GREAT PLANES helicat 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 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-assemb led 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.

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.

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

GPMZ1121 for GPMA1121 V1.0Entire Contents © Copyright 2006

Champaign, Illinois

[phone], Ext 5

[e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Wingspan: 36 in [915mm]
Wing Area: 254 sq in [16.4dm2]
Weight: 8.5 – 9.5 oz [240 – 270g]
Wing Loading: 4.8 – 5.3 oz/sq ft [15 – 16g/dm2]
Length: 25 in [635mm]
Radio: 4-channel minimum, 7A brushed ESC, 3 micro servos

and micro receiver

2

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

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

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

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

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

Radio Equipment & Electronics...................................3

Electronic Speed Control (ESC)..................................4

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

Adhesives & Building Supplies....................................4

Optional Supplies & Tools ...........................................4

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

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

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

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

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

Install the Aileron Servo..............................................6

Install the Wing Panels................................................7

Assemble the Aileron Pushrods..................................7

Install the Horizontal Stabilizer........................................8

Install the Tail Servos & Linkages ...............................8

Install the Electronics & Propeller ...............................9

Combat Setup ...........................................................10

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

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

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

Balance the Model (C.G.)..........................................12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Launch.......................................................................14

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

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

Thank you for your purchase of the Great Planes ElectriFly

™

FlatOuts Hellcat ARF! Whether flying aerobatics by y ourself, or
challenging another flat fighter to combat using the tail
streamers, this model is sure to provide you many hours of
entertainment.These flat fighters can be assembled in as little
as an hour, and their f oam construction can be repaired on site
to get you back into combat as quickly as it tak es to top off the
battery in your radio. The FlatOuts Hellcat ARF can
comfortably fly in a gymnasium at slow speeds, or fly with
authority outdoors on a light day. And the best feature, the
economical price and quick build time of the FlatOuts Hellcat
ARF will allow you to fly combat aggressiv ely without the worry
of damage to an expensive or time consuming model.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
Great Planes FlatOuts Hellcat ARF visit the Great Planes
web site at www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes”

link, and then select the FlatOuts Hellcat 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.

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 fly at
AMA clubs.Though joining the AMA provides many benefits,
one of the primary reasons to join is liability protection.
Coverage is not limited to flying at contests or on the club
field. It even applies to flying 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.

IMPORTANT!!! T w o of the most important things you can do
to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid
flying near full-scale aircraft and avoid flying near or over
groups of people.

1.Your FlatOuts Hellcat 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 FlatOuts Hellcat ARF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injur y to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.

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

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

PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,Y OURSELF

& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302

Tele: [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

AMA

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

6. If you are not an experienced pilot or 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 hobb y
shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.

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

WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included with

this 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 fireproof location.

• NEVER trickle charge.

• NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 150° F
[65° C].

• NEVER disassemble or modify pack wiring in any wa y 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.

This is a partial list of items required to finish the FlatOuts Hellcat
ARF that may require planning or decision making before
starting to build. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

The FlatOuts Hellcat ARF requires a 4-channel or greater
transmitter, a micro receiver, and three micro servos (9g or
less). If you already have a transmitter you are going to use
to fly the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF, you can get the receiver and
servos separately:

• 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**)

• Futaba S3110 micro servo 7.7g (FUTM0046)

Or, you can purchase a complete system (including
transmitter) specially packaged for park flyers. If purchasing
a complete system, the Futaba 4YF Skysport FM radio is
suitable. It comes with a micro receiver and two Futaba
S3108 micro servos. One additional servo will need to be
purchased. The transmitter is also equipped with a
rechargeable NiCd battery pack:

• Futaba 4YF Skysport FM radio system including
transmitter, receiver, and servos (FUTJ36**)

• Futaba S3114 micro servo 7.7g (FUTM0414)

An 11.1V 350mAh or 11.1V 640mAh LiPo battery pack and
suitable charger are also required. Although there are
different battery packs and chargers available that will work
with the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF, the economical choices
recommended by Great Planes are:

