Great Planes GPMA1242 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 MANUAL BEFORE STARTING
CONSTRUCTION.IT CONT AINS IMPOR T ANT INSTR UCTIONS
AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND
USE OF THIS MODEL.

GPMZ0188 for GPMA1242 V1.1© Copyright 2006

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 57 in [1450 mm]
Wing Area: 924 sq in [59.6 dm2]
Weight: 7.5 – 8.5 lb [3400 – 3855 g]
Wing Loading: 19 – 21 oz/sq ft [57 – 65 g/dm2]
Length: 53 in [1345 mm]
Radio: 4-channel with four 54 oz-in [3.9kg-cm] servos
Engine: .60 – .75 cu in [10 – 12.5 cc] two-stroke,

.70 – .91 cu in [11.5 – 15 cc] four-stroke

2

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

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

SCALE COMPETITION.....................................................2

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS..................................................3

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

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

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

Building Stand.............................................................4

Pilot .............................................................................4

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

Required Hardware & Accessories.............................4

Adhesives & Building Supplies....................................4

Optional Supplies & Tools ...........................................4

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

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS............................................5

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

KIT INSPECTION..............................................................6

KIT CONTENTS ................................................................6

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

ASSEMBLE THE WINGS..................................................7

Install the Ailerons & Servos.......................................7

Join the Wing Panels.................................................10

BUILD THE FUSELAGE..................................................11

Assemble the Tail Section .........................................11

Install the Tail Linkages & Servos .............................13

Install the Landing Gear............................................15

Install the Cabane Struts ...........................................17

Install the Engine & Fuel Tank...................................17

Install the Throttle Servo...........................................19

Install the Receiver & Battery....................................20

FINISH THE MODEL .......................................................21

Attach the Cowl & Canopy........................................21

Attach the Wings.......................................................22

Optional: Assemble the Carrying Handle ..................24

Apply the Decals .......................................................24

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY .................................25

Check the Control Directions ....................................25

Set the Control Throws..............................................25

Balance the Model (C.G.)..........................................26

Balance the Model Laterally ......................................26

PREFLIGHT.....................................................................26

Identify Your Model ....................................................26

Charge the Batteries .................................................26

Balance the Propellers..............................................27

Ground Check...........................................................27

Range Check.............................................................27

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.................................27

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)....................................28

CHECK LIST ...................................................................28

FLYING ............................................................................29

Fuel Mixture Adjustments..........................................29

Takeoff.......................................................................29

Flight..........................................................................29

Landing......................................................................29

ENGINE HEAD TEMPLATE ....................Back Cover Page

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

We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model
Aeronautics) and a local R/C club.The AMA is the governing
body of model aviation and membership is required to fly at
AMA clubs.Though joining the AMA provides many benefits,
one of the primary reasons to join is liability protection.
Coverage is not limited to flying at contests or on the club
field. It even applies to flying at public demonstrations and
air shows.Failure to comply with the Safety Code (excerpts
printed in the back of the manual) may endanger insurance
coverage.Additionally, training programs and instructors are
available at AMA club sites to help you get started the right
way. There are over 2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the
country. Contact the AMA at the address or toll-free phone
number below.

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

Though the Great Planes Super Skybolt is an ARF and may not
have the same level of detail as an “all-out” scratch-built
competition model, it is a scale model nonetheless and is
therefore eligible to compete in the Fun Scale class in AMA
competition (we receive many f a vor able reports of Great Planes
ARFs in scale competition!). In Fun Scale, the “builder of the
model” rule does not apply.To receive the five points for scale
documentation, the only proof required that a full-size aircraft of
this type in this paint/markings scheme did exist is a single sheet
such as a kit box cov er from a plastic model, a photo, or a profile
painting, etc. If the photo is in black and white, other written
documentation of color must be provided. Contact the AMA for
a rule book with full details.

SCALE COMPETITION

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302

Tele: [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

AMA

INTRODUCTIONTABLE OF CONTENTS

If you would like photos of the full-size Super Skybolt for
scale documentation, or if you would like to study the photos
to add more scale details, photo packs are available from:

Bob’s Aircraft Documentation

3114 Y uk on Ave

Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Telephone: [phone]

Fax:[phone]

E-mail: www.bobsairdoc.com

1.Your Super Skybolt 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 Super Skybolt ARF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.

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

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

4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in first-class
condition, and a correctly sized engine and components
(servos, receiver battery, etc.) 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
flight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.

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

8.While this kit has been flight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high-stress flying,
such as racing, or 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 .

9. WARNING: The cowl and wheel pants included in this kit
are made of fiberglass, the fibers of which may cause eye,
skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part
(wheel pant, cowl) 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 the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.

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

The Super Skybolt ARF requires a 4-channel radio system with
four 54 oz.-in. [3.9 kg-cm] minimum servos and one standard
torque servo for the throttle.In addition, two 9" [229 mm] servo
extensions are required for the aileron servos .If y ou are using a
radio system that does not have mixing functions, a Y-harness
will also be required to connect the aileron servos to the receiver .
Below is a list of radio equipment used to build the Super Skybolt
ARF shown in the pictures in this manual:

❏ (4) Futaba

®

S9001 Servo Aircraft Coreless BB (FUTM0075)

❏ (1) Futaba S3003 Servo Standard (FUTM0031)
❏ (2) Futaba 9" Servo Extension J (FUTM3910)

The recommended engine size range for the Super Skybolt
ARF is .60 – .75 cu in [10-12.5 cc] two-stroke or .70 – .91 cu
in [11.5-15 cc] four-stroke. If an engine in the upper end of
the size range is used, remember that this is a scale model
that is intended to fly at scale-like speeds, so throttle
management should be practiced.

Engine Recommendations

Radio Equipment

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

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

PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,YOURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

3

A building stand or cradle comes in handy during the build.We
use the Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402) for all our projects
in R&D , and it can be seen in pictures throughout this manual.

The Super Skybolt ARF does not include a pilot figure.If you
plan to install one, the pilot can be attached during the build,
or later on since the canopy is remov able.We suggest using
the Great Planes pilot figure (GPMA2475).

This is the list of hardware and accessories required to finish the
Super Skybolt ARF.Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

❏ #64 Rubber bands (1/4 lb [113 g] box – HCAQ2020)
❏ 3' [900mm] Standard silicone fuel tubing (GPMQ4131)
❏ R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6 mm] – HCAQ1000, or 1/2"

[13 mm] – HCAQ1050)

This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are
required to finish the Super Skybolt ARF.

❏ 1/2 oz.[15g] Thin Pro

™

CA (GPMR6001)

❏ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)
❏ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6 mm], 5/64" [2 mm], 3/32" [2.4 mm],

7/64" [2.8 mm] 11/64" [4.4 mm], 1/4" [6.4 mm]

❏ 8-32 Tap and drill set (GPMR8103)
❏ Tap handle (GPMR8120)
❏ Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)
❏ #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏ #11 Blades (5-pack – HCAR0211)
❏ Small T-pins (100 – HCAR5100)
❏ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❏ Hayes Small Clamp 1-3/8" [26 mm] (HAYR1104)
❏ Petroleum jelly

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual and
other items that will help you build the Super Skybolt ARF.

