GREAT PLANES Shoestring Instruction Manual

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Page 1

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

SPECIFICATIONS

Wingspan:

Wing Area: 572 in

54 in [1370mm]

[36.9 dm2]

Weight:

Wing

Loading:

6.5–7 lb [2950–3170 g]

26– 28 oz /ft

[79–85 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

READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT

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

Radio: 4-channel minimum with 4–5 servos

and standard receiver

Engine: .46-.55 cu in [7.5–9cc] two-stroke,

.70-.81 cu in [11.5–13.5cc] four-stroke, RimFire

™

.46 (42-60-800) brushless

outrunner motor

this kit immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase.

To make a warranty claim, send the defective part or item to Hobby Services at the address below:

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1

Champaign IL 61822 USA

Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as much contact information as possible (daytime telephone number, fax number, e-mail address), a detailed description of the problem and a photocopy of the purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the package the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible.

Champaign, Illinois

(217) 398-8970, Ext 5

airsupport@greatplanes.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................3

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

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

Power System Recommendations .............................3

Propeller ..................................................................... 4

Batteries and Charger ................................................ 4

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

Required Hardware and Accessories ........................4

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

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

Building Stand ............................................................ 5

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

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS .............................. 5

KIT INSPECTION .............................................................. 6

PREPARATIONS ............................................................... 7

ASSEMBLE THE WINGS .................................................. 7

ASSEMBLE THE TAIL SECTION .....................................9

INSTALL THE TAIL SERVOS AND PUSHRODS ............ 12

ASSEMBLE & INSTALL THE MAIN LANDING GEAR ..13

INSTALL THE POWER SYSTEM .................................... 15

Glow Engine Installation ..........................................15

Brushless Motor Installation ..................................... 18

FINISH THE MODEL ....................................................... 21

APPLY THE DECALS .....................................................23

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ................................ 23

Install and Operate the Motor Battery ...................... 23

Check the Control Directions ................................... 24

Set the Control Throws ............................................ 25

Balance the Model (C.G.).........................................25

Balance the Model Laterally ..................................... 26

PREFLIGHT .................................................................... 26

Identify Your Model ................................................... 26

Charge the Batteries ................................................ 26

Balance Propellers ................................................... 26

Ground Check .......................................................... 26

Range Check ........................................................... 26

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................27

LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE .............. 27

AMA SAFETY CODE ...................................................... 27

CHECK LIST ................................................................... 28

FLYING ............................................................................ 28

Fuel Mixture Adjustments ........................................29

Takeoff ..................................................................... 29

Flight ........................................................................ 29

Landing .................................................................... 29

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of the Great Planes Shoestring .46 ARF! This beautiful, ﬁ berglass fuselage model follows on the success of Great Planes’ larger, .60-sized version. Much of the typical ARF building work has been completed at the factory, leaving only the ﬁ nal steps needed to get you airborne quickly. Even a pilot comes already installed!

You‘ll enjoy sport performance with a .46-size engine, or experience scale-like speeds that recall the Cleveland Air Races with a .55. Accommodations have also been made for installing a brushless power system. A magnetic canopy hatch makes radio access and battery changes a breeze! The two-piece wing with a lightweight, carbon wing tube allows for easy transport.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the Shoestring .46 ARF visit the Great Planes web site at www. greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then select the Shoestring .46 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.

AMA

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

Tele: (800) 435-9262

Fax (765) 741-0057

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.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

1. Your Shoestring .46 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 Shoestring, if not assembled and operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or spectators and damage to property.

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

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

4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in ﬁ rst-class condition, and a correctly sized engine and components (fuel tank, wheels, etc.) throughout the building process.

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 clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they show any signs of wear or fatigue.

This is a partial list of items required to ﬁ nish the Shoestring .46 ARF that may require planning or decision making before starting to build. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

Radio Equipment

The Shoestring .46 ARF requires a minimum 4-channel radio system with four 44 oz.-in. [3.2 kg-cm] minimum standard sized servos. If you are installing a glow engine, an additional standard servo is required for the throttle.

In addition, two 6" [152mm] servo extensions are required for the aileron servos. If you are using a radio system that does not support mixing functions, Y-harnesses will also be required to connect the aileron servos to the receiver.

If you plan to install a brushless motor, you will need a 6" [152mm] servo extension for the ESC.

A charge jack receptacle is optional, but is useful for recharging the receiver pack without removing the canopy hatch. Recommended part numbers for the radio components are provided below:

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 an engine larger than one in the recommended range is used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to reinforce the high stress points and/or substituting hardware more suitable for the increased stress.

9. WARNING: The cowl, wheel pants, and fuselage included in this kit are made of ﬁ berglass, the ﬁ bers of which may cause eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part to remove ﬁ berglass dust, as the dust will blow back into your eyes. Always wear safety goggles, a particle mask and rubber gloves when grinding, drilling and sanding ﬁ berglass parts. Vacuum the parts and the work area thoroughly after working with ﬁ berglass parts.

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

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

❏ Futaba ❏ Hobbico

(HCAM2701)

S9001 Servo Aircraft Coreless BB (FUTM0075)

Pro™ HD Extension 6" [152mm] Futaba J

❏ Hobbico Pro HD Y-Harness Futaba J (HCAM2751) ❏ Ernst Charge Receptacle Futaba J FM (ERNM3001)

Power System Recommendations

The recommended engine/motor size for the Shoestring .46 ARF is a .46 – .55 cu in [7 – 9 cc] two-stroke engine, a .70 – .81 cu in [11.5-13.5 cc] four-stroke engine, or a RimFire .46 (42-60-800) brushless outrunner motor. Engine and motor order numbers are provided below:

❏ O.S. ❏ Bisson O.S. .46 SF/FX .50 SX Pitts Mufﬂ er (BISG4046)

❏ Great Planes RimFire .46 (42-60-800) Outrunner

❏ Great Planes Brushless Motor Mount Medium Motors

If using the recommended brushless motor, a 80A brushless ESC is required:

❏ Great Planes Silver Series 80A Brushless ESC High Volt

46AX ABL w/Mufﬂ er (OSMG0547)

Brushless (GPMG4725)

(GPMG1255)

(GPMM1860)

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Propeller

Adhesives and Building Supplies

If you are installing a glow engine, choose a prop based on the engine manufacturer’s recommendation. If you are installing the recommended RimFire brushless motor, we suggest an APC 11x5.5E propeller (APCQ1055).

