Great Planes GPMA1280 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. 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-assemb led 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 CONTAINS IMPORTANT WARNINGS
AND INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY
AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

GPMZ0250 for GPMA1280 V1.0© Copyright 2004

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 55.5 in [1410mm]
Wing Area: 562 sq in [36 dm2]
Weight: 6.75-7.5 lb [3060-3400 g]
Wing Loading: 28-30 oz/sq ft [85-92 g/dm2]
Length: 52.5 in [1335mm]
Radio: 4-channel, five servos
Engine: .46-.61 cu in [7.5-10cc] two-stroke,

.52-.70 cu in [8.5-11.5cc] four-stroke

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

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

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

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

Hardware and Accessories ..........................................3

Engine..........................................................................3

Adhesives and Building Supplies.................................3

Optional Supplies and Tools ........................................3

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

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

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

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

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

ASSEMBLE THE WING.....................................................7

Install the Ailerons .......................................................7

Install the Aileron Servos and Pushrods .....................8

Join the Wing...............................................................9

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE.........................................10

Install the Stab, Elevators and Rudder......................10

Install the Landing Gear and Wheel Pants................12

Install the Engine, Fuel Tank and Throttle Servo .......12

Install the Cowl ..........................................................14

Install the Radio System............................................15

FINAL TOUCHES.............................................................17

Install the Pilot and Canopy .......................................17

Apply the Decals ........................................................17

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

Check the Control Directions.....................................17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ground Check............................................................19

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

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.................................20

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

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

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

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

Flight..........................................................................22

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

ENGINE MOUNT TEMPLATE..........................................23

Congratulations on your purchase of the Great Planes CAP

580. We have painstakingly reproduced the airplane which
has been flown in shows throughout the U.S.A.by aerobatic
champion Matt Chapman.We think you will enjoy the way it
flies as well as the compliments you get ev ery time you bring
it to the flying field.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
CAP 580 .40 -.70 ARF visit the Great Planes web site at
www.g reatplanes.com.Open the “Airplanes” link, then select
the CAP 580 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 countr y. Contact the
AMA at the address or toll-free phone number below:

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Tele.[phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

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

1.Your CAP 580 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 CAP 580, 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.

PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,Y OURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

AMA

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2

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 (fuel
tank, wheels, 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 hobb y
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 e xtremely 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 y our time and f ollo w the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.

❏ Four channel radio
❏ Four 54 oz-in servos and one 30 oz-in servo
❏ One 6" [150mm] servo extension (HCAM2701 for Futaba

®

)

❏ Y-harness (HCAM2751 for Futaba)
❏ 500 mAh batter y or greater
❏ Propeller

The recommended engine size range for the CAP 580 is 46

- .61 cu in [7.5 - 10cc] two-stroke or .52 - .70 cu in [8.5 -

11.5cc] 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.

In addition to common household tools and hobby tools, this
is the “short list” of the most important items required to build
the CAP 580 .40 - .70 ARF.

Great Planes Pro™CA and

Epoxy glue are recommended.

❏ 1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro CA (GPMR6001)
❏ 1 oz. [30g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6008)
❏ Pro 30-Minute Epoxy (GPMR6047)
❏ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 7/64" [2.8mm],

3/16" [4.8mm].

❏ #11 Blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏ R/C Foam Rubber (1/4" [6mm] - HCAQ1000
❏ 3' [900mm] Standard Silicone Fuel Tubing (GPMQ4131)
❏ CA Applicator Tips (HCAR3780)

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the CAP 580.

❏ 2 oz. [57g] Spray CA Activator (GPMR6035)
❏ R/C-56 Canopy Glue (JOZR5007)
❏ CA Debonder (GPMR6039)
❏ Pro 6-Minute Epoxy (GPMR6045)
❏ Epoxy Brushes (6, GPMR8060)
❏ Mixing Sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❏ Mixing Cups (GPMR8056)
❏ Builder’s Triangle Set (HCAR0480)
❏ Curved-Tip Canopy Scissors for Trimming Plastic Parts

(HCAR0667)

Optional Supplies and Tools

Adhesives and Building Supplies

Engine

Hardware and Accessories

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

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

3

❏ Hobbico Duster

™

Compressed Air (HCAR5500)

❏ Masking T ape (TOPR8018)
❏ Threadlocker Thread Locking Cement (GPMR6060)
❏ Denatured Alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❏ Rotar y Tool such as Dremel
❏ Rotar y Tool Reinforced Cut-Off Wheel (GPMR8200)
❏ Ser vo Horn Drill (HCAR0698)
❏ Dead Center

™

Engine Mount Hole Locator (GPMR8130)

❏ AccuThrow

™

Deflection Gauge (GPMR2405)

❏ CG Machine

™

(GPMR2400)

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

by a number and a length.