❏ Great Planes Heat-Shrink Tubing Assor tment

(12 – GPMM1070)

❏ 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)
❏ Hobbico

®

60 watt soldering iron (HCAR0776)

❏ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)
❏ 2 oz.[57 g] Spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏ 4 oz.[113 g] Aerosol CA activator (GPMR634)
❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏ Epoxy brushes (6 – GPMR8060)
❏ Mixing sticks (50 – GPMR8055)
❏ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❏ Builder’s Tr iangle Set (HCAR0480)
❏ 36" Metal ruler (HCAR0475)
❏ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0630)
❏ Hobbico Duster

™

can of compressed air (HCAR5500)

❏ Masking tape (TOPR8018)
❏ Threadlocker

™

thread-locking compound (GPMR6060)

❏ Switch & Charge Jack Mounting Set (GPMM1000)
❏ Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❏ Rotary tool such as Dremel

®

❏ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200)
❏ Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)
❏ Dead Center

™

Engine Mount Hole Locator (GPMR8130)

❏ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)
❏ Prop Reamer (GPMQ5005)

• There are two types of screws used in this kit:

• Sheet Metal Screws (SMS) are designated by a
number and a length. For example #6 x 3/4" [19 mm]

This is a #6 screw that is 3/4" [19 mm] long.

• Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are designated by a

number, threads per inch, and a length. For example
4-40 x 1-1/2" [38 mm]

This is a number four screw that is 1-1/2" [38 mm] long

with forty threads per inch.

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

Optional Supplies & Tools

Adhesives & Building Supplies

Required Hardware & Accessories

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Pilot

Building Stand

4

• 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 or 6-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 Super Skybolt ARF is factory-covered with Top Flite
MonoKote film. 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 for a minor patch, perhaps a fellow
modeler would give you 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.

Metallic Blue – TOPQ0402

Metallic Gold – TOPQ0404

Metallic Red – TOPQ0405

White – TOPQ0204

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

Fuse = Fuselage

Stab = Horizontal Stabilizer

Fin = Ver tical Fin

LE = Leading Edge

TE = Trailing Edge
LG = Landing Gear
Ply = Plywood

" = Inches

mm = Millimeters

SHCS = Socket Head Cap Screw

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Super Skybolt ARF
are available using the order numbers in the Replacement
Parts List that follows. The fastest, most economical service
can be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order company.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at
www.hobbico.com. Choose “Where to Buy” at the bottom
of the menu on the left side of the page. Follow the
instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian
or International dealer.

Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services by
calling [phone], or via facsimile at [phone],
but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will
apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged
sales tax. If ordering via fax, include a Visa®or MasterCard

®

number and expiration date for payment.
Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed in
the Replacement Parts List. Payment by credit card or
personal check only; no C.O.D.

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

Replacement Parts List

Order Number Description How to Purchase

Missing pieces Contact Product Support
Instruction manual Contact Product Support

Full-size plans Not available
GPMA2920 Top Wing Set Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2921 Bottom Wing Set Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2922 Fuse Set Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2923 Tail Set Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2924 Cabane Struts Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2925 Interplane Struts Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2926 Landing Gear Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2927 Wheel Pants Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2928 Cowl Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2929 Canopy Contact Hobby Supplier
GPMA2930 Decal Sheet Contact Hobby Supplier

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS

5

6

Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to make sure it is complete, and inspect the parts to make sure they
are of acceptable quality. If any parts are missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if you need assistance with assembly ,
contact Product Support. When reporting defective or missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written in
the Kit Contents list.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], ext. 5

Fax:[phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

KIT INSPECTION

(1) 5/16"-24 Spinner Adapter
(4) Wing Strut Pegs
(1) 2-1/2" [64 mm] Aluminum Spinner
(1) Outer Pushrod Tube
(1) Anti-Rotation Pin
(1) Radio T ray
(1) Hook and Loop Material
(1) .60 – 1.20 Engine Mount
(2) 5/32" [4 mm] Axle Shafts
(1) Screw-Lock Pushrod Connector
(1) Nylon Retainer (for Screw-Lock

Pushrod Connector)
(2) 5/16"-24 Nylon Lock Nuts
(6) 4-40 Nylon Lock Nuts
(5) Large Nylon Control Horns
(4) Small Nylon control Horns

(2) 1/4-20 Nylon Wing Bolts
(8) 2-56 Nylon Clevises
(12) CA Hinges
(2) #4 Flat Washers
(8) #2 Flat Washers
(8) #8 Flat Washers
(8) #8 Lock Washers
(4) 6-32 x 1-1/2" [38 mm] Threaded Studs
(4) 6-32 Knurled Nuts
(1) 4-40 x 1/8" [3 mm] SHCS
(6) Nylon FasLinks
(8) Silicone Clevis Retainers
(6) #4 x 1/2" [13 mm] SMS
(6) 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS
(14) #2 x 3/8" [9.5 mm] SMS
(12) 4-40 x 3/8" [9.5 mm] Phillips Screws

(2) 4-40 x 1/2" [13 mm] SHCS
(14) 2-56 x 1/2" [13 mm] Phillips Screws
(8) 8-32 x 1" [25 mm] SHCS
(8) #2 x 1/2" [13 mm] SMS
(4) 2-56 x 12" [305 mm] Threaded One-

End Pushrods

(4) 2-56 x 36" [914 mm] Threaded One-

End Pushrods

(6) 5/32" [4 mm] Wheel Collars

Kit Contents (not photographed)

KIT CONTENTS

1

5

4

3

12

11

2

8

Kit Contents

1. Cowl

2. Fuselage

3. Canopy

4. Bottom Left Wing Panel w/Aileron

5. Bottom Right Wing Panel w/Aileron

6. Top Left Wing Panel w/Aileron

7. Top Right Wing Panel w/Aileron

8. Horizontal Stabilizer & Elevators

9. Tailwheel Assembly

10. Vertical Fin & Rudder

11. Landing Gear

12. Main Wheels (2)

13. Aluminum Joiner Plate

14. Wheel Pants (L&R)

15. Wing Struts (2)

16. Wing Bolt Plate

17. Cabane Struts (4)

18. Cabane Strut Braces (2)

19. Top Wing Joiner

20. Carry Handle Pieces (4)

21. Bottom Wing Joiner (2)

22. Fuel Tank

23. Servo Mounting Blocks (4)

6

7

10

14

9

15

17

18

19

16

20

21

23

22

13

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

parts of the kit from the box and inspect for damage. If any
parts are damaged or missing, contact Product Suppor t at
the address or telephone number listed in the

“Kit

Inspection”

section on page 6.

