Great Planes GPMA1146 User Manual

SPECIFICATIONS

ESC: Electrifly™ SS-25Wingspan: 35.5 in [900mm] Length: 28 in [710mm]

Wing Area: 314 sq in

[20.3dm

2

]

Motor:

ElectriFly™
(28-30-950) Brushless

Weight: 21.9-23.1 oz

[620-650g]

Propeller: Great Planes® 10x4.5

Wing

Loading:

10-10.6 oz/sq ft
[31-32g/dm

2

]

Slo-Flyer Electric Prop

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.
Further, 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

RimFire™ 400

Battery: Great Planes

11.1V, 1600mAh LiPo

Radio: 4-Channel (minimum)

with Micro Receiver,
four Micro Servos

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 CONTAINS IMPORTANT

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

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

Entire Contents © Copyright 2009 GPMA1146 Mnl

TABLE OF CONTENTS

replaced the Nieuports down the line, so if you own a Great
Planes SPAD XIII you can see how different war demands
caused airplanes to evolve.

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

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

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

LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE. . . . . . . . . . 3

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

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

Motor, ESC & Propeller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Battery Pack & Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Adhesive & Building Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

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

KIT INSPECTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

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

BEFORE YOU BEGIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

INSTALL THE TAIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Prepare for Tail Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Install the Tail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

INSTALL THE MOTOR & ESC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

INSTALL THE ELEVATOR & RUDDER SERVOS. . . . . . . . 9

PREPARE THE WINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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

Install the Strut Mounts & Cabane Struts . . . . . . . . . . 13

INSTALL THE WINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

INSTALL THE LANDING GEAR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

INSTALL THE DUMMY ENGINE, COWL & PROP. . . . . . 15

FINISH THE MODEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Center the Controls & Check the Control Directions. . 17

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

Balance the Model (C.G.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Balance the Model Laterally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

PREFLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Identify Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Balance Propellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Range Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

AMA SAFETY CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Takeoff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the Great Planes Nieuport 11
EP park fl yer. Add it to your collection of our other WWI-era
park fl yers and enjoy the differences that set each model
apart. The Nieupor t 11 was a French design introduced on
January 5th, 1916 and saw service as a fi ghter and later as
a trainer when it was superseded by the Nieuport 17. The
SPAD XIII (another Great Planes park fl yer offering)

Don’t make the mistake of calling the Nieuport 11 a biplane
– it’s considered a sesquiplane because of its small,
narrow chord lower wing. While not for rank beginners, the
Great Planes Nieuport 11 is an excellent fl yer and is very
forgiving. Most pilots will be comfortable fl ying it on a ball
fi eld even at low speeds.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to
the Nieuport 11 EP visit the Great Planes web site at www.
greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then select the
Nieuport 11 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.

AMA – 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 fl y at most
R/C sites.

Academy of Model Aeronautics Tele. [phone]
5151 East Memorial Drive Fax [phone]
Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

IMPORTANT!!!

Two of the most important things you can do to preserve the
radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid fl ying near full­scale aircraft and avoid fl ying near or over groups of people.

PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF

& OTHERS… FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Your Nieuport 11 EP 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 Nieuport 11 EP, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.

2. You must assemble the model according to the
instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as
doing so may result in an unsafe or unfl yable model. In
a few cases the instructions may differ slightly from the
photos. In those instances the written instructions should
be considered as correct.

2

3. You must take time to build straight, true and strong.

4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in fi rst-class
condition, and a correctly sized motor and components
throughout the building process.

5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.

6. You must check the operation of the model before every
fl ight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.

7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not fl own
this type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for
your fi rst fl ights. If you’re not a member of a club, your local
hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.

8. While this kit has been fl ight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high stress fl ying, such
as racing, or if a motor larger than one in the recommended
range is used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to
reinforce the high stress points and/or substituting hardware
more suitable for the increased stress.

We, as the kit manuf acturer, provide you with a top quality,
thoroughly tested kit and instructions, but ultimately the
quality and fl yability of your fi nished model depends
on how you build it; therefore, we cannot in any way
guarantee the performance of your completed model,
and no representations are expressed or implied as to the
performance or safety of your completed model.

• NEVER trickle charge.

•

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

• NEVER disassemble or modify pack wiring in any way or

puncture cells.

• NEVER discharge below 3.0V per cell

• NEVER place on combustible materials or leave

unattended during charge or discharge.

• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

REQUIRED ITEMS

This is a partial list of items required to fi nish the Nieuport 11
EP. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

Radio Equipment

A 4-channel radio system with four micro servos and a micro
receiver are required for this plane. Many radio systems are
suitable, but we have chosen the following for this build-up.

• (4) Futaba

OR

• (4) minimum 20 oz-in torque micro servos

• Servo Mounting Screws (FUTM2250)

• Futaba R617FS 7-channel 2.4GHz Receiver

OR

• Futaba R114F FM Micro Receiver

(Low Band – FUTL0442, High Band – FUTL0443)

• Futaba FM Single Conversion Short Crystal

(Low Band – FUTL62**, High Band – FUTL63**)

• (1) Y -harness

(FUTM4130 or FUTM4135 for digital servos)

®

S3114 Micro HT Servo (FUTM0414)

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

LITHIUM BATTERY

HANDLING & USAGE

WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included with
the battery. Failure to follow all instructions could cause
permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings, and
cause bodily harm!

• ONLY use a LiPo approved charger.

• NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.

• ONLY charge through the “charge” lead. NEVER charge

through the “discharge” lead.

• NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C.

• ALWAYS set charger’s output v olts to match battery volts.

• ALWAYS charge in a fi reproof location.