Batteries and Charger

For a brushless motor installation, two 3350mAh 11.1V Lithium Polymer battery packs connected in series are recommended. Order numbers for the battery packs and series connector are provided below:

❏ Great Planes LiPo 3350mAh 11.1V 25C Discharge

w/Balance (GPMP0541)

❏ Great Planes Series Deans

(GPMM3143)

A cell balancer is required for the LiPo battery listed above:

❏ Great Planes ElectriFly

Balancer 1-5 (GPMM3160)

A suitable charger is also required. The Great Planes PolyCharge4™ is designed for LiPo packs only, but is able to charge four LiPo packs simultaneously. The Great Planes Triton2™ charger will only charge one pack at a time, but is capable of charging NiCd, NiMH, LiPo, and Pb acid batteries. Order numbers for both are provided below:

U 2 to 1 Adapter

™

Equinox™ LiPo Cell

This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are required to ﬁ nish the Shoestring .46 ARF:

❏ 1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro

™

CA (GPMR6001)

❏ 1/2 oz. [15g] Thick Pro CA– (GPMR6013) ❏ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047) ❏ Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060) ❏ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up) ❏ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.4mm],

3/16" [4.8mm], 1/4" [6.4mm]

❏ Great Planes Tap & Drill Set 6-32 (GPMR8102) (Glow

engine installation only)

❏ Tap handle (GPMR8120) (Glow engine installation only) ❏ Rotary tool with cutting bit ❏ #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105) ❏ #11 blades (XACR3111) ❏ Medium T-pins (100, HCAR5150) ❏ Top Flite ❏ Top Flite Hot Sock

MonoKote® sealing iron (TOPR2100)

™

iron cover (TOPR2175)

❏ 220 grit sandpaper ❏ Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)

Optional Supplies and Tools

Here is a list of optional tools that will help you build the Shoestring .46 ARF:

❏ Great Planes PolyCharge4 DC Only 4 Output LiPo

Charger (GPMM3015)

❏ Great Planes ElectriFly Triton2 DC Comp Peak Charger

(GPMM3153)

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

Required Hardware and Accessories

This is the list of hardware and accessories required to ﬁ nish the Shoestring .46 ARF. Order numbers are provided in parentheses:

❏ R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] - HCAQ1000, or

1/2" [13mm] - HCAQ1050)

❏ 3' [900mm] standard silicone fuel tubing (GPMQ4131)

(glow engine only)

❏ 1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007) ❏ 2 oz. [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035) ❏ 4 oz. [113g] aerosol CA activator (GPMR6034) ❏ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780) ❏ CA debonder (GPMR6039) ❏ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045) ❏ Epoxy brushes 6, (GPMR8060) ❏ Mixing sticks (GPMR8055) ❏ Mixing cups (GPMR8056) ❏ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0630) ❏ Harry Higley's 3/16" Extended Drill (HIGR1020) ❏ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200) ❏ Servo horn drill (HCAR0698) ❏ Hobby Heat ❏ Dead Center

(GPMR8130)

™

micro torch II (HCAR0755)

™

Engine Mount Hole Locator

❏ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700) ❏ AccuThrow ❏ CG Machine

™

Deﬂ ection Gauge (GPMR2405)

™

(GPMR2400)

❏ Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler Stainless Steel (HCAR0460) ❏ Top Flite MonoKote trim seal iron (TOPR2200) ❏ Top Flite MonoKote heat gun (TOPR2000) ❏ Hobbico Pin Vise 1/16 Collet w/6 Bits (HCAR0696)

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❏ Hobbico 8-Piece Ball Tip Hex L Wrench SAE

(HCAR0520)

❏ Hobbico 7-Piece Ball Tip Hex L Wrench Metric

(HCAR0521)

❏ Great Planes Clevis Installation Tool (GPMR8030)

ORDERING REPLACMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Great Planes Shoestring .46 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.

Building Stand

A building stand or cradle comes in handy during the build. We use the Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402) for all our projects in R&D, and it can be seen in pictures throughout this manual.

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

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

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

• Whenever just epoxy is speciﬁ ed you may use either 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or 6-minute epoxy. When 30-minute epoxy is speciﬁ ed it is highly recommended that you use only 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy, because you will need the working time and/or the additional strength.

• Photos and sketches are placed before the step they refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following steps to get another view of the same parts.

• The stabilizer and wing incidences and engine thrust angles have been factory-built into this model. However, some technically-minded modelers may wish to check these measurements anyway. To view this information 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.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at www. greatplanes.com. Choose “Where to Buy” and 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 (217) 398-0007, or via facsimile at (217) 398-7721, but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged sales tax. If ordering via fax, include a Visa number and expiration date for payment.

Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:

Hobby Services

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign IL 61822

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

If additional assistance is required for any reason contact Product Support by e-mail at productsupport@greatplanes. com, or by telephone at (217) 398-8970.

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Order No. Description

GPMA3390 GPMA3391 GPMA3392 GPMA3393 GPMA3394 GPMA3395 GPMA3396 GPMA3397 GPMA3398

NOTE

Fuselage Wing Set Tail Set Canopy/Hatch Cowl Landing Gear Wheel Pants Wing Tube Decal

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

or MasterCard

Page 6

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.

Great Planes Product Support

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: (217) 398-8970, ext. 5

Fax: (217) 398-7721

E-mail: airsupport@greatplanes.com

13 13

1. Canopy/Hatch

2. Fuselage

3. Cowl

4. Spinner

5. Fuel Tank

6. Engine Mount Halves

7. Wheel Pants (2)

8. Main Landing Gear (2)

9. Main Wheels (2)

10. Tail Wheel Assembly

11. Rudder

12. Horizontal Stabilizer

13. Wing Halves

14. Wing Joiner Tube

Page 7

PREPARATIONS

❏ 1. If you have not done so already, remove the major parts

of the kit from the box and inspect for damage. If any parts are damaged or missing, contact Product Support at the address or telephone number listed in the “Kit Inspection” section on page 6.

❏ 2. Remove the tape and separate all the control surfaces.

Use a covering iron with a covering sock on high heat to tighten the covering if necessary. Apply pressure over sheeted areas to thoroughly bond the covering to the wood.

❏ 2. Attach a 6" [152mm] servo extension to each aileron

servo and secure the connector using 1-1/2" [38mm] pieces from the included heat shrink tubing. Center the servos with your radio system and install the servo arms to the servos perpendicular to the servo cases as shown. Be sure to reinstall the servo arm screws into the servos.

ASSEMBLE THE WINGS

Before completing this section, conﬁ rm that the servos that you will be using will properly ﬁ t between the servo mounting blocks on the aileron servo hatch covers. Make adjustments as necessary for your brand servos. A razor saw or hobby knife can be used to trim the blocks if necessary.

5/64" [2mm]

CUT OFF UNUSED ARMS

❏ 1. Cut three arms from a four-armed servo arm for each

aileron servo. Enlarge the outer hole of each remaining arm with a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit.

❏ 3. Position the servos against the underside of the aileron

servo hatch covers between the mounting blocks. Shim the servo away from the hatch cover approximately 3/64" [1.2mm] (a business card folded in thirds works well for this). Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes through the mounting tabs on the servo cases into the blocks. Thread a servo mounting screw (included with the servo) into each hole and back it out. Apply a drop of thin CA to each hole to harden the wood. When the CA has dried, install the servos onto the hatch covers using the hardware supplied with the servos.

Page 8

❏ 4. Use the strings taped inside the aileron servo hatches

to pull the servo leads through the wing.

❏ 6. Thread a nylon clevis 20 complete turns onto each 4"

[102mm] pushrod. Slide a silicone clevis retainer onto each clevis and connect the clevises to the outer holes of two control horns.