❏ 2. Carefully remove the tape and separate all the control

surfaces. Use a covering iron with a covering sock to tighten
the covering if necessary.Apply pressure over sheeted areas
to thoroughly bond the covering to the wood.

Do the left top and bottom wing first so your work
matches the photos the first time through.You can do
one wing at a time, or work on them together.

❏ ❏ 1. Locate six 3/4" x 1" [19 x 25 mm] CA hinges. Test fit

the hinges into the pre-cut hinge slots in the ailerons and
wing panels of both top and bottom wings. Enlarge the slots

if necessary so that the hinges will fit half-way in.With a sharp
blade in your hobby knife, trim the covering 1/16" [1.6 mm]
away from the hinge slots as shown. Remove the hinges and
drill a 3/32" [2.4 mm] hole 1/2" [13 mm] deep in the center of
each hinge slot.This will allow the CA glue to wick across the
entire hinge surface.

❏ ❏ 2.Insert the hinges half-way into the ailerons.Pins can

be used to keep the hinges centered. Fit the ailerons to the
wing panels by sliding the hinges into their mating slots at an
angle. With the aileron pressed into position, deflect it
downward and apply six drops of thin CA glue to the center
of each hinge.Flip the wings over and apply CA to the other
side of the hinges.

❏ ❏ 3.Remove the servo hatc h from the bottom wing panel

and trim the covering from the servo arm cutout.

Install the Ailerons & Servos

ASSEMBLE THE WINGS

PREPARATIONS

7

❏ ❏ 4. Cut three arms from a four-arm servo horn and

install it onto the servo 90 degrees to the servo case.
Enlarge the outer hole of the servo horn using a 5/64"
[2 mm] drill bit.

❏ ❏ 5. Position the servo onto the underside of the servo

hatch so that the servo horn is centered in the cutout and
the servo is square to the hatch. Place a servo mounting
block onto each side of the servo up against the mounting
tabs and mark their locations on the hatch.

❏ ❏ 6. Mix up a small batch of epoxy to glue the servo

mounting blocks to the servo hatch using the marks you
made as a guide. Allow the epoxy to cure undisturbed.

❏ ❏ 7. Drill 1/16" [1.6 mm] holes for the servo mounting

screws.Thread a mounting screw into each hole and back it
out. Add a couple drops of thin CA to each hole to harden
the wood.Secure the servo to the hatch using the hardware
that came with the servo.

❏ ❏ 8. Attach a 9" [229 mm] servo extension to the aileron

servo and secure it with a piece of heat-shrink tubing or
tape. Tie the string from inside the opening for the aileron
servo to the end of the servo extension. Remove the tape
holding the other end of the string to the wing root rib and
pull the servo wire and extension through the wing.

❏ ❏ 9.Put the servo hatch into position and drill 1/16" [1.6 mm]

holes at each corner of the hatch. Be sure you are drilling
through the plywood servo hatch frame in the wing.Thread
a #2 x 3/8" [9.5 mm] SMS screw into each hole and back it
out.Add a couple drops of thin CA glue to each hole.Secure
the hatch with four #2 x 3/8" [9.5 mm] SMS screws. If the
servo hatch does not fit completely flush with the wing
sheeting, you may need to lightly sand down the servo
mounting blocks.

8

❏ ❏ 10. Using a pushrod as a guide, place a large control

horn onto the aileron offset 1/8" [3 mm] towards the wing tip
and make a mark at each control horn mounting hole. Drill
1/16" [1.6 mm] holes at the mark.

❏ ❏ 11.Thread a #2 x 1/2" [13 mm] SMS screw into each

hole and back it out. Add a couple drops of thin CA to the
holes to harden the wood. Secure the control hor n with two
#2 x 1/2" [13 mm] SMS screws.

❏ ❏ 12. Install a silicone clevis retainer and a nylon clevis

onto a 12" [305 mm] pushrod.Thread the cle vis 14 complete
turns onto the pushrod.

❏ ❏ 13. Connect the clevis to the third hole of the aileron

control horn. Line the pushrod up with the servo horn while
holding the aileron in the neutral position.Make a mark on the
pushrod where it intersects the outer hole of the servo horn.

❏ ❏ 14. Make a 90° bend at the mark and cut off the excess

pushrod 1/4" [6 mm] beyond the bend.Hook the bend in the
wire to the outer hole of the servo horn and secure it with a
nylon FasLink. Slide the silicone clevis retainer over the
clevis up to the control horn.

❏ 15. Repeat steps 1-14 for the right wing panels.

9

Servo Arm

❏ 1. Trim the covering from the aileron servo lead holes

located on top of the bottom wing panels near the root ribs.
Feed the servo leads up through these holes.

❏ 2.Mix up a small batch of epoxy and glue together the two

bottom plywood wing joiner pieces. Wipe away excess
epoxy with a paper towel and denatured alcohol.

❏ 3.Make a center mark on the bottom wing joiner and test

fit it into both joiner pockets in the bottom wing panels. Be
sure that the joiner fits all the way into the center mark on
both panels.

Use a bar sander with coarse sandpaper to true the edges
and remove any excess hardened epoxy from the wing
joiner prepared earlier. Without using any glue,
temporarily join the wings with the joiner.Make adjustments
as necessary for a good fit. Note: The dihedral angle is
factory-set and determined by the angle of the joiner and the
joining ribs on the ends of the wing halves. However, you
may confirm the dihedral by placing one wing panel flat on
the workbench and measuring the distance between the
bottom of the rib on the end of the other panel and the
bench. The distance should be 2-1/8" [54 mm], but small
variances are acceptable.If the wing doesn’t fit well or if you
can’t get close enough to the dihedral specified, there may
be excess glue inside the wing or irregularities on the joiner.
Use coarse sandpaper to true the edges and bevel the
corners of the joiner and/or use a hobby knife to remov e an y
glue from the joiner openings in the ribs on the end of the
wing halves.

❏ 4. Use 30-minute epoxy to join the two bottom wing

panels together. Apply epoxy to one half of the joiner and
insert it into one of the panels. Coat the other half of the
joiner as well as the two root ribs and slide the panels
together. Wipe away excess epoxy with alcohol and use
masking tape to hold the panels.We used a small clamp to
align the trailing edge as shown in the picture.

Join the Wing Panels

10

❏ 5. Set aside the bottom wing while the epoxy cures.

Locate the 3/16" x 13/16" [5 x 21 mm] anti-rotation pin and
glue it half way into the hole in the trailing edge of one of the
top wing panels.

❏ 6. As you did with the bottom wing, make a center mark on

the top wing joiner and test fit it into the joiner pockets of both
top wing panels.The tapered edge of the joiner faces forward.
Sand the joiner as necessary until a proper fit is achieved.

❏ 7. Coat one half of the joiner with 30-minute epoxy and

insert it into the joiner pocket of the top wing panel with the
anti-rotation pin installed. Coat the root rib of this panel with
epoxy and press the aluminum joiner plate in place and
hold it there with masking tape. The two holes in the joiner
plate for mounting the cabane struts will face the checkered
underside of the wing panel.

