Great Planes GPMA5750 User Manual

AL

Wingspan: 39.5 in [1005mm]
Wing Area: 234 in2 [15.1dm2]
Weight: 24 – 26 oz [680 – 735g]
Wing Loading: 14.8 – 16 oz/ft2 [45 – 49g/dm2]
Length: 33.5 in [845mm]
Radio: 4-channel, three servos
Electric Motor: 1.1 in [28mm] dia., 110W , 25A ESC

INSTRUCTION MANUALINSTRUCTION MANU

INSTRUCTION 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 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
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 n umber,
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
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

Entire Contents © Copyright 2008 GPMA5750MNL V1.0

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

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

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

Adhesives .........................................................................3

Hardware & Accessories ..................................................3

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

Optional Supplies & Tools .................................................3

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

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

METRIC/INCH RULER ...........................................................4

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

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

ASSEMBLY ...........................................................................6

Mount the Motor & Cowl ...................................................6

Mount the Horizontal Stabilizer & Fin ................................7

Set Up the Pushrods. Install the Battery & Receiver .........8

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ........................................9

Balance the Propeller & Mount the Spinner ......................9

Mount the Wing ...............................................................10

Apply the Decals .............................................................10

Set the Control Throws ...................................................10

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

Balance the Model Laterally............................................11

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

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

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

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

ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ...................12

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts) .........................................13

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

FLYING .................................................................................14

Prefl ight ...........................................................................14

Takeoff ............................................................................14

Flight ...............................................................................15

Landing ...........................................................................15

Taking Off From Grass ....................................................15

OPTIONAL ESC & RECEIVER MOUNTING LOCA TION ..........15

of the page, and then select “RX-Rs-ELECTRIC . ” Scroll do wn the
page and click on “EP Seawind RX-R.” If there is new technical
information or changes an “Important! TECH NOTICE” box will
appear in the upper left corner of the page. Click on the Tech
Notice box to read the info.

AMA

We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)
and a local R/C club. The AMA is the go verning 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 ev en 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 cov erage . 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
fl ying near full-scale aircraft and avoid fl ying near or over
groups of people.

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the Great Planes EP Seawind
RX-R. Testing and developing the Seawind was lots of fun.
Immediately we were surprised by how nimble and sporty
this model is. And although the Seawind is a fl oat plane,
hand-launching and grass landings are always an option
when not fl ying from water. When you do get the opportunity
to fl y from water, be certain to read the “FLYING” section
on page 14 of this manual–there are a few water takeoff
and landing techniques that will make your outing more
successful. The Seawind is happiest when the winds are
relatively calm (around 5 - 6 mph or less), but the Seawind
can also be fl own in winds around 10 mph (though she does
get “bumped” around some).

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to this
model visit the Great Planes web site at www.greatplanes.
com. Open the “R/C AIRPLANES” pull down tab across the top

PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF

& OTHERS....FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Your EP Seawind RX-R 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 EP Seawind RX-R, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.

2. Y ou must assemb le 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 use an R/C radio system that is in fi rst-class
condition.

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

❏ J&Z Products R/C-56 waterproof white glue (JOZR5007)
❏ 1 oz Great Planes Pro

Glue (GPMR6069)

™

Foam Safe CA+ Medium

❏ 4 oz. Great Planes Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6042)
❏ CA accelerator (GPMR6035)

Hardware & Accessories

7. 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.

8. While this kit has been fl ight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high-stress fl ying, such
as racing, or if a motor larger than the one recommended
will be used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to
reinforce the high-stress points and/or substituting hardware
more suitable for the increased stress.

We, as the kit manuf acturer, 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.

Remember: Take y our time and follo w the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.

❏ 4-channel mini receiver (Futaba

low band or FUTL0443 high band)

®

R114F – FUTL0442

❏ Matching Rx crystal (FUTL62** low band or FUTL63**

high band)

Motor Battery (see “Average Maximum Flight Time”
chart on page 14):

❏ Great Planes LiPo 11.1V 910mAh 20C Discharge

w/Balance (GPMP0605)

-or-

❏ Great Planes LiPo 11.1V 1250mAh 20C Discharge

w/Balance (GPMP0609)

-or-

❏ Great Planes LiPo 11.1V 1500mAh 20C Discharge

w/Balance (GPMP0613)

❏ LiPo battery charger (Great Planes PolyCharge4

DC-Only – GPMM3015)

™

❏ One charge lead for each battery to be charged

simultaneously (GPMM3148)

❏ 12 Volt source for powering charger (Hobbico

Power Supply – HCAP0250)

Building Supplies

®

12 Volt

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Following is the list of hardware and accessories required to
fi nish the Seawind. Order numbers are pro vided in parentheses.

