Great Planes GPMA1400, GPMA1405 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-assembled product. By the act of using the user-assembled product,
the user accepts all resulting liability.

If the buyer is not prepared to accept the liability associated with the use of this product, the buyer is advised to return this kit
immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase.

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

GPMZ0242 for GPMA1400/1405 V1.0 Entire Contents © Copyright 2002

1610 Interstate Drive Champaign, IL 61822

[phone], Ext. 2

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 31-1/4 in [794mm]
Wing Area: 343 sq in [22.1 dm

2

]

Weight: 24 oz. [680g]
Wing Loading: 10.1 oz./sq. ft. [30.8g dm

2

]

Fuselage Length: 31-3/4 in [800mm]
Motor: Speed 400, 7.2 volt

™

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

PRECAUTIONS............................................................................2

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

Flight Equipment ......................................................................3

Building Supplies ......................................................................3

REPLACEMENT PARTS..............................................................3

PARTS LIST ................................................................................4

HARDWARE BAG CONTENTS ..................................................4

METRIC CONVERSIONS ............................................................4

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES ................................................5

ASSEMBLY ..................................................................................5

Battery Charging ......................................................................5

Assemble the Fuselage............................................................5

Join the Wing & Fuselage ........................................................6

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

Assemble the Canards ............................................................9

Install the Canopy ..................................................................11

Install the Receiver ................................................................11

Mount the Motor ....................................................................12

Final Assembly ......................................................................13

PREPARE THE MODEL FOR FLYING ......................................15

Set the Control Throws ..........................................................15

Balance the Model (C.G.) ......................................................16

Identify Your Model ................................................................16

Charge the Transmitter Batteries............................................16

Ground Inspection ..................................................................17

Range Check..........................................................................17

Performance Tips....................................................................17

Motor Safety Precautions ......................................................17

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts) ..............................................17

FIND A SAFE PLACE TO FLY ..................................................18

FLYING ......................................................................................18

Takeoff ....................................................................................18

Flight ......................................................................................18

Landing ..................................................................................19

FLIGHT LOG ..........................................................BACK COVER

Thank you for purchasing the Great Planes Firebat™Electric
ARF. The Firebat ARF is a lightweight, high performance

Park Flyer

that can be flown just about anywhere there is an
open area clear of obstacles. Since the Firebat ARF is
constructed mostly of molded plastic foam, it is durable and
does not require the application of film coverings used on
wood models. The performance of the Firebat ARF is very
good with the included motor, but it can be improved
dramatically with an optional high performance motor,
battery, and electronic BEC speed control.

1. Although the Firebat ARF is a light-weight, electric­powered model, just the same as any R/C plane, it should

still be flown with care. Even while gliding with the motor off
the Firebat ARF could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage property.

2. You must assemble the Firebat ARF according to the
instructions. Modifications may reduce performance. In
cases where the instructions differ from the photos, the
written instructions are correct.

3. You must use an R/C radio system that is reliable and in
good condition. You must properly install all components so
that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.

4. 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.

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
you 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

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

PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF
& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2

The Firebat ARF requires a three-channel radio with two
servos, a receiver and an electronic speed controller with
BEC. A full-size receiver and standard servos can be used.
You will

also need a 10" [254mm] (or 12" [305mm]) servo

extension

wire.

Flight performance and maneuverability can be improved
with dual aileron servos. You will need a mini servo for the
canard (elevator) with at least 30 oz. in. of torque and two
micro/mini servos for the ailerons with at least 15 oz. in. of
torque. You will also need a mini or micro receiver, a speed
controller and a 18" [457mm] (or 24" [610mm]) servo

extension
wire. This will require a four-channel radio system with
mixing functions.

Servos:

(HCAM0110) CS-12, 35 oz in torque
(FUTM0033) S3101, 34.7 oz in torque
(HRCM3401) HS-81J, 36 oz in torque

For dual aileron servos:

(HCAM0100) CS-15, 15 oz in torque
(FUTM0041) S3106, 16.7 oz in torque
(HRCM0981) HS-55J, 15 oz in torque

Mini Receivers:

(GPML0040) 4-channel FM, high band
(GPML0041) 4-channel FM, low band
(FUTL0407) 4-channel AM, low band
(FUTL0408) 4-channel AM, high band
(HRCL1535) 4-channel FM

low band - channels 11-35
high band - channels 36-60

Receiver crystal:

(FUTL62**) for GPM low band
(FUTL63**) for GPM high band
(FUTL47**) for FUT low band
(FUTL48**) for FUT high band
(HRCL23**) for HRC
** desired channel

Speed Control:

(GPMM2010) C-10, 12 amp
(GPMM2020) C-20, 20 amp

Servo Extension Wire:

(1) 10" (or 12") extension wire with standard receiver
(1) 18" (or 24") extension wire with micro receiver

Additionally, an 8-cell (9.6 volt) 600 to 1200 mAh battery
pack is required.