For
example, #6 x 3/4" [19mm] is a number
six screw that is 3/4" [19mm] long.

Machine screws are designated by a
number,threads per inch and a length.

For example 4-40 x 3/4" [19mm] is a
number four screw that is 3/4" [19mm]
long with forty threads per inch.

• When you see the term

test fit

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

custom fit

the part as necessar y for the best fit.

• Whenever the term

glue

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

• Whenever just

epoxy

is specified you may use

either

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

• Photos and sketches are placed before the step they
refer to .Frequently you can study photos in following steps
to get another view of the same parts.

• The CAP 580 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.

Red TOPQ0201
Orange TOPQ0202
Jet White TOPQ0204
Sky Blue TOPQ0206
Forest Green TOPQ0214
Cub Yellow TOPQ0220
Medium Purple TOPQ0225
Sapphire Blue TOPQ0227
Black TOPQ0208

• 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 = Vertical Fin

LE = Leading Edge

TE = Trailing Edge
LG = Landing Gear
Ply = Plywood

" = Inches

mm = Millimeters

SHCS = Socket Head Cap Screw

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

4

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

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

Inch Scale

Metric Scale

To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4

5

Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to make sure it is complete and inspect the parts to make sure they
are of acceptable quality.If any parts are missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if y ou need assistance with assemb ly,
contact Product Support. When repor ting 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 Cowl
2 Fuselage
3 Canopy
4 Engine Mount
5 Spinner
6 Fuel T ank

7 Stabilizer with Elevators
8 Fin

9 Rudder
10 Tailwheel Assembly
11 Landing Gear
12 Wheels

13 Wheel Pants
14 Left Wing with Aileron
15 Right Wing with Aileron
16 Wing Joiners

Kit Contents (Photographed)

5/32 x 1-1/4" Axles (2)
Brass EZ Connector (2)
4-40 Blind Nuts (4)
6-32 Blind Nuts (4)
8-32 Blind Nuts (4)
Axle Nuts (2)
1/4-20 Blind Nuts (2)
1/4-20 Wing Bolt (2)
Large Nylon Control Horn (5)
Nylon Clevis (5)
Nylon Retainer (2)
Hinge Material (1)
Faslink (4)
24" Gray Outer Plastic Pushrod Tube (4)
Silicone Clevis Keeper (5)

2-56 x 5/8" Machine Screw (4)
6-32 Set Screw (2)
6-32 x 1/4" SHCS (2)
4-40 Set Screw (1)
#2x3/8" SMS (6)
4-40 x 3/8 MS (4)
6-32x5/8" SHCS (4)
2-56 x 3/4" SHCS (4)
6-32 x1" SHCS (4)
8-32 x 1" SHCS (4)
4-40 x 1/8" SHCS (2)
3/32" Wheel Collar (1)
5-32" Wheel Collar (4)
.074 x 17.5" Wire (1)
.074x36" Pushrod Wire (3)

.074 x 6" Pushrod Wire (2)
4-40 Lock Washer (4)
#6 Flat Washer (8)
#6 Lock Washer (4)
#4 Flat Washer (4)
#2 Flat Washer (2)
#8 Lock Washer (4)
#8 Flat Washer (4)
Aluminum Wheel Spacers (2)
Wing Alignment Pin (Wood Dowel) (1)
M2.5 x 10 Washer-Head Screw (9)
Velcro®(Hook and Loop) 20x180mm (2)
6x13x25mm Hardwood Cowl Mnt Blocks (5)
Pilot Figure (1)

Kit Contents (Not Photographed)

KIT CONTENTS

3

1

2

5

4

11

12

13

6

7

16

14

15

8

9

10

6

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Cap 580 .40 - .70 ARF are available using the order numbers in the Replacement
Parts List that follows.The fastest, most economical service can be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order company.

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

www.greatplanes.com

. 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. If a hobby shop is not available, replacement parts may also be ordered from Tower Hobbies at
www.towerhobbies.com, or by calling toll free [phone].

