GREAT PLANES Factor 30cc Instruction Manual

SPECIFICATIONS

Wingspan:

70 in [1174 mm]

Length: 75 in [1905 mm ]

Wing Area: 1174 in

2

[75.7dm2]

Weight:

Wing

Loading:

Radio: 4− 7 Channel

12– 14 lbs [ 5440 – 6350 g ]

24– 27 oz /ft

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 modi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 nal assembly or
material used for nal assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor
accepted for any damage resulting from the use by the user of
the nal user-assembled product. By the act of using the
user-assembled 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

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Engine: 1.8−2.0 cu in (30– 35 cc)

2

[73–82 g/dm2]

Motor: RimFire 1.60 (63-62-250)

advised to return 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.

gasoline engine

outrunner brushless

READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT

INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

© 2016 Great Planes Model Mfg. A subsidiary of Hobbico,® Inc.

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

GPMA1555

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Engine Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Motor Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

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

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Required Hardware and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Adhesives and Building Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Optional Supplies and Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

KIT INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

REPLACEMENT PARTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

PREPARATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

ASSEMBLE THE WINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Aileron Servo Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Install the Tail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Install the Main Landing Gear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Install the Rudder and Elevator Servos . . . . . . . . . . . .12

POWER SYSTEM INSTALLATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Electric Motor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Assemble the Removable Battery Tray . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Gas Engine Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Assemble the Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Install the Throttle and Optional Choke Servos . . . . . .22

Install the Cowl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Apply the Decals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Check the Control Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Set the Control Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Install the Propeller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Balance the Model Laterally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Balance the Model (C.G.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

PREFLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Identify Your Model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Ground Check and Range Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . .29

AMA SAFETY CODE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Fuel Mixture Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

INTRODUCTION

Continuing with the success of the Factor 3D EP, Great
Planes brings you the Factor 30cc ARF. This is a great first
gas powered 3D model. The plane can go from mild to wild
with just the flip of a switch. We believe you will be very
pleased with the ease of assembly and flight performance
of the Factor 30cc ARF.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to
the Factor 30cc ARF visit the Great Planes web site at www.
greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then select the
Factor 30cc ARF. 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.

Academy of Model Aeronautics

If you are not already a member of the AMA, please join! The
AMA is the governing body of model aviation and membership
provides liability insurance coverage, protects modelers’
rights and interests and is required to fly at most R/C sites.

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Dr ive
Muncie, IN 47302-9252
Ph. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Or via the Internet at: modelaircraft.org

IMPORTANT!!!

Two of the most important things you can do to preserve the

radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid flying near full­scale aircraft and avoid flying near or over groups of people.

Know Before You Fly

As a new owner of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS), you

are responsible for the operation of this vehicle and the safety
of those around you. Please contact your local authorities
to  nd out the latest rules and regulations.

In the United States, please visit:

knowbeforeyou y.org faa.gov/uas

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Your Factor 30cc 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 Factor 30cc ARF, 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 unflyable 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 good condition,
a correctly sized engine, and other components as specified
in this instruction manual. All components must be correctly
installed so that the model operates correctly on the ground
and in the air. You must check the operation of the model
and all components before every flight.

2

5. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not flown
this type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for your
first flights. 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.

6. While this kit has been flight tested to exceed nor mal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high stress flying, such
as racing, or i f an engine l arge r th an one in the reco mmended
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.

7. WARNING: The cowl and wheel pants included in this kit
are made of fiberglass, the fibers of which may cause eye,
skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part
to remove fiberglass dust, as the dust will blow back into
your eyes. Always wear safety goggles, a particle mask and
rubber gloves when grinding, drilling and sanding fiberglass
parts. Vacuum the parts and the work area thoroughly after
working with fiberglass parts.

We, as the manufacturer, provide you with a top quality,
thoroughly tested ARF and instructions, but ultimately
the quality and flyability of your finished 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.

Note: Some technically-minded modelers who wish to
check the wing, stab and motor thrust angles may do so by
visiting the web site at www.greatplanes.com and clicking
on “Technical Data.”

Remember: Take your time and follow the instructions
to end u p with a wel l-buil t mod e l that is st r aight and tr u e.

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

This is a partial list of items required to finish the Factor
30cc ARF that may require planning or decision making
before starting to build. Order numbers are provided in
parentheses.

Engine Recommendations

The recommended engine size range for the Factor 30cc ARF

is a 30 – 35cc [1.8 – 2.0 ci.] two-stroke gasoline engine. The
Factor 30cc ARF is designed to use the DLE 30, DLE 35RA
or O.S. GT33. Other engines can also be used but you may
need to make modi cations for mounting those engines. The
stock muf ers for the DLE engines can be used.