Adhesives

The list of accessories required to complete the Seawind is
rather straightforward–with the e xception of adhesiv es which
deserve a quick discussion. Hardly any glue is used to build
the Seawind, but it must be the right kind. With the exception
of slow-drying glue such as epoxy or waterproof white glue
(which should be used for the horizontal stabilizer so there
will be time for alignment), the rest of the model could be
assembled with foam-saf e CA. But it wouldn’t be economical
to purchase two different kinds of glue when so little of either
is used. So if you don’t have any glue at all, or if you already
have some waterproof white glue or epoxy, you could do all
the gluing with just that. But if you don’t want to wait for the
glue to dry on the rest of the par ts you could also purchase
some foam-safe CA. Following are some suggestions for the
kinds of glue:

❏ Great Planes Pro

™

Threadlocker (GPMR6060)

❏ Common hobby tools (wire cutters, small Phillips

screwdrivers, hobby knife)

❏ Great Planes Segmented Lead Weights (GPMQ4485)
❏ RTV silicone cement or white glue
❏ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], #60 (.040") [1mm] to #52

Note: The small drills are for drilling holes for the servo
mounting screws. If small dr ill bits are not available or if you
prefer not to purchase them, the small screw holes could
be made with a #11 hobby blade, but care must be taken
because it can be easy to oversize holes made this way.

Optional Supplies & Tools

❏ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)
❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)

3

BUILDING NOTES

The stabilizer and wing incidences and motor thrust angles
have been factory-built into this model. However, some
technically-minded modelers may wish to check these
measurements anyway. T o view this inf ormation 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 fl y, please expect slight
deviations between your model and the published values.

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

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 is by credit card or
personal check only; no C.O.D.

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

Replacement Parts List

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

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

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

GPMA2730 *Wing
GPMA2731 *Fuselage
GPMA2732 Tail Surface Set
GPMA2733 Wing Tips
GPMA2734 Canopy/Hatch
GPMA2735 Spinner Set (2)
GPMA2736 Cowl
GPMA2737 Decal Set
GPMG4560 RimFire 28-30-950 Brushless Out-runner Motor
GPMM1210 ES50 Nano Servo
GPMM1820 SS-25 Brushless ESC

* When ordering replacement par ts the part does not include the

motor, ESC or servos.

To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4 (25.4mm = 1")

4

KIT INSPECTION

KIT INSPECTION

KIT CONTENTS

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

2

4

3

7

10

1 Fuselage (with Great Planes RimFire™ 28-30-950
out-runner brushless motor, Great Planes Silver
Series 25 amp brushless ESC and two servos)
2 Canopy/Hatch
3 Wing Tips (L&R)
4 Spinners (3)
5 Prop Adapter

1

5

6

Kit Contents

6 Propeller
7 Elevator & Rudder Servo Tray
8 Horizontal Stabilizer & Elevator
9 Vertical Fin
10 Wing (with one servos)

5

8

9

ASSEMBLY

Mount the Motor & Cowl

❏ 1. Fit together the assembly/transport stand. Note that the

arrows on the sides point toward the front cradle which is the
one that is shortest. Use foam-safe CA, epoxy or white glue
to glue it together.

❏ 5. Insert a pin into the motor pod 1/2" [13mm] behind the

middle of the wood block for the top cowl mounting screw.

❏ 6. Insert two more pins into the motor pod 1/2" [13mm]

behind the middle of the other two cowl mounting blocks
around the bottom of the motor pod.

❏ 7. Fit the cowl to the pod. Mount the propeller with the

prop washer and prop nut.

❏ 2. T est fi t the model in the stand. If necessary , use a hob b y

knife to trim the short cradle where shown to fi t the fuselage.

❏ 3. Slide the cowl off of the nacelle. Temporarily mount the

prop adapter and the propeller to the motor shaft. Use an 8mm
wrench to tighten the prop nut while holding the collet with a
10mm wrench to lock the prop adapter onto the shaft.

❏ 4. Loosen the prop nut and remove the prop and washer.