❏ 8.When the epoxy in the previous step has cured, coat the

other half of the aluminum joiner plate and top wing joiner with
30-minute epoxy. Coat the root rib of the other top wing panel
and slide the two together. Wipe away excess epoxy with
denatured alcohol and use masking tape to hold the panels
together while the epoxy cures.

Note: The top wing has no

dihedral angle, so it will lay flat on the workbench.

❏ 1. Trim the covering from the horizontal stabilizer slot at

the aft end of the fuselage.

❏ 2.Trim the covering from the wing bolt holes in the bottom

wing. Temporarily attach the bottom wing to the fuselage
using the two 1/4-20 x 2" [51 mm] nylon wing bolts.

Assemble the Tail Section

BUILD THE FUSELAGE

11

❏ 3.Test fit the stabilizer in the fuselage.Center the stab left

and right in the fuselage. Stand back 15 to 20 ft [5 to 6 m] and
check to be sure the stab is parallel to the wing.Adjust the stab
saddle as needed until the stab and wing are parallel.

❏ 4. Measure the distance from each wing tip to the tips of

the stab.Adjust the stab until the distance from the tip of the
stab to the tip of the wing is equal on both sides.

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

fuselage onto the top and bottom of the stabilizer.

❏ 6.Remove the stab from the fuse.Use a sharp #11 hobby

knife or use the following

Expert Tip

to cut the covering
1/16" [1.6 mm] inside of the lines you marked. Use care to
cut only the covering and not into the wood.

❏ 7.Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the stab into the fuselage.

For the most strength, apply epoxy to both sides of the stab
and inside the fuse where the stab fits. Slide the stab into
position.To wipe away any excess epoxy and the marks you
drew, use a paper towel and denatured alcohol. Do not
disturb the model until the epoxy has fully hardened.

The bottom wing is no longer needed for alignment and can
be unbolted from the fuselage.

Use a straightedge to guide the soldering iron at a rate
that will just melt the covering and not burn into the wood.
The hotter the soldering iron, the faster it must travel to
melt a fine-cut. Peel off the covering.

Use a soldering iron to cut the covering from the stab.The
tip of the soldering iron doesn’t have to be sharp, but a
fine-tip does work best. Allow the iron to heat fully.

HOW TO CUT COVERING FROM BALSA

12

❏ 8. Fit the vertical fin into the slot at the top trailing edge of

the fuselage. As you did with the stabilizer, mark the location of
the fuselage onto the fin. Remove the fin and trim away the
covering 1/16" [1.6 mm] inside your lines.The covering on the
trailing edge of the fin should not be removed.

❏ 9. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the vertical fin into the

fuselage. Be sure the fin is fully seated.

❏ 10.Attach the elevator halves to the horizontal stabilizer

with CA hinges using the same technique as the ailerons.

❏ 11. Attach the rudder to the vertical fin with CA hinges.

❏ 1. Trim the covering from the exit slots for the elevator

and rudder pushrods. You will find an elevator and rudder
exit slot on the right side of the fuselage, and an elev ator e xit
slot on the left.

❏ 2. Position the elevator and rudder servo into the servo

tray. The rudder servo should be pushed to the far left side
of the fuselage, and the elevator servo should be spaced
approximately 1/2" [13 mm] from the rudder servo. Both
servo splines should face forward.

❏ 3. Drill 1/16" [1.6 mm] holes for the servo mounting

screws.Thread a mounting screw into each hole and back it
out. Add a couple drops of thin CA to each hole to harden
the wood. Secure the servos to the servo tray using the
hardware that came with the servos.

Install the Tail Linkages & Servos

13

❏ 4.Cut three arms from two four-arm servo horns and enlarge

the outer hole of each servo horn with a 1/16" [1.6 mm] drill bit.

❏ 5. Connect the ser vo horns to the elevator and rudder

servos 90 degrees to the servo cases and both pointing to
the right side of the fuselage.

❏ 6.Slide a silicone clevis retainer and install a nylon clevis

14 turns onto three 2-56 x 36" [915 mm] pushrods.

❏ 7.Insert the three pushrods into the slots in the tail of the

fuselage as shown.

❏ 8. Using the pushrods as a guide, place a large control

horn onto the underside of each elevator and mark the
positions of the mounting holes. Drill through the holes with
a 3/32" [2.4 mm] drill bit. Add a couple drops of thin CA to
each hole to harden the wood around it, and install the
control horns using the backing plates that come attached to
each horn with two 2-56 x 1/2" [13 mm] screws.

❏ 9. Repeat this procedure for the rudder control horn.

Connect all three clevises to the third hole on the control horns.
Slide the silicone clevis retainers to the end of the clevises.

❏ 10.While holding the rudder in the neutral position, place

a mark on the pushrod where it crosses the outer hole in the
rudder servo horn.

14

❏ 11. Make a 90° bend at the mark and cut off the excess

pushrod 1/4" [6 mm] beyond the bend. Hook the bend in the
pushrod to the outer hole of the servo horn and secure it with a
nylon FasLink. Adjust the clevis as necessary to insure the
rudder is still in the neutral position.

❏ 12. In order to join the two elevator pushrods together to

operate as one, some of the outer elevator pushrod tubes
must be cut away. As shown in the picture, cut away
approximately 1" [25 mm] of outer pushrod tubes. The
pushrods can remain in place and the tubes can be cut with
a hobby knife, or the pushrods can be temporarily removed
and the tubes can be trimmed with wire cutters.

❏ 13. Loosely thread a 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS into a

5/32" [4 mm] wheel collar. Slide the wheel collar over both
elevator pushrods and position it approximately 1" [25 mm]
in front of the outer pushrod tubes.Make a mark 1/4" [6 mm]
in front of the wheel collar on the right elevator pushrod.

❏ 14. Remove the wheel collar and cut off the right elevator

pushrod at the mark you made.Use clamps or tape to hold both
elevators in the neutral position. Replace the wheel collar and
tighten the 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS against the pushrods.Put
another 5/32" [4 mm] wheel collar and 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS
just in front of the first collar.Connect the left elevator pushrod to
the elevator servo horn using a FasLink.

❏ 1. Locate the tail gear assembly, tail gear bracket,

tailwheel bushing, and nylon retainer.

❏ 2.T rim the covering for the tailwheel bushing on the underside

of the fuselage near the tail.Measure back 1-1/8" [28 mm] from
the leading edge of the rudder and make a center mark on the
underside of the rudder.Drill a 11/64" [4.4 mm] hole at the mark.
In order to drill a hole accurately in the center of the rudder, we
suggest starting out with a smaller diameter drill bit and
enlarging the hole with increasingly bigger bits to the 11/64"
[4.4 mm] required.

Install the Landing Gear

15

❏ 3.Insert the tailwheel bushing into the hole in the fuselage.

