Hangar 9 Twist 3D .40 Assembly Manual

Specifications

Wingspan: ..............47.75 in (1212.85mm)

Length: ...................48.38 in (1228.73mm)

Wing Area: ............747.37 sq in (48.2 sq dm)

Weight:...................5.0–6.0 lb (2.27 kg–2.72 kg)

ASSEMBLY MANUAL

Twist

™

3D .40 ARF

WE GET PEOPLE FLYING

Engines: ...................40–.46 2-stroke

.56–.72 4-stroke

Radio:......................4-channel w/5 servos

• Great sport 3D performer

• Covered in genuine UltraCote

®

TM

®

2

Table of Contents

Covering Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Contents of Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Required Radio and Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Field Equipment Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Additional Required Tools and Adhesives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Before Starting Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Using the Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Section 1:Attaching the Wing to the Fuselage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Section 2: Installing the Horizontal Stabilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Section 3: Installing the Vertical Stabilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Section 4: Installing the Ailerons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Section 5: Installing the Elevators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Section 6: Installing the Tail Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Section 7: Installing the Rudder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Section 8A: Engine Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Section 8B: Electric Motor Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Section 9:Throttle Pushrod Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Section 10: Fuel Tank Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Section 11: Fuel Tank Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Section 12: Landing Gear Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Section 13: Radio Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Section 14: Linkage Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Section 15: Canopy Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Adjusting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Control Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Recommended CG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Preflight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Range Testing the Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

2004 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Covering Colors

• Bright Yellow HANU872

• Deep Pink HANU867

• Smoke Purple HANU868

3

Contents of Kit

Large Parts:

A.Wing Set HAN2651
B. Fuselage HAN2652
C.Tail Set HAN2653
D. Landing Gear HAN2654
E. Canopy HAN2656

Required Radio and Engine

Radio Equipment

• 4-channel radio system (minimum)

• 5 standard servos (JRPS537 recommended
or equivalent)

• 12" Servo Extension (JRPA098) (2)

• Large Servo Arm (JRPA212) (2)

• “Y”Harness (JRPA135) or

• 3” Servo Extension (JRPA093) (2)

• Radio Switch (JRPA003)

Recommended Engines

• .40–.46 2-stroke

• .56–.72 4-stroke

Recommended JR®Systems

• XF421EX

• XF631

• XP662

• X-378

• XP8103

• 10X

Small Parts:

1. 23/4" Wheels HAN305

2. Fuel T ank HAN1986

3. Engine Mount HAN1985

Items Not Shown:

Decal Set HAN2655

JR XF631

Evolution .46NT

EVOE0460

Saito .72 AAC

SAIE072

JR XP8103

1

A

B

C

C

D

E

2

3

4

Warning

Additional Required Tools and Adhesives

Tools

• Canopy scissors

• Drill

• Drill bits: 1/16”, 3/32”, 1/8”, 9/64”, 5/32”

• Felt-tipped pen

• Flat blade screwdriver

• Foam: 1/2”

• Hobby knife

• Masking tape

• Paper towels

• Petroleum jelly

• Phillips screwdriver (large)

• Phillips screwdriver (small)

• Pliers

• Rubbing alcohol

• Ruler

• Sandpaper

• Soldering iron

• Square

• T-Pins

Adhesives

• 6-Minute Epoxy (HAN8000)

• 30-Minute Epoxy (HAN8002)

• Thin CA (PAAPT07)

• Medium CA (PAAPT01)

• CA Remover/Debonder (PAAPT16)

• Masking Tape (MMM20901)

• CA Remover/Debonder (PAAPT16)

• Canopy glue (Formula 560)

Other Required Items

• 2

1

/4" spinner (yellow)

• Epoxy Brushes (DUB345)

• File

• Measuring device (e.g. ruler, tape measure)

• Mixing Sticks for Epoxy (DUB346)

• Paper towels

• Rubbing alcohol

• Wax paper

An RC aircraft is not a toy! If misused, it can cause serious bodily harm and damage to property.Fly only in open
areas, preferably at AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) approved flying sites, following all instructions included
with your radio and engine.

Field Equipment Required

• Propeller (MAS1060)

• Fuel

• Glow Plug Wrench (HAN2510)

• Glow Plug Igniter with Charger (HAN7101)

• Glow Plug (HAN3001/3006)

• Manual Fuel Pump (HAN118)

5

Before Starting Assembly

Using the Manual

Before beginning the assembly of your Twist™, remove each part from its bag for inspection. Closely inspect the
fuselage, wing panels, rudder, and stabilizer for damage. If you find any damaged or missing parts, contact the
place of purchase.