❍ The OSMG1533 O.S. GT33 requires:

❍ (4) 2" (50.8mm) standoffs (OSMG8962)
❍ (4) M5×15 socket head bolts (OSMG8781)
❍ (4) M5×20 socket head bolts (OSMG8779)
❍ (4) M5 lock washers (OSMG9403)
❍ J’TEC JTC-DL30B muf er (from www.jtecrc.com)

Motor Recommendations

❍ Great Planes RimFire 1.60 [63-62-250] Outrunner

Brushless Motor (GPMG4795)

❍ Castle Creations Phoenix Edge 80HV (CSEM0500)

OR

❍ Castle Creations Talon 120HV (CSEM3100)
❍ Great Planes 6mm Male/4mm Female Bullet Adapter

(GPMM3119)

❍ Great Planes 6mm female Bullet Connectors (GPMM3117)

For the ESC

❍ Two FlightPower LiPo FP50 5000mAh 18.5V Batteries

(FPWP5505)

❍ Spinner Adapter Kit (GPMQ4589)
❍ 19x8 Propeller Xoar (XOAQ4087) or APC (APCQ4024)

Radio Equipment

The Factor 30cc ARF can be  own with a minimum of a
4-channel radio. For our installation we used seven channels:

(1) throttle (1) rudder (2) elevators
(1) optional choke (2) ailerons

The elevators require the use of a high-quality servo of at

least 150 oz-in of torque. The ailerons and rudder require a
servo with at least 250 oz-in of torque. A servo of 40 oz-in

of torque can be used for the throttle and optional choke.

RECOMMENDED SERVOS

❍ (2) Elevators (min. 150 oz-in torque) (Futaba S9155

FUTM0215)

❍ (1) Rudder (min. 272 oz-in torque) (Futaba S9156

FUTM0216)

❍ (2) Ailerons (min. 272 oz-in torque) (Futaba S9156

FUTM0216)

❍ (1) Throttle (standard) (Futaba S9001 FUTM0075)
❍ (1) Optional Choke (standard) (Futaba S9001 FUTM0075)

ELECTRIC MOTOR INSTALLATION

❍ (2) 20" Servo extension (FUTM4147) (for aileron servos)

OR

❍ (2) 24" Servo extension (TACM2721)
❍ (1) 8" Servo extension (FUTM4140) (for receiver battery

switch to receiver)

OR

❍ (1) 6" Servo extension (TACM2701)
❍ (2) Optional Y-harness (FUTM4135) (TACM2751) (for

connecting the elevator servos and aileron servos)

❍ (1) Heavy duty on/off switch (FUTM4385) (TACM2761)
❍ (1) Optional Charge Receptacle #124 (ERNM3001)
❍ (1) 2100mAh LiFe receiver battery (HCAM6436)

ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR GAS ENGINE INSTALLATION

❍ (1) Additional Y-harness for choke if using a 7-channel

receiver

❍ (1) Heavy duty on/off switches (FUTM4385) (TACM2761)

for ignition

❍ (1) Optional Charge Receptacle #124 (ERNM3001) for

ignition battery

❍ (1) 1300mAh LiFe ignition battery (HCAM6411)

3

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Required Hardware and Accessories

❍ (1) Dubro #554 X-large Tygon Fuel Line (DUBQ0427)
❍ (1) R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] (HCAQ1000) or 1/2"

[13mm] (HCAQ1050)

❍ Propeller and spare propellers suitable for your

engine

Required Hardware and Accessories

This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are

required to  nish the Factor 30cc ARF.

❍ 1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro CA (GPMR6001)
❍ 2 oz. [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❍ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6043)
❍ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6042)
❍ Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060)
❍ Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❍ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❍ Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)
❍ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❍ Masking tape
❍ String
❍ T-pins (HCAR 5150 )
❍ Drill
❍ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.5mm], 5/64" [2mm], 1/8" [3mm],

5/32" [4mm], 3/16" [5mm]

❍ Small metal  le
❍ Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)
❍ Silver solder w/ ux (STAR2000)

❍ Hobbico 60 Watt Soldering Iron (HCAR0776)
❍ #1 Hobby knife (RMXR6903)
❍ #11 blades (5-pack, RMXR6930)
❍ Rotary tool such as Dremel
❍ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200)
❍ DLE-30 Propeller Drill Guide (DLEQ0301)

Covering Tools

❍ Top Flite MonoKote Sealing Iron (TOPR2100)
❍ Top Flite Hot Sock Iron Cover (TOPR2175)
❍ Top Flite MonoKote Trim Seal Iron (TOPR2200)
❍ Top Flite MonoKote Heat Gun (TOPR2000)

