GREAT PLANES Fokker D.VII ARF ElectriFly Instruction Manual

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 modification. In no case shall Great Planes’ liability exceed the
original cost of the purchased kit. Fur ther, Great Planes reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without notice.

In that Great Planes has no control over the final assembly or material used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted for
any damage resulting from the use by the user of the final 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 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.

READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING
CONSTRUCTION.IT CONT AINS IMPOR T ANT INSTR UCTIONS
AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND
USE OF THIS MODEL.

GPMZ1141 for GPMA1141 V1.0Entire Contents © Copyright 2006

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 36 in [914mm]
Wing Area: 360 sq in [23.2dm2]
Weight: 25.7 oz. [730g]
Wing Loading: 10 oz/sq ft [30g/dm2]
Length: 27 in [686mm]
Required (not included):
Radio: 4-channel with four micro servos
Motor: ElectriFly™RimFire™28-30-950 brushless
ESC: ElectriFly SS-25
Battery: 11.1V, 1250mAh LiPo

™

2

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

AMA...................................................................................2

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

BATTERY CHARGER OPTIONS......................................3

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED.....................................3

Hardware & Accessories.............................................3

Adhesives & Building Supplies....................................3

Optional Supplies & Tools ...........................................3

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES ......................................4

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS............................................4

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS ..............................4

METRIC/INCH RULER......................................................4

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

KIT CONTENTS ................................................................5

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

ASSEMBLE THE WING ....................................................6

Install the Ailerons.......................................................6

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE...........................................7

Mount the Wing...........................................................7

Mount the Stabilizer & Fin...........................................7

RADIO INSTALLATION .....................................................9

Install the Motor & ESC...............................................9

Install the Linkages ...................................................10

Install the Servos.......................................................11

Install the Top Wing...................................................13

FINISH THE MODEL .......................................................14

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY .................................16

Check the Control Directions ....................................16

Set the Control Throws..............................................17

Balance the Model (C.G.)..........................................17

Balance the Model Laterally ......................................17

PREFLIGHT.....................................................................18

Identify Your Model ....................................................18

Charge the Transmitter Batteries...............................18

Balance the Propellers..............................................18

Proper Care of Your Motor.........................................18

Ground Check...........................................................18

Range Check.............................................................18

MOTOR & BATTERY SAFETY PRECAUTIONS............18

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)....................................19

CHECK LIST ...................................................................19

FLYING ............................................................................19

Takeoff ...............................................Back Cover Page

Flight..................................................Back Cover Page

Landing..............................................Back Cover Page

The Fokker D.VII is one of the most popular and most deadly
of all German WW1 biplanes.You can now have this great
looking and flying aircraft as an electric without the mess
and fuss of a glow engine. With today’s LiPo (Lithium­Polymer) batteries and micro servos, small electrics have
become very popular. Now Great Planes brings you the
Fokker D.VII in a small, easy to fly, ARF electric. So if you

want to impress your glow flying b uddies with an electric, the
Great Planes Fokker D.VII EP ARF is just what you need.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
Fokker D.VII EP ARF, visit the Great Planes web site at
www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link and
select the Fokker D.VII EP 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.

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 fly at
AMA clubs.Though joining the AMA provides many benefits,
one of the primary reasons to join is liability protection.
Coverage is not limited to flying at contests or on the club
field. It even applies to flying 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.

IMPORTANT!!! Two of the most important things you can do
to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid
flying near full-scale aircraft and avoid flying near or over
groups of people.

1.Your F okk er D.VII EP 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 Fokker D.VII EP 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

PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,YOURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302

Tele: [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

AMA

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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
first-class condition.

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
flight 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 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 hob by
shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.

Remember:Take your time and follow the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.

The Great Planes Fokker D.VII EP ARF is designed for use
with LiPo (Lithium-Polymer) batteries only. All LiPo batteries
require a charger specifically designed for charging LiPo
batteries. The use of a charger not designed for charging
LiPo batteries will result in damage to the batteries and
possibly a fire.

We recommend the use of the Great Planes Triton™DC
Peak Charger (GPMM3150), the ElectriFly DC PolyCharge

™

(GPMM3010) or for charging more than one battery at a
time the ElectriFly PolyCharge4 (GPMM3015).