CORRECT INCORRECT

Hinge Line Hinge Line

❏ 5. Position the aileron servo hatch covers in place and drill

a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole through the mounting holes and into the hatch mounting blocks. Thread a #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] selftapping screw into each hole and back it out. Apply a drop of thin CA to each hole to harden the wood surrounding the hole. Install the hatch covers to the wings using eight #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] self-tapping screws and eight #2 ﬂ at washers.

❏ 7. Position the control horns over the plywood plates in

the ailerons (if you cannot see them, hold the aileron at a shallow angle in good lighting or use a small pin to puncture the covering) using the position of the servo arms as a guide. Align the holes in the control horns directly over the aileron hinge line and mark the location of the control horn mounting holes.

❏ 8. Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes at the marks you made

through the plywood plates. Do not drill all the way through the ailerons! Thread a #2 x 1/2" [13mm] self-tapping screw through each hole and back it out. Apply a couple drops of thin CA glue to each hole to harden the wood. When the glue has dried, install the control horns onto the ailerons using four #2 x 1/2" [13mm] self-tapping screws.

Page 9

2-56 (.074")

Pushrod Wire

FasLink

ASSEMBLE THE TAIL SECTION

Servo Horn

1/16"

❏ 9. Use tape or a small clamp to hold the ailerons in the

neutral position. Make a mark on the pushrods where they cross the outer holes in the servo arms. Make a 90° bend at the mark on the pushrod and cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6mm] beyond the bend. Attach the pushrods to the servo arms using nylon FasLinks. Thread the clevises up or down on the pushrods as necessary to center the ailerons with the servo arms centered. When satisﬁ ed, slide the silicone clevis retainers to the ends of the clevises to secure them.

❏ 1. Insert the wing tube into the fuselage and center its

position. Slide the wing panels onto the tube and feed the aileron servo leads through the mating holes in the fuse. Tighten the wing panels against the fuse using the two nylon wing bolts.

Page 10

and right and align it with the wing panels. Use denatured alcohol to clean up any excess epoxy. Allow the epoxy to cure undisturbed.

❏ 4. When the epoxy has cured, the wing panels can be

removed from the fuselage and set aside. They will not be needed again until it is time to set up the control throws.

3/4"

❏ 5. Cut the included 2" x 9" [51mm x 229mm] CA hinge

strip into 3/4" x 1" [19mm x 25mm] individual hinges. Clip the corners of each hinge to make them easier to insert into the hinge slots.

❏ 2. Test ﬁ t the horizontal stabilizer into the stab slot at

the aft end of the fuselage (without glue). Center the stab left and right in the fuse. Measure the distance from the stab tips to the wing tips and make the measurements equal. Now, stand behind the model approximately 5-6 ft [1.5-1.8m] and conﬁ rm that the stab and wings are parallel. If not, weight can be added to one side to bring them parallel, or the stab can be taped to the ﬁ n to pull it parallel with the wing.

❏ 3. After you have determined if any weight will need to

be added during the gluing process, remove the stab from the fuse. If necessary, lightly sand away any excess paint from inside the stab slot. Mix up a batch of 30-minute epoxy and coat the stab slot as well as the exposed wood of the stabilizer (coating the stab slot will require additional cleanup after inserting the stab into the fuse. However, it will make a stronger glue joint). Slide the stab into the fuse, center it left

DRILL A 3/32" HOLE,

1/2" DEEP, IN CENTER

OF HINGE SLOT

❏ 6. Drill a 3/32" [2.4mm] hole 1/2" [13mm] deep into the

center of each hinge slot in the stab and elevator halves.

❏ 7. Test ﬁ t a CA hinge into each of the hinge slots in the

stab and elevator halves. If necessary, enlarge the slots with a hobby knife. When satisﬁ ed with the ﬁ t, insert a CA hinge halfway into each hinge slot in the wing panel. Push a pin through the middle of each hinge to keep them centered.

Page 11

❏ 8. Join the elevators to the stab and remove the pins from

the hinges. Align the tips of the elevators with the stab tips. Adjust the elevators so there is a small gap between the LE of the elevators and the stab. The gap should be small, just enough to see light through the gap or to slip a piece of paper through. Apply six drops of thin CA to the top and bottom of each hinge without using accelerator. After the CA glue has hardened, conﬁ rm that the elevators are secure by pulling on them and deﬂ ecting them up and down.

❏ 9. Test ﬁ t the rudder to the fuselage with the tail wheel

assembly installed in the orientation shown. Make any adjustments necessary so the nylon tab on the tail wheel wire ﬁ ts all the way into the slot in the fuse.

❏ 11. Glue the tail wheel wire into the hole in the LE of

the rudder with medium or thick CA glue. Lightly coat both sides of the nylon tab with thick CA glue or epoxy and ﬁ t the rudder to the fuselage along with two CA hinges. Glue the CA hinges in place with thin CA glue.

❏ 12. Secure the tail wheel onto the tail wheel wire with a

3/32" [2.4mm] wheel collar and a 4-40 set screw.

❏ 10. Roughen the portion of the tail wheel assembly that

ﬁ ts into the rudder with 220-grit sand paper and clean it off with alcohol. Oil the tail wheel wire at the nylon tab to prevent it from being glued to the wire.

Page 12

INSTALL THE TAIL SERVOS

AND PUSHRODS

❏ 2. Install a control horn onto the right side of the rudder in

the same manner.

❏ 1. Temporarily insert a 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrod

into each elevator pushrod exit slot. Use the position of the pushrods to align the elevator control horns onto the undersides of the elevator halves. Mark the locations of the control horn mounting holes onto the elevator halves and drill 5/64" [2mm] holes at the marks. Attach the elevator control horns to the elevators using four 2-56 x 5/8" [16mm] machine screws and the control horn backplates.

❏ 3. Install the elevator and rudder servos onto the servo

tray in the direction and positions shown using the hardware supplied with the servos. Note that the pushrods are used to position the servos on the tray. Be sure to harden the screw holes with thin CA as was done with the aileron servos. Cut three arms from two four-armed servo arms. Center the servos with your radio system and install them onto the servos with the servo screws. Enlarge the outer holes of each servo arm with a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit.

❏ 4. Thread a nylon clevis and silicone clevis retainer onto

a 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrod 20 complete turns. Slide the

Page 13

pushrod through the rudder pushrod exit slot in the fuselage and connect it to the third outer hole in the rudder control horn. Slide the silicone clevis retainer to the end of the clevis.

❏ 4. With the rudder in the neutral position and the rudder

servo arm perpendicular to the servo case, mark where the pushrod crosses the outer hole of the servo arm. As you did with the aileron pushrods, make a 90° bend at the mark and cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6.4mm] beyond the bend. Secure the pushrod to the servo arm with a nylon FasLink. Make any adjustments necessary to the nylon clevis so that the rudder is properly centered and slide the silicone clevis retainer to the end of the clevis.

❏ 6. With the left elevator in the neutral position and the

elevator servo arm perpendicular to the servo case, mark the location where the left elevator pushrod crosses the outer hole of the elevator servo arm. Make a 90 degree bend at the mark and cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6.4mm] beyond the bend. Position the right elevator in the neutral position and cut off the excess pushrod 1" [25mm] behind the elevator servo arm. Join the two elevator pushrods together using two 5/32" [4mm] wheel collars, two 6-32 x 1/4" [6.4mm] SHCS, and thread locking compound. View the model from behind and conﬁ rm that the elevator halves are parallel. If not, make any adjustments as necessary to the clevises or wheel collars until they are. Connect the left elevator pushrod to the servo arm with a FasLink.

