Great Planes GPMA1869 User Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 25 in [635mm]
Wing Area: 141 sq in [9.1 dm2]
Weight: 17.5–18.5 oz [500–520g]
Wing Loading: 17.9–18.9 oz/sq ft [55–58 g/dm2]
Length: 31 in [780mm]
Radio: 3-Channel Minimum with 3 Micro Servos, Micro Receiver

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 modifi cation. 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 fi nal assembly or
material used for fi nal assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor
accepted for any damage resulting from the use by the user of
the fi nal 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

READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT

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

Entire Contents © Copyright 2007

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.

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

GPMZ1869 for GPMA1869 V1.0

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AMA

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

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

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

LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE ................3

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

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

Speed Control ............................................................ 3

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

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

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

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

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS .............................. 4

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

BEFORE YOU BEGIN ....................................................... 6

ASSEMBLE THE AIRPLANE ...........................................6

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ................................. 11

Check the Control Directions ................................... 11

Set the Control Throws ............................................11

Balance the Model (C.G.).........................................11

PREFLIGHT .................................................................... 12

Identify Your Model ...................................................12

Charge the Batteries ................................................ 12

Range Check ........................................................... 12

AMA SAFETY CODE ...................................................... 12

CHECK LIST ................................................................... 13

FLYING ............................................................................ 13

Takeoff ..................................................................... 13

Flight ........................................................................ 14

Landing .................................................................... 14

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 fl y at AMA clubs.
Though joining the AMA provides many benefi ts, one of the
primary reasons to join is liability protection. Coverage is not
limited to fl ying at contests or on the club fi eld. It even applies
to fl ying at public demonstrations and air shows. Failure to
comply with the Safety Code (excerpts printed in the back of
the manual) may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally,
training programs and instructors are available at AMA club
sites to help you get started the right way. There are over
2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the country. Contact the
AMA at the address or toll-free phone number below.

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302

Tele: [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

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

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

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the exciting world of EDF (Electric Ducted Fan)
airplanes! The L-39 is sure to please with its scale appearance
paired with the convenience of being constructed from light
weight foam. In addition, the L-39 also includes a painted
stand and removable missiles and drop tanks (for display
only) that will allow the plane to double as a display model.
Using the included brushless motor, the L-39 achieves
incredible speeds, being clocked at 78 mph coming out of a
dive! The L-39 is a great, stable fl yer too and can comfortably
fl y at slower speeds.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections
to the L-39 ARF visit the Great Planes web site at www.
greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then select the
L-39 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.

PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Your L-39 ARF should not be considered a toy, but rather
a sophisticated, working model that functions very much like
a full-size airplane. Because of its performance capabilities,
the L-39, if not assembled and operated correctly, could
possibly cause injury to yourself or spectators and damage
to property.

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

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

4. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.

2

5. You must check the operation of the model before every
fl ight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
pushrod connectors or servo arms often and replace them if
they show any signs of wear or fatigue.

6. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not fl own
this type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for
your fi rst fl ights. If you’re not a member of a club, your local
hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.

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

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

This is a partial list of items required to fi nish the L-39 EDF ARF
that may require planning or decision making before starting
to build. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

Radio Equipment

The L-39 EDF ARF requires a 3+ channel transmitter, a micro
receiver, and three micro servos (9g or less). If you already
have a transmitter you are going to use to fl y the L-39, you
can get the receiver and servos separately:

❏ Futaba

(Low Band: FUTL0442; High Band: FUTL0443)

❏ Futaba FM Single conversion receiver crystal for R114F

(Low Band: FUTL62**; High Band: FUTL63**)

❏ Futaba S3114 Micro HT Servo (FUTM0414)
❏ Two Futaba 150mm Slim Wire Extensions (FUTM4506)
❏ Futaba 6" Dual Servo Extension J (FUTM4130)

®

R114F 4-Channel FM Micro Receiver w/o Crystal

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

LITHIUM BATTERY

HANDLING & USAGE

WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included with
the battery. Failure to follow all instructions could cause
permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings, and
cause bodily harm!

• ONLY use a LiPo approved charger. NEVER use a NiCd/
NiMH peak charger!

• NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.