In addition to the items listed in the

“BATTERY CHARGER

OPTIONS”

section, the following is the list of hardware and
accessories required to finish the Fokker D.VII EP ARF.
Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

❏ 4-Channel radio with four micro servos with a minimum

17 oz/in each such as the Futaba®S3107 (FUTM0025)

❏ (1) ElectriFly SS-25 25 amp brushless ESC (GPMM1820)
❏ (1) ElectriFly 3.5mm Bullet

™

(male) to 2mm Bullet

(female) connector adapter (GPMM3122)

❏ (1) ElectriFly 1250mAh LiPo 3-cell battery (GPMP0823)
❏ (1) Futaba R114F 4-channel FM receiver

(FUTL0443, FUTL0442)

❏ (1) Futaba “Y-harness” (FUTM4130)
❏ (1) ElectriFly RimFire C28-30-950 brushless

motor (GPMG4560)

❏ (1) 10x4.5 Prop (GPMQ6660)
❏ (1) 3mm Prop adapter (GPMQ4959)
❏ (1) 6" [152mm] Servo extension

In addition to common household tools and hobby tools, this
is the “short list”of the most important items required to build
the Fokker D.VII EP ARF.

Great Planes Pro™CA and Epoxy

glue are recommended.

❏ 1 oz. [28g] Thin Pro CA (GPMR6002)
❏ 1 oz. [28g] Medium Pro CA (GPMR6008)
❏ Hook & Loop material (GPMQ4480)
❏ #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏ #11 Blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏ Medium T-pins (100, HCAR5150)
❏ Builder’s Triangle Set (HCAR0480)
❏ K & S #801 Kevlar

®

thread or string (for stab alignment)

❏ Pliers
❏ Wire cutter
❏ Clear tape

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Fokker D.VII EP ARF.

❏ Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)
❏ Top Flite

®

MonoKote®sealing iron (TOPR2100)

❏ Top Flite Hot Sock

™

iron cover (TOPR2175)

❏ Top Flite MonoKote heat gun (TOPR2000)
❏ 2 oz. [57g] Spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)

Optional Supplies & Tools

Accessories & Building Supplies

Hardware & Accessories

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

BATTERY CHARGER OPTIONS

We, as the kit manuf acturer, provide you with a top quality ,
thoroughly tested kit 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.

3

❏ Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402)
❏ CG Machine

™

(GPMR2400)

❏ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer

™

(TOPQ5700)

• When you see the term

test fit

in the instructions, it
means that you should first position the part on the
assembly without using any glue, and then slightly modify
or

custom fit

the part as necessar y for the best fit.

• This kit contains primarily metric hardware with just a
couple of exceptions.

•

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 fly, please expect slight
deviations between your model and the published values.

Fuse = Fuselage

Stab = Horizontal Stabilizer

Fin = Ver tical Fin

LE = Leading Edge

TE = Trailing Edge
LG = Landing Gear
Ply = Plywood

" = Inches

mm = Millimeters

ESC = Electronic Speed Control

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Fokker D.VII EP 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.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico

®

web site at
www.hobbico.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 [phone], or via facsimile at [phone], 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 [e-mail],
or by telephone at [phone].

Replacement Parts List

GPMA3015..............Top Wing Set

GPMA3016..............Bottom Wing Set

GPMA3017..............Fuse Set

GPMA3018..............Tail Surface Set

GPMA3019..............Cowl/Cheek Vent Set

GPMA3020..............Cabanes Set

GPMA3021..............N Strut Set

GPMA3022..............Machine Gun Set

GPMA3023..............Landing Gear

GPMA3010..............Wheels (2)

GPMA3011..............Pilot

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

4

To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4

5

Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to make sure it is complete, and 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.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N. Apollo Drive , Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], ext. 5

Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

KIT INSPECTION

1. Battery Cover

2. Fuselage

3. Stabilizer

4. Elevators

5. ABS Side Vents (2)

6. Landing Gear (2)

7. Wheels (2)

8. V-Shaped Cabanes (2)

9. Cheek V ents (L&R)

10. Straight Cabane Struts (4)

11. Cowl

12. N Struts (2)

13. Landing Gear Sub Wing

14. Machine Gun Mount

15. Machine Guns (2)

16. Aileron Ser vo Hatches (2)

17. Fin & Rudder

18. Radio Cover

19. T op Wing w/Ailerons

20. Bottom Wing

Kit Contents

KIT CONTENTS

6

20

2

7

8

10

12

13

16

15

3

4

17

18

11

9

19

5

14

1

❏ 1. If you have not done so already, remove the major

parts of the kit from the box (wing, fuselage, tail parts, etc.)
and inspect them for damage. If any par ts are damaged or
missing, contact Product Support at the address or
telephone number on page 5.

❏ 2. Separate the ailerons from the wing, the rudder from

the fin and the elevator from the stabilizer.If necessary, use
a covering iron set on medium/high to carefully tighten the
covering.Lay the control surface on a flat surface and apply
pressure over sheeted areas to thoroughly bond the
covering to the wood. Hint: Poke three or four pin holes in
the covering over the open structure in the tail surf aces .This
will allow the hot air to escape while tightening the covering.

WARNING: DO NOT OVER SHRINK THE COVERING OR
IT WILL CAUSE THE CONTROL SURFACES TO TWIST.

