Great Planes GPMA1210 User Manual

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MX 30cc

INSTRUCTION

™

SPECIFICATIONS

Wingspan:

Wingspan

Length: 67 in [ 1700 mm]

Wing Area: 118 4 in

80 in [2030 mm]

80 in

m

2

[76.4 dm2]

Weight:

Weight

Wing

Loading:

12.75– 13.75 lbs

.7513.75 lb

[5780–6230 g]

25– 27 oz/ft
[76– 82 g/dm2]

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

MANUAL

Radio: 4-6 Channel

adio:4-

2

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:

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.

Engine: 1.8−2.0 cu in [30 − 35 cc]

Electric: RimFire 1.60 (63-62-250) Brushless

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1

Champaign IL 61822 USA

READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT

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

© 2015 Great Planes Model Mfg. A subsidiary of Hobbico,® Inc.

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

GPMA1210

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

EngineRecommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MODEL INSPECTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

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

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

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

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

Flap Servo Installation (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

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

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

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

Motor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Engine Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

Install the Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Check the Control Directions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Set the Control Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

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

Balance the Model Laterally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Balance the Model (C.G.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

PREFLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Identify Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Ground Check and Range Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Radio Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Fuel Mixture Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

INTRODUCTION

Continuing with the success of the Escapade line, Great
Planes brings you the Escapade MX 30cc ARF. This is a
great fi rst gas powered model. The plane is as easy to fl y
as a .60 size sport plane. The optional fl aps allow you to
add the fl aps later if you desire. We believe you will be very
pleased with the ease of assembly and fl ight performance
of the Escapade MX 30cc ARF.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to
the Escapade MX 30cc ARF visit the Great Planes web site
at www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then
select the Escapade MX 30cc ARF. If there is new technical
information or changes to this model a “tech notice” box will
appear in the upper left corner of the page.

Academy of Model Aeronautics: If you are not already a
member of the AMA, please join! The AMA is the governing

body of model aviation and membership provides liability
insurance coverage, protects modelers’ rights and interests

and is required to fl y at most R/C sites.

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

IMPORTANT!!! Two of the most important things you can

do to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid
fl ying near full-scale aircraft and avoid fl ying near or over
groups of people.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Protect Your Model, Yourself & Others…

Follow These Important Safety Precautions

1.

Your Escapade MX 30cc ARF should not be considered
a toy, but rather a sophisticated, working model that
functions very much like a full-size airplane. Because of
its performance capabilities, the Escapade MX 30cc ARF, if
not assembled and operated correctly, could possibly cause
injury to yourself or spectators and damage to property

2. You must assemble the model according to the
instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing
so may result in an unsafe or 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.

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

4. You must use an R /C radio system that is in g ood condit ion,
a correctly sized engine, and other components as
specifi ed in this instruction manual. All components must
be correctly installed so that the model operates correctly
on the ground and in the air. You must check the operation
of the model and all components before every fl i g h t .

5. 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.

2

.

6. While this kit has been fl ight-tested to exceed normal

ELEVATORS 85 oz-in

85 oz-in

85 oz-in

85 oz-in

54 oz-in

54 oz-in

2

1

2

2

1

1

9 Servos

Futaba S3305

FUTM0045

Futaba S3305

FUTM0045

Futaba S3305

FUTM0045

Futaba S3305

FUTM0045

Futaba S9001

FUTM0075

Futaba S9001

FUTM0075

SUGGESTED

SERVO

RUDDER

AILERONS

OPTIONAL

FLAPS

THROTTLE

OPTIONAL

CHOKE

#FUNCTION

TOTAL

MINIMUM

TORQUE

RECOMMENDED SERVOS: All control surfaces require the use
of a high-quality servo of at least 85 oz-in of torque. A servo
of 40 oz-in of torque can be used for the throttle and choke.

use, if an engine 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.

7. WARNING : The cowl and wheel pants included in this kit

are made of fi berglass, the fi bers of which may cause eye,
skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part
to remove fi berglass 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
fi berglass parts. Vacuum the parts and the work area
thoroughly after working with fi berglass parts.