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 b y 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

Kit parts listed below .......................................Hobby Supplier

GPMA2680............Wing Kit

GPMA2681............Fuselage Kit

GPMA2682............Tail Surface Set

GPMA2683............Cowl

GPMA2684............Landing Gear

GPMA2685............Wheel Pants

GPMA2686............Decal

GPMA2687............Spinner

GPMA2688............Canopy

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

of the kit from the box and inspect for damage. If any par ts
are damaged or missing, contact Product Support at the
address or telephone number listed in the “Kit Inspection”
section on page 5.

❏2. Remove the tape and separate the ailerons from the wing

and the elevators from the stab. Use a covering iron with a
covering sock on high heat to tighten the covering if necessary .
Apply pressure over sheeted areas to thoroughl y bond the
covering to the wood.

Do the right wing first so your work matc hes the photos
the first time through.You can do one wing at a time, or
work on them together.

❏❏1. Drill a 3/32" hole, 1/2" deep in the center of each

hinge slot to allow the CA to “wick” in. Follow-up with a #11
blade to clean out the slots. Hint: If you have one, use a
high-speed rotary tool to drill the holes.

❏❏2.Use a sharp #11 blade to cut a strip of covering from

the hinge slots in the wing and aileron.

❏❏3.Cut eight 3/4" x 1" [19mm x 25mm] hinges from the

CA hinge strip. Snip off the corners so they go in easier.

❏❏4.Test fit the ailerons to the wing with the hinges. If

the hinges don’t remain centered, stick a pin through the
middle of the hinge to hold it in position.

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

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

❏❏6. Apply six drops of thin CA to the top and bottom of

each hinge, waiting a few seconds between drops to allow
the CA to soak in. Do not use CA accelerator. After the CA
has fully hardened, test the hinges by pulling on the aileron.

❏ 7. Repeat steps 1- 6 for the left wing panel.

Install the Ailerons

ASSEMBLE THE WING

PREPARATIONS

7

1"

[25mm]

3/4"

[20mm]

❏❏1. For the servo installation a Y-harness connector is

required and is used to allow the aileron servos to plug into
one slot in your receiver .You may ha v e a computer radio that
allows you to plug the servos into separate slots and mix
them together through the radio transmitter .If you choose to
mix them with the radio rather than the Y-harness, refer to
the instructions with your particular brand of radio.

❏❏2.Located in the wing in the aileron servo compartment,

a string is taped to the wing skin. Tie the string to the end of
the servo wire. Pull the ser vo wire through the wing with the
string. Feed the servo wire out the hole in the top of the wing
center section. Tape the servo wire to the wing to prevent it
from falling back into the wing.

❏❏3. Install the servo into the servo opening. Drill

through the servo mounting holes with a 1/16” [1.6mm] drill
bit. Remove the servo from the servo opening. Install and
then remove a servo mounting screw into each of the holes
you have drilled. Apply a drop of thin CA into the holes to
harden the threads. Once the glue has hardened install the
servo into the servo opening using the hardware included
with your servo. Center the servo, then install a servo arm
pointing towards the wingtip.

❏❏4. Position a large nylon control horn on the aileron,

positioning it as shown in the sketch and aligning it with the
servo.Mark the location for the screw holes .Drill through the
marks you made with a 1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit, drilling
through the aileron. Secure the control horn to the aileron
with two 2-56 x 3/4" [19mm] socket head cap scre ws and the
nylon mounting plate.

❏❏5.Locate a .074" x 6" [1.9mm x 152mm] pushrod wire

threaded on one end. Screw a nylon clevis onto the
threaded end of the wire 20 full turns. Install a silicone clevis
keeper onto the clevis and then install the clevis in the
second hole from the end of the aileron control horn.

❏❏6. Be sure the aileron servo is centered. Enlarge the

first hole in the servo arm with a Hobbico Servo Horn Drill
(or a #48 or 5/64" [2mm] drill bit). Center the aileron and
align the wire pushrod with the hole in the end of the servo
arm.Using a marker, mark the location where the wire aligns
with the hole in the servo arm. On that mark make a 90
degree bend. From the bend measure an additional 3/16"
[4.8mm], then cut off the excess pushrod wire.

❏❏7. Install the wire into the hole in the servo arm using

a nylon FasLink as shown in the sketch.

❏ 8. Repeat steps 1-7 for the left wing panel.

Install the Aileron Servos and Pushrods

8

Faslink

Servo Horn

2-56(.074") Pushrod Wire

❏ 1. Locate three plywood wing joiners.Glue them together

with epoxy, forming one plywood wing joiner.Set them aside
until the glue hardens.

❏ 2. Locate the 3/16" x 3/4" [4.8 x 19mm] dowel. Glue it into

the hole at the rear of the root rib of one wing, positioning
one half of the dowel into the hole.