❏ 3. Check the hinge slots of all control surfaces using a

hobby knife with a #11 blade. This will help when installing
the hinges.

❏❏1. Test fit the right aileron to the top wing with two

6.4mm x 15mm [1/4" x 5/8"] hinges. If the hinges don’t stay
centered, stick a pin through the middle of the hinges to hold
them in position while fitting the aileron to the wing.

❏❏2. Remove any pins you may have inserted into the

hinges. Install the aileron so there is a very small gap
between the LE of the aileron and the wing.The gap should
be small – just enough to see light through or to slip a piece
of paper through.

❏❏3. Apply three drops of thin CA to the top and bottom

of each hinge. Do not use CA accelerator. After the CA has
cured, test the hinges by pulling on the ailerons.

❏ 4. Repeat steps 1-3 for the left aileron.

Install the Ailerons

ASSEMBLE THE WINGPREPARATIONS

6

❏ 1.Locate the two 4.5mm x 18mm [11/64" x 11/16"] dowel

rods and insert them into the bottom wing as shown, so that
only about 9.5mm [3/8"] sticks out.Secure them with a drop
of CA.

❏ 2. Test fit the bottom wing to the fuselage and secure it

with two 4-40 x 19mm [3/4"] machine screws and 3mm [1/8"]
washers.The flat side of the wing is the bottom.

❏ 1. Using a sharp hobby knife, remove the covering from

the stabilizer cut-out at the aft end of the fuselage.

❏ 2. Mark the center of the TE of the stabilizer. Place the

stabilizer onto the stabilizer saddle.

❏ 3. Stick a T-pin into the center of the top of the firewall.Tie

a small loop in one end of a 900mm [35"] piece of non­elastic string such as K&S #801 Kevlar thread.Slip the loop
in the string over the T-pin.

❏ 4. Fold a piece of masking tape over the other end of the

string and draw an arrow on it.With the stab centered on the
fuselage and the TE of the stabilizer flush with the aft end of
the fuse, slide the tape along the string and align the arrow
with one tip of the stabilizer. Swing the string over to the
same position at the other end of the stab. If the arrow

Mount the Stabilizer & Fin

Mount the Bottom Wing

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE

7

doesn’t align with the tip, adjust the stab and the arrow
slightly and check both tips again. Adjust the stab until the
stabilizer tips and the TE are centered.

❏ 5. View the stab from approximately 3m [10 feet] behind

the plane.Check that the stab is parallel with the wing.If it is
not, lightly sand the stab saddle until the stab is parallel with
the wing.

❏ 6. Use a fine-point felt-tip pen to mark the outline of the

fuselage onto the bottom of the stab.

❏ 7. Remove the stab from the fuselage. Use a sharp #11

hobby knife or the

“Expert Tip”

that follows to cut the
covering from the stab just inside the lines you marked.Use
care to cut only the covering and not the wood. Cutting the
wood will weaken the stab and it may break in flight.

❏ 8. Reinstall the stabilizer onto the fuselage. Use the string

method to align the stabilizer and glue it in place with thin CA.

❏ 9.Test fit the fin on the stabilizer.Make sure that the fin is

perpendicular to the stabilizer and the TE is flush with the aft
end of the fuselage.

❏ 10. Use a fine-point felt-tip pen to mark the outline of the

fin on the top of the stabilizer.

❏ 11. Remove the fin from the stabilizer. Using the same

technique used for the stab, cut the covering from the top of
the stabilizer just inside the lines you marked. Use care to
cut only the covering and not the wood.Cutting the wood will
weaken the stabilizer and it may break in flight.

❏ 12. Remove the covering from the tabs of the fin and the

bottom edge of the fin that will be adhered to the stabilizer.

❏ 13. Use a small modeling square to make sure that the fin

is perpendicular to the stabilizer and secure it in place with CA.

HOW TO CUT COVERING FROM BALSA

Use a 25-watt soldering iron to cut the covering from the
stab.The tip of the soldering iron doesn’t have to be sharp,
but a fine-tip does work best. Allow the iron to heat fully.
Use a metal straightedge to guide the soldering iron at a
rate that will just melt the covering and not burn into the
wood. The hotter the soldering iron, the faster it must
travel to melt a fine cut. Allow the heat to melt the
covering.Do not apply much pressure or the wood ma y be
damaged. Peel off the covering.

8

❏ 14. Temporarily attach the elevator to the stabilizer with

four CA hinges. Note: There is a left and right side to the
elevator.The left side of the elevator has a small slot for the
elevator control horn.The slot is located under the covering.

(The covering will be cut away in a later step in the manual.)

Locate the slot by pressing the underside of the elev ator. Be

sure the elevator half with the slot is on the left side of
the fuselage. Make sure the stabilizer and elevator are

aligned. If needed, use T-pins to hold the CA hinges
centered in the elevator.Apply 3 drops of thin CA on the top
and bottom of each hinge.