• Great Planes 11.1V 350mAh 3S 20C discharge 2-pin
LiPo (GPMP0801) (Note:When using with the C-7 Nano
ESC, adapter required – GPMM3135)

• Great Planes 11.1V 640mAh 3S 15C discharge micro
LiPo (GPMP0805)

• Great Planes 11.1V 640mAh 20C discharge with
balance LiPo (GPMP0601) (Note: This requires the
Equinox™Cell Balancer – GPMM3160)

A suitable LiPo charger is required:

• Great Planes PolyCharge4™DC only 4 output LiPo
charger (GPMM3015)

or

• Great Planes ElectriFly™Triton™2 DC Peak
Charger (GPMM3153)

Radio Equipment & Electronics

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

LITHIUM BATTER Y HANDLING & USAGE

We, as the kit manuf acturer, provide you with a top quality ,
thoroughly tested 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.

3

An electronic speed control (ESC) 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 ElectriFly C-7 Nano Brushed ESC
(GPMM2005) is recommended.

❏ Great Planes Pro

™

Foam Safe CA- Thick Glue

1 oz. (GPMR6072)

❏ Drill bits: 3/64" [1.2mm] or #60
❏ #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏ Hobbico

®

soldering iron 60 Watt (HCAR0776)

❏ Denatured alcohol
❏ Fine grit sandpaper (320-grit)

Here is a list of optional tools that will help you build the
FlatOuts Hellcat ARF.

❏ 2 oz. [57g] Foam Safe spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏ 4 oz. [113g] Foam Safe aerosol CA activator (GPMR6034)
❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏ Hobbico Pin Vise 1/16" collet w/6 bits (HCAR0696)
❏ Hobbico High Precision diagonal cutter 5" (HCAR0630)
❏ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0625)
❏ AccuThrow

™

deflection gauge (GPMR2405)

❏ CG Machine

™

(GPMR2400)

❏ Hobbico flexible 18" ruler stainless steel (HCAR0460)

• When you see the term

test fit

in the instructions, it
means that you should first position the part on the
assembly without using any glue, then slightly modify or

custom fit

the part as necessar y for the best fit.

• Whenever the term

glue

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

•

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 Great Planes FlatOuts Hellcat 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 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 order ing via fax, include a Visa®or MasterCard

®

number and expiration date for payment.
Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

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

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

Description How to Purchase

Missing pieces Contact Product Support
Instruction manual Contact Product Support
Full-size plans Not available
Kit parts listed below Hobby Supplier

Replacement Parts List

GPMG0420 ............180 Motor & 5:1 Ratio Gearbox

GPMG0292 ............180 Motor with Leads & Connectors

GPMG0182 ............Gearbox with Spur Gear/Shaft 5:1 Ratio

GPMG0863 ............Spur Gear/Shaft

GPMQ4619 ............Prop Saver O-ring

GPMQ4620 ............Prop Saver

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

Optional Supplies & Tools

Adhesives & Building Supplies

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Electronic Speed Control (ESC)

4

5

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 repor ting defective or missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written in
the Kit Contents list on this page.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], ext. 5

Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

KIT INSPECTION

1. Left Wing Panel

2. Right Wing Panel

3. Propeller

4. Fuselage

5. Rudder

6. Prop Saver O-rings (2)

7. Prop Saver

8. Hook & Loop Material

9. Double-sided Tape

10. Elevator Halves (L&R)

11. Horizontal Stabilizer

Kit Contents

KIT CONTENTS

1

9

10

11

10

5

3

4

2

6

7

8

❏ 1. Connect the aileron servo to the receiver. Use your

ESC or a receiver pack to power the receiver. Turn on your
transmitter and center the aileron servo. Do not skip this
step, as the aileron servo must be installed into the fuselage
with the servo horn attached to it.

❏ 2. Cut two arms from a four-arm ser vo horn as shown.

Enlarge the outer holes in the remaining servo arms with a
3/64" [1.2mm] drill bit.

❏ 3. Install the ser vo horn perpendicular to the servo case.