(GPMP0200) – 700 mAh NiCd
(GPMP0310) – 1100 mAh NiCd

In addition to common household tools, here is the list of
items used to build the Firebat ARF.

❏ 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6042)
❏ 1/2 oz. Thin CA+ (GPMR6001)
❏ Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏ #11 blades (HCAR0211)
❏ Drill and 1/16" drill bit
❏ Cellophane tape (for hinging ailerons)
❏ Double-sided foam tape (GPMQ4440) for mounting

receiver and speed control

❏ Sandpaper and sanding block
❏ Small phillips screwdriver (#1)
❏ Flat blade screwdriver
❏ Small T-pins (HCAR5100) or craft pins

If needed, replacement parts for your Firebat Electric ARF
are available through your hobby supplier. See the photo
and

“Parts List”

on page 4 for a reference of the parts

listed below.

(GPMG0330) Motor
(GPMQ1700) Propellers

(GPMA2372) Canard Set
(GPMA2373) Canopy
(GPMA2374) Rear Hatch
(GPMA2375) Vertical Fin Set
(GPMA2376) Fuselage Set
(GPMA2377) Hardware Pack

REPLACEMENT PARTS

Building Supplies

Flight Equipment

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

3

4

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

1/8" = 3.2 mm
5/32" = 4.0 mm
3/16" = 4.8 mm

1/4" = 6.4 mm

3/8" = 9.5 mm
1/2" = 12.7 mm
5/8" = 15.9 mm
3/4" = 19.0 mm

1" = 25.4 mm
2" = 50.8 mm
3" = 76.2 mm
6" = 152.4 mm

12" = 304.8 mm
18" = 457.2 mm
21" = 533.4 mm
24" = 609.6 mm
30" = 762.0 mm
36" = 914.4 mm

Metric Conversions

Parts-Standard Version

Key # Description Qty

1 MAIN WING .................................................................1

2 BALSA KEEL ...............................................................1

3 REAR HATCH..............................................................1

4 RIGHT VERTICAL FIN.................................................1

5 RIGHT FUSELAGE......................................................1

6 RIGHT CANARD..........................................................1

7 HARDWARE BAG........................................................1

8 CANOPY......................................................................1

9 LEFT VERTICAL FIN ...................................................1

10 PUSHRODS.................................................................2

Key # Description Qty

11 LEFT FUSELAGE ........................................................1

12 PROPELLERS .............................................................2

13 LEFT CANARD ............................................................1

14 MOTOR........................................................................1

15 MOTOR MOUNT PARTS BAG ....................................1

Parts-Deluxe Version (*not shown, includes all parts shown above plus the
following items)

* BATTERY.....................................................................1

* ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROLLER (ESC) ............1

* 3-4 HOUR WALL CHARGER ......................................1

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

PARTS LIST

(3) 6" [152mm] HARDWOOD STICKS
(1) 2" [50mm] BALSA BLOCK
(1) 2" [50mm] NYLON BOLT
(2) NYLON WASHERS
(1) LONG NYLON CONTROL HORN
(2) SHORT NYLON CONTROL HORNS
(1) 5/8" [16mm] BRASS TUBE
(1) 1-3/16" [30mm] BRASS TUBE
(1) 6-1/4" [158mm] BRASS TUBE

(4) 2" [50mm] PUSHROD ENDS WITH Z-BENDS
(1) METAL HOOK
(1) 2 x 8mm SCREW
(4) RUBBER BANDS
(1) BAG (INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING)

(3) WHEEL COLLARS
(3) SET SCREWS
(1) ALLEN WRENCH

HARDWARE BAG CONTENTS

• Since the Firebat ARF is made mostly of foam, and
since CA adhesives commonly used to build R/C model
airplanes dissolve foam, CA should not be used when
gluing foam parts. Therefore, 6-minute epoxy, which is
compatible with foam, is used for most of the
construction. Unless otherwise specified in the
instructions, 6-minute epoxy is to be used for gluing all
parts of the model together.

• For the strongest bond apply epoxy to both parts
being joined.

• Before beginning construction, refer to the parts
drawings and use a ballpoint pen to write the part
number on all the wood parts.