OR

❍ Coverite 21st Century Sealing Iron (COVR2700)
❍ Coverite 21st Century Cover Sock (COVR2702)
❍ Coverite 21st Century Trim Sealing Iron (COVR2750)

Optional Supplies and Tools

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Factor 30cc ARF

❍ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❍ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❍ 36" metal ruler
❍ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0625)
❍ Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402)
❍ Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)
❍ AccuThrow De ection Gauge (GPMR2405)
❍ CG Machine™ (GPMR2400)
❍ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)

KIT CONTENTS

1. Cowl

2. Fuselage

1

3

4

5

11

12 13 14 15 16

2

11

6

8

7

9

18

17

19

17

10

22

21

20

3. Main Wheels

4. Spinner

5. Wheel Pants

6. Canopy

7. Wi n g Tu b e

8. Forward Battery Hatch

9. Receiver Battery Tray

10. Rudder

11. Wing Halves

12. Motor Mount Sides

13. Motor Mount Sides

14. Motor Mount Back Plates

15. Motor Mount Front Plates

16. Motor Mount Front Plates

17. Elevators

18. Horizontal Stabilizer

19. Battery Tray

20. Fuel Tank

21. Main Landing Gear

22. Tailwheel Assembly

4

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

● Anytime thin CA glue is recommended

you will see this symbol. We
recommend that when threading
sc rew s in to wood that  rst the screw
be installed. Then, remove the screw
and apply a couple of drops of thin CA in the hole to harden
the threads. After the CA has cured, reinstall the screw.

● Anytime threadlocker is recommended

you will see this symbol. We
recommend that anytime a threaded
screw or nut is installed, a drop of
threadlocker be applied to the threads.
An exception, do not use threadl ocker on scr ews ins talled
in the nylon control horns.

● Denatured alcohol is great for cleaning epoxy from surfaces

before the epoxy cures.

● When connecting servo extensions to servos, we

recommend that the connection be secured with heat
shrink or tape (not included).

REPLACEMENT MONOKOTE COLORS

Orange (TOPQ0202)
Jet White (TOPQ0204)
Aluminum (TOPQ0205)

Metalic Plum (TOPQ0403)

KIT INSPECTION

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Factor 30cc ARF 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.
Not all parts are available separately (an aileron cannot be
purchased separately, but is only available with the wing kit).
Replacement parts are not available from Product Support,
but can be purchased from hobby shops or mail order/Internet
order  rms. Hardware items (screws, nuts, bolts) are also

available from these outlets.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit www.greatplanes.com and

click on “Where to Buy”. Follow the instructions provided on
the page to locate a U.S., Canadian or International dealer.

GPMA2475 Fuselage
GPMA2476 Wing
GPMA2477 Tail Surface Set
GPMA2478 Canopy/Hatch
GPMA2479 Wing Tube
GPMA2480 Landing Gear
GPMA2481 Wheel Pants
GPMA2482 Cowl
GPMA2483 Decal
GPMA2484 EP Motor Mount Box
GPMA2485 Battery Tray
GPMA2486 Spinner
GPMA5390 Tail Wheel Assembly
GPMA5391 Hatch/Battery Tray Screws

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 qua lit y, or if you ne ed assistance with as sembly,
contact Product Support. When reporting defective or missing
parts, use the part names exactly as they are written in the
instruction manual.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822

Ph: [phone], ext. 5
Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

5

PREPARATIONS

1. Firmly pull on each aileron to con rm they are securely

❏

glued.

2. Tighten the covering with a covering iron.

❏

ASSEMBLE THE WING

Aileron Servo Installation

BEGIN WITH THE LEFT WING PANEL.

1. Install a servo lead extension (not included) and

❏ ❏

secure the connection.

3. Route servo lead through wing.

❏ ❏

4. Drill servo screw mounting holes.

❏ ❏

2. Install grommets and eyelets on all servos.

❏ ❏

6

5. Install servo screws.

❏ ❏

6. Install servo horn.

❏ ❏

7. Aileron pushrod components.

❏ ❏

8. Install the 4-40 threaded clevis.

❏ ❏

11. Mount control horn.

❏ ❏

9. Attach clevis to control horn.

❏

10. Position control horn on aileron.

❏ ❏

7

12. Install the solder clevis.

❏ ❏

HOW TO SOLDER

Apply a few drops of soldering  ux to the end of the
pushrod. “Tin” the end of the pushrod by applying heat.
Apply silver solder to the heated area. The pushrod should
melt the solder, not the  ame of the torch. The end of the
pushrod should be tinned all the way around.