The collet should remain locked to the motor shaft. If the collet
does not remain locked, use a small drop of CA on the collet
to hold it to the propeller shaft. Then lock it down again.

❏ 8. Fit one of the spinners all the w ay onto the propeller and

collet assembly . Adjust the cowl so there will be approximately
a 1/16" [1.5mm] gap between the spinner and the cowl.

❏ 9. Dr ill a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole through the cowl and the

cowl mounting block 1/2" [13mm] ahead of the pin in the top
of the motor pod–this should put the screw hole right in the
middle of the cowl mounting block. Screw in one of the three
larger wood screws that came with this kit.

6

❏ 10. Drill the holes for the remaining two cowl mounting

screws and insert the screws. Remove the pins.

Later, after the model has been completely fi nished, the
spinner will be glued to the prop washer with a dab of
RTV silicone or white glue.

Mount the Horizontal Stabilizer & Fin

❏ 4. Taking accurate measurements, center the stab in the

fuselage from side-to-side.

❏ 1. Temporarily mount the wing to the fuselage. With the

plane resting in its building cradle, measure the distance
from the bottom of both wing tips down to your workbench.
Adjust the plane in the cradle until both distances are equal.

❏ 2. Test fi t the horizontal stabilizer (stab) into the fuselage.

Center it as best as you can by eye. Same as y ou measured
the distance from the wings down to the workbench, measure
the distance from both stab tips down to the workbench. If
the distances are not equal, place a small amount of weight
on the “high side” of the stab until you can get it level–use
coins or the stick-on lead weight you will be using to balance
the model later. This is how much weight will hav e to be used
when actually gluing the stab into the fuselage.

Note: It’s best to glue the horizontal stabilizer into the
fuselage with slow-setting glue such as epoxy, waterproof
white glue or R/C-56 so that there will be time to accurately
position and center the stab before the glue dries.

❏ 3. Apply glue to the unpainted area on the top and bottom

of the stab. Slide the stab into position and wipe off any
excess glue. Proceed immediately to the next step.

❏ 5. Square the stab with the centerline of the fuselage by

taking accurate measurements from both tips to the seam
between the two fuselage halves on the top of the motor pod
behind the cowl. Rotate the stab as shown to equalize both
sides. Make sure the stab has remained centered laterally.

❏ 6. If any weight was required to level the stab with your

workbench, position the weight and re check the measurements.
Do not disturb the model until the glue has hardened.

77

❏ 7. Glue in the fi n with the same glue used for the stab–do

not clog the receiver antenna tube that comes out of the
fuselage by the left side of the fi n. View the fi n from behind
the model to make sure it is vertical.

Set Up the Pushrods. Install the

Battery & Receiver

❏ 4. Mount the motor battery as far forward as possible in

the fuselage with one strip of the included hook-and-loop
material on the battery and the opposing strip in the bottom
of the fuselage.

❏ 1. Connect an aileron servo e xtension wire to the receiver

so you will be able to connect the aileron servo when
mounting the wing. Guide the receiver antenna up through
the antenna tube. If it’ s diffi cult to get the antenna up through
the tube, a few drops of household oil added to the antenna
will help.

❏ 2. Connect the rudder and elevator servos and the ESC

to the receiver. Turn on the transmitter. With the propeller
removed, connect a charged motor battery to the ESC and

operate the controls to make sure the servos and ESC are
connected to the receiver correctly.

❏ 5. Install the elevator pushrod wire into the middle hole of

the elevator control horn. Secure it with the nylon Faslink.

❏ 6. With the system “on,” center the elevator and tighten

the retaining screw on the screw-lock pushrod connector
with a drop of threadlocker.

❏ 7. Connect the rudder pushrod the same way–don’t forget

to use threadlocker on the retaining screw in the screw-lock
pushrod connector and don’t forget to install the screw that
holds on the servo arm.

❏ 3. Use the included hook-and-loop material (or optional

double-sided foam mounting tape–not included) to mount
the receiver where desired. The location shown is preferable
because all the wires can easily reach and the receiver will
be raised off the cabin fl oor, making it less likely to get wet if
any water leaks in.

❏ 8. Operate the controls on the transmitter to make sure the

elevator, r udder and motor respond in the correct direction.

88

(It will probably be necessary to reverse the throttle direction
in the transmitter.) Also make sure the servo arms don’t
interfere with the ESC or the mounting strap. If necessary,
cut off the unused servo arms or adjust the position of the
ESC and the strap. Y ou ma y double-chec k and set the control
throws now, or wait until you get to the “Set the Control
Throws” section on page 10.