❏ 4. Cut a slot in the fuse on the r ight side large enough to

accommodate the servo connector in the location shown in
the picture. The exact placement will depend on the servo
manufacturer and where the servo lead wire exits out of the
aileron servo being used.

❏ 5. Feed the aileron servo lead through the slot you cut

into the fuse.

❏ 6.Fit the aileron servo into the aileron servo bay with the

servo spline towards the aft end of the plane.

❏ 7. With the servo centered in the aileron servo bay, apply

a couple of drops of thick foam safe CA glue to each servo
case tab, securing the servo to the fuse. Add a couple of
drops of CA glue near the base of the servo case as well.
It does not require much CA glue to secure the servo to the
fuse. Excess glue will simply make it difficult to remove the
servo in the future.

Install the Aileron Servo

ASSEMBLE THE AIRPLANE

6

❏❏1. For the best adhesion on the painted surfaces,we

recommend roughing up the painted surfaces to be glued
with fine grit sandpaper such as 320-grit. Wiping the areas
to be glued with a paper towel dampened with denatured
alcohol will reduce the gloss of the paint and also improve
adhesion. If using alcohol, we recommend only making one
pass with the towel. Excessive wiping will completely
remove the paint from the foam.

❏❏2.Apply a bead of thick CA glue to the tops of the wing

supports on the right side of the fuse.We recommend using

CA accelerator to speed the assembly time.

❏❏3. Insert the right wing panel into the slot. The notch

at the inside LE of the wing panel will contact the fuse when
fully seated.The TE of the wing panel must be aligned with
the center of the fuse.

❏❏4. Apply a bead of CA around the joint between the

wing and the fuse on both the top and bottom of the wing.

❏ 5. Repeat this procedure for the left wing panel.

❏ 1. Enlarge the outer holes of two control horns with a 3/64"

[1.2mm] drill bit. Apply a couple drops of CA glue to the
underside of the control horn backplates.Push the control
horn tabs through the slots in the ailerons as shown.

❏ 2. Press the control horn backplates onto the tabs to secure

the control horns to the ailerons. Glue the backplates to the
control horn tabs with a drop of CA.

❏ 3. Locate the four 2-7/8" [73mm] pushrods and hook the

Z-bends into the outer holes of the servo horn and the outer
holes in the control horns. Slide a piece of 1" [25mm] heat­shrink tubing onto one of the pushrods for each wing panel.

Assemble the Aileron Pushrods

Install the Wing Panels

7

❏ 4. Overlap the pushrod ends and join them with the heat-

shrink tubing. Position the ailerons in the neutral position. Use
tape to hold them in place. Carefully use a soldering iron to
shrink the tubing around the pushrods.Keep the iron awa y from
the foam and move it quickly back and forth across the heat­shrink tubing until the pushrods are joined together tightly. We

do not suggest using a heat gun or micro torch to shrink
the tubing as this will melt the foam that is close to the
pushrods. If necessary, adjust the ailerons so that they are in

the neutral position.When satisfied, apply a couple drops of CA
glue to each end of the heat-shrink tubing.

❏ 1. Roughen a 1/8" [3mm] strip down the center of the top

and bottom of the horizontal stabilizer.Use alcohol to dull the
paint at the area to be glued. Do the same to the area around
the horizontal stabilizer slot in the fuse.

❏ 2. Slide stabilizer the into the slot at the TE. Center the

stabilizer left and right in the fuse.Make sure that the stabilizer

is square to the fuse by measuring the distance between the
wing tips and stabilizer tips and setting them equal to each
other as shown in the photo.Before gluing, stand bac k several
feet and view the model from behind.The stabilizer should be
parallel to the wing.If not, you will need to hold the stabilizer in
the correct position as you glue it to the fuse.

❏ 3. When satisfied, run a bead of thick foam safe CA glue

along the top and bottom of the stabilizer where it meets the
fuse on both sides.

❏ 1. Glue the rudder and elevator servos into the cutout in the

fuse with the output splines both facing the front of the plane.
The servo in the bottom of the slot is the elevator servo and
should be installed with the splines on the right side of the
fuse. The ser vo in the top of the slot is the rudder servo and
should be installed with the splines on the left side of the fuse.
Both servo leads should exit out of the right side. There is a
small half-circle cutout in the fuse to wrap the servo leads to
the underside of the horizontal fuse section.

