Great Planes GPMA6010 User Manual

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EDF ARF

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

SPECIFICATIONS

PECIFICATION

Wingspan:

Wingspan:

Wing Area: 162 in

22.5 in

22.5 i
[565mm]

[10.4 dm2]

2

Weight:

Weight:

Wing

Loading:

26.8 oz

26.8 oz
[760 g]

23.8 oz/ft
[73 g/dm2]

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

Length: 37 in [940mm]

ength

Radio: 3-Channel minimum with

Radi

Motor,

2

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:

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.

ESC

Battery: 2200mAh 14.8V 25C LiPo

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1

Champaign IL 61822 USA

37 in [940mm
3-Channel minimum wit

two mini servos & mini Rx

two mini servos & mini

™

24-45-3790kV Ammo
45A ESC

,

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 2010 GPMA1875 Mnl

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AMA

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

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

LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING & USAGE .....................3

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

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

Battery, ESC & Motor Recommendations ....................3

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

Adhesives & Building Supplies .....................................3

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

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

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

KIT INSPECTION ..............................................................4

KIT CONTENTS ................................................................4

WING INSTALLATION ......................................................5

HORIZONT AL T AIL INSTALLA TION ................................6

EDF FAN PREPARATION & INSTALLATION ..................7

INSTALL THE RADIO GEAR ............................................8

LINK THE CONTROLS .....................................................9

HATCH & VERTICAL TAIL INSTALLATION ...................10

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

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

Set the Control Throws ...............................................12

Balance the Model .....................................................12

PREFLIGHT ....................................................................13

Identify Your Model .....................................................13

Charge the Batteries ..................................................13

Range Check .............................................................13

AMA SAFETY CODE ......................................................13

CHECK LIST ...................................................................14

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

Launching ...................................................................14

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

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

The Northrop F-20 Tigershark was a development of the F-5
twin-engine light fi ghter jet aircraft. The project was initiated
by a demand for exportable fi ghter jets to supply U.S. allies.
Switching over to a single engine boosted the performance
by 60%, but due to stiff competition and limited interest the
project was cancelled after only 3 prototypes were made.

Great Planes brings you this unique aircraft now in EDF

™

form. AeroCell

foam construction provides a lightweight and
durable structure that will handle everyday use. Two AIM-9
Sidewinder missiles and a display stand are included that will
allow your F-20 EDF ARF to look as great sitting on the shelf
as it does in the air. The recommended brushless motor will
allow your F-20 EDF ARF to reach speeds up to 85 mph!

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections
to the F-20 EDF ARF visit the Great Planes web site at
www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then
select the F-20 EDF ARF . If there is new technical inf ormation
or changes to this model a “tech notice” box will appear in
the upper left corner of the page.

If you are not already a member of the AMA, please join!
The AMA is the governing body of model aviation and
membership provides liability insurance coverage, protects
modelers’ rights and interests and is required to fl y at most
R/C sites.

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.

PROTECT YOUR MODEL, Y OURSELF

& OTHERS....FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Your F-20 EDF 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 F-20 EDF ARF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injur y to yourself
or spectators and damage to property.

2. Y ou 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. Y ou must use an R/C radio system that is in good condition,
and other components as specifi ed in this instruction
manual. All components must be correctly installed so
that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air. You must check the operation of the model and all
components before every fl ight.

5. 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 manuf acturer , pro vide 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 your time and follow the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.

2

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

This is a partial list of items required to fi nish the F-20 EDF ARF
that may require planning or decision making before starting
to build. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

❏ 1 oz. [30g] Thick Pro CA- (GPMR6014)
❏ Pro Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060)
❏ Numbered drill bits: #55, #57
❏ Denatured alcohol

Optional Supplies & Tools

Radio Equipment Recommendations

The F-20 EDF ARF requires a minimum 3-channel radio system
with three micro servos. Ailerons, elevator , and throttle are used
(there is no rudder). A typical 4-channel basic radio system is
adequate for this model. Complete radio systems that include
micro servos and a receiver are availab le from your local hobb y
dealer. In any case, for this airplane you will need:

❏ Futaba

– OR –

®

R617FS 2.4GHz Receiver (FUTL7627)

❏ Futaba R114F 4-Channel FM Micro Receiver

w/o Crystal (Low Band: FUTL0442; High Band: FUTL0443)

❏ Futaba FM Single conversion receiver crystal for R114F

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

❏ (3) Futaba S3114 Micro HT Servos (FUTM0414)

Battery, ESC & Motor Recommendations

The following motor and electronic speed control (ESC) hav e
been tested extensively and are recommended. With this set
up you can expect to dra w 38A of current. If y ou’ re interested
in checking your current, order the optional RC Electronics
Watt’s Up meter listed in the “Optional Supplies & Tools”.