❏ 9. Cut off the excess pushrod wire , but leave appro ximately

1/4" [5mm to 6mm] protruding from the screw-lock pushrod
connectors in case small adjustments will ever be required
later on.

❏ 10. Connect the aileron pushrods to the torque rod horns on

the ailerons with the 90° connectors and to the screw-locks in
the servo arm. Center the ailerons and tighten down the screws
in the connectors with a drop of threadlocker on the threads.
Make sure you hav e the servo arm screw in the servo.

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Balance the Propeller & Mount the Spinner

❏ 11. Cut off the e xtra pushrod wire, b ut leave appro ximately

1/4" [5mm to 6mm] protruding from the screw-lock
pushrod connectors.

❏ 12. Use the transmitter to operate the ailerons to make

sure they respond in the correct direction. You can set the
control throws now, or wait until you get to the “Set the
Control Throws” section on page 10.

❏ 13. Use thick or medium foam-safe CA, epoxy, R/C 56 or

waterproof white glue to glue on the wing tips. If necessary,
use pins to hold them in position while the glue is drying.

❏ 1. F or optimum performance and motor effi ciency balance

the propeller using a Top Flite® Precision Magnetic Prop
Balancer (TOPQ5700) or other suitable balancer. Use a
hobby knife or sandpaper to sand the one side of the hea vier
blade until you can get the prop to balance.

❏ 2. Mount the propeller with the included aluminum

propeller washer. Use a few dabs of RTV silicone, R/C 56 or
waterproof white glue to glue on the spinner. Using just a f ew
dabs of any of the soft glues recommended should allow the
spinner to be removed if ever necessary in the future. If the
spinner becomes damaged two spares are provided.

9

Mount the Wing

❏ 1. Test fi t the wing to the fuselage. If necessary, trim

the foam block on top of the plywood wing bolt plate in the
fuselage so it doesn’t interfere with the aileron pushrod wires
when you mount the wing.

❏ 2. Mount the wing to the fuselage . Use care to tighten the

Phillips wing mounting screw just enough to draw the wing
down to the fuselage.

Set the Control Throws

If you have not already done so, 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 have dual rates, we
recommend setting the throws at the high rate setting.

Note: The throws are measured at the widest part of the
rudder (at the bottom).

These are the recommended high and low rate control
surface throws.

Apply the Decals

1. Ref erring to the photos on the box, place the die-cut decals
on the model where desired.

High Rate Low Rate
ELEVATOR: 5/8" [16mm] up 3/8" [10mm] up
5/8" [16mm] down 3/8" [10mm] down

RUDDER: 1-1/4" [32mm] right 1" [25mm] right
1-1/4" [32mm] left 1" [25mm] left

AILERONS: 7/16" [11mm] up 1/4" [6mm] up
7/16" [11mm] down 1/4" [6mm] down

IMPORTANT: The Seawind has been extensively fl own
and tested to arrive at the throws at which it fl ies best.
Flying your model at these throws will provide you with
the greatest chance for successful fi rst fl ights. If, after you
have become accustomed to the way the Seawind fl ies,
you would like to change the throws to suit your taste,
that is fi ne. However, too much control throw could make
the model diffi cult to control, so remember, “more is not
always better.”

10

Balance the Model (C.G.)

More than any other factor, the C.G. (balance point) can
have the greatest effect on how a model fl ies, and may
determine whether or not your fi rst fl ight will be successful.
If you value this model and wish to enjo y it for man y fl ights,
DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE.
A model that is not properly balanced will be unstable and
possibly unfl yable.

❏ 2. Place the model upside-down on the balance stand as

shown. The leading edge of the wings should contact the vertical
“stop” on the stand, thus supporting the wing on the correct
C.G. location which is 1" [25mm] from the leading edge.

At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fl y condition
with all of the systems in place including the motor, propeller ,
motor battery, ESC, and the complete radio system.

The Seawind comes with a unique balancing stand that
has the balance point built-in. All that needs to be done
is assemble the stand, place the model on the stand and
determine how much ballast will be required.

This is where your model should balance for the fi rst
fl ights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the
C.G. up to 3/8" [10mm] forward or 3/8" [10mm] back to
change the fl ying 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
diffi cult to slow for landing. Moving the C.G. aft makes
the model more maneuverable, but could also cause it to
become too diffi cult to control. In any case, start at the
recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the specifi ed range.