Slide the nylon retainer onto the tailwheel assembly guide
wire. Insert the assembly into the tailwheel bushing and
press the nylon retainer into the hole drilled in the rudder,
leaving 5/16" [8 mm] of the retainer exposed. Apply a few
drops of thin CA to the bushing and retainer to secure them
in place.Be sure not to get glue into the bushing or the hole
in the retainer.

❏ 4. Position the tail gear bracket over the tailwheel assemb ly

and mark the position of the mounting holes. Use a 1/16"
[1.6 mm] drill bit at the marks. Thread a #2 x 3/8" [9.5 mm]
SMS screw into both holes and back it out.Add a couple drops
of thin CA to harden the holes.Then, install the bracket using
two #2 x 3/8" [1.6 mm] screws. Cut off the excess guide wire
that extends beyond the nylon retainer, leaving 1/4" [6 mm].

❏ 5. Install a 5/32" x 1-1/4" [4 x 32 mm] axle onto each leg

of the main landing gear and secure them with 5/16-24
nylon lock nuts.

❏ 6. Slide a 5/32" [4 mm] wheel collar, followed by a 2-3/4"

[70 mm] main wheel and another 5/32" [4 mm] wheel collar,
onto each axle. In order for the wheels to be centered within
the wheel pants, position the second wheel collar flush with
the end of the axle.Mark the axle at the middle of each wheel
collar. This can be done with a fine-tip felt-tip marker or by
tightening a 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS into each collar
against the axle.The 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS will scratch
the axle where the collar needs to be installed. Remove the
collars and file flat spots on the axles at the marks you made.

❏ 7. Secure the wheel collars to the flat spots on the axles

using 6-32 x 1/4" [6 mm] SHCS.Install the wheel pants with
four 4-40 x 3/8" [9.5 mm] Phillips machine screws. Use
thread-locking compound on all of these screws.

16

❏ 8. Position the landing gear in place on the bottom of the

fuselage.Thread a #4 x 1/2" [13 mm] SMS screw into each
of the six landing gear mounting holes and back it out. Add
a couple drops of thin CA glue to each hole.Then, install the
main landing gear to the fuselage using six #4 x 1/2" [13 mm]
SMS screws.

❏ 1. Locate the four slots in the fuselage for the cabane

struts and tr im the covering away. Below the slots are four

holes to mount the cabane struts to the fuselage. Trim the
covering from these holes.

❏ 2. Assemble the cabane struts as shown using four 4-40

x 3/8" [9.5 mm] Phillips screws and four 4-40 nylon loc k nuts .
Note that each cabane strut has a long and a short end.The
longer ends will be at the bottom. Make a left and a right
cabane strut.

❏ 3. Looking inside the slots at the top of the fuselage, you

will see rectangular cutouts for the long ends of the cabanes
to fit into. Insert the left and right cabane struts into the
fuselage and secure them using four 4-40 x 3/8" [9.5 mm]
Phillips screws and thread-locking compound.

❏ 1.Locate the fuel tank.The hardware needed for the fuel

tank assembly is inside of the tank.Remove the stopper and
shake out the contents.

❏ 2. The fuel system for the Super Skybolt ARF utilizes a

three line system. There is a fill line, carb line, and vent
line (to muffler).The fill line will allow fueling and defueling

without removing the cowl. The fill line is optional and may
be omitted if desired.

Install the Engine & Fuel Tank

Install the Cabane Struts

17

❏ 3. Slide the three aluminum fuel tubes into the

rubber stopper.

❏ 4. Cut the fill line and carb line tubes such that the tubes

extend 1/2" [13 mm] out from both ends of the stopper.The
vent line should be bent upwards and left uncut.

❏ 5. Attach silicone fuel tubing 4-1/2" [115 mm] in length

to the carb line and fill line in the stopper.Install the included
fuel clunks onto these lines.

❏ 6.Insert the stopper into the tank and check the length of

the carb line and fill lines. The clunks should almost rest
against the back of the tank when the stopper is in place but
move freely. Adjust the length of the fuel line until the proper
length has been reached.Once you are satisfied with the fit,
secure the stopper using the Phillips head screw in the
stopper assembly. Be careful not to overtighten the screw as
the fuel tank could split.

❏ 7. Connect a piece of 10" [254 mm] long fuel tubing onto

each of the three lines on the tank. Mark the vent line, and
temporarily tape the ends of the tubing together in order to
feed them through the hole in the firewall.

❏ 8. Slide the tank into the fuselage, being sure the fuel

tubing exits out of the front of the firewall.Secure the tank by
hooking two rubber bands around the fuel tank retainer tabs
as shown.

❏ 9. Install the engine mount onto the firewall on its side

using four 8-32 x 1" [25 mm] SHCS, four #8 flat washers,
and four #8 lock washers.

❏ 10. Position the engine onto the mount so the front of the

drive washer is 5-7/8" [149 mm] from the firewall. Use a
Great Planes Engine Hole Locator or a small drill bit to mark
the engine mounting holes onto the engine mounts.

❏ 11. Take the engine off the mount, and then drill 9/64"

[3.6 mm] holes at the marks. Use an 8-32 tap to cut threads
into the holes.

18

❏ 12. Secure the engine to the mount with four 8-32 x 1"

[25 mm] SHCS, four #8 flat washers , and four #8 loc k washers.

❏ 13. Attach the muffler to the engine so that it rests in the

cutout on the underside of the fuselage. Some model
engines may not allow this muffler configuration. If so, the
cowl may need to be cut to accommodate the muffler.

❏ 1. Use the 2-56 x 36" [914 mm] throttle pushrod as a

guide to mark the position for a hole to be drilled in the
firewall in line with carburetor arm.Drill a 3/16" [4.8 mm] hole
at the mark.

❏ 2.Insert the white outer pushrod tube through the hole in

the firewall and through the cutout in the former below the
fuel tank retainer tab as shown.Glue the tube to that former
as well as the firewall and cut off the excess tube that
extends out beyond the firewall.

❏ 3. Install the throttle ser vo in the right side of the servo

tray using the hardware that comes with the servo.

❏ 4. Cut three arms from a four-arm servo horn and install

a brass screw-lock pushrod connector to the outer hole in
the horn. Loosely thread a 4-40 x 1/8" [3 mm] SHCS into the
screw-lock pushrod connector.

Install the Throttle Servo

19

❏ 5. Install the horn onto the throttle servo as shown. Start

with an angle approximately 30 degrees from being
perpendicular to the fuselage.This may need to be adjusted
as you set up your radio system.

❏ 6. Inser t the 2-56 x 36" [914 mm] pushrod into the outer

pushrod tube with the threaded end near the engine. Install
a 2-56 nylon clevis and silicone clevis retainer onto the
pushrod and connect it to the carburetor arm.

❏ 7. Make two bends in the throttle pushrod to align it level

with the screw-lock pushrod connector. Inser t the pushrod
into the connector and tighten the 4-40 x 1/8" [3 mm] SHCS
against it. Cut off any excess pushrod that extends behind
the screw-lock pushrod connector.