❏ 3. Apply 30-minute epoxy to all sides of the wing joiner,

the joiner pocket in both wing panels and the root rib of each
wing panel. Insert the wing joiner, push the wing panels
together and hold them in place with masking tape. Before
the glue hardens, set the wing flat on your bench and
measure the dihedral. The distance from the top of the
bench to the center of the wing as measured at the wing tip
should be approximately 3-3/8" [86mm]. Block the wing tip
up while the glue hardens.

Note: Due to production
techniques there may be some variance in the actual
dihedral of each model. Our prototypes flew well with the
dihedral anywhere between 3" and 4" [76mm and 102mm].

❏ 4. Place the plywood wing bolt mounting plate in

position on the bottom of the wing, over the wing bolt holes.
Using a fine-tip marker, trace the outline of the plate onto the
wing. Use a sharp #11 hobby knife or use the Expert Tip
that follows to cut the covering from the wing along the lines
you have marked. Use care to cut only into the covering
and not into the wood.

Join the Wing

9

3-3/8" [86mm]

HOW TO CUT COVERING FROM BALSA

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. 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.

❏ 5. Glue the plywood wing bolt plate to the wing, and allow

the glue to harden. Using a 1/4" [6mm] dr ill bit, drill from the
top of the wing through the wing bolt holes, drilling through
the wing bolt plate.

❏ 6. Mount the wing to the fuselage with two 1/4 - 20 nylon

wing bolts.

❏ 1. Test fit the stab into the opening in the back of the

fuselage. Stand back and look at the stab in relation to the
wing.The stab should be parallel with the wing. If not, sand
the stab saddle until the stab and wing are aligned.

❏ 2.Measure the distance from the tip of the stab to the tip of

each wing. Adjust the position of the stab until both are equal.

❏ 3.Trace the outline of the fuselage onto the stab. Do this

on both the top and bottom of the stab.

Install the Stab, Elevators and Rudder

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE

10

❏ 4. Cut the covering from the center section of the stab,

being careful not to cut into the wood structure.Use the same
technique used for cutting the cov ering for the wing bolt plate.

❏ 5. When satisfied with the fit of the stab glue the stab to

the fuselage. Set it aside until the glue hardens.

❏ 6. Cut six hinges from the hinge material. Install the two

elevator halves using the same method used for the
ailerons. Once you are satisfied with the positioning of the
elevators, glue them in place with thin CA the same as was
done on the ailerons.

❏ 7. Test fit the fin into the slot in the fuselage. Mark the

outline of the fuselage onto the fin.Cut the covering from the
fin using the same method used for the stab. Once you are
satisfied with the fit, glue the stab to the fuselage.Make sure
it is perpendicular to the stab.

❏ 8. Locate the tail wheel wire assembly. Inser t the wire

into the tail wheel bracket as shown.

❏ 9. Bend the wire 90 degrees. Once the wire is bent, cut

the wire to extend 1-1/2" [38mm] beyond the bend.

❏ 10. Measure up from the bottom of the fin on the hinge

line 1/2" [13mm] and make a mark.On the mark drill a 1/16"
[1.6mm] hole 1-1/2" [38mm] into the fin. Insert the tail wheel
wire into the fin.

❏ 11.Cut three more hinges and insert them into the rudder.

❏ 12. Insert the rudder onto the fin. Align the tail wheel

bracket on the bottom of the fuselage.Drill a 1/16" [1.6mm]
hole into the fuselage through the mounting holes. Install
and remove a #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] sheet metal screw into each
of the holes you drilled.Put a couple of drops of thin CA into
each of the holes and allow the glue to harden.Re-install the
screws, mounting the bracket to the fuselage.

❏ 13. Apply thin CA to the hinges in the same manner you

did the other control surfaces.

11

❏ 14. Mount the tail wheel onto the tail wheel wire. Secure

it to the wire with a 3/32" [2.4mm] wheel collar and a 4-40
set screw with a drop of threadlocker.

This completes the installation of the tail surfaces.You will
finish the installation of the control horns and pushrods
when you do the radio installation.

❏ 1. Cut the covering from the mounting holes for the

landing gear. Bolt the landing gear to the fuselage with four
6-32 x 5/8”[16mm] socket head cap screws, #6 lock w ashers
and #6 flat washers.Apply a drop of threadlock to the threads
before screwing them into the fuselage.When installing the
gear, the taper should be to the back of the fuselage.

❏ 2. Cut the landing gear axles to a length of 1-3/16" [30mm].