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

you could mount the battery farther forward. Otherwise, lead
ballast will have to be added to the nose to get the model to
balance. If the nose drops, the model is “nose heavy” and
the battery pack could be shifted aft and/or weight could
be added to the tail. It is likely, though, that your model will
need an ounce or so of nose weight. If this is the case, place
incrementally increasing amounts of weight on the bottom of
the fuselage over the location where it will be mounted inside
until you can get the model to balance. Once you know how
much weight is required place the model on the assembly
stand, remove the canopy and attach the weight inside.
Great Planes “stick-on” lead (GPMQ4485) is recommended
and should be placed inside the fuselage as far forward as
possible while still leaving room for the battery.

❏ 1. Glue together the balance stand as shown. Glue the

3mm carbon tubes to the top of the stand.

❏ 4. IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any weight,

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

Balance the Model Laterally

Typically, a laterally balanced model will perform slightly better.
And while some modelers tend to overlook these last-minute
“fi ne tuning” procedures, we strongly urge you to laterally
balance your Seawind. Otherwise, the heavier wing may tend
to drag in the water causing the plane to “hook” as the model
is building speed for takeoff. If you don’t have easy access to
a body of water large enough to fl oat your Seawind to do the
lateral balance now, you could wait until you get to the lake (or
pond) and do the lateral balance right before your fi rst fl ight.

11

❏ 1. With the model ready to fl y and the battery installed, set

the model in the water with the nose pointing into the wind.

Range Check

❏ 2. It will probably fl oat with one tip in the water and one tip up

out of the water. Tilt the wing so the “dry” tip is now in the water
and the “wet” tip is up. Do this several times, tipping the model
from side-to-side.

❏ 3. If one tip always comes back down, then the opposite tip

will need some weight. Place incrementally increasing amounts
of weight on the “light” tip until neither tip is “favored” and the
wings can be rocked to either side without one tip alwa ys coming
back down.

❏ 4. Stick the w eight to the bottom of the wing next to the “light”

tip. Recheck the balance.
Note: Depending on how the model handles in the water, the

fi nal amount of weight may need to be adjusted.

PREFLIGHT

When you get to your fl ying site ground check the
operational range of the radio before the fi rst fl ight 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 motor running (follow the included ESC
directions to “arm” the motor/ESC) 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 fl y! Find and correct the problem fi rst. Look
for loose servo or battery connections, damaged wires or a
damaged receiver crystal from a previous crash in another
model. One other possible source of radio “noise” that could
cause interference is the arrangement and relative location
of the receiver , receiver antenna and motor wires. If possible,
remount the receiver in a different location or reroute some
of the wires. Then try the range check again.

ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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

Identify Y our Model

No matter if you fl y at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or
if you fl y 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
fl ying sites and AMA sanctioned fl ying events. Use a fi ne­point felt-tip pen to write the information somewhere inside
the airplane such as on the bottom of the cockpit.

Charge the Batteries

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

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 ma y be fl ying with
batteries that are only partially charged.

Use safety glasses when running the motor.
Do not run the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand; the

propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.
Keep your f ace and body as w ell as all spectators a wa y from

the plane of rotation of the propeller as it is turning.
Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt

sleeves, ties, scarfs, long hair or loose objects such as
pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the prop.

Always remov e the LiPo battery from the plane before charging.
Always use a charger designed to charge LiPo batter ies for

charging the LiPo fl ight battery.
Never leave the LiPo battery unattended while charging. If

the battery becomes hot, discontinue charging.

12

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)

CHECK LIST

Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code. For the complete Safety
Code refer to Model A viation magazine, the AMA web site or
the Code that came with your AMA license.

General

1) I will not fl y my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air sho ws,
or model fl ying demonstrations until it has been proven to be
airworthy by having been pre viously, successfully fl ight tested.

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

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

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

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

Perf orm these basic checks to make sure the model is ready
to fl y. Where appropriate, refer to the instruction manual for
additional information required to complete the check.

❏ 1. Check the C.G. according to the measurements pro vided.
❏ 2. Confi rm that all controls operate in the correct direction

and the throws are set according to the manual.

❏ 3. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely

mounted with the supplied adhesive-backed Velcro or
Velcro purchased separately.

❏ 4. Extend your receiver antenna all the way out the

antenna tube in the fuselage.