Install the Tail Servos & Linkages

Install the Horizontal Stabilizer

8

❏ 2. Enlarge the outer hole of a control hor n using a 3/64"

[1.2mm] drill bit. Install this control hor n onto the left side of
the rudder. Enlarge the inner hole (closest to the control
horn base) of another control horn and install it on the
bottom of the right elevator half.

❏ 3. Use your radio system to center the elevator and rudder

servos. Cut three arms from two four-arm servo horns and
install them onto the elevator and rudder servos, both pointing
downward. Enlarge the outer holes of the servo horns with a
3/64" [1.2mm] drill bit.

❏ 4. Hook the remaining two 2-7/8" [73mm] pushrods onto

the inner hole of the elevator control horn and outer hole of
the rudder control horn. Slide the two pushrod supports onto
the 11-1/8" [282mm] pushrods and connect the pushrods
onto the outer holes of the elevator and rudder servo horns.
If necessary, enlarge the holes in the pushrod supports to
prevent binding. Join them together with a 1" [25mm] piece
of heat-shrink tubing while centering the control surfaces.
Apply a drop of CA to the ends of the heat-shrink tubing.

❏ 5. Position the pushrod supports in the middle of the

pushrods and lightly press them into the fuse creating
indentations in the foam. Use a sharp hobby knife to cut a
hole in the foam at the indentations you made. Inser t the
pushrod supports into the holes and glue them in place. Be
sure that the position of the pushrod supports do not cause
the pushrods to bind.

Consult the directions that came with the ElectriFly ESC for
proper operation.

❏ 1.Cut a piece of the included double-sided tape to fit your

receiver and stick it to the underside of the receiver case.
Connect the aileron, rudder, and elevator servos to the
receiver. Connect the ESC to the receiver. Feed the ESC
motor leads through the hole in the fuse and connect them
to the motor. Peel the backing from the double-sided tape
and secure the receiver to the fuse in the location shown in
the picture. Secure the ESC to the fuse as far forward as it
will go with double-sided tape.

Install the Electronics & Propeller

9

❏ 2. In order to balance the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF without the

addition of weight, the battery pack must be secured above the
motor.Use the included hook and loop material to do so with
the “loop” side on the battery.Before applying the “hook” side
to the fuse, wipe the area above the motor with alcohol to
improve adhesion.

❏ 3. A hole is precut on the right wing panel.This can be used

for routing the battery leads to the ESC if short wire length
makes this necessary. Use the hole as a guide to cut another
hole through the horizontal fuselage below it.

❏ 4. Loop the prop saver O-ring around one of the screws

and over the prop hub. Hook the O-ring onto the other screw
to secure the propeller to the prop saver .Long nose pliers may
make it easier to stretch the O-ring onto the screws.

❏ 5. Attach the prop saver by tightening the two screws

against the flat spots on the prop shaft.

❏ 6. The receiver antenna can be taped to the side of the

fuse. However, be sure not to let excess wire hang free of
this airplane if you plan to fly combat. To improve the
adhesion of the tape to the painted surfaces, use alcohol to
dull the surface where the tape will be applied. Due to the
nature of combat fighting with planes such as the FlatOuts
Hellcat ARF, we suggest embedding the antenna into the
fuse. Cut a 1/4" [6mm] deep slit on the bottom of the fuse
from the position of the receiver to 1" [25mm] from the back
of the airplane. If your antenna is longer than this length,
make another slit along the side of the fuse long enough to
accommodate the rest of the antenna wire. Use a small flat
blade screwdriver to press the antenna into the slit. Add a
drop of thick CA glue ev ery few inches on the slits you cut to
prevent the antenna from coming out in flight. Be sure that
none of the antenna is exposed on the underside of the
airplane, as it could become damaged on landing.