❏ 1. Locate the plywood radio tray and test fit it into the

fuselage as shown. Be sure there is enough room at the aft
end of the plate for hook and loop material to secure the
receiver and battery. When satisfied with the fit, glue the
plate into position.

❏ 2. Cut the included 14" [356 mm] hook and loop material

into two equal lengths. Create straps by overlapping the ends
by approximately 4" [102 mm].

❏ 3.Wrap your receiver and receiver battery in foam rubber

and connect the servos, aileron Y-harness, and receiver
switch. Secure the receiver and battery to the mounting
plate using the straps you created.

Install the Receiver & Battery

20

❏ 4.Install a strain relief on the receiver antenna and route it

through the pre-installed antenna tube.Trim the covering from
the end of the tube which is located on the right side of the
fuselage just below the trailing edge of the horizontal stabilizer .

❏ 5. Install your receiver battery switch onto the side of the

fuselage. We used a Great Planes Switch & Charge Jack
Mounting Set (GPMM1000).

❏ 1. A template is provided on the back cover page of this

manual for a convenient way to trim a hole in the cowl when
using an O.S.®.91 four-stroke engine. Cut out the template
and align the circular end over the spinner base on the cowl,
taping it in place. Pull the other end tight around the cowl
with the middle of the template centered over the right
cooling hole. While holding the template tight, secure the
other end in place with a small piece of tape.

❏ 2. Using a felt-tip pen, trace around the engine head-

shaped portion of the template onto the cowl. Remove the
template and finish up the lines with a straightedge.

❏ 3. Use a rotary tool to cut out the shape. Slide the cowl

onto the fuselage. Install the backplate from the 2-1/2" [64 mm]
spinner onto the crankshaft. Align the cowl with the spinner
backplate, allowing 1/8" [3 mm] space between them. Use
tape to hold the cowl in place.Drill four evenly spaced 1/16"

Attach the Cowl & Canopy

FINISH THE MODEL

21

[1.6 mm] holes 1/4" [6 mm] from the back edge of the cowl.
Secure the cowl to the fuselage with four #2 x 1/2"
[13 mm] SMS screws and four #2 washers. Be sure to use
thin CA to harden the screw holes.

❏ 4. Align the canopy onto the fuselage so that it overlaps

the back of the cockpit by 3/4" [19 mm] and tape in position.
Drill a 1/16" [1.6 mm] hole through the canopy and into the
fuselage at each of the four canopy mounting blocks (these
can be seen in the cockpit). Secure the canopy with four #2
x 3/8" [9.5 mm] screws and four #2 washers. Use thin CA to
harden the holes.

❏ 1. Trim the covering from the two square cutouts and the

two alignment peg holes from each wing strut.

❏ 2.Insert the four 1/8" x 1/2" [3 x 13 mm] wing strut pegs

into the struts and glue them in place.

❏ 3. Trim the covering for the 6-32 x 1-1/2" [38 mm]

threaded studs. Place the 6-32 knur led thumb nuts into the
square cutouts in the struts. Apply a small amount of epoxy
to the bottom 1/4" [6 mm] of each stud.Insert the glued ends
into the holes in the struts and thread them into the knurled
nuts. Do not allow the studs or the nuts to be glued to
the struts! They must be able to rotate freely. Use
petroleum jelly on the portion of the studs where epoxy
should not be allowed to stick.

❏ 4. Trim the covering from the wing where the plate is to

be installed. Center and glue the wing bolt plate to the

Attach the Wings

22

underside trailing edge of the bottom wing. Continue the
holes through the plate for the wing bolts using a 1/4" [6 mm]
drill bit.

❏ 5. Attach the bottom wing to the fuselage and trim the

covering from the wing strut peg holes and the threaded
stud holes on the top of the bottom wing.

❏ 6.Bolt the wing struts to the bottom wing as shown, with the

wing strut pegs fitting into the peg holes in the wing. The
knurled nuts can be tightened by hand to draw the threaded
studs into the 6-32 blind nuts that are pre-installed in the wing.

❏ 7. Using the same technique, attach the top wing to the

wing struts. Bolt the top wing to the cabanes with two 4-40 x
1/2" [13 mm] SHCS, two #4 washers, and two 4-40 lock nuts.

❏ 8. Cut the top three holes from four small nylon control

horns. Enlarge the holes in two of the control horns for the
bottom ailerons with a 3/32" [2.4 m] drill bit.

❏ 9. Locate and mark the middle of the top and bottom

ailerons. Position the small nylon control horns at the marks
3/16" [4.8 mm] from the trailing edges of the ailerons and
mark the mounting hole positions. Drill 3/32" [2.4 mm] holes
at the marks and use thin CA to harden the wood around the
holes. Attach the control horns using eight 2-56 x 1/2"
[13 mm] Phillips screws. Be sure the control horns with the
enlarged holes are installed on the bottom ailerons.

23

❏ 10.Attach a clevis and silicone cle vis retainer to tw o 2-56

x 12" [305 mm] pushrods.Use clamps to hold the ailerons in
the neutral positions. Hook the clevises to the top ailerons
and make a mark where the pushrod crosses the holes in
the bottom aileron control horns.

❏ 11. Make a 90° bend at the marks and cut the pushrods,

leaving 1/4" [6 mm] beyond the bend.Hook the pushrods to
the bottom aileron control horns and secure them with two
FasLinks. Adjust the clevises as necessary so the top and
bottom ailerons are parallel with each other.

❏ 12. Finish up the model by installing a propeller and the

included 2-1/2" [64 mm] aluminum spinner onto the engine.
We used a Top Flite®15x6 wood prop (TOPQ5175) to fit onto
our O.S.®.91 four-stroke engine. The included 5/16-24
spinner adapter fits into the jam nut for the O.S. four-stroke.

1.Use scissors or a sharp hobby knife to cut the decals from
the sheet.

2. Be certain the model is clean and free from oily
fingerprints and dust. Prepare a dishpan or small bucket with
a mixture of liquid dish soap and warm water–about one
teaspoon of soap per gallon of water.Submerse the decal in
the soap and water and peel off the paper backing. Note:

Apply the Decals

For ease of transport, the Super Skybolt ARF includes a
carrying handle that hooks to the top of the cabane struts.
To assemble the handle, glue the four pieces together as
shown with the square cutouts on the outside of the stack.
The middle pieces with the holes should be oriented so that
the holes are exposed in the square cutouts.

To use the handle, remove the top and bottom wings from
the fuselage. Inser t the handle into the cabane struts and
use the 4-40 x 1/2" [13 mm] SHCS and 4-40 lock nuts to
secure it.

Optional: Assemble the Carrying Handle

24

Even though the decals hav e a “sticky-back”and are not the
water transfer type , submersing them in soap & water allo ws
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 a wa y.

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.

❏ 1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver and center the

trims. 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.