Motor, ESC & Propeller

Recommendations

The Nieuport 11 EP was tested extensively to fi nd the best
“power package” that offers light weight, long fl ight time, and
excellent thrust. The order numbers are provided below.

• Great Planes RimFire

Outrunner Motor (GPMG4560)

• ElectriFly

BEC (GPMM1820)

™

Silver Series 25A Brushless ESC 5V/2A

• ElectriFly 10x4.5 PowerFlow™ Propeller

(GPMQ6660) (draws 15 amps max.)

OR

• APC 11x3.8 Slo-Flyer Propeller (APCQ5017) (draws

15 amps max.)

• ElectriFly 3.5mm Male/2.5mm Female Bullet

Connector Adapter (GPMM3122)

• ElectriFly 3mm to 5mm Prop Adapter (GPMQ4959)

3

™

400 (28-30-950) Brushless

Battery Pack & Accessories

The following battery pack is recommended. Note: The
1600mAh pack weighs approximately 5oz [142g] and should
balance this model without requiring nose ballast weight. If
you are using batteries other than the one recommended
here, please be sure that your battery is capable of delivering
15A safely.

• ElectriFly LiPo 1600mAh 11.1V 20C Discharge w/

Balance (GPMP0719)

A LiPo-compatible charger is required for these batteries,
along with a cell balancer. We recommend:

• ElectriFly Equinox

(GPMM3160)

• ElectriFly PolyCharge4

(GPMM3015)

OR

• ElectriFly PolyCharge

(GPMM3010)

™

1-5 cell LiPo cell balancer

™

LiPo battery charger

™

DC LiPo battery charger

Required Adhesive and

Building Supplies

This is the list of adhesive and building supplies required to
fi nish the Nieuport 11 EP.

• 1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro CA (GPMR6001)

• 1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)

• R/C-56 Glue 4oz (JOZR5007)

• Denatured alcohol

• Drill bits: #55 [1.3mm], #57 [1.1mm], 1/16" [1.6mm]

• #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)

• #11 blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)

• Hobbico

®

Steel T-Pins 1" (100) (HCAR5100)

• Great Planes Pro Thread Locker (GPMR6060)

• CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)

• 220 grit sandpaper

• Bru Line hemostat – curved 5-1/2" (BRUR1303)

• Retractable fabric tape measure (HCAR0478)

Optional Supplies and Tools

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Nieuport 11 EP.

st

• 21

Century® sealing iron (COVR2700)

st

• 21

Century iron cover (COVR2702)

• 2 oz. [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035)

• 4 oz. [113g] aerosol CA activator (GPMR634)

• Great Planes® Hook and Loop material

(GPMQ4480)

• Great Planes Heat Shrink Tubing 3/8" x 3" [76mm]

(GPMM1060)

• Electrical tape

• Masking tape

• CA debonder (GPMR6039)

• Great Planes Double-Sided Servo Tape 1" x 3'

(GPMQ4442)

• Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)

• Rotary tool (Dremel

®

) with cutoff wheel

• Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler Stainless Steel

(HCAR0460)

• Builder’s Triangle Set (HCAR0480)

• AccuThrow

™

Defl ection Gauge (GPMR2405)

• Hobbico 12 Volt DC power supply (HCAP0250)

• Green 3M

®

Scotch Brite

™

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

• When you see the term test fi t in the instructions, it means

that you should fi rst position the part on the assembly
without using any glue, then slightly modify or custom fi t
the part as necessary for the best fi t.

• Whenever the ter m glue is written you should rely upon

your experience to decide what type of glue to use. When
a specifi c type of adhesive works best for that step, the
instructions will make a recommendation.

• Photos and sketches are placed before the step they

refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following
steps to get another view of the same parts.

• The stabilizer, wing incidences, and motor thrust angles

have been factory-built into this model. However, some
technically-minded modelers may wish to check these
measurements anyway. To view this information visit the
web site at www.greatplanes.com and click on “Technical
Data.” Due to manufacturing tolerances which will have
little or no effect on the way your model will fl y, please
expect slight deviations between your model and the
published values.

• The Nieuport 11 EP is factory-covered with Top Flite

MonoKote® fi lm. Should repairs ever be required, MonoKote
can be patched with additional MonoKote purchased
separately. MonoKote is packaged in six-foot rolls, but
some hobby shops also sell it by the foot. If only a small
piece of MonoKote is needed f or a minor patch, perhaps a
fellow modeler would giv e y ou some . MonoKote is applied
with a model airplane covering iron, but in an emergency
a regular iron could be used. A roll of MonoKote includes
full instructions for application. Following are the colors
used on this model and order numbers for six foot rolls.

Aluminum TOPQ0205 True Red TOPQ0227
Royal Blue TOPQ0221 Jet White TOPQ0204

KIT INSPECTION

Before starting to build, take an inventor y 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,

4

contact Product Support. When reporting defective or
missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written
in the Kit Contents list.

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.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1 Ph: [phone], ext. 5
Champaign, IL 61822 Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Nieuport 11 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 Great Planes web site
at www.greatplanes.com. Select “Where to Buy” in the
menu across the top of the page and follow the instructions
provided 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 Hobby Services
and payments by 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
personal check to: Champaign IL 61822

If additional assistance is required for any reason contact
Product Support by e-mail at productsupport@greatplanes.
com, or by telephone at [phone].