Position the solder clevis on the pushrod and apply a drop
of  ux to the joint. Apply heat and add solder. Again, the
heat of the part should melt the solder, not the  ame of
the torch. Allow the part to cool naturally. Make sure the
joint is thoroughly soldered. It should be shiny, not rough.
Reheat if necessary.

Wipe off the  ux residue with denatured alcohol. Coat the
joint with oil to prevent rust.

15. Install the nylon wing dowels.

❏

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE

Install the Tail

13. Reinstall the aileron pushrod and slide the retainers

❏ ❏

over the clevises.

14. Repeat steps 1 – 13 to install the aileron servo in the

❏

right wing. The two aileron servos can be connected with a

Y-harness and plugged into the aileron channel on the receiver,

or each aileron can be plugged into a separate channel.

1. Slide the Carbon Wing Tube into the fuselage.

❏

2. Install the wing panels.

❏

8

3. Temporarily install the horizontal stabilizer.

A

C

A = B
C = D

B

D

❏

4. Check the alignment of the horizontal stabilizer. The

❏

distance from the center of the nose of the fuselage to the
tips of the horizontal stabilizer should be equal.

8. Position the tail gear by temporarily installing the rudder.

❏

5. The wing and stabilizer should be parallel. If they are

❏

not, lightly sand the stabilizer slot.

6. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the stabilizer in the fuselage.

❏

Wipe off any excess epoxy with a paper towel and denatured
alcohol.

7. Clean the tail gear wire.

❏

9. Center and attach the tail gear to the fuselage.

❏

10. Remove the rudder and hinges. Add a small drop of oil

❏

to the pivot point on each hinge. The oil will prevent the epoxy
from adhering to the pivot point. Makes sure the oil does not
get on the gluing surface of the hinge. If it does, clean the
oil off with a paper towel dampened with denatured alcohol.

9

12. Install the set screws in the wheel collars.

❏

13. Install the tail wheel.

❏

11. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue in the hinges.

❏

14. Install the two elevators following the same procedure

❏

used for installing the rudder.

10

Install the Main Landing Gear

1. Install the 3/16” [5mm] axles.

❏

2. Cut the axle to length.

❏

3. File a  at spot at the end of the axle.

❏

5. Install the wheel pants.

❏

6. Install the main landing gear on the fuselage.

❏

4. Install the wheels.

❏

11

Install the Rudder and Elevator Servos

1. Make a battery strap from the supplied hook and loop

❏

material.

2. Wrap the receiver in foam and secure it to the receiver

❏

tray with a hook and loop strap.

3. Install the rudder servo and plug it into the receiver.

❏

Switch on the transmitter and temporarily plug the receiver
battery into the receiver.

6. Install a 4-40 threaded coupler to one end of both pull-

❏

pull cables as shown.

7. Install a 4-40 nut and threaded clevis on the coupler.

❏

4. Install and center the rudder servo arm.

❏

5. Cut the 110” [2800mm] pull-pull cable in half.

❏

8. Insert the pull-pull cables into the guide tubes. Attach

❏

the clevises to the servo arm.

12

9. Position the rudder control horn.

❏

11. Attach a second set of clevises, 4-40 couplers, 4-40

❏

nuts and silicone clevis retainers to the rudder control horns.

10. Attach rudder control horns.

❏

12. Attach the clevises to the control horns and pull the

❏

cables tight. Crimp the brass tubes with pliers.

13

13. Install the 4-40 x 48” (1220mm) elevator pushrods.

❏

14. Install the elevator servos. The two servo leads can be

❏

joined with a Y-harness and plugged into the receiver or each
servo can be plugged into a separate channel in the receiver.

15. Install the elevator control horns and attach the 4-40

❏

clevises, nuts and retainers.

16. Install the solder clevis.

❏

14

17 Solder the clevises to the elevator pushrods.

❏

POWER SYSTEM INSTALLATION

Electric Motor Installation

Proceed to Gas Engine Installation (page 7) if a gas
engine will be installed.

2. Glue the sides on using epoxy.

❏

3. Glue eight pieces of triangle stock between the front plate

❏

and the sides and the back plate and the sides using epoxy.

1. Use epoxy to glue the front and back plates of the motor

❏

box together and secure the 6-32 blind nuts with thin CA.

4. Drill the  rewall.

❏

15

5. Open the cooling hole. Use a small drill bit to drill out

❏

each tab.

7. Attach the motor box to the  rewall.

❏

9. Install the forward battery hatch in the fuselage.

❏

10. Mount the ESC. Connect the wires from the ESC to

❏

the motor wires. Plug the ESC into the receiver.