❏ 5. Balance the model laterally in the water as described.
❏ 6. Use threadlocking compound to secure all the screws

on the pushrod connectors.

❏ 7. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place.
❏ 8. Reinforce the holes for the servo mounting screws

with thin CA.

❏ 9. Make sure all servo arms are secured to the servos

with the screws that came with them.

❏ 10. Balance the propeller.
❏ 11. Tighten the propeller nut and glue on the spinner.
❏ 12. Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone

number on or inside your model.

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

your fi rst fl ight.

❏ 14. Range check your radio when y ou get to the fl ying site.

Radio Control

1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the fi rst fl ight of a new or repaired model.

2) I will not fl y my model aircraft in the presence of spectators
until I become a qualifi ed fl ier, unless assisted by an
experienced helper.

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

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

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three

miles of any pre-existing fl ying 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 fl ight; nor should any part of the

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

13

FLYING

Always be conservative so the motor won’t quit unexpectedly
and you will have enough battery to land under power.

The Seawind is a great-fl ying model that fl ies smoothly and
predictably . The Seawind does not, howev er, possess the self­recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and should
be fl own only by R/C pilots who have some experience.

CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while fl ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched "buzz," this may indicate control surface
fl utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a fl ying surface (such as a wing or
stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise).
In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, fl utter can
actually cause the control surface to detach or the fl ying
surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by
an impending crash. The best thing to do when fl utter is
detected is to slow the model immediately by reducing
power, then land as soon as safely possible. Identify
which surface fl uttered (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 fl uttered once, under similar
circumstances it will probably fl utter again unless the
problem is fi xed. Some things which can cause fl utter are;
Excessive hinge gap; oversized holes in servo arms or
control horns where the pushrods connect, Excessive free
play in worn servo gears; Insecure servo mounting; and
one of the most prevalent causes of fl utter; Flying an over­powered model at excessive speeds.

Takeoff

The Seawind is a joy to fl y from water, but there are a few
techniques that should be used to insure success. The most
important thing is to fl y your Seawind the fi rst few times
when the winds are relatively calm–0 to 5 mph is preferred
(especially if fl ying from water!). Later , once you hav e become
more experienced with your Seawind, you will be able to fl y
it on windier days.

If you’re a little nervous about fl ying from water, it may be a
good idea to make your fi rst fl ights over dry land (see the
“Taking Off From Grass” section on the next page). This
will allow you to get the model trimmed for straight-and-level
fl ight and get a good feel for how it fl ies.

When you get to the pond the fi rst thing you should do (if you
haven’t already performed the lateral balance) is to practice
taxiing the plane at different speeds. Note that holding full
“up” elevator will hold the water rudder down, thus providing
more control. Also note that if you ever need to make a
sharp “U” turn, the Seawind can just about turn around itself
when moving as slow as possible with the motor at an “idle”
rpm. But at higher speeds the ailerons may also be used to
assist in turning. If it is too windy the Seawind will usually
“weathervane” into the wind, making turns across the wind
diffi cult. In these conditions about all you can do is execute
turns at faster speeds (which will require more space), or
avoid windy conditions altogether.

Preflight

Monitor and limit your fl ight time using the timer in your transmitter
or the timer on your wrist watch. When the batteries are getting
low the motor will usually provide a brief warning before the ESC
cuts off motor power , so when you notice the plane fl ying slower
you should land. Often (but not alw ays!), after the motor cuts off ,
power can be briefl y restored after holding the throttle stick all
the way down f or a few seconds.

T o a void an une xpected dead-stick landing on your fi rst fl ight,
set your alarm or timer 2 to 3 minutes less than the average
fl ight time shown in the “Average Maximum Flight Time”
chart below, for the battery you are using. When the alarm
sounds you can land; or if you are an experienced pilot you
may continue to fl y, planning for a dead-stick landing to see
just how long the motor will run. Circle the plane upwind of
the landing area until the motor quits. Note the run time, and
then land and reprogram your timer.

Average Maximum Flight Time

ElectriFly Power Series 910mAh 11.1V LiPo 8 min
ElectriFly Power Series 1250mAh 11.1V LiPo 10 min
ElectriFly Power Series 1500mAh 11.1V LiPo 13 min

Use these techniques to position the Seawind for tak eoff and
to get it back to shore when you’re done. If the Sea wind ever
gets into a situation where one of the wings becomes partially
submerged, immediately pull the throttle back to stop its
forward motion. Otherwise, the wing will dig deeper into the
water. This is a rare occurrence, but if it happens more than
once or twice during your taxiing tests this is probably an
indication that it is too windy to takeoff from water.