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Order No. Description

Missing pieces
Instruction manual
Full-size plans

GPMA4006
GPMA4007
GPMA4008
GPMA4009
GPMA4010
GPMA4011
GPMA4012
GPMA4013
GPMA4014
GPMA4015
GPMA4016
GPMA4017

Top Wing Set
Bottom Wing Set
Fuse Set
Tail Surface Set
Cowl/Cheek V ent Set
Dummy Engine
Cabanes Set
N Strut Set
Machine Gun
Landing Gear
Wheels (2)
Decal sheet

How to purchase

Contact

Product Support

Not available

Contact your

hobby supplier

to purchase
these items

3

4

1. Dummy Engine

2. Fuselage & Cowl

3. Wing Struts

4. Metal Landing Gear Legs

& Cabane Struts

KIT CONTENTS

1

6

14

5

5. Detail Parts

6. Pilot

7. Gun Assembly

8. Coaming

9. Tailskid

2

8

9

4

11

7

12

13

10

4

10. Rudder

11. Horizontal Tail

12. Bottom Wing

13. Top Wing

14. Wheels

5

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Before you begin assembling your model, inspect it

❏ 1.

for wrinkled covering and areas where the covering may not
be tacked down adequately. The covering should be tacked
down to the wood using just enough heat to soften the
adhesive backing. Low heat (about 250° F [121° C]) should
be enough to accomplish this. More heat ma y be required to
begin to tighten the covering.

Warnings: • Do not over-shrink the covering or it will

cause the control surfaces or wings to twist.

• Do not iron over decals.

• Use only LOW heat over trim.

INSTALL THE TAIL

Prepare for Tail Installation

Fit the two 15mm [9/16"] wood dowels in the pre-

❏ 1.

drilled holes in the lower wing LE so that they protrude 1/4"
[6.4mm]. Glue them in place by wicking a few drops of thin
CA into the joint.

Defl ect the prehinged elevator and ailerons several times.

❏ 2.

Check to see that the full control throw is easily achieved.

The actual Nieuport 11

was covered in fabric

and had a “doped” fi nish

brushed onto it. This gave it

a semi-gloss or dull fi nish.

Temporarily fi t the lower wing using two 3 x 20mm

❏ 2.

[3/4"] machine screws and two 3mm washers. This will help
you align the tail.

Depending on how much you care to detail or personalize
your model, you ma y choose to replicate this fi nish. Use some
green 3M® Scotch Brite™ to scuff the surface of the plastic
fi lm covering working in a fore-aft motion. This will dull the
fi nish and simulate brush mar ks. It also gives your model a
“weathered” look. Try working in an inconspicuous area fi rst.

Set the horizontal tail on a fl at surface. Check to see

❏ 3.

that there is no twist in the stabilizer or between the two
elevators . Any twist can be easily corrected using a covering
iron on a medium heat setting (around 300° F [149° C]). Twist
the surface to the desired position and heat the cov ering until
it begins to shrink.

6

Install the Tail

Test fi t the tabbed portion of the horizontal stabilizer

❏ 1.

into the slot in the fuselage. Use a fabric tape measure
to measure the distance from each stabilizer tip to each
corresponding wing tip. Adjust the stabilizer so distance A =
A1. Set the fuse on a le v el surf ace and take a f e w steps back.
Check to see that the stabilizer is correctly aligned in relation
to the wing. If one side is higher than the other, lightly sand
the fuselage side that is higher.

T est fi t the hinge into the end of the fuselage and bottom

❏ 5.

of the rudder. The hinge should slide in as far as the T-pin
allows. If the hinge doesn’t fi t well, use the back side of your
hobby knife to dig out the hinge or make it deeper. Trim the
covering back from the slot to allow the CA to wick better.

When you’re satisfi ed with the fi t of the horizontal tail,

❏ 2.

glue it in place using thin CA. Hold the joint tightly together
as you wick a bead of CA into the length of the joint.

Remove the bottom wing from the fuselage and retain

❏ 3.

the screws and washers.

Push a T-pin through

❏ 4.

the center of the CA hinge as
shown.

Fit the hinge to the fuselage, then fi t the rudder. Slide

❏ 6.

the rudder up or down so that the elevator joiner is centered in
the semi-circular clearance slot. Push the rudder up against
the hinge line and defl ect it left and right several times.

When you’re satisfi ed with the fi t of the rudder, apply

❏ 7.

4-5 drops of thin CA to each side of the hinge to glue it in
place. Have a paper towel handy with some CA debonder to
clean up any runoff or excess glue.

7

INSTALL THE MOTOR & ESC

Remove the steel Y-mount and the brass collar from

❏ 1.

the motor. These will not be used. Remove the set screw
from the nose of the motor and reinstall it using thread
locking compound.

Install the motor to the fuselage using three 3 x 30mm

❏ 3.

[1-3/16"] machine screws, nine 3mm fl at washers, and
three 19mm [3 /4"] aluminum standoff tubes. Apply thread
locking compound to the screw threads and fi t the motor so
that the wires are routed as shown. Use the photo abov e to
help you stack the washers.

Apply thread locking compound to the three 3mm

❏ 2.

screws that came with your motor and install the supplied
Y-mount as shown.

Install three 3.5mm male/2mm female bullet connector

❏ 4.

adapters onto the ESC motor leads (GPMM3122). Cut a
25mm piece of double-sided foam tape and apply it to the
back side of the ESC.

Apply a thin layer of 6-minute epoxy or medium CA to

❏ 5.

the upper right side of the fuselage as shown. Allow the glue
to fully cure. Note: Use this method to help stick double-sided
foam tape or hook and loop fastener material to wood parts.

8

Route the ESC battery leads up so that they exit

❏ 6.

forward of the fi rewall as shown. The battery on this model is
accessed by removing the cowl, so the ESC leads must be
routed to make this as easy as possible. Route the ESC motor
leads back and through the second former and connect them
to the motor wires. Mount the ESC in the location shown.

Stick the hook side to your battery tray as shown.

❏ 8.