Assemble the Removable Battery Tray

8. Install the RimFire 1.60 motor.

❏

1. Use epoxy to glue the doublers to the sides.

❏

2. Glue the sides to the battery tray.

❏

16

4. Securely glue the 4 x .7mm blind nut in the plate.

❏

5. Make two battery straps from the supplied hook and

❏

loop material.

3. Glue the plate to the back of the battery tray. Before

❏

the epoxy cures, insert the battery tray in the fuselage and
check that the holes line up.

6. Install the battery straps on the battery tray.

❏

17

7. Test  t the battery tray in the fuselage.

❏

9. Secure the  ight batteries on the battery tray.

❏

10. Secure the battery tray in the fuselage.

❏

8. Apply a couple of pieces of adhesive backed Velcro

❏

(not included) to the battery tray and the opposite side to
the battery.

11. Install the receiver battery tray.

❏

12. Make two straps from the remaining hook and loop

❏

material. Install the receiver battery and receiver switch.

18

13. Switch on the transmitter and temporarily plug in the

❏

receiver battery. Connect the motor batteries to the ESC and
check the rotation direction of the motor. WARNING! Make
sure the propeller is NOT installed.

14. Disconnect the motor batteries, receiver battery and

❏

switch off the transmitter.

Proceed to Install the Cowl (page 25).

Gas Engine Installation

4. Mark the fuel line, throttle and optional choke pushrod

❏

locations on the  rewall. The choke can also be operated
manually through the front of the cowl.

1. Using a 13/64" bit, drill the  rewall for your engine. The

❏

DLE30 and O.S. GT33 are rotated 17 degrees so that the
muf er remains inside the cowl.

2. Install the pivot ball on the throttle and choke arm.

❏

5. Drill the  rewall for the throttle, optional choke and

❏

fuel line.

6. Reinstall the engine. Use threadlocker on all the bolts.

❏

Assemble the Fuel Tank

3. Temporarily mount the engine.

❏

1. Roughen both ends of the brass tubes with sandpaper.

❏

19

2. Solder fuel line barbs onto one end of the brass tubes.

❏

3. Insert the brass tubes in the fuel tank stopper and

❏

stopper plates. Loosely install the fuel tank stopper screw.

6. Install the two fuel pickup lines.

❏

7. Slide the aluminum ring over the fuel tank neck.

❏

4. Solder the barbs on the other end of the two shorter

❏

brass tubes.

5. Carefully bend the vent line.

❏

9. Secure the fuel tank stopper in the fuel tank. Mark the

❏

top of the tank.

20

10. Make three straps from the hook and loop material.

❏

11. Wrap the ignition module in foam and secure it to the

❏

bottom of the fuselage with a hook and loop strap.

14. Install the forward battery hatch in the fuselage.

❏

12. Install the ignition switch. An ignition battery charge

❏

receptacle can also be installed.

13. Wrap the ignition battery in foam and secure to the

❏

bottom of the forward battery hatch.

15. Install the fuel line.

❏

16. Secure the fuel tank in the fuselage.

❏

21

17. Attach the line from the pickup tube to the carburetor.

❏

Install the Throttle and

Optional Choke Servos

3. Make two straps from the remaining hook and loop

❏

material. Install the receiver battery and receiver switch.

4. Install the throttle and optional choke servo and plug

❏

them into the receiver.

1. Glue the two plywood doublers to the bottom of the

❏

throttle servo tray.

2. Install the throttle servo tray.

❏

5. Assemble the throttle pushrod.

❏

6. Install the throttle pushrod.

❏

22

7. Assemble the throttle clevis.

❏

8. Install the clevis on the throttle servo.

❏

12. Install the outer pushrod tube.

❏

9. Attach the 2-56 × 1" [25mm] threaded rod to the throttle

❏

pushrod. It is easier to remove the pushrod from the throttle
to install the threaded rod.

10. Cut the outer pushrod tube.

❏

11. Roughen the outer pushrod tube with sandpaper.

❏

13. Slide a plywood outer pushrod support onto the outer

❏

pushrod. Do not glue it yet.

14. Reinstall the nylon clevis and connect it to the throttle

❏

servo arm. Adjust the clevis so that the throttle opens and

23

closes smoothly. We recommend that a throttle cutoff also
be set up on the transmitter to close the throttle completely,
stopping the engine.

15. Glue the outer pushrod support to the outer pushrod

❏

and the fuselage.

Choke Option #2

1. Install the pivot ball socket.

❏

16. The optional choke pushrod is installed following the

❏

same procedure except the end of the pushrod with the pivot
ball socket is modi ed.

2. Install the choke pushrod.

❏

24

Choke Option #3

1. Insert the choke pushrod.

❏

2. Install the pivot ball socket.

❏

Install the Cowl

For the electric installation, skip to step 2.

