Great Planes GPMA1350 User Manual

Great Planes®Model Manufacturing Co. guarantees this kit to

be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date
of purchase. This warranty does not cover any component parts
damaged by use or modification.In no case shall Great Planes’
liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further,
Great Planes reserves the right to change or modify this warranty
without notice.

In that Great Planes has no control over the final assembly or
material used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor
accepted for any damage resulting from the use by the user of the
final user-assembled product. By the act of using the user­assembled 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 this address.

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 THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING
CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING
THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

GPMZ0295 for GPMA1350 V1Entire Contents © Copyright 2004

Champaign, Illinois

Telephone: [phone] ext. 5

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

WARRANTY

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1

Champaign IL 61822

USA

Wingspan:Top Wing: 71.5 in [1815mm]

Bottom Wing: 69 in [1755mm]

Wing Area:Top WIng: 762 sq in [49.1 dm2]

Bottom Wing: 704 sq in [45.4 dm2]

Weight: 14.5-15.5 lb [6580-7030 g]

Wing Loading: 23-24 oz/sq ft [69-74 g/dm

2

]

Length: 57 in [1450mm]
Radio: 4-channel with 5-7 ser vos
Engine: .91-1.08 cu in [15-17.5cc] two-stroke,

1.20-1.40 cu in [19.5-23cc] four-stroke

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

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

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

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

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

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

KIT INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

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

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

BUILD THE WING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Install the Ailerons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Join the Wing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Install the Aileron Servos & Pushrods. . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

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

Preparations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Install the Stab, Elevator, Fin & Rudder. . . . . . . . . . . 12

Attach the Wing & Cabanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Install the Aileron Connection Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Build the Carry Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Install the Engine & Throttle Servo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Install the Cowl & Dummy Engine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Install the Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Assemble the Nose Weight Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Install the Wheels & Wheel Pants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Install the Radio System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Finishing Touches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Apply the Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Check the Control Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Set the Control Throws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Balance the Model (C.G.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Balance the Model Laterally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

PREFLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Identify Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

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

Balance Propellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Ground Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Range Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

AMA SAFETY CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

IMAA SAFETY CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

CHECK LIST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

FLYING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Mount the Wing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Fuel Mixture Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

The Stearman has a long and colorful history in both military
and civilian use. The Great Planes

®

Super Stearman ARF
represents the best performing version of the civilian
modifications made.You will thoroughly enjoy the wide range
of capabilities of this plane as well as its good looks.We think
you will be pleased with the attention to detail and its flight
characteristics. For the latest technical updates or manual
corrections to the Super Stearman visit the Great Planes web
site at www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then
select the Super Stearman 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.

The Great Planes Super Stearman is an excellent sport­scale model and is eligible to fly in IMAA events.The IMAA
(International Miniature Aircraft Association) is an
organization that promotes non-competitive flying of giant­scale models. If you plan to attend an IMAA event, obtain a
copy of the IMAA Safety Code by contacting the IMAA at
the address or telephone number below, or by logging on to
their web site at:

www.fly-imaa.org/imaa/sanction.html.

IMAA

205 S. Hilldale Road

Salina, KS 67401

[phone]

1. Your Super Stearman 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 Stearman, 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
(fuel tank, wheels, etc.) throughout the building process.

PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,Y OURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

IMAA

INTRODUCTIONTABLE OF CONTENTS

2

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 already an experienced R/C pilot, you
should fly the model only with the help of a competent,
experienced R/C pilot.

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, the modeler is responsible for taking steps
to reinforce the high stress points.

9. WARNING: The cowl, wheel pants and wing struts
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.

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

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

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Tele. [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at: http://www.modelaircraft.org

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

Engine (refer to the engine size requirements on the

cover of the manual)

4-Channel radio

(1) standard servo (throttle)
(4) servos with minimum of 54 oz/in torque (2-ailerons,

1-elevator, 1-rudder)

(2) 12" [300mm] servo extensions (for aileron servos,

HCAM2711 for Futaba®)
(1) Y-har ness (for aileron servos, HCAM2751 for Futaba)
(1) minimum 1,000mAh receiver battery

Propeller and spare propellers (refer to your engine

manufacturer's recommendations)
2' [600mm] large, silicone fuel tubing (GPMQ4133)

Optional: If building the Super Stearman with four aileron
servos, in addition to the items previously mentioned you
will also need two more aileron servos, two more servo
extensions and one more Y-harness.