INSTALL THE ELEVATOR

& RUDDER SERVOS

Use your radio to center two servos. With the servos

❏ 1.

centered, reposition each standard servo arm so that one of
the two short arms is perpendicular to the servo case. Note:
The short arms measure 1/4" [6.4mm] from the center to the
outer hole. You will need one servo with an arm on the left
side of the case and one with an arm on the right side of the
case. Clip off the remaining unused arms. Install the ser vo
arm retaining screws.

Cut a 2-3/4" [70mm] length strip from the adhesive-

❏ 7.

backed hook and loop material provided. Separate the hook
side from the loop side. Cut the hook side down the middle to
make a narrow strip. Leave the loop side full-width, and stick
it to your battery. If you need more for spare battery packs,
please purchase Great Planes® Hook and Loop material
(GPMQ4480).

Use a #55 [1.3mm] drill bit to enlarge the outer servo

❏ 2.

arm holes. If you don’t have a #55 drill bit, use your hobby
knife to carefully enlarge the holes.

Locate two screw-lock pushrod connectors, two 2mm

❏ 3.

locking screws, and two plastic locking collars. Install these
on the rudder and elevator servos in the outer holes of the
short servo arms.

9

Black

Elevator & Rudder

Yellow

Ailerons

1mm 1.5mm

Sand

both sides

of this tab

Four total control horns are supplied in this kit. Identify

❏ 4.

the thin control horns (1mm, black). Set the thicker horns
aside for later . Roughen the surface of each side of the tabs
using 150-grit or fi ner sand paper.

Sand

both sides

of this tab

lines up with the pushrod. Drill two 1/16" [1.6mm] holes and
install the servo with two servo screws (FUTM2250). You
should then remove the screws and harden the screw holes
you just tapped in the wood with thin CA.

Repeat the last step to install the other servo.

Fit the 1mm [1/32"] thick black control horns onto the

❏ 5.

L bends of the two 1mm x 500mm [19-11/16"] pushrods. Fit
a plastic control horn retainer to each rod as shown. Both
the elevator and the rudder horns are assembled the same
way. Use the photo as a reference.

Insert the pushrods in the pushrod tubes from the

❏ 6.

tail end of the fuselage.

Slide the elevator pushrod into the elevator screw-lock

❏ 8.

pushrod connector on the servo side. Fit the control horn in
the pre-cut slot in the bottom of the right elevator. Make sure
that the horn is perpendicular with the elevator (as viewed
from behind the model). When you’re satisfi ed with the fi t of
the horn, glue it in place with a bead of thin CA on each side
of the horn. Note: If the pushrod slides out of the screw-lock
connector, remove the servo arm and slide the arm onto the
pushrod. Reinstall the servo arm and the retaining screw.

❏ ❏ 7.

the inboard side. Slide the servo along the rails so that it

Fit one servo in place so that the servo arm is on

Fit the rudder control horn into the slot in the rudder. If

❏ 9.

the rudder hinge interferes with the horn, use your hobby
knife to cut through the hinge. When you’re satisfi ed with the
position of the control horn, glue it in place.

10

10. Apply a piece of double-sided foam tape to the back

❏

side of your receiver and connect your servo and ESC leads
to their proper channels on the receiver. Prepare the inner
fuse side using 6-minute epoxy or a thin coat of medium CA
as you did when you installed the ESC earlier . After the glue
has fully cured, stick the receiver in place as shown.

position of any two of the three motor leads. Re-check the
motor rotation. Note: If y ou are using a Futaba r adio system,
reverse your throttle channel before plugging in the LiPo
battery . Do not attach a propeller yet!

PREPARE THE WINGS

Install the Aileron Servos

11. If you are using a 72MHz radio, drill a 1/16" [1.6mm]

❏

hole through the sheeting behind the TE of the lower wing
and route your antenna out through the hole. Extend the
antenna and tape it in place.

❏ ❏ 1.

yellow control horns using a #55 [1.3mm] drill or your hobby
knife. Glue the control horns to the bottom of the ailerons
using thin CA.

Carefully enlarge the outer hole of the two large

With servos centered, position

each arm one spline slightly forward.

3/8"

[9.5mm]

TOWARD WING LE

Left Wing Servo Right Wing Servo

12. With your throttle set to idle, turn on your

❏

transmitter. Plug a LiPo battery into the ESC. Arm the motor
and throttle up very slowly. Check the direction of rotation of
the motor. If the motor is not turning counter-clockwise (as
viewed from the front), unplug the LiP o battery and switch the

❏ ❏ 2.

servo arm so that the long arm is slightly forward from being
perpendicular to the servo case. Clip off the remaining arms. Drill

11

Center both aileron servos. Reposition each standard

the outer-most hole using a #57 [1.1mm] drill bit or carefully
enlarge the hole using your hobby knife. Note: The long arms
measure 3/8" [9.5mm] from the center to the outermost hole.
Install the servo arm retaining screw.

❏ ❏ 3.

denatured alcohol. Remove any label that will prevent
you from gluing the servo case directly to the servo bay
cover, and scuff the surface of the case with some sand
paper. To make it easier to remove in the future, you may
wrap the case with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
before you glue it in. Use medium CA to glue a servo to
the servo bay cover so that the tip of the servo arm is
centered in the opening.

Clean the servo case of each aileron servo with

❏ ❏ 5.

extensions provided in the wing. Use a piece of 3/8" [9.5mm]
diameter heat shrink tubing or electrical tape to secure the
connectors. If you use heat shrink tubing, pull the extension
out of the wing enough to heat the shrink tubing without
damaging the covering. Use the string to pull the extension
through the center of the wing. Note: There is a Y-connection
inside the wing, so only one male connector exits the wing
center section.