The Great Planes FlatOuts Hellcat ARF was designed so
that two or more of these models can be flown together in
classic dogfight style.Paper streamers are included with the
model to be taped to the rear of the fuse. Rubber bands are
also included to attach the streamer.To use the rubber band,
drill a small hole in the tail of the plane and loop a rubber
band through the hole and around the streamer. During
combat, use the propeller on your fighter to cut the streamer
on the enemy.

Combat Setup

10

❏ 1. Damage to your plane is inevitable during this kind of

combat. However, the simplicity of this model allows it to be
repaired quickly at the flying site. Be sure to put some thick
foam safe CA glue and CA activator in your field box, and
you will be able to be back in flight in a matter of minutes
should repair be necessary.

❏ 1. T urn on the transmitter and receiv er and center the trims.
❏ 2. With the transmitter and receiver still on, check all the

control surfaces to see if they are centered.If the lengths of
the pushrods need to be adjusted to center the control
surfaces, break the glue bond at the ends of the heat-shrink
tubing and make your adjustments. Be sure to re-glue the
ends of the heat-shrink tubing to the pushrod wires when
you are satisfied.

❏ 3. Make certain that the control surfaces and the throttle

respond in the correct direction as shown in the diagram. If
any of the controls respond in the wrong direction, use the
servo reversing in the transmitter to reverse the servos
connected to those controls. Be certain the control surfaces
have remained centered.

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 hav e
dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the low

rate setting.
Note: The throws are measured at the widest part of the

elevator, r udder and ailerons.

IMPORTANT: The FlatOuts Hellcat ARF has been
extensively flown and tested to arrive at the throws at

which it flies best. Flying your model at these throws will
provide you with the greatest chance for successful first
flights. If, after you have become accustomed to the way
the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF flies, you would like to change
the throws to suit your taste, that is fine. However, too
much control throw could make the model difficult to
control, so remember, “more is not always better.”

These are the recommended control surface throws:

High Rate Low Rate

ELEVATOR: 1-1/4" [32mm] up 3/4" [19mm] up

1-1/4" [32mm] down 3/4" [19mm] down

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

1-1/4" [32mm] right 1-1/4" [32mm] right
(or max. deflection)

AILERONS: 3/4" [19mm] up 1/2" [13mm] up

3/4" [19mm] down 1/2" [13mm] down

Set the Control Throws

Check the Control Directions

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

11

At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fly condition
with all of the systems in place including the receiver, ESC.

❏ 1. Use a felt-tip pen or 1/8" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately

mark the C.G. on the top of the wing on both sides of the
fuse.The C.G.is located 2-5/8" [67mm] back from the LE of
the wing at the fuse.

❏ 2.With all parts of the model installed (ready to fly), place

the model upside-down on a Great Planes CG Machine, or
lift it upside-down at the balance point you marked.

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

pack must be shifted forw ard to balance .If the nose drops, the
model is “nose heavy” and the batter y pack must be shifted
back to balance. This model is ver y weight sensitive. Do not
add any weight to achieve the suggested balance point.
Instead, shift the battery pack forward or aft to alter the C.G.

No matter if you fly at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or if you
fly 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 flying sites
and AMA sanctioned flying events. Fill out the identification tag
on page 15 and place it on or inside your model.

Follow the battery charging instructions that came with your
radio control system to charge the batteries. You should
always charge your tr ansmitter and motor batteries the night
before you go flying, and at other times as recommended b y
the manufacturer.

Ground check the operational range of your r adio before the
first flight 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 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 fly! Find and
correct the problem first.Look for loose servo connections or
broken wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, poor
solder joints in your battery pack or a defective cell, or a
damaged receiver crystal from a previous crash.

Range Check

CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your

radio system state differently, the initial charge on new
transmitter batteries should be done for 15 hours using
the slow-charger that came with the radio system.This
will “condition” the batter ies so that the next charge may
be done using the fast-charger of your choice.If the initial
charge is done with a fast-charger, the batteries may not
reach their full capacity and you may be flying with
batteries that are only partially charged.