In addition to common household tools and hobby tools, this
is the “short list” of the most important items required to
build the Super Stearman.

Great Planes Pro™ CA and

Epoxy glue are recommended.

❏ R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] - HCAQ1000, or 1/2"

[13mm] - HCAQ1050)

❏ 1 oz. [30g] Thin Pro CA (GPMR6002)
❏ 1 oz. [30g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6008)
❏ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)
❏ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)
❏ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.4mm],

1/8" [3.2mm], #29 or 9/64" [3.6mm], 3/16" [4.8mm],

❏ 3 pkgs Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)
❏ #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏ #11 blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏ Small T-pins (100, HCAR5100)
❏ R/C-56 canopy glue (JOZR5007)
❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏ Denatured Alcohol (for epoxy cleanup)
❏ Flat Black Fuelproof Paint (for cockpit)
❏ 8-32 Tap (GPMR8103)
❏ 8-32 Tap Handle (GPMR8120)

Adhesives and Building Supplies

Hardware and Accessories

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

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

kit and great instructions, but ultimately the quality 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

4

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Super Stearman

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

- or -

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

❏ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0630)
❏ Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402)
❏ Hobbico®Duster™can of compressed air (HCAR5500)
❏ Masking tape (TOPR8018)
❏ Microballoons (TOPR1090)
❏ Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060)
❏ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❏ Rotary tool such as Dremel

™

❏ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200)
❏ Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)
❏ Dead Center™Engine Mount Hole Locator (GPMR8130)
❏ AccuThrow™Deflection Gauge (GPMR2405)
❏ CG Machine™(GPMR2400)
❏ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer™(TOPQ5700)
❏ Fuel filler valve for glow fuel (GPMQ4160)

There are two types of screws used in this kit:
Sheet metal screwsare designated by a number and a length.

For example #6 x 3/4" [19mm]

This 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]

This 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

30­minute (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 Super Stearman 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.

White TOPQ0204
Black TOPQ0208
True Red TOPQ0227

·

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.

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

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

1/4" = 6.4mm

3/8" = 9.5mm

1/2" = 12.7mm

5/8" = 15.9mm

3/4" = 19mm

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

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

1" = 25.4mm (conversion factor)

Metric Conversions

Important Building Notes

Optional Supplies and Tools

5

PARTS PHOTOGRAPHED

1. Fuselage

2. Cowl

3. Fin & Rudder

4. Stab & Elevator

5.Top, Left Wing & Aileron

6.Top, Right Wing & Aileron

7. Bottom, Left Wing & Aileron

8. Bottom, Right Wing & Aileron

9. Fuel T ank

10. Engine Mount

11. Spinner

12.Wheel Pants

13. Landing Gear

14. Cowl Ring

15.Wheels

16.Turtle Deck

17.Windshields

18. Cockpit Coaming

19.Tail Wheel Assembly

20. Cabanes

21. Struts

Qty

4-40 Threaded Metal Clevis . . . . . 4

3/16 x 2”Axle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

BrassEZConnector . . . . . . . . . . . .1

4-40 Blind Nuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

4-40 Nuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

8-32 Blind Nuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

5/16-24 Axle Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

1/4-20 Blind Nut . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

4-40 Nylon Lock Nuts . . . . . . . . . .8

Large Nylon Control Horn . . . . . . .7

Small Nylon Control Horn . . . . . . .4

1/4-20 Nylon Bolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Nylon Clevis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Nylon Retainer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

2” x 9” Hinge material . . . . . . . . . .1

Faslink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Clevis Retainer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

#4 x 1/2” SMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

6-32 x1/4” SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

4-40 x 1/8” Set Screw . . . . . . . . . .1

4-40x 1/4”SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

#2 x 3/8” SMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Qty

8-32 x 3/4” SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

4-40 x 1/2” SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . .16

4-40 x 1/2” Phillips Head M/S . . . .8

#2 x 3/8” WoodScrew . . . . . . . . . . .8

8-32 x 1-1/4” SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . .4

8-32 x 1”SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

#2 x 1/2” SMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

#4 x 1” MS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

3/32” Wheel Collar . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

5/32” Wheel Collar . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

3/16” Wheel Collar . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

1-1/4” Tail Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

.074 x 17-1/2”” Pushrod Wire . . . . .1

.074 x 36” Pushrod Wire . . . . . . . .3

.074 x 6” Pushrod Wire . . . . . . . . .4

#4 Lock Washers . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

#4 Flat Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

#2 FlatWasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

#8 Lock Washers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

#8 FlatWasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

4-40 x 3/4” SHCS . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Parts Layout