Connect the aileron servos to the servo lead

❏ ❏ 4.

have provided 5 x 5 x 10mm [3/8"] wood blocks that you
may use to attach the servos to the servo bay cov ers . If you
choose to use these, make sure that you align the servo as
detailed in the previous step. Glue the blocks to the cover
using medium CA. Drill the servo screw holes using a 1/16"
[1.6mm] drill and harden the screw holes using thin CA.
Install the servo screws.

As an alternative to gluing the servos in place, we

❏ ❏ 6.

[1/4"] sheetmetal screws. Remove the screws and the cov ers
and harden the screw holes with thin CA.

❏ ❏ 7.

outer-most hole in each aileron servo arm. Slide a screw-lock

12

Install the servo bay covers using eight 2 x 6mm

Fit a 1 x 65mm [2-1/2"] Z-bend pushrod to the

pushrod connector onto the end of the pushrod and install
the pushrod connector in the outer-most hole of the aileron
control horn using a plastic locking collar to secure it.

Install the Strut Mounts & Cabane Struts

4 each

Drill all holes

out using a 1/16"

[1.6mm] drill bit.

Upper Wing

INSTALL THE WINGS

TOWARD LE

2 each
Lower Wing

B

Identify the strut mounts. The two mounts that are

❏ 1.

labeled “B” are used on the bottom wing and are shaped
accordingly. Enlarge the screw holes slightly with a 1/16"
[1.6mm] drill. This will prevent them from cracking during
normal use.

Install the four upper wing strut mounts as shown. Note:

❏ 2.

There is no front or rear side for the top mounts; they are
symmetrical. Install the strut mounts in the wings using thin
CA. Install the lower strut mounts so the y match the curve of
the lower wing.

Fit the upper wing to the fuselage. Attach the forward

❏ 1.

cabane struts to the fuselage using four 2 x 6mm [1/4"]
sheetmetal screws. Attach the rear cabane strut with four
countersunk 2 x 6mm [1/4"] sheetmetal screws. Route the
aileron servo lead into the fuselage through the square hole
near the front left cabane. Plug the aileron servo lead into
your receiver. Harden the screw holes with thin CA.

Attach the interplane wing struts to the upper wing

❏ 2.

using four 2 x 5mm [3/16"] washer-head screws. Remove the
screws and struts and harden the screw holes with thin CA.

Install the cabane struts to the wing center section

❏ 3.

using three countersunk 2 x 6mm [1/4"] sheetmetal
screws. Remember to harden the screw holes with thin CA.

Install the lower wing using two 3 x 20mm [3/4"] machine

❏ 3.

screws, two 3mm washers and the pre-drilled wooden
reinforcement plate. Fit the plate so that the engraved side is
away from the wing surface. Apply thread locking compound
to the screw threads and tighten the screws until the lower

13

wing fully seats. Do not ov er-tighten the lo wer wing scre ws –
this distorts the wing and can cause damage. Note: Y ou do
not have to glue the reinforcement plate to the wing, but if
you do, please use R/C-56 canopy glue (JOZR5007).

Attach the interplane struts to the lower wing using two

❏ 4.

2 x 5mm [3/16"] washer-head screws. Harded the screw holes
with thin CA. Note: If the wing struts do not align with the wing,
loosen the four screws that attach the forward cabane struts
to the fuselage and adjust the position of the upper wing until
the interplane struts line up with the lower wing strut mounts.
Install the struts and then tighten all of the screws.

sweep angle of the front legs – they should be in line with the
fi rewall and should not sweep forward.

Locate two 3 x 30mm [1- 3 /16"] machine screws and

❏ 3.

four 3mm hex nuts. Apply thread locking compound to each
screw and install each to a wheel using one 3mm nut. To
achieve the proper spacing, turn the nut until it contacts the
wheel and then back it off 1/2 of a turn.

INSTALL THE LANDING GEAR

Install the tail skid to the fuselage as shown. Medium

❏ 1.

CA or R/C-56 glue is recommended.

Install the wheels using the remaining two 3mm hex

❏ 4.

nuts. Fit one wheel to one side holding the outboard nut
as you tighten the inboard nut. Slide the 185mm [ 7- 5 /16"]
tube over the screw thread of the wheel you just installed,
and then fi t the other wheel through the gear and into the
tube. Tighten the nut and check to see that both wheels
rotate freely. If not, loosen the inboard nut and then loosen
the outboard nut 1/2 of a turn. Re-tighten the inboard nut
and check the wheel again. When you’re satisfi ed with the
operation of the wheels, apply a drop of medium CA to the
inboard screw threads and glue the tube in place.

Attach the main landing gear legs to the fuselage using

❏ 2.

four 2 x 6mm [1/4"] sheetmetal screws. Pay attention to the

14

Glue the belly panel to the lower wing using R/C-56

❏ 5.

glue or tape it in place. This will allow for easy remov al if y ou
have to remove the lower wing later. Note: You may have to
trim more clearance to fi t the landing gear legs. For the best
results, use a Dremel® Tool (or similar rotary tool) with a
small sanding drum.

INSTALL THE DUMMY ENGINE,

COWL & PROPELLER

Fit a 3mm to 5mm collet prop adapter (GPMQ4959)

❏ 3.

to the motor shaft. Install the propeller, the prop
washer, and the prop nut onto the prop adapter. With
the prop adapter fully seated on the motor shaft,
tighten the prop nut and lock the prop adapter in place.

Turn the prop so that it is horizontal. Fit the cowl to the

❏ 4.

fi rewall from the top . Y ou will need to remove the cowl to access
your battery . Warning: Alwa ys turn on your transmitter before
you plug in the LiPo batter y. When the battery is plugged in
the motor is live, so please use caution when re-fi tting the
cowl. Stay behind the propeller at all times and always keep
one hand on the model. An assistant is recommended.