Here is a list of optional tools that will help you build the F-20
EDF ARF.

❏ R/C-56 Glue 4oz (JOZR5007)
❏ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)
❏ Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)
❏ Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❏ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❏ Panel line pen (TOPQ2510)
❏ 2 oz. [57g] Spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏ 18" [457mm] Flexible steel rule (HCAR0460)
❏ Hobbico
❏ AccuThrow
❏ Hobby Heat

®

Builder’s Protractor (HCAR0490)

™

Defl ection Gauge (GPMR2405)

™

micro torch (HCAR0755)

❏ RC Electronics Watt’s Up Watt Meter (RELP0100)
❏ C.G. Machine

™

(GPMR2400)

❏ Segmented lead weights 6 oz (GPMQ4485)
❏ 1/4" [6.4mm] Heat shrink tubing 9" [228mm] (DUBM2188)
❏ 3/8" [9.5mm] Heat shrink tubing 9" [228mm] (DUBM2180)
❏ Red striping tape, 1/8" [3mm] (GPMQ1320)

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

❏ Great Planes ElectriFly

brushless ESC (GPMM1840)

™

Silver Series SS-45, 45A

❏ Great Planes ElectriFly Power Series 2200mAh 14.8V

25C LiPo battery (GPMP0521)

❏ FlightPower EON-X Lite

(FPWP4197)

In order to charge your LiPo fl ight packs, you’ll need a LiPo
charger and cell balancer. We recommend the following ones .

❏ PolyCharge4
❏ Equinox

™

LiPo battery charger (GPMM3015)

™

1 to 5 cell LiPo cell balancer (GPMM3160)

™

2100mAh 14.8V 25C LiPo

❏ Equinox 4S FlightPower adapters (GPMM3182)
❏ 12 Volt DC power supply (HCAP0250)

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Adhesives & Building Supplies

This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are
required to fi nish the F-20 EDF ARF

❏ Hobby knife (EXLR9018)
❏ #11 Blades (HCAR0311)

™

❏ Pro

30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)

❏ 1 oz. [30g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6008)
❏ 1 oz. [30g] Medium Foam-Safe CA (GPMR6069)

• 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) epo xy, 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.

3

LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING & USAGE

KIT

INSPECTION

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.

• AL WAYS 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 3.0V per cell.

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

• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Great Planes F-20 EDF are
available using the order n umbers 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 at [e-mail], or
by telephone at [phone].

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Order No. Description

GPMA3230
GPMA3231
GPMA3232
GPMA3233
GPMA3234
GPMA3235
GPMA3236
GPMA3237
GPMA3238
GPMA3239
GPMG3910
GPMG5185

NOTE

Fuselage Set
Wing Set
Tail Surfaces
Canopy/Hatch
Rocket Set
Tail Cone
Decal Sheet
Servo Covers
Display Stand
Fan Hatch/Fin
EDF Fan Unit
Ammo 24-45-3790 Brushless Motor

Full-size plans are not available.
You can download a copy of this
manual at www.greatplanes.com.

®

or MasterCard

®

KIT

INSPECTION

Before starting to build, take an inventory
of this kit to make sure it is complete and
inspect the parts to make sure they are
of acceptable quality. If any parts are
missing or are not of acceptable quality,
or if 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]

4

WING INSTALLATION

X = X'

XX'

Mark the center of the carbon wing tube.

❏ 1. Locate the 3 x 460mm carbon wing tube. Make a mark

in the center of the tube by measuring from side to side and
dividing that fi gure by two. Where distance X equals distance
X', make a small mark on the tube using a felt-tip pen or a
piece of trim tape.

❏ 2. T urn the fuselage over and mark the center of the wing tube

slot. Where distance Y equals distance Y', mark the fuselage.

❏ 4. Clean all gluing surfaces with denatured alcohol. Using

thick regular CA, apply a continuous bead of glue into the
spar slot in the bottom of the fuselage. Center the carbon
wing spar using the marks that you made and press it up
into the slot completely. Set the fuselage on a fl at table and
make sure that the wing spar is parallel with the table top.
This will ensure that you have inserted the spar correctly. Use
a cotton swab or a paper towel to clean up the excess CA
from the slot. Set the fuselage aside and allo w the CA to cure
or spray some CA accelerator on to speed up the cure. Note:
For the remaining steps in this section, please do not use CA
accelerator to cure the CA adhesive until after step 7.

❏ 3. Test fi t the carbon wing tube into the corresponding

slot in the fuselage and test fi t each of the wings. Make sure
that your centering marks are correct and correspond with
each other before gluing the wing tube and wings. Make
adjustments as necessary.

❏ 5. Apply thick CA to the wing tabs and the wing root of

each wing where the wing will join with the fuselage. Note:
Wipe the glue across all mating surfaces. Remove excess
glue so that the CA does not run when the wings are joined.

5

5