Before starting to build, take an inv entory 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 on this page.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], ext. 5

Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

13

15

19

17

9

10

6

20

21

4

5

11

12

1

3

18

2

8

7

14

16

PARTS NOT PHOTOGRAPHED

KIT INSPECTION

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Super Stearman 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.
Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services, but
full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will apply.
Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged sales tax.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at
www.hob bico .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 .to werhobbies.com,
or by calling toll free [phone], or from Hobby Services by
calling [phone], or via facsimile at [phone]. 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
the appropriate Product Support by e-mail or by telephone
at [phone].

[e-mail]

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Order Number Description How to purchase

GPMA2460 . . . . . Bottom Wing Set. . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2461 . . . . . Top Wing Set . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2462 . . . . . Fuselage Kit . . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2463 . . . . . Tail Surface Set . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2464 . . . . . Landing Gear . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2465 . . . . . Cowl Set. . . . . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2466 . . . . . Wheel Pant Set. . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2467 . . . . . Cabane Set. . . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2468 . . . . . Strut Set . . . . . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2469 . . . . . Spinner. . . . . . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2470 . . . . . "Dummy" Radial Eng. . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2471 . . . . . Decal Sheet . . . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2472 . . . . . Windscreen Set . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMA2473 . . . . . Metal Brackets . . . . . . Hobby Supplier

GPMZ0293 . . . . . Instruction Manual. . . . Hobby Supplier

Missing pieces. . . . . . Product Support

Instruction manual. . . Product Support

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

If you have never worked with fiberglass there are a few
basic things you should be aware of.

1. When you are cutting into fiberglass, be sure you are
cutting the correct place.Unlike w ood, you are not ab le to go
back and easily fix a mistake.

2.Whenever you are gluing a part to the inside of fiberglass it
is important to roughen the inside surface of the fiberglass with
220-grit sandpaper, then wipe the area with alcohol. The
molding process leaves a waxy residue that can prevent a
good bond between the glue and the parts being glued.

3. If you do not have a high-speed motor tool such as a
Dremel™tool you should consider purchasing one or
borrowing one from a fellow modeler. This combined with a
fiberglass cut-off wheel is going to be extremely helpful in
the assembly process.

WARNING: The cowl, wheel pants and fuselage 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
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.

❏ 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 5.

❏ 2. Carefully remove the tape and separate the ailerons

from the wing and the elevators from the stab. If necessary,
use a covering iron with a covering sock on high heat to
tighten the covering. Apply pressure over sheeted areas to

thoroughly bond the covering to the wood.

PREPARATIONS

Important Information about

Working with Fiberglass

Ordering Replacement Parts

6

Do the right 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. Dr ill a 3/32" [2.4mm] hole, 1/2" [13mm] deep in the

center of each hinge slot to allow the CA to “wick”in. Follow­up 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 fourteen 3/4" x 1" [19 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. Do not use CA accelerator. After the CA has
fully cured, test the hinges by pulling on the aileron.

❏ 7. Repeat steps 1- 6 for the left wing panel.
❏ 8. Follow the same procedure for installing the ailerons

on the top wing panels. Install the ailerons to the top wing
panel with three hinges in each aileron.

Before installing the aileron servos you must make a
decision on whether you will use two or four servos to drive
the four ailerons. A separate servo bay is located in each
wing panel for a four-servo installation. Should you choose
to use the two-servo installation an aileron connecting rod
goes between the top and bottom ailerons. The use of a
connecting rod between the top and bottom wing is “scale”
for a Stearman.If you choose to use the four servos y ou will
not be able to use the aileron connecting rod due to the
differential that is created between the top and bottom
aileron. You will not have any noticeable performance
difference with either option. If you do use two servos you
will need to make sure they are at least 54 oz-in servos.
Using four servos allows you to use less powerful servos
(and most likely less expensiv e servos) b ut the y will need to
be at least 30 oz-in servos.

The following steps are required whether you install two or
four servos.

❏❏1.Cut awa y the co vering from the servo bay in the bottom

of the right bottom wing panel.Turn the wing over and cut the
covering from the hole in the top of the wing at the wing root.