Make sure that the motor wires are routed properly

❏ 1.

and that they do not contact the motor case. Glue the dummy
engine to the three tabs on the motor box. As an option, we
have provided two 2 x 5mm [3/16"] washer-head screws to
attach the dummy engine. Install the screws on the left and
right side tabs by positioning the dummy engine and drilling
a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole though the dummy engine and into
each underlying tab.

Balance your propeller using the method described in

❏ 2.

the “Balance Propellers” section.

15

FINISH THE MODEL

Install the cowl vents, carb tubes, access covers,

❏ 1.

and coaming as shown. You may use medium CA or R/C-

56. Roughen the covering at the gluing surfaces using a 3M
Scotch Brite™ pad or 220-grit or fi ner sandpaper.

Roughen the ends of the gun frame wires that fi t into

❏ 4.

the wing. Install the gun frame as shown. The longer aft
piece fi ts in the outboard holes in the wing, while the short
front piece fi ts in the inboard holes.

Install the pilot’s windscreen, using R/C-56 glue. Install

❏ 2.

the pilot using a 40mm [1-5/8"] strip of hook and loop
fastener material. Separate the material and attach the hook
side to the bottom of the pilot bust. Attach the loop side to
the cockpit fl oor.

Roughen the straight end of the 35mm [1-3/16"] wire

❏ 3.

using sand paper or your hobby knif e . This portion will fi t into
the hole in the bottom of the gun.

Snap the gun into place and fi t the 35mm [1-3/16"] wire

❏ 5.

into the hole near the TE of the wing. When you’re satisfi ed
with the position of everything, glue the frames in place by
wicking thin CA into each leg joint.

16

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Center the Controls &

Check the Control Directions

Warning: Once the battery is connected to the ESC, stay
clear of the propeller! Always stay behind the propeller!

Turn on the transmitter, center the trims, and mov e the

❏ 1.

throttle stick all the way do wn. Plug your airplane’s battery into
the ESC and check to see that all servo arms are positioned
properly. If necessary, remove the servo arms from the
servos and reposition them so they are centered. Reinstall
the screws that hold on the servo arms.

4-CHANNEL RADIO SETUP

(Standard Mode 2)

Rudder

Moves Right

Right Aileron

Moves Up

Left Aileron

Moves Down

With the transmitter and receiver still on, center

❏ 2.

each of your control surfaces using a straight edge to
align each surface. Apply thread locking compound to
the locking screw threads and tighten all of the screw­lock pushrod connectors.

Full Throttle

Make certain that the control surfaces and the throttle

❏ 4.

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.

Elevator Moves Down

Set the Control Throws

To ensure a successful fi rst fl ight, fl y your Nieuport

❏ 1.

11 set up only according to the C.G. and control surface
throws specifi ed in this manual. The thro ws and C .G. are not
arbitrary , but have been determined through extensiv e testing
and accurate record-keeping. This provides you with the best
chance for success and enjoyable fi rst fl ights that should be
surprise-free. Additionally, the throws and C.G. shown are
true, real data which will allow the model to perform in the
manner in which it was intended when fl own by a pilot of the
skill level for which it was intended. DO NOT OVERLOOK
THESE IMPORTANT PROCEDURES. A model that is not
properly setup may be unstable and possibly unfl yable.

Install the servo bay hatch using four 2 x 6mm [1/4"]

❏ 3.

sheetmetal screws. Harden the screw holes and the holes in
the hatch with thin CA.

The building steps earlier in this manual that show

❏ 2.

the mechanical setup for the elevator, rudder, and aileron
linkages show you the best way to confi gure the linkages to
achieve the proper throws using Futaba micro ser vos and a
Futaba radio system. If you are using a different radio system
or you cannot achieve the proper control throws using our
suggested linkage confi guration, you may have to install the
pushrods in different holes on the servo arms or the control
horns. Keep in mind that changing the throws mechanically
is preferred to changing them using your radio’s end-point
adjustment. End points should be used to “fi ne-tune” to get
the proper throws.

17

Use a Great Planes AccuThrow gauge or a ruler to

❏ 3.

accurately measure and set the control throw of each control
surface as indicated in the chart that follows. If your radio
does not have dual rates, we recommend setting the throws
at the HIGH r ate setting. NOTE: The thro ws are measured at
the widest part of the elevators, rudder and ailerons.

If you wish to set the control throws using angles instead

❏ 4.

of linear measurements, you may cut out the paper templates
that we have pro vided for you in the back of this manual.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fl y

❏ 1.

condition with all of the systems in place including the
propeller, landing gear, radio system, battery, and all
hatches. Place the battery in the battery compartment but
do not connect it. Fit the cowl in place.

Use a felt-tip pen or 1/8" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately

❏ 2.

mark the C.G. on the bottom of the top wing on both sides
of the fuselage. The C .G. is located 2-7/8" [73mm] back from
the leading edge of the wing at the fi rst rib outboard on each
side of the center wing rib.

These are the recommended control surface throws:

HIGH RATE LOW RATE

ELEVATOR

RUDDER

AILERONS

Up

5/8"

[16mm]

14 deg

Right

1-1/2"

[38mm]

20 deg

Up

3/4"

[19mm]

18 deg

Down

5/8"

[16mm]

14 deg

Left

1-1/2"

[38mm]

20 deg

Down

3/4"

[19mm]

18 deg

Up

1/2"

[13mm]

11 deg

Right

1"

[25mm]

14 deg

Up

5/8"

[16mm]

15 deg

Down

1/2"

[13mm]

11 deg

Left

[25mm]

14 deg

Down

5/8"

[16mm]

15 deg

1"

This is where your model should balance for the fi rst
fl ights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting
the C.G. up to 1/4" [6mm] forward or 1/8" [3mm] back to
change the fl ying characteristics. Moving the C.G. forward
may improve the smoothness and stability, but the model
may then require more speed for tak eoff and mak e it more
diffi cult to slow for landing. Moving the C.G. aft makes
the model more maneuverable, but could also cause it to
become too diffi cult to control. In any case, start at the
recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the specifi ed range.