❏ 2. With the transmitter and receiver still on, check all the

control surfaces to see if they are centered.If necessary, adjust
the clevises on the pushrods to center the control surfaces.

❏ 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 cer tain the control surfaces have remained
centered. Adjust if necessary.

Use a ruler to accurately measure and set the control throw
of each control surface as indicated in the chart that follows.
If your radio does not have dual rates, we recommend
setting the throws at the low rate setting.

Note: The throws are measured at the widest part of the
elevators, rudder and ailerons.

IMPORTANT: The Super Skybolt ARF has been
extensively flown and tested to arrive at the throws at

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

These are the recommended control surface throws:

High Rate Low Rate

ELEVATOR: 1" [25 mm] up 5/8" [16 mm] up

1" [25 mm] down 5/8" [16 mm] down

RUDDER: 3" [76 mm] right 1-1/2" [38 mm] right

3" [76 mm] left 1-1/2" [38 mm] left

AILERONS: 5/8" [16 mm] up 3/8" [10 mm] up

5/8" [16 mm] down 3/8" [10 mm] down

Set the Control Throws

Check the Control Directions

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

25

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

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

mark the C.G. on the bottom of the top wing on both sides
of the fuselage. The C.G. is located 4-5/8" [118 mm] back
from the leading edge of the top wing.

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

model installed (ready to fly) and an empty fuel tank, lift the
model at the balance point you marked.

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

pack and/or receiver must be shifted forward or weight must
be added to the nose to balance. If the nose drops, the
model is “nose heavy” and the batter y pack and/or receiver
must be shifted aft or weight must be added to the tail to
balance. If possible, relocate the battery pack and receiver
to minimize or eliminate any additional ballast required. If
additional weight is required, nose weight may be easily

added by using a “spinner weight”(GPMQ4645 for the 1 oz.
[28 g] weight, or GPMQ4646 for the 2 oz. [57 g] weight). If
spinner weight is not practical or is not enough, use Great
Planes (GPMQ4485) “stick-on” lead. A good place to add
stick-on nose weight is to the firewall (don’t attach weight to
the cowl–it is not intended to support weight). Begin by
placing incrementally increasing amounts of weight on the
fuse over the firewall 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.

Note: Do not rely upon the adhesive on the back of the lead
weight to permanently hold it in place. Over time, fuel and
exhaust residue may soften the adhesive and cause the
weight to fall off .Use #2 sheet metal scre ws, RTV silicone or
epoxy to permanently hold the weight in place.

❏ 4. IMPORTANT! If you found it necessary to add any

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

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

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

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

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

will track better in loops and other maneuvers.

No matter if you fly at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or if you
fly somewhere on your own, y ou should always ha ve 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 30
and place it on or inside your model.

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

Charge the Batteries

Identify Y our Model

PREFLIGHT

Balance the Model Laterally

This is where your model should balance for the first
flights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the
C.G. up to 3/8" [10 mm] forward or 3/8" [10 mm] back to
change the flying characteristics. Moving the C.G.forward
may improve the smoothness and stability, but the model
may then require more speed for tak eoff and mak e it more
difficult to slow for landing.Moving the C.G.aft makes the
model more maneuverable, but could also cause it to
become too difficult to control. In any case, start at the
recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the specified range.

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

Balance the Model (C.G.)

26

Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
you fly. An unbalanced prop can be the single most
significant cause of vibration that can damage your model.
Not only will engine mounting screws and bolts loosen,
possibly with disastrous effect, but vibration may also
damage your radio receiver and battery. Vibration can also
cause your fuel to foam, which will, in turn, cause your
engine to run hot or quit.

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

If the engine is new, follow the engine manufacturer’s
instructions to break-in the engine. After break-in,

confirm that the engine idles reliably, transitions smoothly
and rapidly to full power and maintains full
power–indefinitely. After you run the engine on the model,
inspect the model closely to make sure all screws remained
tight, the hinges are secure, the prop is secure and all
pushrods and connectors are secure.

Ground check the operational range of your r adio before the
first flight of the day. With the transmitter antenna collapsed
and the receiver and transmitter on, you should be able to
walk at least 100 feet away from the model and still have
control. Have an assistant stand by your model and, while
you work the controls, tell you what the control surfaces are

doing. Repeat this test with the engine 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 fly! Find and
correct the problem first.Look f or loose servo connections or
broken wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, poor
solder joints in your battery pack or a defective cell, or a
damaged receiver crystal from a previous crash.

Keep all engine fuel in a safe place, away from high heat,
sparks or flames, as fuel is very flammable. 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.
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 f ace and body as w ell as all spectators a wa y 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.

Use a “chicken stick” or electric star ter to start the engine.
Do not use your fingers to flip the propeller .Mak e certain the
glow plug clip or connector is secure so that it will not pop
off or otherwise get into the running propeller.

Make all engine adjustments from behind the rotating propeller.
The engine gets hot! Do not touch it during or right after

operation. Make sure fuel lines are in good condition so fuel
will not leak onto a hot engine, causing a fire.

To stop a glow engine, cut off the fuel supply by closing off
the fuel line or following the engine manufacturer’s
recommendations. Do not use hands, fingers or any other
body part to tr y to stop the engine. Do not throw anything
into the propeller of a running engine.

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

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Range Check

Ground Check

Balance the Propellers

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 y our choice.
If the initial charge is done with a fast-charger the
batteries may not reach their full capacity and you may be
flying with batteries that are only partially charged.

27

Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code.For the complete Safety
Code refer to

Model Aviation

magazine, the AMA web site or

the Code that came with your AMA license.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three

miles of any pre-existing flying site except in
accordance with the frequency sharing agreement
listed [in the complete AMA Safety Code].

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

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

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

provided in the manual.

❏ 2. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely

mounted in the fuse.Simply stuffing them into place
with foam rubber is not sufficient.

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

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

❏ 4. Balance your model

laterally

as explained in

the instructions.

❏ 5. Use thread-locking compound to secure critical

fasteners such as the set screws that hold the wheel
axles to the struts, screws that hold the carburetor arm
(if applicable), screw-lock pushrod connectors, etc.

❏ 6. Add a drop of oil to the axles so the wheels will

turn freely.

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

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

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

and the throws are set up according to the manual.

❏ 10. Make sure there are silicone retainers on all the

clevises and that all servo arms are secured to the
servos with the screws included with your radio.

❏ 11. Secure connections between servo wires and

Y-connectors or servo extensions, and the
connection between your battery pack and the
on/off switch with vinyl tape, heat-shrink tubing or
special clips suitable for that purpose.

❏ 12. Make sure any servo extension cords you may ha v e

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

❏ 13. Secure the pressure tap (if used) to the muffler with

high temp RTV silicone, thread-locking compound
or J.B.Weld.

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

CHECK LIST

Radio Control

General

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)

28

❏ 14. Make sure the fuel lines are connected and are

not kinked.

