Great Planes GPMA1155 User 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 MANU AL BEFORE ST ARTING
CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT
WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING
THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

GPMZ0288 for GPMA1155 V1.0© Copyright 2003

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 59-3/8 in [1,510mm]
Wing Area: 393 sq in [25.3 dm2]
Weight: 3 lb [1,360 g]
Wing Loading: 17.6 oz/sq ft [53.7 g/dm2]
Length: 36-7/8 in [940mm]
Radio: 4-Channel
Motors: (2) Speed 400 Electric motors supplied

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

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

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

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

Chargers.............................................................................3

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

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

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

IMPORTANT ASSEMBLY NOTES ....................................4

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

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS...............................6

METRIC CONVERSIONS..................................................6

PREPARATIONS................................................................7

BUILD THE WING..............................................................7

Assemble the Wing............................................................7

Mount the Motors...............................................................8

Install the Motor Cowls .......................................................9

Install the Landing Gear.....................................................9

Install the Aileron Servos .................................................10

Fit the Wing to the Fuselage............................................10

WORKING WITH FIBERGLASS .....................................11

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELA GE.........................................11

Install the Formers ...........................................................11

Install the Servos..............................................................12

Install the Tail Surfaces ....................................................12

Install the Radio ...............................................................14

Apply the Decals..............................................................15

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

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

Set the Control Throws.....................................................16

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

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

PREFLIGHT.....................................................................17

Identify Your Model...........................................................17

Charge the Batteries........................................................17

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

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

MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................18

AMA SAFETY CODE......................................................18

General............................................................................18

Radio Control...................................................................18

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

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

Takeoff .............................................................................19

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

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

Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the Great
Planes DC-3 EP ARF.The DC-3 EP ARF is a great flying, low­wing model that is about as simple-to-assemble as they get.In
just a few evenings you can have your DC-3 ready to fly.

The DC-3 EP ARF is a sport scale model of the full size DC-3.
It is relatively easy to fly and has no bad characteristics.
Howev er , if you hav e nev er flown an R/C model bef ore, learning
to fly the DC-3 EP ARF all by yourself is not recommended.As
with any airplane, you should find an experienced modeler to
help you with your first flights.Information about R/C clubs and
instructors is provided later in this manual.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
DC-3 EP ARF visit the Great Planes web site at
www.g reatplanes.com.Open the “Airplanes”link, then select
the DC-3 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.

Attention: The product you have purchased is
powered by a rechargeable battery.At the end of its useful life,
under various state and local laws, it ma y be illegal to dispose
of this battery into the municipal waste system. Check with
your local solid waste officials for details in your area for
recycling options or proper disposal.This product contains a

chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

1. Your Great Planes DC-3 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 Great Planes DC-3 EP
ARF, if not assembled and operated correctly, could possibly
cause injury to you or spectators and damage to property.

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

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

4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in first-class
condition. This model requires mini or micro servos and a
micro receiver.

PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,Y OURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

INTRODUCTIONTABLE OF CONTENTS

2

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

6. You must test 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 all
connectors often and replace them if they show signs of
wear or fatigue.

7. If you are not already an experienced R/C pilot, you
should fly the model only with the help of a competent,
experienced R/C pilot.

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

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

If you have not flown this type of model before, we
recommend that you get the assistance of an experienced
pilot in your R/C club for your first flights. If you’re not a
member of a club, your local hobby shop has information
about clubs in your area whose membership includes
experienced pilots.

In addition to joining an R/C club, we strongly recommend y ou
join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics). AMA
membership is required to fly at AMA sanctioned clubs.There
are over 2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the country.
Among other benefits, the AMA provides insurance to its
members who fly at sanctioned sites and events .Additionally,
training programs and instructors are available at AMA club
sites to help you get started the right way. Contact the AMA at
the address or toll-free phone number below:

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Tele. [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

This is a partial list of items required to finish the DC-3 EP
ARF that may require planning or decision making before
starting to build. Order numbers (in parentheses) are
provided for your convenience.

The DC-3 EP ARF requires a four-channel radio with a micro
receiver and four mini or micro servos.You will also need (2) 12"
servo extensions and a “Y”connector for the aileron servos.