If you find any wrinkles in the covering, use a heat gun or covering iron to remove them. Use caution while
working around areas where the colors overlap to prevent separating the colors.

This manual is divided into sections to help make assembly easier to understand and to provide breaks
between each major section. In addition, check boxes have been placed next to each step to keep track of
each step completed. Steps with two boxes indicate that the step will require repeating, such as for a right or
left wing panel, two servos, etc. Remember to take your time and follow the directions.

Warranty Information

Horizon Hobby,Inc. guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date of
purchase.This warranty does not cover any parts damage by use or modification. In no case shall Horizon Hobby's
liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further, Horizon Hobby reser ves the right to change or modify
this warranty without notice.

In that Horizon Hobby has no control over the final assembly or material used for the final assembly,no liability
shall be assumed nor accepted for any damage of the final user-assembled product.By the act of using the
product, the user accepts all resulting liability.

Once assembly of the model has been started, you must contact Horizon Hobby,Inc. directly regarding any
warranty question that you have. Please do not contact your local hobby shop regarding warranty issues, even if
that is where you purchased it.This will enable Horizon to better answer your questions and ser vice you in the
event that you may need any assistance.

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.

Horizon Hobby

4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

[phone]

www.horizonhobby.com

HAN100 – Heat Gun HAN101 – Covering Iron

6

Section 1: Attaching the Wing to the Fuselage

Required Parts

• Wing • Fuselage

• 1/4" x 1

3

/4" wing dowel

• 1/4-20 x 2" nylon bolt

Required Tools and Adhesives

• 6-minute epoxy • Sandpaper

• Flat blade screwdriver

Step 1

Locate the 1/4" x 1

3

/4" wing dowel. Sand a small
taper on one end of the dowel to make it easier to
attach the wing to the fuselage.

Step 2

Glue the dowel into the wing using 6-minute epoxy.
Make sure there is about 1/2" of the dowel exposed.

Step 3

Place the wing onto the fuselage. Secure the wing
using the 1/4-20 x 2" nylon bolt.

Section 2: Installing the Horizontal Stabilizer

7

Required Parts

• Wing • Fuselage

• Horizontal stabilizer • Elevator joiner wire

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Flat blade screwdriver • Sandpaper

• Felt-tipped pen • Paper towel

• Rubbing alcohol

Step 1

Slide the stab into the slot in the fuselage, with the
leading edge pushed forward in the slot. Center the
stab in the opening by measuring the distance from
the fuselage to each tip.The stab is aligned when
both measurements are identical.

Step 2

Check the distance from each stab tip to each wing
tip.These measurements must also be equal.

Step 3

The last alignment step is making sure the wing and
stabilizer are parallel. If they are not, lightly sand the
opening in the fuselage for the stab until the stab
rests parallel to the wing.

BB'

B=B'

A

A'

A=A'

Equal Distances

8

Section 2: Installing the Horizontal Stabilizer

Step 4

Use a felt-tipped pen to trace the outline of the
fuselage on the top and bottom of the stab.

Step 5

Remove the stab and use a hobby knife with a
brand new blade to remove the covering 1/16”
inside the lines just drawn.

Note: DO NOT cut into the underlying wood.
Let the knife “float”across the covering.
Cutting into the wood will weaken the
stabilizer and may cause it to fail in flight.

Hint:You can use a soldering iron instead
of a hobby knife to remove the covering.
Doing so will eliminate accidentally cutting
into the stabilizer.

Step 6

Place the elevator joiner wire into the slot for the
stab. Reposition the stab into the fuselage. It may be
necessary to trim the opening at the rear to allow for
clearance for the joiner wire.

Hint: Use a little rubbing alcohol and a paper
towel to remove the felt-tipped marker lines
once they are no longer needed.

Section 3: Installing the Vertical Stabilizer

Section 2: Installing the Horizontal Stabilizer

9

Step 7

Slide the stabilizer from the fuselage far enough to
expose the uncovered area. Mix 1/2 ounce of 30­minute epoxy.Apply the epoxy to the exposed area
on both the top and bottom of the stab. Slide the
stab back into position and double-check the
alignment of the stab. Remove any excess epoxy
using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol.

Hint: Use a little masking tape to keep the
joiner wire out of the way until it’s time to
install the elevators.Also make sure there is
no epoxy on the joiner wire.