❏ 3. File a flat spot on the end of the axles.

(A high speed

rotary tool works well for this also).

❏ 4. Install an aluminum spacer

(it looks just like a wheel

collar without the hole for the set screw)

followed b y a wheel
and then a 5/32" [4mm] wheel collar.Secure the wheel collar
by tightening a 6-32 set screw onto the flat spot on the axle.
Do this for both wheels.

❏ 5. Slide the wheel pants over the wheels. Attach the

wheel pant to the landing gear with two 4-40 x 3/8” [9.5mm]
machine screws, #4 flat washers and #4 lock washers.

❏ 1. Cut out the engine mounting pattern on page 23 of this

manual. Tape it on the firewall, aligning the lines on the
pattern with the lines on the firewall.

Install the Engine, Fuel Tank

and Throttle Servo

Install the Landing Gear and Wheel Pants

12

❏ 2. Use a 3/16” [4.8mm] bit to drill through the firewall at

the marks on the engine mounting pattern.

❏3.Install four 8/32 blind nuts into the backside of the fire wall.

❏ 4. Install the engine mount to the firewall using four each,

8/32 x 1" [25mm] socket head cap screws , #8 flat washers and
#8 lock washers.When installing the mount, use your engine
to determine the spacing needed for the mounting rails.

❏ 5. Position the engine in the mount so the distance from

the front of the firewall to the front of the thrust washer
measures 5-3/16" [132mm]. Mark the location of the engine
on the mount. The Great Planes®Dead Center™Hole
Locator (GPMR8130) works well for this. Drill through the
marks you have made on the engine mount with a #36 or
7/64” [2.5mm] drill bit.Tap each of the holes with a 6-32 tap.

❏ 6. Mount the engine onto the mount with four each,

6-32 x 1” [25mm] socket head cap screws, #6 flat washers
and # 6 lock washers.

❏ 7. Assemble the fuel tank as shown. Inser t the tank into

the formers in the front of the fuselage.

❏ 8. Locate the plywood receiver tray and Velcro. Install

the Velcro into the slots.

❏ 9. Place the tray into the fuselage. The front tongue on

the tray e xtends f orw ard to hold the fuel tank in position.Drill
a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole through the holes on each side of the
tray. Then screw a #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] sheet metal screw and
a #2 flat washer into the mounting rails to secure it in place.

❏ 10. Install the fuel line onto the tubes extending from the

fuel tank. The vent line can be attached later when the
muffler is permanently installed. If you will be using a fuel
valve (not included) for filling the tank rather than filling the
tank by removing the line from the carburetor, install it in the
fuel line following the instructions included with the valve.

❏ 11. Mark the location on the firewall where the throttle

pushrod will pass through. Dr ill a 3/16” [4.8mm] hole on that
mark.Locate the 24” [610mm] gray plastic pushrod tube .Cut
it to a length of 12” [305mm]. Roughen one end of the tube
with 220-grit sandpaper. Install the smooth end of the
pushrod tube into the front of the firewall through the hole
you drilled in the firewall and through the hole inside the
fuselage, in the fuselage former .Apply CA to the roughened
end of the plastic tube gluing it into the firewall.

13

FUEL TANK

SILICONE

FUEL LINE

FUEL

PIPE

FUEL CLUNK

PRESSURE

TAP TO

MUFFLER

TO NEEDLE

VALVE
FIREWALL

❏ 12. Locate a .074 x 17.5” [445mm] pushrod wire. Cut the

threaded end from the wire.Insert the wire into the plastic tube
you installed for the throttle.Install a brass screw lock connector
into the throttle arm, locking it to the arm with a nylon retainer.
Insert this wire into the screw lock connector and the plastic
tube you installed for the throttle.Lock the wire to the connector
with a 6-32 x 1/4” [6mm] socket head cap screw.

Refer to this photograph for the steps 13-15.

❏ 13. Locate the plywood pushrod support.Slide the support

over the gra y plastic pushrod y ou hav e installed in the fuselage.

❏ 14. Install the throttle servo into the tray in the fuselage.

Drill a 1/16” [1.6mm] hole through each of the mounting
holes in the servo.Install and then remove a servo mounting
screw into each of the holes you hav e drilled.Apply a couple
of drops of thin CA into the holes to harden the threads.After
the glue has cured, install your servo.

❏ 15.Install a brass-screw lock connector and nylon retainer

to the servo arm. Slide it onto the pushrod wire, center the
servo, and install the servo arm onto the servo.Then, install
the servo screw into the servo and a 6-32 x 1/4” [6mm]
socket head cap screw into the screw-lock connector. Glue
the plywood pushrod support to the former.