Suggested servos:

• (HCAM0090) Hobbico®CS-5, 16.7 oz-in torque

• (HCAM0100) Hobbico CS-15, 15 oz-in torque

• (FUTM0037) Futaba®S3103, 16.6 oz-in torque

• (FUTM0025) Futaba S3107, 16.6 oz-in torque

Suggested receivers:

• (GPML0044) Great Planes 4-channel FM, low band

• (GPML0045) Great Planes 4-channel FM, high band

• (FUTL0442) Futaba 4-channel FM, low band

• (FUTL0443) Futaba 4-channel FM, high band

Low band - channels 11-35
High band - channels 36-60

Receiver crystal:

• (FUTL62**) for GPM low band

• (FUTL63**) for GPM high band

• (FUTL62**) for FUT low band

• (FUTL63**) for FUT high band

** desired channel

Recommended battery:

• (GPMA2431) Great Planes 8-cell 9.6 volt, 1800 mAh

rechargeable NiMH

The best type of charger to use is a peak charger, because
it charges the batteries until they are fully charged, then
automatically switches to a trickle charge mode.The Great
Planes ElectriFly™Peak Charger (GPMM3000) is suitable
for nigh batteries, NiCds and transmitter battery packs.The
Great Planes Triton™charger (GPMM3150) is also suitable.

If you have another type of charger that is not a peak
charger, you will have to calculate the length of time it takes
to charge the batteries yourself, then turn the charger off
when the batteries are fully charged. Overcharging the
batteries may damage them. Before you can calculate the
time it takes to charge a battery pack, you first have to know
the charge rate you are going to use.

Charger

Radio Equipment

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

Note: We, as the kit manufacturer, provide you with a top

quality kit and great 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

Charge rate/time recommendations:

• Charge a fully discharged 8-cell, 1100 mAh battery pack

at 1 Amp for 1 hour 10 minutes.

• Charge a fully discharged 8-cell, 1800 mAh battery pack
at 1.5 Amps for 1 hour 15 minutes.

Note:The period required to charge the batteries in the example
above is for discharged batteries. If the battery you are going to
charge is not discharged (and you are not using a peak
charger), connect it to the motors on your model.Run them until
the motors stop, thus discharging the battery.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to use Deans®Ultra Plugs with
the plug that is supplied on the electronic speed control.
They are not compatible and may be damaged if used.

In addition to the equipment listed in the “Decisions You
Must Make” section, following is the “short list” of the most
important items required to assemble the DC-3 EP ARF.

We

recommend Great Planes Pro™CA and Epoxy glue.

❏ 1/2 oz. Thin Pro CA (GPMR6001)
❏ 1/2 oz. Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)
❏ Pro 6-Minute Epoxy (GPMR6045)
❏ Pro 30-Minute Epoxy (GPMR6047)
❏ Hobby Knife (HCAR0105)
❏ #11 Blades (HCAR0211)
❏ Small Phillips and Flat Blade Screwdrivers
❏ Pliers with Wire Cutter (HCAR0630)
❏ Sealing Iron (TOPR2100)
❏ Velcro

®

Hook & Loop Material (GPMQ4480)

❏ Electr ic Drill and 1/16" [1.6mm] Dr ill Bit
❏ Rubbing Alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❏ 220-Gr it Sandpaper
❏ Pro Threadlocker (GPMR6060)

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you assemble the DC-3 EP ARF.

❏ Great Planes CG Machine

™

(GPMR2400)

❏ Top Flite

®

Hot Sock™iron cover (TOPR2175)

❏ Straightedge with scale (HCAR0475)

❏ Masking Tape (TOPR8018)
❏ CA Debonder (GPMR6039)
❏ CA Applicator tips (GPMR6033)
❏Curved-tip canopy scissors f or trimming plastic (HCAR0667)

• 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, then slightly modify or

custom fit

the part as necessar y for the best fit.

• Whenever the term

glue

is written you should rely upon
your experience to decide what type of glue to use.When a
specific type of adhesive works best for that step, the
instructions will make a recommendation.

• Whenever just

epoxy

is specified you may use

either

30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or6-minute epoxy. When
30-minute epoxy is specified it is highly recommended that
you use only 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy, because you
will need the working time and/or the additional strength.

• 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 vie w this inf ormation 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.

NOTE: The hardware supplied with this product is
metric; therefore the sizes and measurements in this
manual will be stated as metric sizes.

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

Optional Items

Adhesives and Building Supplies

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

IMPORTANT: Monitor the temperature of the battery

frequently. If the battery becomes warm, disconnect it
from the charger.

4

5

Before starting to build, use the Kit Contents list to 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 Great Planes Product Support. When reporting defective or missing parts, use
the part names exactly as they are written in the Kit Contents list on this page.