Join the Wing

Install the Ailerons

BUILD THE WING

7

❏❏2. A string is taped inside the servo bay. Carefully

remove the string from the servo bay and tape it to the
outside of the wing to prevent it from dropping back into the
wing. The other end of the string is taped to the root rib.
Remove the tape, thread the string through the small holes
you cut the covering from on the bottom of the wing and
tape the string to the wing.

❏ 3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the left bottom wing.

If you are installing servos in the top wing, proceed with
steps 4 and 5. If not, skip ahead to step 6.

❏❏4. Star ting with the right wing panel for the top wing,

cut away the co v ering from the servo opening on the bottom
of the wing and the covering from the hole at the root of the
wing. Remove the tape from the root rib, thread the string
through the hole and tape the string to the wing. Tape the
string in the servo bay to the wing, too.

❏ 5. Repeat step 4 for the left wing.

❏ 6. Locate three 1/8" [3mm] straight plywood wing joiners

and three 1/8" [3mm] plywood wing joiners that are angled.
Using 6-minute epoxy, glue the straight ones together to form
one 3/8" [10mm] joiner and glue the three angled ones
together forming the 3/8" [10mm] angled wing joiner.

❏ 7. After the glue has cured, test fit the angled joiner into

the bottom wing panels and the straight joiner into the top
wing panels. Sand the joiners as needed to get a good fit.

❏ 8. When you are satisfied with the fit of the joiners, glue

the angled joiner into the bottom wing panels with
30-minute epoxy. Be sure that the top of the joiner is
towards the top of the wing. When gluing the wing panels
together be sure to get glue into the joiner pockets in the
wing.This can be done by applying the glue into the pocket
with a small stick. Apply glue to the pocket, the joiner and
the root rib of the wing.

Before the glue cures, set one wing half flat on your bench.
Insert the 1/2" x1/2" x 3" [13 x 13 x 75mm] balsa block under
the trailing edge of the wing that sits flat on the workbench.
Block up the wing tip of the other wing half with the 2-1/16" x
2-1/16" x 2-1/16" [52 x 52 x 52mm] balsa block included in the
kit. Put small weights on the wing half that is flat on the bench
to keep it lying flat and leave the b loc k under the wing tip of the
other wing half while the glue cures.

8

❏ 9. Hold the wing together with masking tape while the

glue is curing. Excess epoxy can be cleaned away with
denatured alcohol and a paper towel.

❏ 10. Glue the top wing together using the straight wing

joiner and following the same gluing procedure used on the
bottom wing. Note: There is no dihedral on the top wing.
After gluing the wing together be sure it remains flat on the
workbench while the glue cures.

❏❏1.On the lower wing, install a 12" [305mm] servo extension

onto the servo lead.Secure the extension to the lead with tape, a
piece of shrink tube or some other method to keep them from
coming unplugged.

❏❏2. Tie the string to the servo extension. At the root of

the wing the other end of the string is taped. Pull the str ing
and the servo lead through the wing. Untie the string from
the lead and insert the lead through the small hole you cut
the covering from. Tape the lead 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 cured install the ser vo into
the servo opening using the hardware included with your
servo.Center the servo, then install a servo arm as shown.
The arm should be pointing towards the wingtip.

❏❏4. Place a nylon clevis in line with the last hole in the

servo arm. When positioned properly the control horn will
rest on a hardwood plate in the aileron.Mark the location of
the mounting holes onto the aileron. Drill a 1/16" [1.6mm]
hole on the marks, drilling through the plywood plate

b

ut not

through the top of the aileron. Insert and remove a #2 x3/8"
[10mm] screw into each of the holes. Apply a couple drops
of thin CA into the holes to harden the threads. Once the
glue has cured attach the horn to the aileron with two #2 x
3/8" [10mm] screws.

❏❏5. Thread a nylon clevis onto a .074 x 6" [152mm]

threaded wire 20 turns. Slide a silicone clevis retainer onto
the clevis. Install the clevis into the second hole from the
end of the control horn, then slide the silicone retainer over

Install the Aileron Servos & Pushrods

9

the clevis. Drill a 5/64" [2mm] hole in the outer hole of the
servo arm. Center the servo and the aileron.With a fine-tip
marker, mark the wire where it aligns with the outer hole of
the servo arm. Make a 90 degree bend on the mark.Cut the
wire so the wire is 3/8" [10mm] in length after the bend.
Insert the wire into the ser vo arm and lock it in place with a
nylon Faslink.