❏ 15. Install three CA hinges in the rudder and test fit it on

the fin.Adjust the position of the fin so that the bottom of the
rudder is even with the bottom of the fuselage and the LE of
the rudder and the TE of the fin are aligned. Apply 3 drops
of thin CA on each side of each hinge.

❏ 16. Test fit the tail skid at the rear of the fuselage. When

satisfied with the fit, attach the tail skid to the bottom of the
fuselage using medium CA.

Note: You will need to have your motor battery charged later in
this section. We recommend that you start charging it now so
you do not have to w ait for it to charge later .Make sure to closely
follow the charging instructions for charging LiPo batteries.
We also recommend that you remove the bottom wing for
this procedure for better access to the inside of the fuselage.

❏ 1. Cut a 20mm [3/4"] long piece of hook and loop mater ial

(not included). Glue the 20mm [3/4"] soft piece (hook side) to
the back of the ESC. Glue the rough piece (loop side) to the
bottom of the battery tray. Inser t the ESC through the front of
the firewall and secure it in place by joining the hook and loop
material. Route the battery connector out of one of the two
holes at the back of the battery compartment. Route the servo
lead into the wing opening and the three motor leads out the
front of the firewall.The reason the ESC needs to be mounted
in this location is so that it has a good flow of air over it.

❏ 2. Cut another 20mm [3/4"] long piece of hook and loop

material (not included) and glue the 20mm [3/4"] soft piece
(hook side) to the back of the receiver.Glue the rough piece
(loop side) to the top of the inside of the fuselage in front of
the cockpit. Insert the receiver and secure it in place by
joining the hook and loop material.

❏ 3. Use epoxy to join the two piece motor mount. Make

sure all openings are flush.

Install the Motor & ESC

RADIO INSTALLATION

9

❏ 4. Attach the RimFire motor to the back of the plywood

motor mount with three 3mm x 6mm [1/8" x 15/64"] machine
screws. Apply a drop of threadlocker on the threads of the
machine screws.Insert each of three 3mm x 30mm [1/8" x 1-3/16"]
machine screws through a 3mm [1/8"] washer, the outer holes
of the motor mount, another 3mm [1/8"] washer, a 17mm
[21/32"] tube, and another 3mm [1/8"] washer as shown in the
drawing. Apply a drop of threadlocker on the threads of each
screw and install the motor mount to the firewall.

❏ 5. Install a 3.5mm [9/64"] Bullet (male) to 2mm [5/64"]

Bullet (female) connector adapter (GPMM3122) on each of
the motor leads. Connect the motor leads to the ESC. Push
the wires up into the fuselage to prevent them from
contacting the rotating motor case.

❏ 1. Use a sharp hobby knife to trim the covering from over

the small rectangular holes towards the LE of the rudder and
the bottom of the elevator as shown. Do not cut all the way
through the rudder or elevator.

❏ 2. Test fit the control horns in the holes so that they are

perpendicular to the control surface. Once satisfied with the
fit, use CA to secure the control horns in place.

❏ 3. Insert the two 460mm [18"] wire pushrods into the

outer pushrod tubes at the rear of the fuselage as shown.

Install the Linkages

10

❏ 4.Insert the 90° bends of the 460mm [18"] pushrods into the

outer hole of the control horns and secure them with the plastic
retainers as shown.Place a drop of CA on the plastic retainers.

❏ 1. Install the servo mounting hardware and servo arms on

the rudder and elevator servos. Trim off the unused servo
arms. Insert a screw-lock pushrod connector in the hole of
each servo arm 9mm [11/32"] from the center of the servo.
Secure the screw-lock pushrod connector to the servo arm
with a nylon retainer.

❏ 2.Position the servos on the servo rails aligning them with the

pushrod wires and drill a 1.6mm [1/16"] hole through each of the

mounting holes in the servo. Install and then remove a servo
mounting screw into each of the holes you drilled. Apply a
couple of drops of CA into each hole to harden the threads.After
the glue has hardened, plug the ESC, rudder and elevator
servos into the receiver .Plug a battery pack into the ESC .Switch
on the transmitter and then the ESC. Center the trims on the
transmitter and re-center the servo arms on the servos if
necessary so that the arm is per pendicular to the centerline of
the servo.Insert the rudder and elevator pushrod wires into the
screw-lock pushrod connectors and install the rudder and
elevator servos on the servo rails. Use the hardware included
with the servos to mount the servos to the rails.

❏ 3. With the transmitter and the ESC power “ON,” center

the elevator control surface and tighten the set screw in the
screw-lock pushrod connector against the elevator pushrod.

❏ 4.F ollow the same procedure to secure the rudder pushrod.