❏ 5. Connect two 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrods with nylon

clevises and silicone clevis retainers to the third outer holes in the elevator control horns.

ASSEMBLE AND INSTALL THE

MAIN LANDING GEAR

❏ 1. Secure the axles to the landing gear legs using the

5/16"-24 nylon lock nuts.

Page 14

❏ 2. Slide a 5/32" [4mm] wheel collar onto each axle followed

by a 3" [76mm] wheel and then another 5/32" [4mm] wheel collar. Mark the location of the threaded holes in the wheel collars onto the axles. Use a ﬁ le or rotary tool such as a Dremel to grind ﬂ at spots at the marks on the axles.

❏ 3. Reinstall the wheel collars and wheels onto the axles.

Thread a 6-32x1/4" [6.4mm] socket head cap screw into each wheel collar and tighten the screws against the ﬂ at spots on the axles using threadlocking compound. Be sure that the wheel rotates freely on the axle. Oil the axles if necessary.

❏ 5. Attach the landing gear legs to the fuselage using four

6-32 x 5/8" [16mm] SHCS, four #6 ﬂ at washers, four #6 lock washers, and thread locking compound.

❏ 4. Attach the wheel pants to the landing gear legs using

four 4-40 x 1/2" [13mm] machine screws, four #4 ﬂ at washers, four #4 lock washers, and thread locking compound.

Page 15

INSTALL THE POWER SYSTEM

TOP OF TANK

Glow Engine Installation

The Shoestring is designed to be ﬂ own with a .46 – .55 twostroke glow engine, .70 – .81 four-stroke glow engine, or a brushless outrunner motor. If you plan to install a brushless motor, skip this section as it only contains information relevant to installing a glow engine.

VENT

FILL AND CARB LINES

❏ 1. The fuel tank can be assembled as a two line system

consisting of a vent (pressure) line to the mufﬂ er and a carb line. Filling and emptying of the tank would need to be done through the carb line, or an optional fuel ﬁ ll valve (not included). The tank can also be assembled as a three line system having a vent line, carb line, and ﬁ ll line. If installing a ﬁ ll line, puncture the top of the stopper above the sealed off fuel tube hole. The front of the lines should extend out 1/2" [13mm] beyond the stopper and the vent line should be bent upwards and left uncut. With the tubes installed in the stopper, ﬁ t the stopper plates loosely in place with the 3 x 25mm phillips screw to hold the assembly together.

❏ 2. Fit the stopper assembly into the tank with the vent

line pointing toward the top of the tank, but not touching. The fuel tubing and clunks (fuel pickup) on the carb and ﬁ ll lines should almost reach the back of the tank but not touch. The clunks must be able to move freely inside the tank when assembled. Adjust the length of the fuel tubing accordingly. When satisﬁ ed, tighten the 3x25mm screw in the stopper to secure it in place (do not over-tighten). Mark the side of the tank that must face up when installed in the plane, and we also suggest marking the tubes in the stopper.

❏ 3. Make a 12" [305mm] strap from the included hook

and loop material by overlapping the mating ends by approximately 1" [25mm].

Page 16

❏ 4. Insert the hook and loop through the slots in the fuel

tank tray. Fit the tank neck through the hole in the ﬁ rewall (with the correct side of the tank facing up) and use the strap to tightly secure the tank to the tray.

❏ 5. Cut the included 6x6mm stick to ﬁ t snugly between

the fuse sides right behind the fuel tank. Glue the stick into place.

❏ 7. Using four 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] SHCS, four #6 ﬂ at

washers, four #6 lock washers, and thread locking compound, attach the engine mount side-mounted to the ﬁ rewall so that the engine head will be on the right side. Leave the screws slightly loose. Test ﬁ t your engine between the mount halves. Slide the mount halves against the sides of the engine and ﬁ nish tightening the mount screws.

❏ 8. Attach a 6"-7" [152mm-178mm] piece of fuel tubing

onto each line coming from the tank.

❏ 6. If you plan to install the O.S. 81FS-a engine, you will

need to cut away the nose gear bearing from the engine mount as shown. A rotary tool with a sanding or cutting bit works well for this. A hobby knife can also be used.

❏ 9. Position the front of the engine drive washer 4-7/8"

[124mm] from the ﬁ rewall. Mark the location of the engine mount holes onto the mount rails using a Dead Center Hole Locator. Remove the engine from the mount and use a 6-32 tap and drill set to create threads in the four mounting holes.

Page 17

❏ 10. Attach the engine to the mount using four 6-32 x 1" [25mm]

SHCS, four #6 ﬂ at washers, and four #6 lock washers.

❏ 13. Cut three arms from a four-armed servo arm included

with your throttle servo. Install a screw-lock pushrod connector into the outer hole in the remaining arm and secure it in place with a nylon pushrod connector retainer. Loosely install a 4-40 x 1/8" [3mm] SHCS into the screw-lock pushrod connector.

❏ 11. Install your mufﬂ er onto the engine. We are using a

pitts-style mufﬂ er for a clean and easy installation. The stock mufﬂ er will also work, but a lot of the cowl will have to be trimmed away.

❏ 12. Cut the fuel tubing coming from the tank to the proper

length and connect the pressure and carb lines to the engine. The ﬁ ll line (if installed) should be plugged with the included aluminum fuel line plug and can be routed through a hole in the cowl which will be done later in the assembly (remember to replace the fuel line plug after ﬁ lling or draining the fuel tank).

❏ 14. Center the throttle servo with your radio system

and install the arm perpendicular to the servo case. Install the throttle servo onto the throttle servo tray using the hardware supplied with the servo. Most engine models will require the throttle servo to be oriented on the tray in the direction shown.

❏ 15. Drill a hole through the ﬁ rewall using a 3/16" [4.8mm]

drill bit (an extra long bit works well for this step) inline with the location of the throttle arm on the engine carburetor. Take care not to drill through the fuel tank!

Page 18

❏ 16. Roughen the ends of the 7-1/2" [191mm] outer

pushrod tube using 220-grit sandpaper. Slide the outer pushrod tube through the hole in the ﬁ rewall leaving 1/4" [6.4mm] protruding from the front of the ﬁ rewall. Glue the outer pushrod tube to the ﬁ rewall.

and test ﬁ t into the outer pushrod tube. Make the necessary bends to the pushrod in order to clear the mufﬂ er. When satisﬁ ed, connect the clevis to the throttle arm on the engine and insert the aft end of the pushrod through the screwlock pushrod connector. Make any necessary adjustments to the brass screw-lock connector so that the throttle opens and closes with the servo. Tighten the SHCS in the pushrod connector, cut away the excess pushrod 1/4" [6.4mm] behind the pushrod connector, and glue a plywood outer pushrod clip to the outer pushrod tube and fuel tank brace. Use the radio system to test the operation of the throttle, making sure it properly opens and closes.