8. If you are building this plane as electric powered, set
the failsafe on your transmitter and follow the safety
precautions in the back of the manual.

We, as the kit manufacturer, 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.

Radio Equipment

The Escapade MX 30cc ARF can be flown with a minimum of

a 4-channel radio. For our installation we used six channels.
One channel each for the throttle, choke, elevator, rudder
ailerons and flaps.

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

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

This is a partial list of items required to fi nish the Escapade MX

30cc ARF that may require planning or decision m aking before
st ar ting to build. Ord er nu mbers are provided in parentheses.

Engine Recommendations

The recommended engine size range for the Escapade MX

30cc ARF is a 30 – 35cc [1.8 – 2.0 ci.] two-stroke gasoline
engine. We used the DLE 30 engine for our model. Other
engines can also be used but you may need to make
modifi cations for mounting those engines.

Motor Recommendations

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

Brushless Motor (GPMG4795)

❍ Great Planes SS-80 ESC (GPMM1860)

❍ Great Planes 6mm Male/4mm Female Bullet Adapter

(GPMM3119)

❍ Two 5S FlightPower LiPo Pro50 or FP50 5000mAh 18.5V

Batteries (FPWP5102 or FPWP5505)

❍ Spinner Adapter Kit (GPMQ4589)

ELECTRIC MOTOR INSTALLATION

❍ (2) 20" Servo extension (FUTM4147)

OR

(2) 24" Servo extension (TACM2721)

❍ (3) 8" Servo extension (FUTM4140)

OR

(2) 6" Servo extension (TACM2701)

❍ (2) Y-harness (FUTM4135) (TACM2751)

❍ (1) Additional Y-harness for fl aps

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

❍ (1) 1900mAh LiFe receiver battery (HCAM6521)

ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR GAS INSTALLATION

❍ (1) Additional Y-harness for choke if using a 6-channel

receiver

❍ (1) Heavy duty on/off switch (FUTM4385 or

TAC M2761)

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

The instructions show the two aileron servos connected with

a Y-harness that is plugged into the aileron channel of the
receiver. If using a computer radio, the two aileron servos can
be plugged into separate channels of the receiver and mixed
together. The two fl ap servos and the two elevator servos
also use a Y-harness. If plugging the servos into separate
channels, follow the instructions included with your radio
system on how to mix the channels.

3

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Optional Supplies and Tools

Required Hardware and Accessories

❍ (1) Dubro #554 X-Large Tygon Fuel Line (DUBQ0427)

❍ (1) R/C Foam Rubber (1/4" [6mm], HCAQ1000; or 1/2"

[13mm], HCAQ1050)

❍ Propeller and spare propellers suitable for your engine.

Adhesives and Building Supplies

This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are

required to fi nish the Escapade MX 30cc ARF.

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

❍ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)

❍ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)

❍ Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060)

❍ Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)

❍ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)

❍ Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)

❍ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)

❍ Masking tape

❍ Sandpaper

❍ Drill

❍ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.4mm], 1/8"

[3.2mm], 3/16" [4.8mm], 13/64" [5.2mm], 1/4" [6.4mm],
25/64" [10mm]

❍ Small metal fi le

❍ Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)

❍ Silver solder w/fl ux (STAR2000)

❍ Hobbico 60 Watt Soldering Iron (HCAR0776)

❍ #1 Hobby knife (RMXR6903)

❍ #11 blades (5-pack, RMXR6930)

❍ Rotary tool such as Dremel

❍ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200)

❍ DLE-30 Propeller Drill Guide (DLEQ0301)

®

Covering Tools

❍ Top Flite® MonoKote® Sealing Iron (TOPR2100)

❍ Top Flite Hot Sock Iron Cover (TOPR2175)

❍ Top Flite MonoKote Trim Seal Iron (TOPR2200)

❍ Top Flite MonoKote Heat Gun (TOPR2000)

❍ Coverite® 21st Century® Sealing Iron (COVR2700)

❍ Coverite 21st Century Cover Sock (COVR2702)

❍ Coverite 21st Century Trim Sealing Iron (COVR2750)

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

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

❍ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)

❍ CA debonder (GPMR6039)

❍ 36" metal ruler

❍ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0625)

❍ Robart® Super Stand II™ (ROBP1402)

❍ Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)

❍ AccuThrow™ Defl ection Gauge (GPMR2405)

❍ CG Machine™ (GPMR2400)

❍ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

● Anytime a sheet metal screw is installed in wood, fi rst
install the screw, remove the screw and apply a couple
of drops of thin CA in the hole to harden the threads.