With all parts of the model installed (ready to fl y) and

❏ 3.

a battery pack in place (do not connect it), place your fi ngers
on the marks you made and balance the model.

18

If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy” and the battery

❏ 4.

pack must be shifted forw ard or weight m ust be added to the
nose to balance. If the nose drops, the model is “nose heavy”
and the battery pack must be shifted aft or weight must be
added to the tail to balance.

Using a felt-tip pen, mark the position of the battery

❏ 5.

pack in the battery compartment. This will help eliminate trim
changes or unwanted surprises each time that you change
the battery . When using different capacity batteries, you ma y
have to re-balance your plane and place an additional mark
in the battery compartment.

If additional weight is required, use Great Planes

❏ 6.

(GPMQ4485) “stick-on” lead. A good place to add stick­on nose weight is to the fi rewall (don’t attach weight to the
cowl—it is not intended to support weight). Begin by placing
increasing amounts of weight on the top of the fuse over the
fi rewall until the model balances. Once you have determined
the amount of weight required, it can be permanently
attached. If required, tail weight may be added by cutting open
the bottom of the fuse and gluing it permanently inside.

IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any weight,
recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.

CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your
radio system state differently, the initial charge on new
transmitter and receiver batteries should be done for 15
hours using the slow-charger that came with the radio
system. This will “condition” the batteries so that the
next charge may be done using the fast-charger of your
choice. If the initial charge is done with a fast-charger, the
batteries may not reach their full capacity and you may be
fl ying with batteries that are only partially charged.

Balance Propellers

Balance the Model Laterally

With the wing level, lift the model b y the motor propeller

❏ 1.

shaft and the bottom of the fuse under the TE of the fuse. Do
this several times.

If one wing always drops when you lift the model,

❏ 2.

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.

PREFLIGHT

Identify Your Model

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 page 23 and
place it on or inside your model.

Charge the Batteries

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

Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
you fl y . An unbalanced prop can be the single most signifi cant
cause of vibration that can damage your model. Not only
will motor mounting screws and bolts loosen, possibly with
disastrous effect, but vibration may also damage your radio
receiver and radio gear.

We use a Top Flite Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer
(TOPQ5700) in the workshop and keep a Great Planes
Fingertip Prop Balancer (GPMQ5000) in our fl ight box.

Range Check

When you get to your fl ying site ground check the operational
range of the radio before the fi rst fl ight of the day. With
the transmitter antenna collapsed and the receiver and
transmitter on, you should be able to walk at least 100 feet
[30m] away from the model and still have control. Have
an assistant stand by your model and, while you work the
controls, tell you what the control surfaces are doing. Repeat
this test with the motor running at various speeds with an
assistant holding the model, using hand signals to show you
what is happening. If the control surfaces do not respond
correctly, do not fl y! Find and correct the problem fi rst. Look
for loose servo or battery connections, damaged wires or a
damaged receiver crystal from a previous crash in another
model. One other possible source of radio “noise” that could
cause interference is the arrangement and relative location
of the receiver , receiver antenna and motor wires. If possible,
re- mount the receiver in a different location or re route some
of the wires then try the range check again.

19

MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Radio Control

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

Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate
electric motors.

Use safety glasses when operating electric motors.
Do not operate the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand;

the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.
Keep your face and body, as well as all spectators, away

from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you operate the
motor.

Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt
sleeves, ties, scarves, long hair or loose objects such as
pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the prop.

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

Never leave the LiPo battery unattended while charging. If
the battery becomes hot, discontinue charging.

1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the fi rst fl ight of a new or repaired model.

2) I will not fl y my model aircraft in the presence of spectators
until I become a qualifi ed fl ier, unless assisted by an
experienced helper.

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

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

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three

miles of any pre-existing fl ying site except in accordance
with the frequency sharing agreement listed [in the

complete AMA Safety Code].

9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person
touch a powered model in fl ight; nor should any part of the

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

CHECK LIST

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 A viation magazine, the AMA web site or
the Code that came with your AMA license.

General

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

2) I will not fl y my model aircraft higher than approximately
400 feet [122m] within 3 miles [4.8km] of an airport without
notifying the airport operator. I will give right-of-way and avoid
fl ying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary,
an observer shall be utilized to supervise fl ying to avoid
having models fl y in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.

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

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

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

During the last few moments of preparation your mind
may be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the fi rst
fl ight. Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook
certain checks and procedures that should be performed
before the model is fl own. To help avoid this, a check list
is provided to make sure these important areas are not
overlooked. Many are covered in the instruction manual,
so where appropriate refer to the manual for complete
instructions. Be sure to check the items off as they are
completed (that’s why it’s called a check list!).

Check the motor for secure attachment.

❏ 1.

Check the cowl for secure attachment and proper

❏ 2.

alignment.

Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).

❏ 3.

Tighten the propeller nut and check to make sure that

❏ 4.

a prop washer is in place.

Rotate the propeller a full turn. Check for free rotation

❏ 5.

of the prop.

Check the wheels for free rotation, the axles and

❏ 6.

landing gear for security, and add a drop of light machine oil
to the axles.

Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place.

❏ 7.

Check the control horns for secure attachment to the

❏ 8.

control surfaces.

Pull / push on each of the pushrods and check to see

❏ 9.

that the adjustable pushrod connectors do not slip.

20

10. Check the servo arms for secure attachment and

❏

make sure that the arm screws are in place and are tight.

11. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA where

❏

appropriate (servo mounting screws, etc.).