❏6. Repeat steps 1-5 for the left wing panel.

If you are installing servos in the top wing, repeat steps
1-6 for the top wing. If not, skip ahead to Step 12. St

eps

7- 11 are only if you are installing servos in the top wing.

❏7. A “Y” harness is required to connect the servos in the

upper wing to the receiver. Plug the two servo leads in the
top wing into a “Y” harness compatible with your radio
system.To provide a plug into the receiver we have used a
slightly modified Ernst Charge Receptacle (ERN3124 for
Futaba) and a 12" [305mm] servo extension.

❏ 8. Cut the charge receptacle in half just above the

locking fingers.

❏9. Put a couple of small drops of medium CA on the sides

of the female end of the servo extension. Then slide the
servo extension into the charge receptacle.

❏ 10. Near one of the cabanes, cut a hole in the top of the

fuselage just large enough for the servo extension and the

charge receptacle to fit into. Drill a 1/16" [16mm] hole into the
fuselage through each of the mounting holes in the charge
receptacle. Thread and remove the screws from the charge
receptacle into the holes you drilled. Apply thin CA into the
holes to harden the threads.Glue the charge receptacle to the
fuselage with R/C 56 canopy glue.Install the mounting screws
in the charge receptacle, into the holes you have drilled.
Later, when you are installing the radio system, this servo
extension will be plugged into the proper channel of your
receiver.When preparing the airplane to fly you will be able to
plug the upper wing servos into the receptacle, completing the
the connection from the upper wing to the receiver.

❏ 11. On the bottom wing, cut the covering away from the

holes in the leading edge of the wing for the nylon wing
dowels. Glue them in place with 6-minute epoxy. Wipe any

excess epoxy away with denatured alcohol. When properly
positioned the wing dowels should extend approximately
3/8" [10mm] beyond the leading edge of the wing.

❏ 12. Cut the covering from the holes on the plywood wing

bolt plate.

❏ 13. Cut the covering from the holes at the wing trailing

edge on both the top and bottom of the wing.

10

❏14. Place the wing bolt plate in position over the holes in the

bottom wing. Use the nylon wing bolts to help you align the
holes in the plate with the holes in the wing.T race the outline of
the plate onto the covering with a felt-tip pen. Use a sharp #11
blade or the expert tip that follows to cut the co vering inside the
lines you have drawn. Use caution not to cut through the
surface of the wing skin.Remove the covering.

❏ 15.Glue the wing bolt plate to the wing using epoxy. Use

small clamps to hold the wing bolt plate in position while the
glue cures.

❏ 1. Remove the belly pan from the bottom of the fuselage.

Install the landing gear to the fuselage with five 8-32 x 3/4"
[19mm] socket head cap screws. Apply a drop of thread
locker to each bolt before installing them.

❏ 2. Glue the belly pan back in place with a few dabs of

silicone glue. Using silicone will allow you to remove the
belly pan easily should you ever have to get access to the
landing gear bolts.

We will come back and do the installation of the wheels and
wheel pants later.Having the landing gear installed at this time
will make it easier to handle the fuselage on the workbench.

❏ 3. Cut the covering from the fuselage where the

horizontal stabilizer fits into the fuselage.

❏ 4. Cut the covering and the wood block from the back of

the horizontal stabilizer saddle.

Preparations

BUILD THE FUSELAGE

Use a soldering iron to cut the covering. 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.
Peel off the cover ing.

HOW TO CUT COVERING FROM BALSA.

11

❏1.Temporarily attach the lower wing to the fuselage with the

1/4-20 nylon bolts. Slide the horizontal stabilizer into the slot
in 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 they are equal.

❏3. Using a felt-tip pen, mark the outline of the fuselage on

the top and the bottom of the stab.

❏ 4. Cut the covering on the top and bottom of the stab

inside the line you have drawn. Use the same technique for
removing the covering from the wing.

❏5.Glue the stab in place with 30-minute epoxy .Excess epoxy

can be cleaned away with a paper towel and denatured
alcohol. After the stab is positioned and all excess epoxy has
been cleaned away, temporarily install the vertical fin par t of
the way into the slot.Just put it into place enough to verify that
you have not pushed the wood fuselage fairings too close
together and that the slot in the stab is aligned with the opening
for the fin. Remove the fin and allow the glue to cure.If any glue
has gotten on the fin, remove it with denatured alcohol.

Install the Stab, Elevator, Fin & Rudder

12