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1, Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

KIT INSPECTION

1. Fiberglass Fuselage

2. Right Wing Panel w/Aileron

3. Left Wing Panel w/Aileron

4. Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevators

5. Rudder

6. Wing Center Section

7. Center Section Bottom Fairing

8. Cowl Top [2]

9. Cowl Bottom [2]

10. Cowl Front [2]

11. Propellers [2]

12. Propeller Adapters [2]

13. Speed 400 Motors [2]

14. Wiring Harness w/ ESC and Switch

15. 1/8" [3.2mm] Ply Servo Tray

16. 51.5mm Main Wheels [2]

17. 1/8" [3.2mm] Ply Mid Former (Servo Tray)

18. 1/8" [3.2mm] Ply Aft Former (Servo Tray)

19. 1/8" [3.2mm] Ply Wing Joiners [4]

20. Fiberglass Nose Hatch Strips [4]

21. 1/8" [3.2mm] Ply Forward Battery Tray

Kit Contents (Photographed)

5mm x 50mm Wooden Dowel
Velcro®Battery Straps [2]

2.0mm Elevator Joiner

1.7x99mm Aileron Pushrods [2]

2.5mm Washers (Motor Mount) [4]

2.5x11.5mm Flanged Phillips Screws
(Landing Gear Straps) [4]

2.5x7.5mm Phillips Screws (Motor
Mounts) [4]

Nylon Tie Strap

2.5x9.5mm Flanged Phillips Screws [6]

25mm Tail Wheel

75mm Main Landing Gear [4]
Decal
2mm Wheel Collar (Tailgear)
2x12mm Phillips Screws (Rudder/Elev ator) [4]
2x16mm Phillips Screws (Ailerons) [4]
3mm Set Screws [18]
3x34mm Axles [2]
4mm Washers (Wing Bolts) [2]
4x22mm Wing Bolt [2]
600mm Pushrod Outer Tubes [2]
700mm Pushrods w/Z-Bends [2]
Propeller Shaft Extensions [2]

CA Hinges [4]
Hinge Points [2]
Wing Bolt Blind Nuts (Installed in Fuse)[2]
Large Nylon Clevis [2] w/Retainers
Main LG Adapters [4]
Nylon LG Straps [2]
Plastic Spacers for Landing Gear [4]
Screw-Lock Connectors
Nylon Retainers (Screw-Lock Connectors) (2)
Small Nylon Control Horns [4]
Tailgear Wire

Kit Contents (Not Photographed)

1

4

8

9

14

10

11

12

13

12

2

6

5

3

17

7

18

15

16

19

20

21

6

0" 1" 2" 3" 4" 5" 6" 7"

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180

Inch Scale

Metric Scale

To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4

To order replacement par ts for the Great Planes DC-3 EP ARF, use the order numbers in the Replacement Parts List
that follows. Replacement parts are available only as listed. Not all par ts are available separately (an aileron cannot be
purchased separately, but is only available with the wing kit). Replacement parts are not available from Product Support,
but can be purchased from hobby shops or mail order/Internet order firms. Hardware items (screws, nuts, bolts) are also
available from these outlets. If you need assistance locating a dealer to purchase parts, visit www.greatplanes.com and
click on “Where to Buy.” If this kit is missing par ts, contact Product Support.

Replacement Parts List

Order Number Description How to Pur

chase

Missing pieces ................................................Contact Product Support

Instruction manual...........................................Contact Product Support

Full-size plans.................................................Not available

GPMA2590 ...........Fuse Kit

GPMA2591 ...........Wing Kit

GPMA2592 ...........Tail Set

GPMA2593 ...........Motors and Harness

GPMA2594 ...........ESC

GPMA2595 ...........Decal Sheet

GPMA2596 ...........Prop Set

GPMA2597 ...........Landing Gear

GPMA2598 ...........Cowls, Plastic Parts

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Contact your hobby
supplier to purchase
these items.

1/64" = .4mm
1/32" = .8mm
1/16" = 1.6mm
3/32" = 2.4mm

1/8" = 3.2mm
5/32" = 4mm
3/16" = 4.8mm

1/4" = 6.4mm

3/8" = 9.5mm

1/2" = 12.7mm

5/8" = 15.9mm

3/4" = 19mm

1" = 25.4mm
2" = 50.8mm
3" = 76.2mm

6" = 152.4mm
12" = 304.8mm
15" = 381mm
18" = 457.2mm
21" = 533.4mm
24" = 609.6mm
30" = 762mm
36" = 914.4mm

METRIC CONVERSIONS