❏ 5. Clean the cases of both aileron ser vos with denatured

alcohol. Use CA to glue the aileron ser vos on the bottom of
the aileron servo hatches so that the servo arm is centered
in the opening. Cut off all of the unused servo arms. If you
prefer, wrap electrical tape or heat-shrink tubing around the
servos before gluing them to the servo hatch.This will allow
the servos to be removed easily.

❏ 6.Inside the aileron servo bays of the top wing, there is a

string that runs from one bay to the other. Plug the left

Install the Servos

11

aileron servo into a 610mm [24"] Y-harness and tie the string
around the other aileron plug. Be sure to secure the left
aileron connection with heat-shrink tubing.

❏ 7. Lightly pull the other end of the string until the

“Y” section is near the small opening near the center of the
top wing. Carefully use a bent paper clip or some type of
grasping device to carefully pull out the connector for the
receiver. Leave the right aileron connector tied to the string.

❏ 8. Continue pulling the string until the right aileron

connector enters the right aileron bay. Disconnect the string
and plug in the right aileron servo. Secure the connection
with heat-shrink tubing.

❏ 9. Secure each aileron ser vo hatch to the wing with four

2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping washer head screws.

❏ 10. Use a sharp hobby knife to trim the covering from over

the small rectangular hole along the LE of each aileron as
shown. Do not cut all the way through the ailerons.

❏ 11.Test fit the control horns and when satisfied with their

fit, CA them in place as shown.

❏ 12.Install one 35mm [1-3/8"] aileron pushrod in the outer

hole of the aileron servo arm and another in the outer hole
of the aileron control horn. Slide one of the included pieces
of heat-shrink tubing over the pushrods. With the radio
system on and the aileron servo trim lever centered, shrink
the heat-shrink tubing over the pushrods and apply a couple
of drops of thin CA to the tubing. Note: A hot soldering iron
works great for shrinking the heat-shrink tubing.

❏ 13. Make a small hole in the bottom sheeting. Route the

antenna out of the hole and tape it to the bottom of the fuselage.

❏ 14. Plug a 152mm [6"] servo extension into the receiver

securing it with heat-shrink tubing, tape or other method to
secure the connection. Route the servo extension through the
hole in the left side of the fuselage.Re-install the bottom wing.

12

❏ 1. Study the above drawing carefully.There are four pairs of

strut mounts.They are labeled AC9a, AC9b, AC9c , and AC9d.
Test fit the bottom mounts into their respective strut mount
pockets in the bottom wing.Do not glue them in place.

❏ 2.Use 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping washer head

screws to hold the end struts in place as shown.The end struts
have “TF” stamped into them to indicate “Top Front.”

❏ 3. Install and remove four 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-

tapping washer head screws into the pre-drilled holes on
each side of the fuselage.Apply a couple of drops of thin CA
into each hole to harden the threads.

❏ 4. Locate the two “V” shaped cabanes and screw them in

place with four 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping
washer head screws as shown.

❏ 5. Locate two straight cabane struts.Secure the top of the

straight cabane strut to the “V” cabane with a 2mm x 6mm
[5/64" x 7/32"] machine screw. Be sure to use a drop of
threadlocker on the screw. Attach the bottom of the strut to
the fuselage with a 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping
washer head screw.

❏ 6. Attach the top wing to the center cabanes with two

2-56 x 9.5mm [3/8"] machine screws and two 2mm [5/64"]
washers as shown.

❏ 7. Put the center rear cabanes in place. Attach the

cabanes with 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping
washer head screws at the sides of the fuselage and with
2-56 x 9.5mm [3/8"] machine screws and two 2mm [5/64"]
washers in the bottom of the top wing.

Install the Top Wing

13

❏ 8. Use four 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping washer

head screws to finish fastening the end struts in place as
shown. Once you have determined that the wing is straight,
with no twists, use thin CA to glue the strut mounts into the
strut mount pockets.IMPORTANT: Do not glue the struts to

the strut mounts.

❏ 9. Glue the cheek vents in place as shown.You will need

to remove the screw from the front of the “V” strut and slide
the cheek in place.Use a f elt-tip pen to make a mark to show
where to drill.Once the hole is drilled, simply slide the cheek
vent in place and re-install the 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"]
self-tapping washer head screw.

❏ 10. Use CA to glue one ABS side vent on each side of the

fuselage as shown.

❏ 1. Locate the radio compartment cover and secure it to the

fuselage with four 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping
washer head screws as shown. Remove the screws and
harden the holes with thin CA.Then, reinstall the screws.

❏ 2. Carefully thread the axle through the sub-wing and

attach the rear landing gear strut followed by the front
landing gear strut as shown.The rear strut is identified by a
second hole near the axle hole.

❏ 3. Secure the sub-wing to the landing gear with two

2mm x 6mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping screws as shown.
Remove the screws and harden the holes with thin CA.Then,
reinstall the screws.