Brushless Motor Installation

The Shoestring .46 ARF is designed to be ﬂ own with a .46.55 two-stroke glow engine, .70-.81 four-stroke glow engine, or a brushless outrunner motor. If you plan to install a glow engine, skip this section as it only contains information relevant to installing a brushless motor.

Be sure to read and understand the instructions that come with the ESC and motor before attempting to operate the system.

❏ 17. Cut part of the threads away leaving 1/2" [13mm] of

thread length from the remaining 17-1/2" [445mm] pushrod. Thread a clevis and silicone clevis retainer onto the pushrod

❏ 1. Attach the outrunner motor to the brushless motor mount

using the included 3 x 8mm machine screws and thread locking compound. If you haven’t done so yet, install the prop adapter to the motor case with the hardware included with the motor and thread locking compound.

Page 19

❏ 2. Temporarily attach the motor mount to the ﬁ rewall with

two 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] SHCS or hold the motor mount in position while you mark the location for cooling holes in the location shown. There should be an elliptical-shaped hole on both sides of the mount. Use a rotary tool to cut out the holes before attaching the mount. When satisﬁ ed with the size and shape of the holes, attach the motor mount to the ﬁ rewall using four 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] SHCS, four #6 ﬂ at washers, four #6 lock washers, and thread locking compound.

❏ 3. Loosen the screws that hold the aluminum motor mount

halves together and slide them apart as necessary so that the front of the prop adapter is 4-7/8" [124mm] from the ﬁ rewall. When adjusting the mount, do not inadvertently create an up or down motor thrust angle. Use thread locking compound on the screws that join the motor mount halves.

❏ 4. Assemble the ESC tray as shown. Use pieces from the

included 6x6mm triangle stock to reinforce the tray sides.

❏ 5. Attach the ESC to the tray using three 3x12mm self-

tapping screws. Be sure to harden the screw holes with thin CA. Other brand ESCs may need to be attached to the tray with tie straps (not included) or a hook and loop strap.

Page 20

❏ 6. If you are using the recommended Great Planes SS-80

ESC, you will need to attach a 6" [152mm] servo extension. Secure the extension with tape, heat shrink tubing, or a special clip designed for that purpose. Attach the ESC tray to the brushless motor mount using four 3x12mm machine screws, four 3mm ﬂ at washers, and four 3mm nylon lock nuts. The battery and ESC receiver leads should be routed through the center hole in the ﬁ rewall. Secure the excess motor leads out of the way of the motor. We used a tie strap (not included).

❏ 8. Make a strap from the included non-adhesive hook and

loop material long enough to ﬁ t your battery packs. Feed the strap through the slots in the battery.

❏ 9. Test ﬁ t your batteries onto the tray. The exact position

of the batteries will be determined when you will check the balance of the plane after the assembly has been completed. When you conﬁ rm the needed position of the batteries on the tray, mark that position somewhere on the tray. Now would also be a good time to conﬁ rm the correct rotation of the motor (before you install the propeller) using your radio system. The motor should rotate counter-clockwise when looking at the airplane from the front. If the motor rotates in the wrong direction, simply disconnect any two of the three motor leads and swap their positions.

❏ 7. Apply a thin coat of epoxy down the center of the

battery tray. This will improve the adhesion of the hook and loop material. When the epoxy has completely cured, attach a piece of the hook side from the included hook and loop strap to the battery tray. The loop side should be attached to your battery pack (use additional pieces to join LiPo packs together for a series conﬁ guration).

❏ 10. A cool air exit hole needs to be cut into the underside

of the fuse behind the wing. A rotary tool with a cutting bit works well for this. Be sure your hole is made between the formers, not through them.

Page 21

FINISH THE MODEL

❏ 1. Make a strap from the included hook and loop material

to ﬁ t your receiver. Cut a piece of foam rubber (not included) to ﬁ t your receiver and strap the receiver to the tray in front of the tail servos as shown. Connect the rudder and elevator servos to the receiver (and ESC if applicable).

the plane, be sure to mount the switch on the opposite side. Connect the switch to the battery and receiver, being sure to secure the connection between switch and battery. You can also install a charge jack receptacle. However, we chose to leave this out since the Shoestring has a magnetically attached canopy hatch. Just be sure to keep the charge jack lead in an accessible location in the fuse.

❏ 2. Mount the receiver battery pack next to the receiver in

the same manner.

❏ 4. With everything connected, we suggest bundling the

excess wires and use a tie strap to keep them out of the way of the hatch opening and tail servos.

❏ 5. We used some scrap pieces of fuel tubing to support

the dual receiver antennas in the correct orientation against the inside of the fuse (see your radio manual for details). If you have installed an FM or PCM receiver, route your receiver antenna through the antenna tube and out the aft end of the fuse. Be sure to install a strain relief on the antenna (if applicable).

❏ 3. Mount your switch harness to the fuselage side in the

location that you prefer. We mounted ours below the wing near the leading edge. If your mufﬂ er outlet is on the side of

Page 22

hole, holding it securely in place during ﬂ ight. If you have installed a brushless power system, make a cooling hole cutout near the bottom aft edge of the cowl. Templates for cooling hole cutouts are provided in the back of this manual if you have installed a brushless system.

❏ 6. Install the canopy hatch onto the fuselage by ﬁ tting the

dowels into the receiving holes, pressing the tabs at the aft end of the hatch into the slots, and then sliding the hatch back. Apply pieces of masking tape in the locations shown. Mark the locations for the cowl mounting screw holes on the tape using the measurements shown in the pictures. In order to transfer the mounting hole locations onto the cowl, draw a 3-3/4" [95mm] line along the tape pieces, starting the lines at your marks.

❏ 8. If necessary, ream the spinner backplate to match the

diameter of the prop shaft. Fit the cowl onto the fuselage and slide the spinner backplate onto the prop shaft. Position the cowl so that the front of it is centered with the spinner backplate and is 3/32" [2.4mm] behind it. Temporarily tape the cowl into place or have a helper hold it steady while you transfer the cowl mounting hole locations onto the cowl. Do this by measuring forward along the lines on the tape 3-3/4" [95mm] and marking on the cowl for the ﬁ ve screw holes.

❏ 7. Before ﬁ tting the cowl, make any cutouts necessary

for your power system. If you are installing a glow engine, a cutout must be made for the engine head, exhaust outlets, clearance for the throttle clevis, and needle valve access. A 1/4" [6.4mm] hole can be drilled or reamed into the cowl for convenient ﬁ ll line access. The fuel tubing will slide through the hole, but the included fuel line plug will ﬁ t snugly into the

❏ 9. Drill 5/64" [2mm] holes at the marks you made on the

cowl through the cowl mounting blocks that are pre-glued inside the fuselage. Remove the cowl and thread a #4 x 1/2"

Page 23

[13mm] self-tapping screw into each hole in the fuselage and back it out. Apply a couple drops of thin CA to each hole in the blocks. Enlarge the ﬁ ve holes in the cowl with a 1/8" [3.2mm] bit. Install the cowl onto the fuselage using ﬁ ve #4 x 1/2" [13mm] self-tapping screws and ﬁ ve #4 ﬂ at washers.