After the CA has cured, reinstall the screw.

● Anytime a threaded screw or nut is installed, a drop of

threadlocker must be applied to the threads. An exception,

do not use threadlocker on the screws installed in the
nylon control horns.

● Denatured alcohol is great for cleaning epoxy from
surfaces before the epoxy cures

● Replacement MonoKote colors

Jet White (TOPQ0204)
Black (TOPQ0208)

Dove Gray (TOPQ0211)
True Red (TOPQ0227)

KIT INSPECTION

Before starting to build, inspect the parts to make sure they
are of acceptable quality. If any parts are missing or are
not of acceptable 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 Ph: [phone], ext. 5
Champaign, IL 61822 Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Escapade MX 30cc
ARF are available using the order numbers in the Replacement
Parts List that follows. The fastest, most economical service
can be provided by your h obby dealer or mail- order company.
Not all parts are available separately (an aileron cannot be
purchased separately, but is only available with the wing kit).
Replacement parts are not available from Product Support,

4

but can be purchased from hobby shops or mail order/Internet
order fi rms. Hardware items (screws, nuts, bolts) are also
available from these outlets.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Great Planes web site at

www.greatplanes.com. Choose “Where to Buy”. 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 Hobby Services
and payments by 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
personal check to: 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 productsupport@greatplanes.
com, or by telephone at [phone].

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Order No. Description

GPMA5380
GPMA5381
GPMA5382
GPMA5383
GPMA5384
GPMA5385
GPMA5386
GPMA5387
GPMA5388
GPMA5389
GPMA5390
GPMA5391

Wing Set
Fuselage Set
Tail Surface Set
Cowl
Landing Gear
Wheel Pants
Wing Tube
Canopy/Hatch
EP Motor Mount Box
Spinner
Tailwheel Assembly
Hatch Screws

1. Fuselage

2. Cowl

3. Horizontal Stabilizer

4. Vertical Stabilizer

5. EP Motor Mount Box

6. Wing Tube

7. Canopy/Hatch

8. Spinner

9.

Battery/Fuel Tank Tray

10. Servo Tray

11. Fuel Tank

12. Wing Halves

13. Wheel Pants

14. Main Wheels

15. Main Landing Gear

KIT CONTENTS

1

3

4

2

5

7

8

10

9

11

12

6

12

13

15

14

16

16. Tailwheel Assembly

5

PREPARATIONS

1. Firmly pull on each of the control surfaces to confi rm

❏

they are securely glued.

2. Tighten the covering with a covering iron as needed.

❏

ASSEMBLE THE WING

Aileron Servo Installation

Begin with the left wing panel.

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

❏ ❏

3. Route servo lead through wing.

❏ ❏

4. Drill servo screw mounting hole.

❏ ❏

2. Install grommets and eyelets on all servos.

❏ ❏

❏ ❏

6

5. Install servo screws.

6. Install servo horn.

❏ ❏

7. Aileron pushrod components.

❏ ❏

10. Position control horn on aileron.

❏ ❏

8. Install the 4-40 threaded clevis.

❏ ❏

9. Attach clevis to control horn.

❏ ❏

❏ ❏

7

11. Mount control horn.

HOW TO SOLDER

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

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

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

12. Install the solder clevis.

❏ ❏

13. Reinstall the aileron pushrods and slide the retainers

❏ ❏

over the clevises.

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

❏

the right wing. The two aileron servos are connected with a

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

8

Flap Servo Installation (Optional)

Flaps are not necessary to land the 30cc Escapade. However,

if you have never fl own with fl aps, the 30cc Escapade is a
great plane to learn with.

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

❏

2. Install grommets and eyelets in the fl ap servo .

❏

5. Install the fl ap servo following the same procedure used

❏

to install the aileron servos.