❏ 1. Measure up from the bottom of the fuselage 1" [25mm]

and make a mark. From that mark measure up 2-1/2" [64mm]
and make another mark.Epoxy a 1/4" x 1/2" x 1" [6x13x25mm]
hardwood block to the fuselage, centering the blocks on the
marks you have made.Do this on both sides of the fuselage.
Install a block at the top center of the fuselage.

❏ 2.Install the cowl over the engine.Cut the cowl as needed

to fit the cowl to the fuselage.Final cutting of the cowl can be
done once the cowl is bolted to the fuselage. Once the cowl
will fit without any obstruction from any part of the engine,
remove the cowl from the fuselage.

❏ 3. From the center of each of the cowl mounting blocks

measure back 2" [51mm].Mark a line on the fuselage with a
fine-point felt-tip marker.

Install the Cowl

14

❏ 4. For this step you will find that a helper will be an asset.

Position the cowl onto the fuselage, aligning the paint lines
on the fuselage and the cowl as well as centering the engine
in the opening in the front of the cowl. From the marks you
made on the sides of the fuselage measure forward 2"
[51mm]. Dr ill through the cowl and the mounting blocks with
a 5/64" [2mm] drill. Install the cowl to the fuselage with five

2.5 x 10mm washer head screws.

❏ 5. Make all of the final cuts to the cowl to accommodate

the glow driver, muffler, needle valve, etc.

❏ 1. Locate three .074" x 36" [1.9 x 914mm] pushrod wires

threaded on one end. Screw a nylon clevis onto the
threaded end of the wires 20 full turns. Install a silicone
clevis keeper onto the clevises.

❏ 2. Slide two of the wires with clevises attached into the

openings closest to the back of the fuselage on both sides
of the fuselage.

❏ 3. Connect a nylon control horn onto each of the two

clevises.Position the control horn on the elevators, positioning
it the same way as you did with the ailerons .Mark the location
for the screw holes.Drill through the marks you made with a

1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit, drilling through the elevator .Secure the
control horn to the aileron with two 2-56 x 5/8” [16mm]
machine screws and the nylon mounting plate.

❏ 4. Inser t the third rod into the remaining opening in the

fuselage. Connect the control horn to the clevis. Mar k the
location for the control horn onto the rudder. Drill a 1/16"
[1.6mm] hole on each of the marks drilling through the
plywood plate

but do not drill through the rudder!

Install
and then a remove a #2 x 3/8" [9mm] screw into each of the
holes. Apply a couple of drops of thin CA to harden the
threads.Once the glue has hardened mount the control horn
to the rudder with the #2 screws.

❏ 5. Install the rudder servo into the servo tray at the

position shown. Mark the location for the servo mounting
screws.Drill a 1/16” [1.6mm] hole through the marks, drilling
through the plywood tray. Inser t and then remove one of the
servo mounting screws supplied with your radio into each of
the four holes you have drilled. Apply a couple of drops of
thin CA to each of the holes to harden the threads.After the
glue has hardened permanently mount the servo.

Install the Radio System

15

❏ 6. Be sure the rudder servo is centered. Enlarge the first

hole in the servo arm with a Hobbico Servo Horn Drill (or a
#48 or 5/64" [2mm] drill bit). Center the rudder and align the
wire pushrod with the hole in the end of the servo arm. Use
a fine-point felt-tip pen to mark the wire where it crosses the
holes in the servo arm. On that mark make a 90 degree
bend. From the bend measure an additional 3/16" [4.8mm]
and then cut off the excess pushrod wire. Install a nylon
Faslink to the wire and servo arm.

❏ 7. Install the elevator servo into the servo tray. Position it

in line with the elevator pushrods .Mount the servo using the
same procedure used for the rudder servo.

Refer to this photograph for steps 8-10.

❏ 8. Make a bend in one of the elevator pushrod wires

as shown.

❏ 9. Screw a 6-32 x 1/4”[6mm] socket head cap screw with

a small amount of threadlocker into two 5-32” [4mm] wheel
collars. Slide the wheel collars onto the wires. Align the
elevators. Tighten the set screws against the wires. Cut the
excess wire.