❏ 10. Install the spinner backplate, propeller, prop washer,

and prop nut onto the motor. Install the spinner cone using the screws included inside the spinner package.

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Install and Operate the Motor Battery

(Brushless Only)

IMPORTANT: If using multiple battery packs connected with

an adapter, never charge the batteries together through the adapter. Always charge each battery pack separately. Charge the batteries, then read the following precautions on how to connect multiple packs for ﬂ ying the model:

BATTERY PRECAUTIONS:

There are two ways to connect multiple battery packs: In Series and in Parallel.

These are two 3200mAh batteries (one 11.1V and the other 7.4V). When joined in SERIES, the result will be a 18.5V, 3200 mAh battery.

11.1V (3-Cell) 3200mAh

OKAY

You have now completed the assembly!

APPLY THE DECALS

1. Use scissors or a sharp hobby knife to cut the decals from the sheet.

2. Be certain the model is clean and free from oily ﬁ ngerprints and dust. Prepare a dishpan or small bucket with a mixture of liquid dish soap and warm water—about one teaspoon of soap per gallon of water. Submerse the decal in the soap and water and peel off the paper backing. Note: Even though the decals have a “sticky-back” and are not the water transfer type, submersing them in soap and water allows accurate positioning and reduces air bubbles underneath.

3. Position decal on the model where desired. Holding the decal down, use a paper towel to wipe most of the water away.

7.4V (2-Cell) 3200mAh

It’s okay to connect batteries with different voltages in series to achieve the new, desired voltage.

Connecting batteries in “Series” means to connect the (+)’s to the (–)’s and the (–)’s to the (+)’s. This combines the voltages of the batteries, but the capacity remains the same.

These two 1500mAh batteries (both 11.1V) are being joined in PARALLEL. The result will be one 11.1V, 3000mAh battery.

This is a SERIES battery adapter (GPMM3143) that connects two batteries in series.

OKAY

11.1V (3-Cell) 1500mAh

This is a PARALLEL battery adapter (GPMM3142) that connects two batteries in parallel.

Connecting batteries in “Parallel” means to connect the (+)’s to the (+)’s and the (–)’s to the (–)’s. This combines the capacities of the batteries, but the voltage remains the same.

4. Use a piece of soft balsa or something similar to squeegee remaining water from under the decal. Apply the rest of the decals the same way.

Page 24

Different voltages

11.1V (3-Cell) 3200mAh

7.4V (2-Cell) 3200mAh

NO!!!

PARALLEL adapter

Check the Control Directions

❏ 1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver and center the

trims. If necessary, remove the servo arms from the servos and reposition them so they are centered. Reinstall the screws that hold on the servo arms.

❏ 2. With the transmitter and receiver still on, check all the

control surfaces to see if they are centered. If necessary, adjust the clevises on the pushrods to center the control surfaces.

NEVER connect battery packs with different voltages in parallel! Only combine them in series. Otherwise, the batteries with lower voltage will try to “equalize” with the batteries that have a higher voltage. Current will ﬂ ow from the higher voltage battery into the lower one, essentially “charging” the lower voltage battery pack. This situation will likely cause heat and possibly a ﬁ re.

NO!!!

11.1V (3-Cell) 3200mAh

Different capacities

NEVER connect battery packs with different capacities in series or in parallel.

11.1V (3-Cell) 1250mAh

4-CHANNEL RADIO SET UP

(STANDARD MODE 2)

RIGHT AILERON

RUDDER

MOVES

RIGHT

FULL

THROTTLE

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

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. Adjust if necessary.

MOVES UP LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN

ELEVATOR

MOVES DOWN

Page 25

Set the Control Throws

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 low rate setting. NOTE: The throws are measured at the widest part of the elevators, rudder and ailerons.

These are the recommended control surface throws:

HIGH RATE LOW RATE

ELEVATOR

1/2"

[13mm]

14°

Down

1/2"

[13mm]

14°

3/8"

[10mm]

10°

Down

3/8"

[10mm]

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 enjoy it for many ﬂ ights, DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE. A model that is not properly balanced will be unstable and possibly unﬂ yable.

At this stage the model should be in ready-to-ﬂ y condition with all of the systems in place including the engine or brushless motor, landing gear, and the radio system (and battery pack if applicable).

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

mark the C.G. on the bottom of the wing on both sides of the fuselage. The C.G. is located 3-5/8" [92mm] back from the

leading edge of the wing.

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 takeoff and make 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.

Right

RUDDER

AILERONS

Exponential: 40% exponential is recommended on aileron high rates. If your radio system does not have an exponential function, we suggest using low rate ailerons for your first few flights.

IMPORTANT: The Shoestring .46 ARF 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 Shoestring 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.”

7/8"

[22mm]

14°

5/8"

[16mm]

17°

Left

7/8"

[22mm]

14°

Down

5/8"

[16mm]

17°

Right

5/8"

[16mm]

10°

5/16"

[8mm]

8°

Left

5/8"

[16mm]

10°

Down

5/16"

[8mm]

8°

❏ 2. With the wing attached to the fuselage, all parts of

the model installed (ready to ﬂ y) and an empty fuel tank, place the model 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 and/or receiver must be shifted forward or weight must be added to the nose to balance. If the nose drops, the model is “nose heavy” and the battery pack and/or receiver must be shifted aft or weight must be added to the tail to balance. If possible, relocate the battery pack and receiver

Page 26

to minimize or eliminate any additional ballast required. If additional weight is required, nose weight may be easily added by using a “spinner weight” (GPMQ4645 for the 1 oz. [28g] weight, or GPMQ4646 for the 2 oz. [57g] weight). If spinner weight is not practical or is not enough, use Great Planes (GPMQ4485) “stick-on” lead. A good place to add stick-on nose weight is to the ﬁ rewall (don’t attach weight to the cowl—it is not intended to support weight). Begin by placing incrementally increasing amounts of weight on the bottom of the fuse over the ﬁ rewall until the model balances. Once you have determined the amount of weight required, it can be permanently attached. If required, tail weight may be added by cutting open the bottom of the fuse and gluing it permanently inside.

Note: Do not rely upon the adhesive on the back of the lead weight to permanently hold it in place. Over time, fuel and exhaust residue may soften the adhesive and cause the weight to fall off. Use #2 sheet metal screws, RTV silicone or epoxy to permanently hold the weight in place.

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

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

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 your choice. If the initial charge is done with a fast-charger the batteries may not reach their full capacity and you may be ﬂ ying with batteries that are only partially charged.

Balance Propellers

Balance the Model Laterally

❏ 1. With the wing level, have an assistant help you lift the

model by the engine propeller shaft and the bottom of the fuse under the TE of the ﬁ n. Do this several times.

❏ 2. If one wing always drops when you lift the model, it

means that side is heavy. Balance the airplane by adding weight to the other wing tip. An airplane that has been

laterally balanced will track better in loops and other maneuvers.

PREFLIGHT

Identify Your 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. Fill out the identiﬁ cation tag on page 31 (or on the decal sheet) and place it on or inside your model.

Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before you ﬂ y. An unbalanced prop can be the single most signiﬁ cant cause of vibration that can damage your model. Not only will engine mounting screws and bolts loosen, possibly with disastrous effect, but vibration may also damage your radio receiver and battery. Vibration can also cause your fuel to foam, which will, in turn, cause your engine to run hot or quit.

We use a Top Flite Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700) in the workshop and keep a Great Planes Fingertip Prop Balancer (GPMQ5000) in our ﬂ ight box.

Ground Check

If the engine is new, follow the engine manufacturer’s instructions to break-in the engine. After break-in, conﬁ rm

that the engine idles reliably, transitions smoothly and rapidly to full power and maintains full power—indeﬁ nitely. After you run the engine on the model, inspect the model closely to make sure all screws remained tight, the hinges are secure, the prop is secure and all pushrods and connectors are secure.

Charge the Batteries

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

Range Check

Ground check the operational range of your 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 (if using a 2.4GHz radio system, refer to the radio manual for the range checking procedure). Have an assistant stand by your model and, while you work the

Page 27

controls, tell you what the control surfaces are doing. Repeat this test with the engine 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 ﬂ y! Find and correct the problem ﬁ rst. 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.

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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

• Keep all engine fuel in a safe place, away from high heat, sparks or ﬂ ames, as fuel is very ﬂ ammable. Do not smoke near the engine or fuel; and remember that engine exhaust gives off a great deal of deadly carbon monoxide. Therefore do not run the engine in a closed room or garage.

• Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate engines.

• Use safety glasses when starting or running engines.

LITHIUM BATTERY

HANDLING AND USAGE

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

• ONLY use a Li-Po approved charger. NEVER use a NiCd/ NiMH peak charger!

• NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.

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

• NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C.

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

• ALWAYS charge in a ﬁ reproof location.

• NEVER trickle charge.

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

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

• NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell.

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

• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

• Do not run the engine in an area of loose gravel or sand; the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.

• Keep your face and body as well as all spectators away from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you start and run the engine.

• Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt sleeves, ties, scarves, long hair or loose objects such as pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket pockets into the prop.

• Use a “chicken stick” or electric starter to start the engine. Do not use your ﬁ ngers to ﬂ ip the propeller. Make certain the glow plug clip or connector is secure so that it will not pop off or otherwise get into the running propeller.

• Make all engine adjustments from behind the rotating propeller.

• The engine gets hot! Do not touch it during or right after operation. Make sure fuel lines are in good condition so fuel will not leak onto a hot engine, causing a ﬁ re.

• To stop a glow engine, cut off the fuel supply by closing off the fuel line or following the engine manufacturer’s recommendations. Do not use hands, ﬁ ngers or any other body part to try to stop the engine. To stop a gasoline powered engine an on/off switch should be connected to the engine coil. Do not throw anything into the propeller of a running engine.

AMA SAFETY CODE (EXCERPTS)

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.

General

1) I will not ﬂ y my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows, or model ﬂ ying demonstrations until it has been proven to be airworthy by having been previously, 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).

Page 28

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 Federal 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.

CHECK LIST

❏ 10. Make sure there are silicone retainers on all the

clevises and that all servo arms are secured to the servos with the screws included with your radio.

❏ 11. Secure connections between servo wires and

Y-connectors or servo extensions, and the connection between your battery pack and the on/off switch with vinyl tape, heat shrink tubing or special clips suitable for that purpose.

❏ 12. Make sure any servo extension cords you may have

used do not interfere with other systems (servo arms, pushrods, etc.).

❏ 13. Secure the pressure tap (if used) to the mufﬂ er with

high temp RTV silicone, thread locking compound or J.B. Weld.

❏ 14. Make sure the fuel lines are connected and are

not kinked.

❏ 15. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers). ❏ 16. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner. ❏ 17. Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone

number on or inside your model.

❏ 18. Cycle your receiver battery pack (if necessary) and

make sure it is fully charged.

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

your ﬁ rst ﬂ ight.

❏ 20. Range check your radio when you get to the

ﬂ ying ﬁ eld.

During the last few moments of preparation your mind may be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the ﬁ rst ﬂ ight. Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain checks and procedures that should be performed before the model is ﬂ own. 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.

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

provided in the manual.

❏ 2. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely

mounted in the fuse. Simply stufﬁ ng them into place with foam rubber is not sufﬁ cient.

❏ 3. Extend your receiver antenna. ❏ 4. Balance your model laterally as explained in

the instructions.

❏ 5. Use threadlocking compound to secure critical

fasteners such as the set screws that hold the wheel axles to the struts, screws that hold the carburetor arm (if applicable), screw-lock pushrod connectors, etc.

❏ 6. Add a drop of oil to the axles so the wheels will

turn freely.

❏ 7. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place. ❏ 8. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA where

appropriate (servo mounting screws, cowl mounting screws, etc.).

❏ 9. Conﬁ rm that all controls operate in the correct direction

and the throws are set up according to the manual.

FLYING

The Shoestring .46 ARF is a great-ﬂ ying model that ﬂ ies smoothly and predictably. The Shoestring does not, however, possess the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and should be ﬂ own only by experienced R/C pilots.

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; Not mounting control horns solidly; Poor ﬁ t 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 ﬂ utter; Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.

Page 29

Fuel Mixture Adjustments

A fully cowled engine may run at a higher temperature than an un-cowled engine. For this reason, the fuel mixture should be richened so the engine runs at about 200 rpm below peak speed. By running the engine slightly rich, you will help prevent dead-stick landings caused by overheating.

Takeoff

Before you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles on the ground by doing a few practice runs at low speeds on the runway. Hold “up” elevator to keep the tail wheel on the ground. If necessary, adjust the tail wheel so the model will roll straight down the runway. If you need to calm your nerves before the maiden ﬂ ight, shut the engine down and bring the model back into the pits. Top off the fuel, then check all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind.

Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, point the model straight down the runway, hold a bit of up elevator to keep the tail on the ground to maintain tail wheel steering, then gradually advance the throttle. As the model gains speed decrease up elevator, allowing the tail to come off the ground. One of the most important things to remember with a tail dragger is to always be ready to apply right rudder to counteract engine torque. Gain as much speed as your runway and ﬂ ying site will practically allow before gently applying up elevator, lifting the model into the air. At this moment it is likely that you will need to apply more right rudder to counteract engine torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the model to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before turning into the trafﬁ c pattern.

Flight

For reassurance and to keep an eye on other trafﬁ c, it is a good idea to have an assistant on the ﬂ ight 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 ﬂ y more smoothly at reduced speeds.

Take it easy with the Shoestring for the ﬁ rst few ﬂ ights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain conﬁ dence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level ﬂ ight. If you have powered the airplane with a .46 engine, you will ﬁ nd the plane fast, but not so fast to get yourself in trouble. If you have powered it with a .55 engine, the airplane becomes very fast so be sure to get fully acquainted with how it performs before attempting complex maneuvers that could get you into trouble. After ﬂ ying around for a while and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow ﬂ ight and execute practice landing approaches by reducing the throttle to see how the model handles at slower speeds. Add power to see how the model climbs as well. Continue to ﬂ y 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 ﬁ ne tune the model so it ﬂ ies the way you like. Mind your fuel level, but use this ﬁ rst ﬂ ight to become familiar with your model before landing.