12. Check that all servo connectors are fully plugged into

❏

their respective channels on the receiver.

13. Make sure any servo extension cords you may

❏

have used do not interfere with other systems (ser vo arms,
pushrods, etc.).

14. Check the receiver for secure attachment. This must

❏

not be “stuffed into place.”

15. Balance your model laterally as explained in the

❏

instructions.

16. Set the C.G. according to the measurements provided

❏

in the manual.

17. Place your name, address, AMA number and

❏

telephone number on or inside your model.

18. Fully charge your transmitter battery and check the

❏

battery voltage after it is charged.

19. Range-check your radio at the fl ying fi eld.

❏

20. Confi rm that all controls operate in the correct

❏

direction and the throws are set up according to the
manual.

21. Take a picture of your fi nished model!

❏

Takeoff

The goals of your fi rst fl ight should be to trim the airplane
and familiarize yourself with the airplane’s fl ight and landing
characteristics. You’ll want to perform a few tests at a safe
altitude to see how the airplane reacts. Take an assistant
with you or ask a friend at your fl ying fi eld to help you spot
other traffi c, adjust your trim for you, and mind the time as
you fl y.

If you have access to a pa ved runway, we suggest using it to
takeoff especially for the fi rst few fl ights. Position the model
onto the runway pointed into the wind. Slowly advance
the throttle stick to half throttle, pulling back slightly on the
elevator to keep from nosing over. As the tail rises off the
ground, slowly increase throttle and apply a bit of up elev ator
to lift the model into the air.

If you do not have access to a smooth runwa y or short grass,
the Nieuport 11 can be hand launched. For the fi rst fl ight,
have your assistant launch the plane for you. This allows
you to keep your hands on the radio sticks and correct any
trim problems that are present. Have the person launching
the plane hold it by the fuselage just behind the lower
wing. Throttle up to full power, and have your helper give the
plane a gentle toss at about a 30-degree angle upward into
the wind. Climb to a comfortable altitude and throttle back to
a lower power setting.

FLYING

CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while fl ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
fl utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a fl ying surface (such as a wing
or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the
noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately , fl utter
can actually cause the control surface to detach or the
fl ying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed
by an impending crash. The best thing to do when fl utter
is detected is to slow the model immediately by reducing
power, then land as soon as safely possible. Identify
which surface fl uttered (so the problem may be resolved)
by checking all the servo grommets for deterioration or
signs of vibration. Make certain all pushrod linkages are
secure and free of play. If it fl uttered once, under similar
circumstances it will probably fl utter again unless the
problem is fi xed. Some things which can cause fl utter are:
Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control horns solidly;
Poor fi t of clevis pin in horn; 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 fl utter; Flying an over-powered model
at excessive speeds.

Flight

When you get up to a safe altitude and are throttled back to
a comfortable fl ying speed, let go of the right stick and see
if the plane dives or climbs. Have your assistant add some
elevator trim and aileron trim if necessary. Fly the plane a bit
more and further adjust your throttle. Make a few more trim
changes while you fl y your traffi c pattern. Execute normal
left and right aileron turns, watching the tail to see how it
drops in each turn. Make a few more turns, adding a bit of
rudder to coordinate your turns.

While still at a safe altitude slow your airplane down and
execute a normal, straight-ahead, power-off stall. Hold full
elevator and watch how the airplane breaks at the stall. If it
“wing-walks,” keep in mind that rudder will have more effect
than ailerons will at low power settings. Knowing your stall
characteristics will prepare you to judge the airplane’s speed
on landing, so pay special attention to how the airplane feels
when it’s slowing down to a stall. If your plane enters a spin
from a stall, neutralize your elevator and ailerons and add
opposite rudder as you throttle up. The goal is to get the
stalled wing fl ying again.

When you’re comfortable with stalls, try some slow speed
maneuvering. Practice making shallow left and right banking
turns at low power while holding your altitude. Pay attention to
how the airplane tries to fall into the turn. At slow speeds you
will fi nd that you will initiate a banking turn with a little aileron,
but to hold the turn you’ll need rudder and a little opposite

21

aileron to keep your bank angle. Try transitioning from left to
right and making turns into the wind and with the wind.

Line yourself up for a few practice landing approaches. Slow
down and line yourself up while practicing your
descent. Establish a glide slope that the airplane likes
and use power to adjust your descent rate while holding a
constant pitch angle. Power up and go around. Remember
that you have about 8 min utes of safe fl ying with the batteries
we’ve recommended here.

Landing

Respecting your fl ying fi eld’s current traffi c pattern (landing
into the wind), enter your downwind leg at half-throttle and
maintain altitude as you set up for landing. You should
anticipate at least a 200 foot [61m] fi nal approach, so star t
your base leg turn with that in mind. Your base leg will start
your descent. On base, reduce power to 1/4 throttle. Turn to
fi nal and power back. Establish a comfortable glide slope
and use the power to control your descent rate. Blipping the
throttle may help you get a f eel f or where your throttle should
be. When you’re over the runway, power off and settle into
a fl are. Remember that if it’s going to be a bad landing, go
around and try it again. When you land, rollout is short and
should be performed “tail-low” to keep from nosing over.

One fi nal note about fl ying your model: Have a goal or fl ight
plan in mind for every fl ight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know,
or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions
(such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to
improve your skills (though it is never a bad idea!), but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly fi nding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if y ou’ re going to do a
loop, check y our altitude, mind the wind direction (anticipating
rudder corrections that will be required to maintain heading),
remember to throttle back at the top, and make cer tain you
are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A fl ight plan greatly
reduces the chances of crashing your model just because of
poor planning and impulsive moves. Remember to think.

Have a ball! But always stay in control

and fl y in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

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