• ONLY charge through the “charge” lead. NEVER charge
through the “discharge” lead.

• NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C.

• ALWAYS set charger’s output volts to match battery volts.

• ALWAYS charge in a fi reproof location.

• NEVER trickle charge.

• NEVER allow battery temperature to exceed 150° F (65° C).

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

• NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell.

• NEVER place on combustible materials or leave unattended
during charge or discharge.

• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

A lithium-polymer battery pack and suitable charger are
also required. Although there are different battery packs
and chargers available that will work with the L-39 ARF, the
economical choices recommended by Great Planes are:

❏ Great Planes LiPo 11.1V 910mAh 20C Discharge

w/Balance (GPMP0605)

❏ Great Planes LiPo 11.1V 1250mAh 20C Discharge

w/Balance (GPMP0609)

❏ Great Planes ElectriFly DC peak charger (GPMM3010)
❏ Great Planes Equinox

Note: Battery choice will affect the balance of the plane. The
1250mAh pack will result in a forward C.G. position, and the
910mAh pack will provide a more aft C.G. position.

™

Cell Balancer (GPMM3160)

Speed Control

A 25A brushless electronic speed control with BEC (Battery
Eliminator Circuitry) is required. The BEC allows both the
motor and the radio system to be powered by the same
battery (thus eliminating the on-board receiver battery). The
Great Planes Silver Series 25A Brushless ESC (GPMM1820)
is recommended.

3

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Adhesives and Building Supplies

Foam safe CA glue and 30-minute epoxy are used in the
assembly of the L-39 ARF. Order numbers are provided below.

❏ Great Planes Pro

(GPMR6043)

™

Epoxy 30-Minute Formula 4 oz.

❏ Great Planes Pro Foam Safe CA- Thick Glue 1 oz.

(GPMR6072)

❏ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)

This manual also refers to using a 1/16" [1.6 mm] drill bit:

❏ Hobbico

®

Pin Vise 1/16 Collet w/6 Bits (HCAR0696)

Optional Supplies and Tools

Here is a list of items that will help you build the L-39 ARF.

❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏ Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)
❏ Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❏ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❏ CG Machine

™

(GPMR2400)

❏ Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler Stainless Steel (HCAR0460)

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

• When you see the term test fi t in the instructions, it means
that you should fi rst position the part on the assembly
without using any glue, then slightly modify or custom fi t
the part as necessary for the best fi t.

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

• Whenever just epoxy is specifi ed you may use either
30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or 6-minute epoxy. When
30-minute epoxy is specifi ed 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.

Replacement parts for the L-39 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.

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
number and expiration date for payment.

Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

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

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

Replacement Parts List

Order Number Description How to Purchase

Missing pieces ............... Contact Product Support

Instruction manual ..........Contact Product Support

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

Contact your hobby supplier for the following parts:

GPMA2772 ........... Wing Set with Tip Tanks

GPMA2773 ........... Fuse Kit with Hatch

GPMA2774 ........... Tail Set

GPMA2775 ........... Canopy Hatch

GPMA2776 ........... Armament Set

GPMA2777 ........... Display Stand

GPMA2778 ........... Tip Tanks (2)

GPMA2779 ........... Decal Sheet

GPMA3124 ........... Motor Lead Extension

GPMG3900 ........... HyperFlow Ducted Fan Unit

GPMG3940 ........... Ducted Fan Rotor Blade

GPMG3941 ........... Ducted Fan Miscellaneous Parts

GPMG3942 ........... Ducted Fan Outer Duct

GPMG3943 ........... Ducted Fan Adapter

®

or MasterCard®

4

KIT INSPECTION

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

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], ext. 5

Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

KIT CONTENTS

6

1

11 12 13 14 15 16

10

9

8

7

3

2

5

4

1. Fuselage

2. Ducted Fan Access Hatch

3. Wing w/Ailerons

4. Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevators

5. Vertical Fin

6. Canopy Hatch

7. Drop Tanks (2)

8. Missiles (2)

9. Aileron Pushrod Covers (2)

10. Wing Tip Tanks (2)

11. Rotor

12. 20mm Motor Adapter

13. Brushless Motor

14. Ducted Fan Housing

15. Stator Extension

16. Aft Cone

5