When conducting higher-speed taxi tests (up to 1/4 to 1/3
throttle), observe which, if any, wing tip drags in the water.
If, after small aileron corrections to level the wings, one wing
tip still has a tendency to “hook,” the opposite wing may need
some weight. Add weight to the “light” tip or remove some of
the weight you may have previously added to the “heavy” tip.

When ready for takeoff, the Seawind must be pointing
directly into the wind–and the stronger the wind, the
more important this will be. Once the model is pointing into
the wind, smoothly advance the throttle to full power while
simultaneously holding some “up” ele v ator . This will keep the
nose up, the water rudder submerged, stabilize the plane
and allow it to rise up out of the water without skipping. While
the model is building speed, if necessary, use the ailerons
to level the wings and use the rudder to make heading

14

corrections. Like all airplanes, the objective is for smooth
takeoffs–but when taking off from water you should also
avoid getting the model into a “skipping” mode. If the model
does get into a situation where it begins to skip off the water,
you must either abort the takeoff by pulling back the throttle
or apply full power and takeoff. Once airborne, the Seawind
shouldn’t snap or stall, so while you may want to relax the
elevator a little, you can still maintain an aggressive climb.

To summarize the takeoff procedure: point the model into the
wind, then smoothly advance the throttle using the rudder to
maintain heading. Hold some “up” elevator to keep the nose up
and get the model airborne once it has gained enough speed.
If it does get into a “skipping” mode, don’t try to smooth it out.
Instead apply full power to get the model off the water or throttle
back to abort the takeoff.

to get off the ground. Simply lay the model on the ground
with the nose pointing into the wind, apply full power , allo w it
to gain fl ying speed and apply elevator to execute a takeoff.

If, for some reason, the conditions at your fl ying site aren’t
suitable for grass takeoffs, the Seawind may also be hand­launched (though grass takeoffs are preferred). It’s best to
have an assistant launch the model f or y ou, b ut experienced
pilots could also hand-launch the Seawind themselves. Hold
the model by the bottom of the fuselage under the wing
and operate the controls to make sure they are responding
correctly. Apply full power and launch the model directly into
the wind with the nose up at about a 30° angle. Be alert
because until the model builds up speed it will initially pitch
downward. Apply “up” elevator and operate the controls to
keep the wings level. When the model has built up enough
speed initiate a climb.

Flight

Once the model is airborne and has climbed to a comfortable
altitude, the fi rst priority will be to adjust the trims to get it fl ying
straight-and-level. Continue to fl y around, getting the model
properly trimmed while you get a good feel for how it fl ies. If the
model is fl ying too fast, simply remember to throttle bac k. While
still at altitude, cut the power to see how it handles in a gliding
situation to simulate a landing. Switch between the high and low
rates to see how the model reacts. Remember to monitor your
fl ight time so the motor doesn’t unexpectedly cut off.

Landing

Landings with the Seawind can be a thing of beauty. She is
“slippery” and tends to glide long, so set your approach a little
farther out than you might normally expect–if you end up short
you can always throttle up. If the winds are calm (5 mph or less)
you can throttle all the way bac k cutting po wer completely while
still on the down wind leg just before you make your cross-wind
turn. Maintain airspeed and establish a descent by keeping
the nose down. When the model has reached an altitude of
approximately 10' [3 meters], gradually slow its speed b y leveling
the nose. The lower and slower it gets the more elevator you
should apply until it is just a few inches off the water. At this time
apply full or nearly full elevator to e xecute a landing fl are as the
Seawind touches down. The most important thing about landing
on water–whether you are coming in a little “hot” or too slow–is
to get the model to fl are, keeping the nose up out of the water.

Taking Off From Grass

Have a ball! But always stay in control and fl y

in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

OPTIONAL ESC & RECEIVER

MOUNTING LOCATION

The mounting locations for the ESC and receiver shown back
on page 8 are suitable if you are certain you will always be fl ying
in calm conditions when the water is smooth (or if you will not be
fl ying off water at all). But if you anticipate fl ying your Seawind
when the water may be a little “choppy ,” precautionary measures
should be taken to protect the ESC and receiver from water that
may splash into the fuselage when the water gets rough. The
fi rst thing you can do is simply relocate the ESC and receiver
where shown. You could also seal the openings in both ends of
the heat-shrink tubing on the ESC with RTV silicone and place
the receiver in a balloon with the opening sealed with a nylon tie
wrap. If the ESC and/or receiver ever do get wet, remove them
from the model and dry them out as soon as possible.