1. Trim the cowl as shown to clear the muf er exhaust

❏

pipes and provide enough cooling air exit.

2. Position the cowl.

❏

3. Attach the cowl.

❏

25

Apply the Decals

FULL

THROTTLE

RUDDER MOVES

RIGHT

ELEVATOR

MOVES DOWN

RIGHT AILERON

MOVES UP
LEFT AILERON
MOVES DOWN

(STANDARD MODE 2)

4-CHANNEL RADIO SETUP

1. The decals are die-cut from the factory.

2. Be certain the model is clean and free from oily  ngerprints
and dust. Prepare a dishpan or small bucket with a mixture
of liquid dish soap and warm water – about 1/2 teaspoon of
soap per gallon of water. Submerse one of the decals in the
solution and peel off the paper backing. Note: Even though
the decals have a”sticky-back” and are not the water transfer
type, submersing them in soap and water allows accurate
positioning and reduces air bubbles underneath.

3. Position the decal on the model where desired. Holding the
decal down, use a paper towel to wipe most of the water away.

4. Use a piece of soft balsa or something similar to squeegee
the remaining water from under the decal. Apply the rest of
the decals using the same method.

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Check the Control Throws

2. Center the control surfaces.

❏

1. Switch on the transmitter and receiver.

❏

3. Make certain that the control surfaces and the

❏

carburetor/motor 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.

26

Set the Control Throws

These are the recommended control surface throws:

ELEVATOR

Up &

Down

3/4"

[19mm]

6°

Up &

Down

1-1/8"

[29mm]

9°

Up &

Down

3/4"

[19mm]

9°

Up &

Down

1-1/8"

[29mm]

13°

Right

& Left

1-5/8"

[41mm]

11°

Right

& Left

2-3/8"

[60mm]

16°

RUDDER

AILERONS

LOW RATE HIGH RATE

Up &

Down

4-1/4"

[108mm]

37°

Up &

Down

1-7/8"

[47mm]

23°

Right

& Left

4-1/2"

[114mm]

31°

3D RATE

1. Hold a ruler against the widest part of the control surface

❏

and measure the high rate throw  rst.

4. Once the throws are set, apply a drop of threadlocker

❏

to the threads and tighten the 4-40 nuts against the clevises.
Slide the silicone retainers over the clevises.

IMPORTANT! IMPORTANT! IMPORTANT!

Now that you have the throws set, be sure to set the failsafe
on the radio.

Install the Propeller

2. Adjust the location of the pushrod on the servo arm or

❏

on the control horn  rst. Then, use the endpoint adjustment

in your transmitter to  ne tune the throws.

3. Measure and set the low rate throws. Measure and

❏

set the high and low rate throws for the rest of the control
surfaces the same way.

If your radio does not have the ability to set three throw
rates, we recommend setting the throws at the low and
high rate settings for the  rst  ight.

1. Balance the propeller.

❏

2. Install the propeller. Drill holes through the propeller if

❏

necessary.

NOTE: Enlarge the hole in the spinner backplate to 25/64”
[10mm] for the adapter ring used on the O.S. GT33 engine.

27

Install the spinner cone.

7-1/2" [190mm]

TO

8-5/8" [220mm]

ELECTRIC ONLY: Install the spinner adapter (GPMQ4589)
before installing the spinner cone.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE. A
model that is not properly balanced may be unstable and
possibly un yable.

1. Mark the C.G location.

❏

4. Install the canopy.

❏

Balance the Model Laterally

ELECTRIC ONLY: Install the  ight batteries, but do not plug
the batteries into the ESC.

1. With the wing level, have an assistant help you lift the

❏

model by the engine propeller shaft and the bottom of the

fuse under the TE of the  n. 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.

2. With the plane ready to  y, with an empty fuel tank or

❏

motor batteries installed, use a Great Planes C.G. Machine or

apply narrow (1/16” [2mm]) strips of tape at the front and rear
C.G. locations so you will be able to feel them when lifting
the model with your  ngers to check the C.G. location. Do

not at any time balance the model outside this C.G. range.

3. Use Great Planes “stick on” weight (GPMQ4485) to

❏

balance the plane. Place incrementally increasing amounts
of weight on the bottom of the fuselage over the location
where it would be mounted inside until the model balances. A
good place to add stick-on nose weight is to the  rewall. Do
not attach weight to the cowl—this will cause stress on the
cowl and could cause the cowl to crack at the screw holes.
Once you have determined if additional weight needs to be

installed, permanently attach the weight with glue or screws.

4. IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any

❏

weight, recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.