Charge the Batteries

Identify Y our Model

PREFLIGHT

This is where your model should balance for the first
flights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the
C.G. up to 1/8" [3mm] forward or 3/8" [9.5mm] back to
change the flying 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
difficult to slow for landing.Moving the C.G.aft makes the
model more maneuverable, but could also cause it to
become too difficult to control. In any case, start at the
recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the specified range.

More than any other factor, the C.G. (balance point) can
have the greatest effect on how a model flies, and may
determine whether or not your first flight will be
successful. If you value this model and wish to enjoy it for
many flights, DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT
PROCEDURE. A model that is not proper ly balanced will
be unstable and possibly unflyable.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

12

Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code.For the complete Safety
Code refer to

Model Aviation

magazine, the AMA web site or

the Code that came with your AMA license.

1) I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air
shows, or model flying demonstrations until it has been
proven to be airworthy by having been previously,
successfully flight tested.

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

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

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

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

1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.

2) I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of
spectators until I become a qualified flier, unless assisted b y
an experienced helper.

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

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

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three

miles of any pre-existing flying 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 flight; nor should any part of the

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

❏ 1. Check the C.G. according to the measurements

provided in the manual.

❏ 2. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely

mounted to the fuse.

❏ 3. Confirm that all controls operate in the correct direction

and the throws are set up according to the manual.

❏ 4. Check the operation of the motor and gearbox prior to

each flight.

❏ 5. Make sure that all servo arms are secured to the

servos with the screws included with your radio.

❏ 6. Place your name, address, AMA number and

telephone number on or inside your model.

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

your first flight.

❏ 8. Range check your radio when you get to the flying field.
❏ 9. Confirm that the hinge tape is properly secured.

During the last few moments of preparation your mind may
be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the first flight.
Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain
checks and procedures that should be performed before the
model is flown.To help avoid this, a check list is provided to
make sure these important areas are not overlooked. Many
are covered in the instruction manual, so where appropriate,
refer to the manual for complete instructions. Be sure to
check the items off as they are completed.

CHECK LIST

Radio Control

General

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)

13

The FlatOuts Hellcat ARF is a great-flying model that flies
smoothly and predictably. The FlatOuts Hellcat ARF does
not, however, possess the self-recovery characteristics of a
primary R/C trainer and should be flown only by experienced
R/C pilots.

For the first flight, it is a good idea to have a friend launch
the airplane for you.This allows you to keep your hands on
the radio sticks and correct any trim problems that are
present. Have your friend hold the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF by
the canopy. Throttle up to full power, and have your friend
give the plane a gentle underhanded toss at about a 30°
angle upward. Since the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF has a very
high thrust to weight ratio, the plane will accelerate to flying
speed almost instantly. Climb to a comfortable altitude and
throttle back to a lower power setting. This plane flies great
at about half-throttle when in standard forward flight.

For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight line with you.Tell
him to remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a
comfortable altitude.While full throttle is usually desirable for
takeoff, most models fly more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the FlatOuts Hellcat ARF for the first few
flights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain

confidence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level
flight. After flying around for a while, and while still at a safe
altitude with plenty of battery power, practice slow flight and
execute pr actice landing approaches by reducing the throttle
to see how the model handles at slower speeds.Add power
to see how she climbs as well. Continue to fly around,
executing various maneuvers and making mental notes (or
having your assistant write them down) of what trim or C.G.
changes may be required to fine tune the model so it flies
the way you like. Mind your battery power, but use this first
flight to become familiar with your model before landing.

To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch
downward to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose
altitude, but maintain airspeed by k eeping the nose down as
you turn onto the crosswind leg.Make your final turn toward
the landing area (into the wind) keeping the nose down to
maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the
model reaches an altitude of about 10 feet, modulating the
throttle as necessary to maintain your glide path and
airspeed. If you are going to overshoot, smoothly advance
the throttle (always ready on the right rudder to counteract
torque) and climb out to make another attempt.When you’re
ready to make your landing and the model is a foot or so off
the deck, cut your throttle and smoothly increase up ele v ator
until it gently touches down on its belly. Make sure that you
cut your power completely before touchdown, or gearbox
damage may result.