❏ 10. Be sure the elevator servo is centered. Enlarge the

first hole in the servo arm with a Hobbico Servo Horn Drill
(or a #48 or 5/64" [2mm] drill bit). Center the elevators and
align the wire pushrod with the hole in the end of the servo
arm.Using a marker, mark the location where the wire aligns

with the hole in the servo arm. On that mark make a 90
degree bend. From the bend measure an additional 3/16"
[4.8mm] and then cut off the excess pushrod wire. Install a
nylon Faslink to the wire and servo arm.

❏ 11. Install the switch and charge jack that came with your

radio on the side of the fuselage opposite the muffler. We
used the Ernst Charge receptacle (ERNM3001) for
mounting the charge jack.

❏ 12. Install the battery and receiver as shown. Wrap 1/4”

thick foam around the receiver and battery, holding it in
place with the Velcro material included with the kit. Note:
You can switch the position of the receiver and battery as
needed for balancing purposes.

❏ 13. Use an arm cut from a servo arm to make an antenna

strain relief as shown. Insert the receiver antenna into the
white antenna tube. Hold it to the fuselage by placing a small
rubber band around the tail wheel and the end of the antenna.

16

❏ 1. Cut the pilot to shor ten it to fit into the cockpit. Glue it

in place.

❏2.Install the instrument panel decal to the front of the cockpit.

❏3.Trim the canopy on the molded cut lines .Glue the canopy

in place with RC 56 canopy glue or other aliphatic glue.

❏ 4. Install the propeller that is best suited to your engine

and the spinner included in the kit.

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:
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 way.

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 Great Planes AccuThrow (or a ruler) to accurately
measure and set the control throw of each control surface as
indicated in the chart that follows.If your radio does not hav e
dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the low rate
setting. NOTE:The throws are measured at the widest part
of the elevators, rudder and ailerons.

Set the Control Throws

Check the Control Directions

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Apply the Decals

Install the Pilot and Canopy

FINAL TOUCHES

17

4-CHANNEL RADIO SETUP

(STANDARD MODE 2)

4-CHANNEL

ELEVATOR MOVES UP

RIGHT AILERON MOVES UP

LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN

TRANSMITTER

4-CHANNEL

TRANSMITTER

RUDDER MOVES RIGHT

CARBURETOR WIDE OPEN

4-CHANNEL

TRANSMITTER

4-CHANNEL

TRANSMITTER

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" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately

mark the C.G. on the top of the wing at both sides of the
fuselage. The C.G. is located 3-1/2" [89mm] back from the
leading edge of the wing measured at the side of the fuselage.

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

model installed (ready to fly) and an empty fuel tank, place
the model upside-down on a Great Planes CG Machine, or
lift it upside-down 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 battery 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. [28g] weight, or GPMQ4646 for the 2 oz. [57g]
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 bottom of 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 screws, 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.

This is where your model should balance for the first
flights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the
C.G. up to 1/2" [13mm] forward or 3/8" [9.5mm] 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 proper ly balanced will
be unstable and possibly unflyable.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

IMPORTANT : The Cap 580 has been extensively flown

and tested to arrive at the throws at which it flies best.Flying
your model at these throws will provide y ou with the greatest
chance for successful first flights.If, after you have become
accustomed to the way the Cap 580 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: 1/2" [13mm] up 3/8" [9.5mm] up

3/4" [19mm] down 5/8" [16mm] down

RUDDER: 3" [76mm] right 1-3/4" [44mm] right

3" [76mm] left 1-3/4" [44mm] left

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

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

18

3-1/2" [89mm]

❏ 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, you should always have your
name, address, telephone number and AMA number on or
inside your model.It is required at all AMA R/C club flying sites
and AMA sanctioned flying events. Fill out the identification tag
on page 23 and place it on or inside your model.

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.

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 for 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.

Range Check

Ground Check

Balance 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.

Charge the Batteries

Identify Y our Model

PREFLIGHT

Balance the Model Laterally

19

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 well 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, shir t

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 starter to star t the engine.
Do not use your fingers to flip the propeller .Make 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 try to stop the engine. To stop a gasoline
powered engine an on/off switch should be connected to the
engine coil. Do not throw anything into the propeller of a
running engine.

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
airpor t operator. I will give right-of-way and avoid 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 g round

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 by 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. Fuelproof all areas exposed to fuel or exhaust residue

such as the cowl mounting blocks , wing saddle area, etc.

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

provided in the manual.

❏ 3. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely

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

CHECKLIST

Radio Control

General

AMA SAFETY CODE (

EXCERPTS

)

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

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

20

❏ 4. 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.

❏ 5. Balance your model

laterally

as explained in

the instructions.

❏ 6. Use threadlocking 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.