❏ 15. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
❏ 16. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner.
❏ 17. Place your name, address, AMA number and

telephone number on or inside your model.

❏ 18. Cycle your receiver battery pack (if necessary) and

make sure it is fully charged.

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

your first flight.

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

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

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-stic k landings caused by overheating.

Before you get ready to tak e 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 tailwheel on
the ground. If necessary, adjust the tailwheel so the model
will roll straight down the runway. If you need to calm your
nerves before the maiden flight, shut the engine down and
bring the model back into the pits.Top off the fuel, and then
check all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind.

Remember to take off 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 tailwheel
steering, and then gradually advance the throttle. As the
model gains speed, decrease up elevator, allowing the tail to
come off the ground. One of the most impor tant things to
remember with a taildragger is to always be ready to apply
right rudder to counteract engine torque. Gain as much
speed as your runway and flying 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 stic k, allo wing the model to estab lish a gentle climb
to a safe altitude before turning into the traffic pattern.

For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight line with you.Tell
him to remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a
comfortable altitude.While full throttle is usually desirable for
takeoff, most models fly more smoothly at reduced speeds.

Take it easy with the Super Skybolt ARF for the first few
flights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain
confidence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level
flight. After flying around for a while, and while still at a safe
altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow flight and execute
practice landing approaches by reducing the throttle to see
how the model handles at slower speeds.Add power to see
how she climbs as well. Continue to fly around, executing
various maneuvers and making mental notes (or having
your assistant write them down) of what trim or C.G.
changes may be required to fine-tune the model so it flies
the way you like. Mind your fuel level, but use this first flight
to become familiar with your model before landing.

To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch
downward to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose
altitude, but maintain airspeed by k eeping the nose down as
you turn onto the crosswind leg.Make your final turn toward
the runway (into the wind), keeping the nose down to
maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the
model reaches the runway threshold, modulating the throttle

Landing

Flight

Takeoff

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

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

flutter

.Flutter occurs when a control surface (such
as an aileron or elevator) or a flying surface (such as a
wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing
the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately,
flutter can actually cause the control surface to detach or
the flying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control
followed by an impending crash. The best thing to do
when flutter is detected is to slow the model immediately
by reducing power, then land as soon as safely possible.
Identify which surface fluttered (so the problem may be
resolved) by checking all the servo grommets for
deterioration or signs of vibration. Make certain all
pushrod linkages are secure and free of play. If it fluttered
once, under similar circumstances it will probably flutter
again unless the problem is fixed.Some things which can
cause flutter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting
control horns solidly; Poor fit of clevis pin in horn; Side­play of wire pushrods caused by large bends; Excessive
free play in servo gears; Insecure servo mounting; and
one of the most prevalent causes of flutter;Flying an over­powered model at excessive speeds.

Fuel Mixture Adjustments

FLYING

29

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
climb out to make another attempt. When you’re ready to
make your landing flare and 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 r unway and has lost flying
speed, hold up elevator to place the tail on the ground,
regaining tailwheel control.

One final note about flying your model. Have a goal or flight
plan in mind for every flight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) y ou already kno w, or
learning how the model behaves in certain conditions (such
as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to improve
your skills

(though it is never a bad idea!)

, but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly finding that you’v e run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive.For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction
(anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to
maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and
make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates).
A flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your
model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves.

Remember to think.

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

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

Futaba

®

S9001 Aircraft Coreless Ball Bearing Servo

Ideal for airplanes, sailplanes, helis, even nitro or electric
boats, the S9001 features a coreless motor for smooth, fast
response and a final gear with dual ball bearings for fast transit
time. It comes with “J”-connector, one attached servo horn,
three extra horns and mounting hardware. Length: 1.59 in.
Width: 0.78 in. Height: 1.42 in. Weight: 1.69 oz. Torque: 54.1
oz-in (4.8V); 72.2 oz-in (6V). Transit time:0.22 sec./60° (4.8V);

0.18 sec./60° (6V). One year warranty. FUTM0075

Futaba 6EXAS 6-Channel FM Computer Radio

The 6-channel 6EXAS keeps setup simple – programming
requires just 2 buttons and a data input lever. It’s all-digital,
so you can lock in precise settings for everything. That
includes the digital trims, which offer 241 discrete settings
for super-fine tuning performance. Besides essentials such
as servo reversing, EPA on all six channels, a trainer
system, and easy-to-read LCD screen, the 6EXAS also
boasts 6-model memory with reset, program mixing, throttle
cut-off switch, retract switch, flap knob, audible battery
power alarm, adjustable stick length, a dual-conversion,
7-channel R127DF receiver and four S3004 ball bearing
servos. 72MHz. FUTK56**

OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE

FROM GREAT PLANES

30

ElectriFly™by Great Planes Triton™Peak Charger

Imagine a charger so versatile it can be used with lithium-ion
and lead-acid batteries as effectively as NiCd and NiMH cells.A
unit that can peak charge tiny park flyer packs and 24V car
batteries alike. A charger that can discharge as well as charge,
cycle packs from 1 to 10 times automatically, memor ize peak
and average battery voltages for each cycle – and constantly
display battery capacity, voltage , current and time as each cycle
progresses. Then, imagine that the charger, which can do all
this, is about the size of a thick paperbac k book, and weighs just
over a pound.The advanced computer technology in the Triton
Peak Charger mak es it possible to accomplish all this and more,
through controls and menus so simple that programming is a
breeze. For more information, log on at www.electrifly.com –
and be amazed.1-year warranty. GPMM3150

Great Planes C.G. Precision Aircraft Balancer

™

Accurate balancing makes trainers more stable, low-wings
more agile, and pylon planes move at maximum speed. The

innovative C.G. Machine helps you achieve optimum balance
easily, without measuring or marking–and without the errors
that fingertip balancing can cause.You’ll quickly pinpoint your
plane’s exact center of gravity. Then you’ll know at a glance
whether weight should be added, removed or relocated.The
C.G.Machine works with kits and ARF models of any size and
wingspan. Its slanted wire balancing posts support models
weighing up to 40 pounds.GPMR2400

Great Planes Pro™Adhesives

“Best if used by” dates on the label provide visible proof of
freshness on all Pro CAs. Available in formulas that range
from thin, quick-bonding CA to Gel – a formula so thick that
it won’t run even on nearly vertical surfaces.Pro Epoxies are
available in money-saving 4-ounce sizes.Also available:CA
debonder; CA activator; Glue-B-Gone™adhesive remover;
Pro Wood Glues; Pro Threadlocker; and Milled Fiberglass
Reinforcer. GPMR6001 thru 6049

31

ENGINE HEAD TEMPLATE

BUILDING NOTES

Kit Purchased Date: _______________________

Where Purchased: _________________________

Date Construction Started: __________________

Date Construction Finished: _________________

Finished Weight: __________________________

Date of First Flight: ________________________

FLIGHT LOG