3. Remove the covering from fl ap servo opening.

❏

4. Separate the fl ap from the aileron.

❏

6. Install the fl ap servo in the right wing. The two fl ap

❏

servos are connected with a Y-harness and plugged into the
fl ap channel on the receiver.

7. Install the nylon wing dowels.

❏

9

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE

A

A = A

A

Install the Tail

1. Slide the Carbon Wing Tube into the fuselage.

❏

5. Check the alignment of the horizontal stabilizer. The

❏

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

2. Install the wing panels.

❏

3. Temporarily install the horizontal stabilizer and the

❏

vertical fi n.

The wing and stabilizer should be parallel. If they are not,

lightly sand the stabilizer slot.

10

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

❏

8. Glue the fi ller blocks on both sides of the fuselage.

❏

7. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the vertical fi n in the

❏

fuselage.

9. Attach the tail gear to the fuselage.

❏

11

10. Install the tail wheel.

❏

Install the Main Landing Gear

1. Install the 3/16” [4.8mm] axles.

❏

2. Cut the axle to length.

❏

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

❏

12

4. Install the main wheel.

❏

6. Install the main landing gear on the fuselage.

❏

Install the Rudder and Elevator Servos

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

❏

Temporarily plug the receiver battery into the receiver.

5. Install the wheel pants.

❏

2. Install the rudder servo arm.

❏

3. Cut the 114” [2900mm] pull-pull cable in half.

❏

13

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

❏

pull cables.

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

❏

6. Insert the pull-pull cables in the pushrod guide tubes.

❏

Attach the clevises to the servo arm.

7 ❏. Position the rudder control horn.

8. Attach rudder control horns.

❏

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

❏

nuts and silicone clevis retainers to the rudder control horns.

14

10. Pull the pull-pull cables tight and attach them to the

❏

rudder control horns.

12. Install the elevator servos. Join the two servo leads

❏

with a Y-harness and plug the Y-harness into the receiver.

11. Install the elevator pushrods.

❏

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

❏

clevises, nuts and retainers.

15

Electric Motor Installation

Proceed to Engine and Tank Installation (page 19) if a
gas engine will be installed.

14. Install the solder clevis.

❏

15. Solder the clevises to the elevator pushrods.

❏

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

❏

box together.

2. Install the 8-32 blind nuts and secure with CA.

❏

16

3. Glue three of the sides on.

❏

6. Open the cooling hole.

❏

4. Glue eight pieces of triangle stock between the front

❏

plate and the sides and the back plate and the sides. Then,
glue the fourth side on.

5. Drill the fi rewall.

❏

7. Attach the motor box to the fi rewall.

❏

8. Install the RimFire 1.60 motor.

❏

17

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

❏

motor wires.

14.

❏

material. Install the receiver, reciever switch and receiver battery.

❏

is set to reverse on the Futaba transmitter. Plug the motor
batteries into the ESC. Check that the motor turns counter­clockwise.

Make two straps from the remaining hook and loop

15. Plug the ESC into the receiver. Check that the throttle

10. Make two battery straps from the supplied hook and

❏

loop material.

11. Install the battery straps on the battery tray.

❏

Skip to Install the Cowl.

Gas Engine Installation

1. Drill the fi rewall for your engine.

❏

12. Install the battery tray.

❏

13. Connect an 8” [200mm] servo extension to the ESC.

❏

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

❏

18

3. Temporarily mount the engine using the hardware

❏

included with the engine.

6. Make three straps from the supplied hook and loop

❏

material.

7. Install the straps on the fuel tank tray.

❏

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

❏

on the fi rewall.

5. Drill the fi rewall for the throttle, choke and fuel line.

❏

8. Install the fuel tank tray.

❏

9. Install the ignition switch.

❏

10. Wrap the ignition battery and ignition module in foam

❏

rubber.

19

11. Install the ignition battery and ignition module.

❏

12. Reinstall the engine.

❏

15. Install the throttle and choke servos and plug them

❏

into the receiver.

16.

❏

material. Install the receiver switch, receiver and receiver battery.