❏ 7. Add a drop of oil to the axles so the wheels will turn freely .
❏ 8. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place.
❏ 9. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA

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

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

and the throws are set up according to the manual.

❏ 11.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.

❏ 12.Secure connections between servo wires and

Y-connectors or ser vo 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.

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

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

❏ 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 Cap 580 is a great-flying model that flies smoothly and
predictably. The Cap 580 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 r ich, you
will help prevent dead-stic k landings caused by overheating.

Before you get ready to takeoff, 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. 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, then
check all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind.

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 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.

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

21

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, The Cap 580 does not require full throttle for
anything other than vertical maneuvers.You will find that it
will perform rolls, snaps, inverted flight, knife edge and level
flight at approximately half throttle

Tak e it easy with the Cap 580 for the first f ew flights , gradually
getting acquainted with it as you gain confidence. Adjust the
trims to maintain straight and level flight. After flying around
for a while, and while still at a saf e altitude with plenty of 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 keeping the nose down as you turn onto
the crosswind leg.Make your final turn toward the runwa y (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 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 y our landing flare and the
model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up
elevator until it gently touches do wn.Once the model is on the
runway and has lost flying speed, hold up elev ator to place the
tail on the ground, regaining tail wheel 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’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive.For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction
(anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to
maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and
make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates).
A flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your
model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves.

Remember to think.

Have a ball!

But always stay in control and fly in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

Landing

Flight

22

ALSO AVAILABLE FROM GREAT PLANES

First in affordability and features.

Look at the price, the features and the performance of the 4YF, and
you’ll see why it's the most popular 4-channel around for flight and
surface use.Its FM technology is complemented with NiCds, a charger,
easy access trims and a dual-conversion, 7-channel R127DF receiver.
Two LEDs instantly show battery power status. The trainer system
features a spring-loaded toggle switch instead of a button, so it's easy
to hold "on", and automatically turns "off" when you release it. The
trainer jack features a micro-pin connector port, for less clutter with the
optional cord.Includes four S3004 servos.1-year warranty. 72 & 75MHz.

Futaba®4YF 4-Channel FM Radio FUTJ40**

23

Improve your fuel economy and increase your power with
the FS-70 Surpass II. It puts out an impressive 1.1
horsepower at 11,000 rpm -- with all the power you need to
execute big maneuvers. Its Type 60R carb provides more
precise fuel flow control and smoother throttle control than
the original FS-70 Surpass. The FS-70 Surpass II also
features easier installation, adjustment and maintenance.
Muffler and glow plug included.Two-year warranty.

Displacement: 0.70 cu in (11.50cc)
Bore: 1.02 in (25.8mm)
Stroke: 0.866 in (22.0mm)

Output: 1.1hp @ 11,000 r pm
Practical rpm range: 2,000-12,000 rpm
Weight w/muffler: 20.65 oz (585.4g)

O.S.®FS-70 Surpass™II
OSMG0872

Top Flite Power Point Propellers give you a visible power
boost, no matter what your aircraft application may be. Strict
manufacturing quality controls and tight tolerances in design
and tooling give Power Point props true, constant pitch
throughout the entire blade diameter. This, combined with
lower rotational mass, provides greater thrust at any rpm and
less overall engine wear.Stiffer than nylon, lighter than maple,
these fuelproofed beechwood props also feature a swept tip
design which reduces prop "howl" for quieter flying.

Top Flite®Power Point®Propellers

Give your Great Planes Matt Chapman CAP 580 extra
punch for impressive, airshow-worthy climbs, loops, and
snaps! The G-51 mounts in the same space as a .40
engine, but is bored out for higher displacement and
greater output - which also reduces engine weight to
further improve flight performance. The engine features
Schnuerle porting and dual ball bearings, and comes with
muffler and glow plug.

Displacement: 0.51 cu in (8.3cc)
Bore: 0.905 in (23mm)
Stroke: 0.787 in (20mm)
Output: 1.48 bhp @ 15,500 rpm

RPM Range: 2,500-15,500
Weight (without muffler): 12.73 oz (363g)
Recommended Props: 9.5x6, 10x6, 11x5

SuperTigre®G-51
Ring Engine
SUPG0154

EM6012 BOLT PATTERN
IT WILL USE 8-32 BOLTS
AND BLIND NUTS IN A

BUILDING NOTES

Kit Purchased Date: _______________________

Where Purchased: _________________________

Date Construction Started: __________________

Date Construction Finished: _________________

Finished Weight: __________________________

Date of First Flight: ________________________

FLIGHT LOG