Landing

The Shoestring has a clean, racing airframe. Because of this, you will ﬁ nd that it takes longer to slow the plane for landing than some other airplanes you have ﬂ own. Be prepared for this and don’t be surprised if you have to go around and set up for your landing a second time. 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 keeping the nose down as you turn onto the crosswind leg. Make your ﬁ nal turn toward the runway (into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the runway threshold, 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 ﬂ are and the model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up elevator until it gently touches down. Once the model is on the runway and has lost ﬂ ying speed, hold up elevator to place the tail on the ground, regaining tail wheel control.

One ﬁ nal note about ﬂ ying your model. Have a goal or ﬂ ight plan in mind for every ﬂ ight. This can be learning a new maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know, 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 ﬁ nding that you’ve 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 ﬂ ight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves. Remember to think.

Have a ball!

But always stay in control and ﬂ y in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

Page 30

Great Planes® Escapade™ .40-.70 GP/EP ARF GPMA1200

OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE

Wingspan: 52.5 in (1,340 mm) Wing Area: 483 in² (31.2 dm²) Weight: 5.0-5.5 lb (2,270 – 2,495 g) Wing Loading: 24 - 26 oz/ft² (73 - 80 g/dm²) Length: 46 in (1,160 mm)

Requires: • 4-channel radio w/3-5 servos,

• 2-stroke .40-.55 engine or

• 4-stroke .52-.70 engine or

• 800kV outrunner brushless motor, 60A brushless ESC (min) & a 14.8V, 3200mAh LiPo battery pack

The Escapade is destined to become the plane you can’t put down, the model that stands out as your all-time favorite. Easy handling and aerobatic performance are just two of the reasons you’ll want to ﬂ y this ARF again and again. It ﬂ ies great with either glow or electric power. With its built-up airframe, bolt-together construction, pre-hinged control surfaces and striking MonoKote® trim scheme already applied, assembling the Escapade requires just 4-6 hours. And ailerons can be set up for single-servo simplicity or dual-servo authority with no modiﬁ cation.

Great Planes® Revolver™ GP/EP ARF GPMA1018

Wingspan: 59 in (1500 mm) Wing Area: 563 in² (36 dm²) RTF Weight: 6-7 lb (2720-3180 g) Wing Loading: 25-29 oz/ft² (76-88 g/dm²) Length: 48 in (1220 mm)

The 59” span Revolver looks fast, and its performance — under glow or brushless electric power — follows through with excellent high- and low-speed ﬂ ight performance. Built from select balsa/ply, it features a 2-piece, balsa sheeted, foam core wing covered in MonoKote® ﬁ lm. The cowl, wheel pants and landing gear are light, painted ﬁ berglass. But that’s not even the best part. This fantastic sport aerobat only takes a mere 10 hours to assemble before it’s ﬂ ight-ready!

Requires: 4+ channel radio w/5 servos (50 oz-in min. torque) Electric Motor Requirements:

800kV brushless outrunner motor, 80A brushless ESC, (2) 3200mAh 11.1V 20C LiPo packs, 11 x 5.5E prop, large aluminum motor mount

Glow Engine Requirements:

2-stroke .46-.55 cu in (7.5-9.0 cc) or 4-stroke .70 cu in (11.5 cc) engine

Page 31

FROM GREAT PLANES

Great Planes® Reactor Biplane .61 GP/EP ARF

GPMA1023

Wingspan: 48 in (1220 mm) Wing Area: 1145 in² (73.9 dm²) Weight: 7-7.5 lb (3170-3400 g) Wing Loading: 14-15 oz/ft² (43-46 g/dm²) Length: 58.5 in (1485 mm)

Requires: • 4-5 channel radio w/7-8 servos

• 2-stroke .61 glow engine or

• 4-stroke .70-.91 glow engine or

• 50-55-500 kV outrunner brushless motor, 60A brushless ESC (min) & (2) 11.1V 3200mAh 20C LiPo batteries

The Reactor Biplane .61 GP/EP ARF builds upon the Reactor’s reputation for classic lines and a wide ﬂ ight envelope. It’s larger than the Reactor Bipe EP, with the capability for smooth sport maneuvers, pattern ﬂ ight and 3D aerobatics with an outrunner brushless motor as well as a 2-stroke or 4-stroke glow engine. Quality construction is evident in the ﬁ berglass cowl, wheel pants and upper wing mounting pylon. The wing pylon is glued in place, with the servo leads inside for a cleaner look. Large, airfoiled tail surfaces offer smooth ﬂ ight and conﬁ dent control. Pre-hinged ailerons speed ﬁ nal assembly even more. The servo mount cutouts are sized for digital “mini” servos, or can be enlarged to accommodate standard size servos.

O.S.® Engines .46 AX ABL OSMG0547

Ask the pilot who owns one, and the reasons to buy mount up fast. Start with 1.65 hp output from a 17.2 oz. engine. Add ABL (Advanced Bimetallic Liner) durability, a self-leveling and aligning head design, a tapered low-speed needle to eliminate transition "surge" and the.46 AX still has more to offer. There's a simple rotor guide screw for lowend adjustment - and the high-speed needle includes both a ratchet spring and O-ring seal to lock settings in for the long haul. Includes A3 glow plug, E-3010 muffler, and 2-year warranty protection.

Displacement: 0.455 cu in (7.5 cc) Bore: 0.866 in (22.0 mm) Stroke: 0.772 in (19.6 mm)

ElectriFly™ RimFire™ .46 Outrunner Brushless Motor GPMG4725

Compared to brushed motors, RimFire motors last longer, require far less maintenance and deliver far more performance. The RimFire .46 outrunner arrives ready for installation, with goldplated bullet connectors compatible with ElectriFly’s BL and Silver Series ESCs. Recommended for 3D airplanes up to 5 lb (2210 g) and sport planes up to 7.5 lb (3400 g); ideal for use with 60A brushless ESCs, 22.2V LiPo packs and 10x5 to 11x5 electric props.

Diameter: 1.7 in (42 mm) Length: 2.4 in (60 mm)

Please ﬁ ll in this identiﬁ cation tag

and place inside your model.

kV: 800

Output: 1.65 bhp @16,000 rpm RPM Range: 2,000-17,000 Weight w/muffler: 17.2 oz (489g)

Burst Watts: 1850 Weight: 9.5 oz (268 g) Shaft Diameter: 5 mm

Includes: #A3 glow plug, E-3010 muffler Requires: glow fuel, prop Suggested prop sizes: 10.5x6, 11x6-8, 12x6-7

Input: 18.5-22.2V (5-6S LiPo) Includes: Motor, mount, prop adapter, hardware & gold-plated

bullet connectors. (Female connectors are included; male connectors are installed.)

Page 32

BRUSHLESS COOLING

HOLE TEMPLATES

AIR OUTLET HOLE

IN BOTTOM OF COWL

AIR INLET HOLE

IN FRONT OF COWL