FINISH THE MODEL

14

Remove the screws and harden the holes with thin CA.Then,
reinstall the screws.

❏ 4. Attach the landing gear to the bottom of the fuselage

with four 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping washer
head screws. Remove the screws and harden the holes with
thin CA.Then, reinstall the screws.

❏ 5. On each axle, place a 3mm [1/8"] washer and 3mm

[1/8"] nut with threadlocker, followed by another 3mm
washer and the wheel. Secure the wheel in place with a
3mm [1/8"] washer and 3mm [1/8"] nut. Apply a drop of
threadlocker to the nut.

❏ 6.Put the battery cover in place .The battery cover has three

very small but powerful magnets that will hold it in place.

❏ 7. Put the cowl in place so that the motor shaft is centered

in the opening. Drill two 1.6mm [1/16"] holes through each

side of the cowl as shown. Install and then remove a
2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"] self-tapping washer head screw
into each of the holes you drilled. Apply a couple of drops of
CA into each hole to harden the threads. Put the cowl back
in place and secure it with four 2mm x 7mm [5/64" x 9/32"]
self-tapping washer head screws.

❏ 8.Remove a 13mm x 13mm [1/2" x 1/2"] square of cov ering

from the top of the fuselage in front the cockpit and use CA to
attach the machine gun mount. Glue the machine guns in
place as shown. IMPORTANT: Make sure that the machine

guns do not extend out over the battery compartment.

❏ 9. Slide the prop shaft and collet onto the motor shaft.The

collet has a tapered hole through it.

❏ 10. Install a 10x4.5 propeller. Install the prop washer and

prop nut and tighten the nut securely.

15

❏ 11. Remove the battery compartment cover .Note that the

lip slides under the cowl and the aft end is held on with two
magnets. Inser t the batter y in the battery compar tment and
replace the battery compar tment cover.

❏ 12. Use clear tape to secure the aileron wire to the

cabanes as shown.

❏ 1. Carefully trim the perimeter of the parts using a shar p

hobby knife.

❏ 2. Sand each half using 150- or 220-grit sandpaper and

a Great Planes Easy-Touch™bar sander.

❏ 3. Carefully join the halves with thick CA and lightly sand

the seam.

❏ 4. Paint to suit your taste.
❏ 5. After the paint has dried, the pilot can be attached to the

former at the back of the cockpit using CA. Before gluing,
scrape the paint from the pilot where it will attach to the former.

Warning: Once the motor battery is connected to the
ESC, stay clear of the propeller.

❏ 1. Switch on the transmitter and connect the motor

battery to the ESC. Move the throttle stick down to the off
position. Switch on the ESC and center the trims.

❏ 2. Make certain that the control surfaces 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 necessar y.

❏ 3. Follow the instructions included with your ESC to arm

the motor. Make sure the propeller is turning in the correct
direction. If not, refer to the ESC instructions to change the
direction of rotation.

Warning! Once the battery is connected to the ESC, stay
clear of the propeller even if the ESC has not been armed.

Check the Control Directions

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Assemble the Pilot

16

4-CHANNEL RADIO SETUP

(STANDARD MODE 2)

4-CHANNEL

ELEVATOR MOVES UP

RIGHT AILERON MOVES UP

LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN

TRANSMITTER

4-CHANNEL

TRANSMITTER

RUDDER MOVES RIGHT

4-CHANNEL

TRANSMITTER

4-CHANNEL

TRANSMITTER

FULL THROTTLE

Use a Great Planes AccuThrow (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 ha v e
dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the low

rate setting.
Note: The throws are measured at the widest part of the

elevators, rudder and ailerons.

At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fly condition
with all of the systems in place including the motor, landing
gear, motor battery, and the radio system.

❏ 1. Use a felt-tip pen or 3mm-wide [1/8"] 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 54mm [2-1/8"] back from
the LE of the top wing.

❏ 2. With the wing attached to the fuselage, all parts of the

model installed (ready to fly) and the motor battery installed,
place the model right-side up on a Great Planes CG
Machine, or lift it at the balance point you marked.

❏ 3. If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy”and the motor

battery and/or receiver 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 motor battery and/or receiver
must be shifted aft or weight must be added to the tail to
balance. If possible, move the receiver forward or aft to
minimize or eliminate any additional ballast required. If
additional weight is required, use Great Planes “stick-on”
lead (GPMQ4485). A good place to add stick-on nose
weight is under the battery cover (don’t attach weight to the
cowl-it is not intended to support weight). Begin by placing
incrementally increasing amounts of weight on the bottom of
the fuse over the firew all until the model balances .Once y ou
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.

❏ 1.With the wing level, lift the model by the prop shaft and the

bottom of the fuse under the TE of the fin.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.