28

PREFLIGHT

Identify Your Model

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  ying sites and AMA sanctioned

 ying events. Fill out the identi cation tag on page 32 and

place it on or inside your model. You must also have your

FAA number on your plane and accessible without any tools.

Charge the Batteries

Always charge your transmitter and receiver batteries the night

before you go  ying, and at other times as recommended by

the radio manufacturer.

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  ying with
batteries that are only partially charged.

Ground Check and Range Check

Make sure the engine idles reliably, transitions smoothly and

maintains full power inde nitely. Shut the engine off and
inspect the model closely, making sure all fasteners, pushrods
and connections have remained tight and the hinges are

secure. Following the radio manufacturer’s instructions to
ground check the operational range of your radio, before
the  rst  ight of the day. This should be done once with
the engine off and once with the engine running at various

speeds. If the control surfaces do not respond correctly, do

not  y! Find and correct the problem  rst. Look for loose

servo connections or broken wires, corroded wires on old

servo connectors, poor solder joints in your battery pack or

a defective battery cell.

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Failure to follow these safety precautions may result in
severe injury to yourself and others.

● Keep all engine fuel in a safe place, away from high heat,

sparks or  ames, as fuel is very  ammable. Do not smoke
near the engine or fuel; and remember that engine exhaust
gives off a great deal of deadly carbon monoxide. Therefore
do not run the engine in a closed room or garage.

● Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate

engines.

● Use safety glasses when starting or running engines.

● Use a “chicken stick” or electric starter to start the engine.

If you do  ip the propeller with your  ngers, wear a heavy
leather glove, such as a welder's glove. When hand starting

gas engines, if the engine should back re, the large prop
can cause severe injury to your hand and  ngers.

● Do not run the engine 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 start and

run the engine.

● Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt

sleeves, ties, scarfs, long hair or loose objects such as
pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the prop.

● Stop the engine before making any engine adjustments.

●

The engine and muf er get hot! Do not touch them during

or right after operation. Make sure fuel lines are in good
condition so fuel will not leak onto a hot engine, causing a  re.

● To stop a gasoline powered engine an on/off switch must

be connected to the engine ignition. Do not throw anything
into the propeller of a running engine.

ELECTRIC MOTOR

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

● The motor gets HOT! Do not touch it during or right after

operation.

● When working on your plane, remove the propeller if the

motor batteries will be connected.

● Always remove the motor batteries when charging.

● Follow the charging instructions included with your charger

for charging LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries can cause serious

damage if misused.

● Once the motor batteries are connected the electric motor

can start at any time. Make sure the fail safe is set on your
radio to prevent the motor from starting if the signal is lost.

● ALWAYS unplug the motor batteries  rst.

● NEVER switch off the transmitter with the motor batteries

plugged in.

WARNING: Read the entire instruction sheet included with
your motor batteries. Failure to follow the 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 to charge a LiPo

battery.

● NEVER charge in excess of 4.20v per cell unless the battery

is rated for a higher voltage.

● ONLY charge through the “charge” lead.

● NEVER charge through the “discharge” lead.

● NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C unless the

battery is rated for a higher charge rate.

● ALWAYS set the charger’s output volts to match the

battery volts.

● ALWAYS charge a LiPo battery in a  reproof location.

● NEVER trickle charge a LiPo battery.

●

NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 150° F (65° C).

29

● NEVER disassemble or modify the pack wiring in any way

or puncture the cells.

● NEVER discharge below 2.7V per cell.

● NEVER place the battery or charger on combustible

materials or leave it unattended during charge or discharge.

● ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

● NEVER charge the batteries in the plane.

● ALWAYS remove the batteries from the plane after a crash.

Set them aside in a safe location for at least 20 minutes. If
the batteries are damaged in the crash they could catch  re.

● If the battery starts to swell, quickly move the battery to

a safe location, preferably outside. Place it in a bucket,
covering the battery with sand. Never use water to try and
put out a LiPo  re.

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.

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three miles

of any pre-existing  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  ight; nor should any part of the model

other than the landing gear, intentionally touch the ground,

except while landing.

FLYING

The Factor 30cc ARF is a great- ying sport/3D model that

 ies smoothly and predictably. However, it does not possess
the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and

should be  own only by experienced R/C pilots.

Fuel Mixture Adjustments

A fully cowled engine may run at a higher temperature than

an un-cowled engine. For this reason, the fuel mixture should

be richened so the engine runs at about 200 rpm below peak

speed. By running the engine slightly rich, you will help prevent

dead-stick landings caused by overheating.

General

1) I will not  y my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows,
or model  ying demonstrations until it has been proven to be

airworthy by having been previously, successfully  ight tested.

2) I will not  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  ying in the
proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary, an observer
shall be utilized to supervise  ying to avoid having models

 y in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.