• During shipping some minor “scuffing” of the foam parts
may occur. This will not affect flight performance.

❏ 1. Now is a good time to charge the battery you will be

using. The Firebat Electric ARF builds very quickly so you
don't want do delay flying waiting for the battery to charge.

❏ 2. Make sure you have a fully run down battery before

charging.

❏ 3. Plug the battery charger into a standard 110 volt AC

wall outlet.

❏ 4. Connect the battery to the charger. Do not force the

plug; make sure that the plug is properly aligned.

❏ 5. Charge battery for 3-4 hours. A normal battery pack

will be warm when fully charged. WARNING: DO NOT
OVERCHARGE. IF THE BATTERY BECOMES HOT
DURING CHARGING, DISCONNECT FROM THE
CHARGER IMMEDIATELY AND ALLOW IT TO COOL
BEFORE USE. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY CAUSE THE
BATTERY TO LEAK OR EXPLODE, RESULTING IN
POSSIBLE INJURY OR BODILY HARM. Recharging a hot

battery will also decrease performance and battery life.

Note: The charger has an output of 300 mA. To determine
the charge time for other batteries, divide the battery
capacity by the charger output to get the charge time (i.e.,
1200 mAh divided by 300 mA = 4 hours). The Firebat Electric
ARF is so much fun to fly you should also consider obtaining
an additional battery or two and a field charger. Allow at
least 20 minutes of cooling time for the motor and battery
between flights.

❏ 1. If you are using standard sized servos, position them

in the two recesses in the left fuselage side as shown in the
above photo. Be sure that the servo leads are in the pre­molded channels. The receiver will be installed behind the
servos later.

❏ 2. If you are using two mini or micro sized aileron servos

and a mini/micro receiver, position one of the servos in the
rear recess in the left fuselage side as shown in the above
photo A. Mark the location of the servo on the fuselage with
a fine-point felt-tip marker. Trim the fuselage side so the
servo will be recessed flush with the inside edge of the
fuselage side. Do the same for the right fuselage side. Be
sure that the servo leads are in the pre-molded channels.
Test fit the fuselage sides together to check the servo fit but
do not glue the sides at this time. The mini/micro receiver
will be installed in front of the servos later.

Note: When the sides are glued together the servos will be
installed side by side.

Assemble the Fuselage

Battery Charging

ASSEMBLY

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

5

A

B

❏ 3. The 5/32" x 5/32" x 6" [4 x 4 x 152mm] hardwood stick

will be glued into the molded channel below the servos in
the next step.

❏ 4. Glue the fuselage sides together with 6-minute epoxy.

If you are using standard servos, be sure the servos are
properly positioned in the recesses and the leads are in the
channels. If you are using mini or micro servos, they will be
installed later. Be sure the stick is in its channel. Use tape or
rubber bands to hold the sides together until the epoxy

cures.

Note: To save weight you do not need to apply epoxy to the
entire mating surface. Make sure the edges and hardwood
stick are securely glued. Do not use so much epoxy that it
squeezes into the area of the servos and their leads.

❏ 5. If you are using a single aileron servo, continue with

“Join the Wing and Fuselage.”

If you are using two mini or
micro servos for the ailerons, install them in the cutouts you
made earlier, routing the leads in the channel below the
servos. Cut a 1/4" x 1-1/2" [6.4 x 38mm] piece from some
scrap 1/16" [1.6mm] ply (not included) and glue it to the
fuselage at the front of the servos. The screws supplied with
the servos or a dab of epoxy can be used to hold the servos
in place. See page 9, step 12 for another photo. Note: If you
want to hold the servos in place with screws, glue a piece of
ply at the front and rear of the servos.

❏ 6. Install a servo lead extension that will connect the

electronic speed control (ESC) to the receiver in the channel
under the two aileron servos. This lead must be at least 18"
long. Install the canard (elevator) servo in the cutout in front
of the aileron servos. Use a piece of scrap ply at the front
and rear of the servo.

❏ 1. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the fuselage and main

wing together. Use tape to hold the parts together as the
epoxy hardens, ensuring that gaps between the parts are
kept to a minimum. Be careful not to get any epoxy in the
servo plugs.

❏ 2. Check the fit of the 3/8" x 3/8" x 12-3/4" [9.5 x 9.5 x

324mm] balsa keel in its slot in the bottom of the fuselage.
Round the front of the keel with sandpaper to match the
contour of the fuselage. Glue the keel into position in the
slot. Use tape to hold it in place until the epoxy cures.

Join the Wing & Fuselage

6