Balance the Model Laterally

This is where your model should balance for the first
flights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the
C.G. up to 3mm [1/8"] forward or 3mm [1/8"] back to
change the flying characteristics. Moving the C.G.forward
may improve the smoothness and stability, but the model
may then require more speed for tak eoff and mak e it more
difficult to slow for landing.Moving the C.G.aft makes the
model more maneuverable, but could also cause it to
become too difficult to control. In any case, start at the
recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the specified range.

More than any other factor, the C.G. (balance point) can
have the greatest effect on how a model flies, and may
determine whether or not your first flight will be
successful. If you value this model and wish to enjoy it for
many flights, DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT
PROCEDURE. A model that is not properly balanced will
be unstable and possibly unflyable.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

IMPORTANT: The Fokker D.VII EP ARF has been
extensively flown and tested to arrive at the throws at

which it flies best. Flying your model at these throws will
provide you with the greatest chance for successful first
flights. If, after you have become accustomed to the way
the Fokker D.VII EP ARF flies, you would like to change
the throws to suit your taste, that is fine. However, too
much control throw could make the model difficult to
control, so remember, “more is not always better.”

These are the recommended control surface throws:

High Rate Low Rate

ELEVATOR: 13mm [1/2"] up 8mm [5/16"] up

13mm [1/2"] down 8mm [5/16"] down

RUDDER: 25mm [1"] right 13mm [1/2"] right

25mm [1"] left 13mm [1/2"] left

AILERONS: 14mm [9/16"] up 9.5mm [3/8"] up

14mm [9/16"] down 9.5mm [3/8"] down

Set the Control Throws

17

No matter if you fly at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or if
you fly 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
flying sites and AMA sanctioned flying events. Fill out the
identification tag on the decal sheet and place it on or inside
your model.

Follow the battery charging instructions that came with your
radio control system to charge the transmitter. You should
always charge your transmitter the night before you go flying,
and at other times as recommended by the radio manuf acturer .

Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
you fly. An unbalanced prop can be the single most
significant 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 servos.

We use a Top Flite Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer

™

(TOPQ5700) in the workshop and keep a Great Planes
Fingertip Prop Balancer (GPMQ5000) in our flight box.

Using multiple battery packs to run the motor for successive
flights may cause the motor to become excessively hot.We
recommend at least a 10-minute motor cool-down period
between flights.

Before the first flight, inspect the model closely to make sure
all screws remained tight, the hinges are secure, the prop is
secure and all pushrods and connectors are secure.

Ground check the operational range of your r adio before the
first flight of the day. With the transmitter antenna collapsed
and the receiver and transmitter on, you should be able to
walk at least 30m [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 r unning
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 fly! Find and
correct the problem first.Look f or loose servo connections or
broken wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, poor
solder joints in your battery pack or a defective cell, or a
damaged receiver crystal from a previous crash.

Use safety glasses when running the motor.
Do not run the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand;the

propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.
Keep your f ace and body as w ell as all spectators a wa y from

the plane of rotation of the propeller as you run the motor.
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.

Always remove the LiPo (Lithium-Polymer) battery from the
plane before charging.

Always use a charger designed to charge LiPo batteries for
charging the LiPo flight battery.

Never leave the LiPo battery unattended while charging. If the
battery becomes more than just warm, discontinue charging.

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

MOTOR & BATTERY SAFETY

PRECAUTIONS

Range Check

Ground Check

Proper Care of Your Motor

Balance the Propellers

CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your

radio system state differently, the initial charge on new
transmitter 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 flying with
batteries that are only partially charged.

Charge the Transmitter Batteries

Identify Y our Model

PREFLIGHT

18

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.

1) I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air
shows, or model flying demonstrations until it has been
proven to be airworthy by having been previously,
successfully flight tested.

2) I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately
400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the
airport operator .I will giv e right-of-wa y and av oid flying in the
proximity of full-scale aircraft.Where necessary, an observer
shall be utilized to supervise flying to avoid having models
fly in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.

3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the
flying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately fly my
models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.

5) I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name
and address or AMA number, on or in the model.Note:This
does not apply to models while being flown indoors.

7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device
that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).

1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.

2) I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of
spectators until I become a qualified flier, unless assisted b y
an experienced helper.

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

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

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three

miles of any pre-existing flying 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 flight; nor should any part of the

model other than the landing gear, intentionally touch
the ground, except while landing.

❏ 1. Check the C.G. according to the measurements

provided in the manual.

❏ 2. Be certain the motor battery and receiver are

securely mounted in the fuse.

❏ 3. Extend your receiver antenna and make sure it has a

strain relief inside the fuselage to keep tension off the
solder joint inside the receiver.

❏ 4. Balance your model

laterally

as explained in

the instructions.

❏ 5. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place.
❏ 6. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA where

appropriate (servo mounting screws, cabane
mounting screws, etc.).