Make two straps from the remaining hook and loop

13. Use epoxy to assemble the throttle/choke servo tray.

❏

14. Glue the tray in the fuselage.

❏

17. Assemble the choke pushrod.

❏

20

18. Install the choke pushrod.

❏

19. Assemble the choke clevis.

❏

22. Cut the outer pushrod tube.

❏

23. Roughen the outer pushrod with sandpaper.

❏

24. Install the outer pushrod.

❏

20. Install the clevis on the choke servo.

❏

21. Attach the 2-56x1" threaded rod to the choke pushrod.

❏

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

25. Reinstall the clevis and adjust it so that the choke

❏

opens and closes completely.

21

26. Install the throttle pushrod using the same procedure

❏

as used on choke pushrod. We recommend that a throttle
cutoff also be set up on the transmitter to close the throttle
completely, stopping the engine.

Assemble the Fuel Tank

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

❏

stopper plates.

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

❏

brass tubes.

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

❏

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

❏

5. Bend the vent tube.

❏

6. Install the two fuel pickup lines and clunks so they

❏

move freely.

22

7. Loosely install the fuel tank stopper screw.

❏

Install the Fuel Tank

1. Install and mark the fuel lines: Vent, Carb and Fill.

❏

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

❏

2. Secure the fuel tank in the fuselage.

❏

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

❏

top of the tank.

3. Route the fi ll line.

❏

23

Install the Cowl

For the electric installation, skip to step 2.

1. Trim the cowl to fi t over the head and muffl er.

❏

2. Position the cowl.

❏

3. Drill 5/64" [1.5mm] pilot holes. Attach the cowl using

❏

#4 x5/8" [16mm] sheet metal screws and #4 fl at washers.

Apply the Decals

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

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

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

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

Please use the following pictures and box top as a guide for
the decal placement.

24

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

FULL

THROTTLE

RUDDER

MOVES

RIGHT

ELEVATOR

MOVES DOWN

RIGHT AILERON

MOVES UP
LEFT AILERON
MOVES DOWN

4-CHANNEL RADIO SET UP

(STANDARD MODE 2)

Check the Control Directions

3. Make certain that the control surfaces and the carburetor

❏

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.

1. Switch on the transmitter and receiver.

❏

Set the Control Throws

2. Center the control surfaces.

❏

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

❏

and measure the high rate throw fi rst.

25

Pushrod Farther Out

Pushrod Farther Out

LESS
THROW

Pushrod Closer In

MORE
THROW

MORE

THROW

Pushrod Closer In

LESS

THROW

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

These are the recommended

control surface throws:

ELEVATOR

HIGH RATE LOW RATE

7/8"

[22mm]

13°

Up

7/8"

[22mm]

13°

Down

5/8"

[16mm]

9°

Up

5/8"

[16mm]

9°

Down

3/4"

[19mm]

17°

Up

3/4"

[19mm]

17°

Down

1/2"

[13mm]

12°

Up

1/2"

[13mm]

12°

Down

7/8"

[22mm]

20°

Down

2"

[51mm]

19°

Right

2"

[51mm]

19°

Left

1-3/4"

[44mm]

17°

Right

1-3/4"

[44mm]

17°

Left

RUDDERAILERONSFLAPS

Mix in approximately 5/16" [8mm]
down elevator with the flap.
This will reduce ballooning when
flaps are applied.

❏

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

in your transmitter to fi ne tune the throws.

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

❏

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

If your radio does not have dual rates, we recomm end setting
the throws at the high rate settings.

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

❏

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

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

Install the Propeller

1. Balance the propeller.

❏

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

❏

necessary.

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

26

3. Install the spinner cone.

5-1/8" [130mm]

4-7/16" [113mm]

❏

ELECTRIC ONLY: Install the spinner adapter (GPMQ4584)

before installing the spinner cone.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

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

1. Mark the C.G range.

❏

4. Install the canopy.

❏

Balance the Model Laterally

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

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

❏

model by the engine propeller shaft and the bottom of the
fuse under the TE of the fi n. Do this several times.

2. If one wing always drops when you lift the model, it means

❏

that side is heavy. Balance the airplane by adding weight
to the other wing tip. An airplane that has been laterally

balanced will track better in loops and other maneuvers.