One final note about flying your model: Have a goal or flight
plan in mind for every flight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) y ou already kno w, or
learning how the model behaves in certain conditions (such
as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to improve
your skills

(though it is never a bad idea!)

, but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly finding that you’v e run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive.For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction
(anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to
maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and
make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates).
A flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your
model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves.

Remember to think.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

Landing

Flight

Launch

CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,

while flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound
such as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control
surface

flutter

.Flutter occurs when a control surface (such
as an aileron or elevator) or a flying surface (such as a
wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing
the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately,
flutter can actually cause the control surface to detach or
the flying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control
followed by an impending crash. The best thing to do
when flutter is detected is to slow the model immediately
by reducing power, then land as soon as safely possible.
Identify which surface fluttered (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 fluttered
once, under similar circumstances it will probably flutter
again unless the problem is fixed.Some things which can
cause flutter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting
control horns solidly; Poor fit of clevis pin in horn; Side­play of wire pushrods caused by large bends; Excessive
free play in servo gears; Insecure servo mounting; and
one of the most prevalent causes of flutter;Flying an over­powered model at excessive speeds.

FLYING

14

Make a copy of this identification tag and put it on or
inside your model.

ElectriFly™FlatOuts™Zero

Enjoy solo sport flying or exciting combat with another flat
fighter – indoors or out! Made of lightweight, precolored
foam, the FlatOuts Zero indoor ARF demands little time,
effort or expense – and its a perfect wa y to use y our .40 glow
trainer experience to learn indoor piloting skills.The Zero
has a low parts count and factory-applied trim scheme, so
you can have your Zero flight-ready in as little as 1 to 2
hours. Precut slots in the foam panels are ready for easy
installation of linkages and radio gear. The wing has a
Jedelsky-type airfoil design to improve lift and slow flight
characteristics. It also incorporates a round carbon-fiber
spar to keep weight low and increase strength. Includes
prop, prop saver/adapter, streamers, and factory-installed
motor and gearbox. GPMA1122

ElectriFly C-7 Nano Brushed ESC

The compact, easy-to-use C-7 Nano ESC is LiPo/NiCd/NiMH
compatible and offers BEC, fully proportional forward, factory­installed connectors, “Saf e Start”system and low voltage cut-off,
plus audible tones for easy set-up.GPMM2005

ElectriFly PolyCharge4

™

For convenience with multiple LiPo packs, there’s the DC
PolyCharge4. Each of its four independent outputs can
charge a one-to-four cell Lithium-Polymer pack. It’s ideal if
you don’t have the time for one-at-a-time charging – and
don’t want the expense and hassle of multiple chargers.
Each output can handle packs from 300 to 3000mAh. Set
the capacity, and PolyCharge4 will automatically set the
charge rate to get you started – and use light and sound
cues to tell you when your pack is done. GPMM3015

ElectriFly Triton™2 DC Computerized Peak Charger,
Discharger & Cycler

Like the popular original Triton charger, the Triton2 offers easy
programming. But the adjustable charge current has been
increased from 5.0A maximum to 7.0A, and the Triton2 can
handle LiPo packs with up to 5 cells in series. A cool blue
backlight on the 2 x 16 LCD screen makes for easier reading
in any conditions, and the rotating dial has been raised for
enhanced feel and more precise fingertip control. The Triton2
is more versatile too: you get alligator clips that mate onto the
banana plugs, for quick connection to 12V batteries or power
supplies.You’ll still be able to charge 1 to 4 cell lithium-ion and
lithium-polymer batteries, and peak 1 to 24 cell NiCd and
NiMH packs at rates you set to peak detection values you
choose – before discharging them at custom rates and then
repeating the cycle up to 10 times. GPMM3153

OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE

FROM GREAT PLANES

15

BUILDING NOTES

Kit Purchased Date: _______________________

Where Purchased: _________________________

Date Construction Started: __________________

Date Construction Finished: _________________

Finished Weight: __________________________

Date of First Flight: ________________________

FLIGHT LOG