❏ 7. Confirm that all controls operate in the correct direction

and the throws are set up according to the manual.

❏ 8. Make sure that all servo arms are secured to the

servos with the screws included with your radio.

❏ 9. Secure connections between servo wires and

Y-connectors or servo extensions with vinyl tape, heat­shrink tubing or special clips suitable for that purpose.

❏ 10. Make sure any servo extension cords you may have

used do not interfere with other systems (servo arms,
pushrods, etc.).

❏ 11. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
❏ 12. Tighten the propeller nut.
❏ 13.Place your name, address, AMA number and

telephone number on or inside your model.

❏ 14. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before

your first flight.

❏ 15. Range check your radio when you get to the flying field.

The Fokker D.VII is a great-flying model that flies smoothly
and predictably. The Fokker D.VII does not, however,
possess the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C
trainer and should be flown only by experienced R/C pilots.

FLYING

During the last few moments of preparation your mind may
be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the first flight.
Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain
checks and procedures that should be performed before the
model is flown.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.

CHECK LIST

Radio Control

General

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)

19

The Fokker D.VII has a tail skid rather than a conventional
tailwheel. This prevents you from having complete control
while trying to taxi. If your field has short grass or is paved,
it is recommended that you set the airplane on the runway
pointed into the wind to ready the plane for takeoff. If your
field has very thick or tall grass you should consider hand­launching the airplane.

With the plane pointed into the wind, arm the motor as per
the ESC instructions and slowly advance the throttle. Apply
full power and launch the model into the wind with the wings
level with the horizon. When the plane picks up speed,
gradually add “up elevator” to begin a gentle climb. At this
moment it is likely that you will need to apply more right
rudder to counteract motor torque. Be smooth on the
elevator stick, allowing the model to establish a gentle climb
to a safe altitude before turning into the traffic pattern.

For reassurance and to keep an e ye on other traffic, it is a good
idea to have an assistant on the flight line with you.Tell him to
remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a comf ortable
altitude.Tak e it easy with the Fokker D.VII for the first few flights,
gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain confidence.
Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level flight. After flying
around for a while, and while still at a saf e altitude with plenty of
battery power remaining, practice slow flight 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 fly around, executing various
maneuvers and making mental notes (or having your assistant
write them down) of what trim or C.G.changes may be required
to fine tune the model so it flies the way you like. The Fokker

D.VII will perform loops, hammerheads, inverted flight and rolls.
When performing rolls you will find that the rolls are more of a
barrel roll. It is recommended you are at a safe altitude before
attempting the roll until you have become familiar with the
characteristics of the airplane. Mind your battery power but use
this first flight to become familiar with your model bef ore landing.

WWI planes like the Fokk er are notorious for their poor ground
handling.Your model has been designed for maximum control
without excessively deviating from scale lines. This said, the
airplane is a little trickier on the ground than other models you
may have flown.We have specified a high and low rate for the
elevator.For normal flying you will find the low rate elevator is
more than adequate.You might want to switch to the high rate
for landing. The airplane has a tendency to nose over. The
additional throw provided by the high rate elevator will help to
minimize nose-overs when landing. To initiate a landing
approach, lower the throttle while on the downwind leg. Allow
the nose of the model to pitch downward to gradually b leed off
altitude. Continue to lose altitude, but maintain airspeed by
keeping the nose down as you turn onto the crosswind leg.
Make your final turn toward the runwa y (into the wind) k eeping
the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level the
attitude when the model reaches the runway threshold.At this
point it is best to keep up the air speed and the RPM of the
motor, flying the plane to the ground.The plane will land best
if you fly it to the ground landing first on the main wheels and
allowing the tail to naturally settle as the speed decreases.
Three point stall landings will also work but are trickier to do on
a consistent basis. If you are going to overshoot, smoothly
advance the throttle (always ready on the right rudder to
counteract torque) and climb out to make another attempt.But,
if your battery power is low , do not attempt to go around again.
It is better to land long than risk stalling the plane by flying too
slow because the motor battery is low on power.

One final note about flying your model: Have a goal or flight
plan in mind for every flight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) y ou already kno w, 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 finding that you’v e 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 flight 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 fly in a
safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

Landing

Flight

Takeoff

CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If, while

flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such as a low­pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface

flutter

. Flutter
occurs when a control surface (such as an aileron or elev ator) or
a flying surface (such as a wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and
down (thus causing the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected
immediately, flutter can actually cause the control surface to
detach or the flying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control
followed b y an impending crash.The best thing to do when flutter
is detected is to slow the model immediately by reducing power ,
then land as soon as safely possible. Identify which surface
fluttered (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
fluttered once, under similar circumstances it will probably flutter
again unless the problem is fixed.Some things which can cause
flutter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control horns
solidly; Poor fit 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 flutter; Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.