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

❏

motor batteries installed, use a Great Planes C.G. Machine or
apply narrow (1/16” [2mm]) strips of tape at the front and rear
C.G . l ocations so you will be able to feel them wh en lifting the
model with your fi ngers to check the C.G. location. Do not

at any time balance the model outside this C.G. range.

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

❏

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

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

❏

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

27

PREFLIGHT

Identify Your Model

You should always have your name, address, telephone

number and AMA number on or inside your model. It is
required at all AMA R/C club fl ying sites and AMA sanctioned
fl ying events. Fill out the identifi cation tag on page 31 and

place it on or inside your model.

Charge the Batteries

Always charge your transmitter and receiver batteries the night

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

the radio manufacturer.

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

Ground Check and Range Check

Make sure the engine idles reliably, transitions smoothly
and maintains full power indefi nitely. Shut the engine off and

inspect the model closely, making sure all fasteners, pushrods
and connections have remained tight and the hinges are
secure. Follow the radio manufacturer's instructions to ground
check the operational range of your radio before the fi rst fl ight
of the day. This should be done once with the engine off and
once with the engine running at various speeds. If the control
surfaces do not respond correctly, do not fl y! Find and correct
the problem fi rst. Look for loose servo connections or broken
wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, poor solder
joints in your battery pack or a defective battery cell.

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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

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

sparks or fl ames, as fuel is ver y fl ammable. Do not smoke
near the engine or fuel; and remember that engine exhaust
gives off a great deal of deadly carbon monoxide. Therefore

do not run the engine in a closed room or garage.

● Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate

engines.

● Use safety glasses when starting or running engines.

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

If you do flip the propeller with your fingers, wear a heavy

leather glove, such as a welder’s glove. When hand starting
gas engines, if the engine should backfire, the large prop
can cause severe injury to your hand and fingers.

● Do not run the engine in an area of loose gravel or sand;
the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.

● Keep your face and body as well as all spectators away
from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you start and
run the engine.

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

● Stop the engine before making any engine adjustments.

● The engine and muffl er get hot! Do not touch them during

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

● To stop a gasoline powered engine an on/off switch must
be connected to the engine ignition. Do not throw anything
into the propeller of a running engine.

ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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

● When working on your plane, remove the propeller if the
motor batteries will be connected.

● Always remove the motor batteries when charging.

● Follow the charging instructions included with your charger

for charging LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries can cause serious
damage if misused.

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

● ALWAYS unplug the motor batteries fi rst.

● NEVER switch off the transmitter with the motor batteries

plugged in.

● WARNING: Read the entire instruction sheet included with
your motor batteries. Failure to follow the instructions could
cause permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings
and cause bodily harm!

● ONLY use a LiPo approved charger.

● NEVER use a NiCd/NiMH peak charger to charge a LiPo

battery.

● NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.

● ONLY charge through the “charge” lead.

● NEVER charge through the “discharge” lead.

● NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C unless the

battery is rated for a higher charge rate.

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

28

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

● NEVER trickle charge a LiPo battery.

● NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 150° F

(65° C).

● NEVER disassemble or modify the pack wiring in any way
or puncture the cells.

● NEVER discharge below 2.7V per cell.

● NEVER place the battery or charger on combustible materials

or leave it unattended during charge or discharge.

● ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

● NEVER charge the battery in the plane.

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

Set it aside in a safe location for at least 20 minutes. If the

battery is damaged in the crash it could catch fi re.

● If the battery starts to swell, quickly move the battery to
a safe location, preferably outside. Place it in a bucket,
covering the battery with sand. Never use water to try and
put out a LiPo fi re.

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)

Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code. For the complete Safety
Code refer to Model Aviation magazine, the AMA web site or
the Code that came with your AMA license.

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 within 3 miles 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 n ot operate m odels with pyrotechnics (any devi ce that
explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).

Radio Control

1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the 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 qualified flier, 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 exc ept in accordance wi th
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.

FLYING

The Escapade MX 30cc ARF is a great-fl ying sport model that

fl ies smoothly and predictably. However, it does not possess
the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and
should be fl own only by experienced R/C pilots.

