights or claims under this declaration.

Limitation period
To the extent we do not acknowledge liability for a properly submitted claim as specified by this
declaration within the entitlement period, all rights of this declaration have a 6 month period of limitation
from the point in time of claim submission but not earlier than the end of the entitlement period.
Applicable law
This declaration and all claims, rights and obligations arising therefrom are governed exclusively by
German substantive law without the norms of international private law and under exclusion of
applicability for the UN Convention on the International Sales of Goods.