Surprisingly, the Sea wind can easily takeoff from gr ass (your
fl ying buddies will be tickled when they see you taking off
and landing a fl oat plane in the grass!). In our testing, we’ve
found that shorter, dry grass provides the least resistance,
so if taking off from tall grass more space will be required. In
ideal conditions the Seawind took only about 50' [15 meters]

15

OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE

FROM GREAT PLANES

ElectriFly™ by Great Planes PBY Catalina EP Sport Scale ARF

Thrilling water takeoffs and landings are just a fe w hours awa y
with the PBY Catalina! It has the look of the 1930s-era military/
sea rescue plane, with high-quality construction features such
as a fi berglass fuselage and a factory-covered, built-up wood
wing and tail. Molded ABS wing tip fl oats and a removable
rudder combine for excellent handling on the water, with a
rubber plug in the fuselage providing easy water drainage
if needed. Twin brushless out-runner motors deliver a great
power-to-weight ratio for long fl ight times and the ability for
executing basic aerobatics. An easy-access hatch on top
allows for quick installation or removal of high-voltage, low­weight LiPo fl ight packs. Included in the generous hardware
package are two props, prop adapters, machined aluminum
prop hubs and observation canopies. GPMA1154

your sleek Seawind ARF touches down gracefully onto the
water, it hits you: this is a seaplane like no other, in both
looks and performance. GPMA1360

* The Seawind name is used with permission of Seawind Inc.

ElectriFly by Great Planes YAK 54 3D EP ARF

Winning performance is in the YAK’s genes – and they shine
again in this all-wood, easy-to-assemble park fl yer 3D ARF.
Using today’s fi nest electric model engineering, it succeeds
at any 3D maneuver – performing demanding precision
aerobatics as well as larger models, but at smaller sites like
parks and ball fi elds. Oversize ailerons provide impressiv e roll
rates and superior control at all fl ying speeds. With reduced
throws, it’ s also a fun and easy sport fl ier. The prebuilt, laser­cut balsa/ply structures assemble quickly, and hardware is
included for mounting either an out-runner motor, like the
ElectriFly RimFire 35-30-950, or an in-runner such as the
ElectriFly Ammo B24-33-4040. A hand-crafted, lightweight
fi berglass cowl is also included, painted to match the high­visibility trim scheme. GPMA1542

Great Planes Seawind* .60 - .91 Sport-Scale ARF

No other R/C seaplane looks or fl ies like the Seawind. This
sport-scale replica of the classic homebuilt amphibious
aircraft draws attention wherever it’s fl own, whether at the
fl ying fi eld or the local lake. Substitute optional retracts for
the included fi xed landing gear and you’ll be able to fl y from
land OR water with the same plane!

The fi berglass wingtips offer excellent stability during fl ight
and double as fl oats to suppor t the Seawind on the water.
Without the need for bulky suspended fl oats, the model fl ies
faster than typical seaplanes. Assembly moves quickly, too.

With its low number of parts, the Seawind ARF requires only
15 to 18 hours of building time. The fuselage and wingtips are
gel-coated fi berglass. The built-up wing and tail section are

®

made of balsa and factory-covered in Top Flite

MonoKote®.
The wing simply plugs into an aluminum joiner and is secured
with nylon bolts – no tools needed.

The unique boom-mounted engine design not only enhances
the model’s looks, but also reduces the likelihood of water
“spray” reaching the engine during takeoff and landing. As

ElectriFly by Great Planes P ower Series Balanced LiP o Pac ks
GPMP0605 11.1V 910mAh 20C Deans Ultra

GPMP0609 11.1V 1250mAh 20C Deans Ultra
GPMP0613 11.1V 1500mAh 20C Deans Ultra

• The best choice for all-out 3D fl ying and contest-winning
performance!

• Huge, 20C continuous discharge rate help packs stay
cooler during sustained, high-amp current loads.

• Assembled, shrink-wrapped and wired in series for
balancing, with a standard balancing connector and high­effi ciency Deans plug.