3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the
 ying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately  y my

models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.

5) I will not  y my model unless it is identi ed with my name

and address or AMA number, on or in the model. Note: This

does not apply to models while being  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  rst  ight of a new or repaired model.

2) I will not  y my model aircraft in the presence of spectators

until I become a qualified flier, unless assisted by an

experienced helper.

3) At all  ying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be
established in front of which all  ying takes place with the
other side for spectators. Only personnel involved with  ying
the aircraft are allowed at or in the front of the  ight line.
Intentional  ying behind the  ight line is prohibited.

4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.

CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while  ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
 utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a  ying surface (such as a wing or
stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise).
In extreme cases, if not detected immediately,  utter can
actually cause the control surface to detach or the  ying
surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by
an impending crash. If  utter is detected, slow the model
immediately and land as soon as safely possible. Identify
which surface  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  uttered once, under similar circumstances
it will probably  utter again unless the problem is  xed.
Some things which can cause  utter are; Excessive hinge
gap; Not mounting control horns solidly; Poor  t of clevis
pin in horn; Side-play of wire pushrods caused by large
bends; Excessive free play in servo gears; Insecure servo
mounting; and one of the most prevalent causes of  utter;
Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.

Takeof f

Before taking off, see how the model handles on the ground
by doing a few practice runs at low speeds on the runway.
Hold “up” elevator to keep the tail wheel on the ground. If
necessary, adjust the tail wheel so the model will roll straight
down the runway.

Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, set
your control rates to high (not 3D) and point the model straight
down the runway. Hold a bit of up elevator to keep the tail on
the ground to maintain tail wheel steering, and then gradually

advance the throttle. As the model gains speed, decrease up

elevator, allowing the tail to come off the ground. One of the

30

most important things to remember with a tail dragger is to

always be ready to apply right rudder to counteract engine
torque. Gain as much speed as your runway and  ying site
will practically allow before gently applying up elevator, lifting
the model into the air. At this moment it is likely that you
will need to apply more right rudder to counteract engine
torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the model
to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before turning

into the traf c pattern.

Flight

It is a good idea to have an assistant on the  ight line with you
to keep an eye on other traf c. Take it easy with the Factor
30cc ARF for the  rst few  ights, gradually getting acquainted
with it as you gain con dence. Adjust the trims to maintain

straight and level  ight. After  ying around for a while, and
while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow
 ight and execute practice landing approaches by reducing
the throttle to see how the model handles at slower speeds.
Add power to see how she climbs as well. Continue to  y

around, executing various maneuvers and making mental

notes of what trim or C.G. changes may be required to  ne
tune the model so it  ies the way you like. Mind your fuel

level, but use this  rst  ight to become familiar with your

model before landing.

Landing

The Factor 30cc is easy to land. We recommend landing on

high rate throws. To initiate a landing approach, lower the
throttle while on the downwind leg. Continue to lose altitude,
but maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn
onto the crosswind leg. Make your  nal turn toward the runway
(into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and
control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the runway
threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary to maintain
your glide path and airspeed. If you are going to overshoot,

smoothly advance the throttle (always ready on the right rudder
to counteract torque). Climb out to make another attempt. When
the model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up
elevator until it gently touches down. Once the model is on the

runway and has lost  ying speed, hold up elevator to place the
tail on the ground, regaining tail wheel control.

Final note: Have a goal or  ight plan in mind each time you
 y. This may be learning or improving a maneuver or learning
how the model behaves at certain speeds and control rates.
Every maneuver should be deliberate, not impulsive. A  ight
plan reduces the chances of crashing your model because
of poor planning and impulsive moves.

Have a ball! But always stay in control

and  y in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

31

ELEVATOR

LOW RATE HIGH RATE

Up and

Down

3/4"

[19mm]

6°

Up and

Down

1-1/8"

[29mm]

9°

Up and

Down

3/4"

[19mm]

9°

Up and

Down

1-1/8"

[29mm]

13°

Right

& Left

1-5/8"

[41mm]

11°

Right

& Left

2-3/8"

[60mm]

16°

RUDDER

AILERONSC.G.

3D RATE

Up and

Down

4-1/4"

[108mm]

37°

Up and

Down

1-7/8"

[47mm]

23°

Right

& Left

4-1/2"

[114mm]

31°

Forward 7-1/2" [190mm] from leading edge
Aft 8-1/8" [220mm] from leading edge

Receiver Battery:

Ignition Battery:

Motor Battery:

Tape to the underside of the canopy:

Tape inside your plane:

This model belongs to:

Name

Address

City, State, Zip

Phone Number

AMA Number

FAA Number