Fuel Mixture Adjustments

A fully cowled engine may run at a higher temperature than
an un-cowled engine. For this reason, the fuel mixture should
be richened so the engine runs at about 200 rpm below peak
speed. By running the engine slightly rich, you will help prevent
dead-stick landings caused by overheating.

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. If fl utter is detected, slow the model
immediately and 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 ser vo
mounting; and one of the most prevalent causes of fl utter;
Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.

29

Takeoff

Before taking off, see how the model handles on the ground

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

down the runway.

Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, point
the model straight down the runway, hold a bit of up elevator
to keep the tail on the ground to maintain tail wheel steering,
then gradually advance the throttle. As the model gains
speed, decrease up elevator allowing the tail to come off the
ground. One of the most important things to remember with
a tail dragger is to always be ready to apply right rudder to
counteract engine torque. Gain as much speed as your runway
and fl ying site will practically allow before gently applying up
elevator, lifting the model into the air. At this moment it is likely
that you will need to apply more right rudder to counteract
engine torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the
model to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before
turning into the traffi c pattern.

Flight

Climb out to make another attempt. When the model is a foot
or so off the deck, smoothly increase up elevator until it gently
touches down. Once the model is on the runway and has lost
fl ying speed, hold up elevator to place the tail on the ground,
regaining tail wheel control.

NOTE: If ever the occasion arises when a dead-stick landing
must be performed, do not extend the fl aps until certain the
model will be able to reach the landing zone (on dead-stick
landings it is common to land with no fl aps at all). Without
engine power, fl aps can unexpectedly reduce the model’s
range, thus causing you to come up short of the fi eld.

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

Have a ball! But always stay in control and fl y in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

It is a good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight line with
you to keep an eye on other traffi c. Take it easy with the
Escapade MX 30cc ARF for the fi rst few fl ights, gradually
getting acquainted with it as you gain confi dence. Adjust the
trims to maintain straight and level fl ight. After fl ying around
for a while, and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel,

practice slow fl ight and execute practice landing approaches

by reducing the throttle and lowering the fl aps to see how
the model handles at slower speeds. Add power to see how
she climbs as well. Continue to fl y around, executing various
maneuvers and making mental notes of what trim or C.G.
changes may be required to fi ne tune the model so it fl ies
the way you like. Mind your fuel level, but use this fi rst fl ight
to become familiar with your model before landing.

Landing

The Escapade MX 30cc lands similar to a .60 size sport plane.

It does not require fl aps to land, but the fl aps will allow the

plane to land slower and is great practice for the pilot that has
never used fl aps. Flaps increase lift and drag, thus reducing
rollout after touchdown (not as much of a factor on grass
runways). To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle
while on the downwind leg. If using fl aps, allow the model to
slow before extending them. Continue to lose altitude, but
maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn onto
the crosswind leg. Make your fi nal turn toward the runway
(into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed
and control. If using fl aps, keep a few additional “clicks” of

power so the model doesn’t slow too much. Level the attitude
when the model reaches the runway threshold, modulating
the throttle as necessary to maintain your glide path and
airspeed. If you are going to overshoot, smoothly advance
the throttle (always ready on the right rudder to counteract
torque) and retract the fl aps when enough airspeed is gained.

30

Fill in your battery type, voltage and

capacity. Then tape this chart to bottom

of canopy hatch for reference:

HIGH RATE

ELEVATOR

Up/Down

7/8" [22mm] 13°

RUDDER

Left/Right

AILERON

Up/Down

3/4" [19mm] 17° 1/2" [13mm] 12°

FLAP 7/8" [22mm] 20°

Down

C.G.

5/8" [8mm] elevator mixed with flap

Forward 4-7/16" [113mm]
Aft 5-1/8" [130mm] from leading edge

RECEIVER BATTERY

MOTOR BATTERY

IGNITION BATTERY

LOW RATE

5/8" [16mm] 9°

1-3/4" [44mm] 17°2" [51mm] 19°

from leading edge

31

This model belongs to:

Name

Address

City, State, Zip

Phone Number

AMA Number