Required Parts

• Wing • Fuselage

• Vertical stabilizer

Required Tools and Adhesives

• 30-minute epoxy • Sandpaper

• Square • Ruler

• Felt-tipped pen

Step 1

Locate the vertical stabilizer (fin) and slide it into
position. Position the fin so it is fully forward in
the slot in the fuselage.

Photo for Step 7

10

Section 3: Installing the Vertical Stabilizer

Step 2

Check the alignment between the fin and stab.The
fin must be 90-degrees to the stab to be in
alignment. Sand the opening in the fuselage if
necessary to get the perfect alignment.

Step 3

Trace the outline of the fuselage onto the fin.

Step 4

Remove the covering 1/16" below the line drawn
in the last step.

Step 5

Mix 1/2 ounce of 30-minute epoxy.Apply the epoxy
to the tab on the fin and to the area on the top of
the fuselage where the covering was removed.
Position the fin in the slot and check the alignment.
Use masking tape to hold the fin in position until the
epoxy fully cures.

Hint: Use rubbing alcohol and a paper towel
to clean up any excess epoxy.

Section 4: Installing the Ailerons

11

Required Parts

• Wing • CA hinge (8)

• Aileron (left and right)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Thin CA • T-Pins

Step 1

Locate 8 of the CA hinges. Place a T-pin in the
center of four of the hinges.

Step 2

Place the hinges in the precut slots in the aileron
(or wing if you prefer).The T-pin will rest against
the edge when installed correctly.

Step 3

Slide the aileron and wing together. The gap
between the aileron and wing should be infinitely
small, approximately 1/64".

Hint: Be careful of the T-Pins, as they
can be sharp.

Step 4

Use a ruler to align the end of the aileron to the
wing.

Note: Do not use CA accelerator during the
hinging process.The CA must be allowed to
soak into the hinge to provide the best bond.
Using accelerator will not provide enough
time for this process.

12

Section 4: Installing the Ailerons

Step 5

Remove the T-Pins and apply thin CA to each hinge.
Make sure the hinge is fully saturated with CA. Use
a paper towel and CA remover/debonder to clean up
any excess CA from the wing and/or aileron.

Step 6

Firmly grasp the wing and aileron and gently pull
on the aileron to ensure the hinges are secure and
cannot be pulled apart. Use caution when gripping
the wing and aileron to avoid crushing the structure.

Step 7

Work the aileron up and down several times to work
in the hinges and check for proper movement.

Step 8

Repeat Steps 1 through 7 for the remaining aileron.

Section 5: Installing the Elevators

13

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Elevator joiner wire

• Elevator (left and right) • CA hinge (6)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Thin CA • T-Pins

• 30-minute epoxy • Sandpaper

• Drill • Drill bit: 9/64"

• Ruler

Step 1

Locate one of the elevator halves. Measure in 1

1

/8"
from the inside edge of the elevator and drill a
9/64" hole in the elevator that is 1" deep for the
elevator joiner wire.

Step 2

Use a hobby knife to cut a slot from the hole drilled
in the previous step to the inside edge of the
elevator. This slot is where the elevator joiner wire
will rest.

Step 3

Locate three CA hinges. Place a T-pin in the center
of the hinges. Place the hinges into the elevator half.

Step 4

Test fit the elevator and stab together.The
elevator joiner wire will be inserted into the hole
drilled in Step 1.

Step 5

Mix 1/2 ounce of 30-minute epoxy and apply it to
the groove and hole in the elevator half. Insert the
elevator joiner wire. Remove any excess epoxy using
rubbing alcohol and a paper towel.

14

Section 5: Installing the Elevators

Note:You can combine the previous step
with the following step if you like.This will
hold the elevator in position while the epoxy
cures.

Step 6

Check to make sure the elevator moves freely.It
should not rub against the stabilizer at the tip. Check
to make sure the hinge gap between the elevator
and stabilizer is roughly 1/64".Apply thin CA to both
sides of the hinge. Make sure to saturate the hinge
and don’t use accelerator.

Step 7

Once the CA and epoxy have fully cured, gently
pull on the elevator and stab to make sure the
hinges are well glued. Flex the elevators a few times
to break in the hinges.

Section 6: Installing the Tail Wheel

Section 5: Installing the Elevators

15

Step 8

Hold the remaining elevator in position against the
stabilizer. Mark the location of the elevator joiner
wire onto the elevator.

Step 9

Drill the location marked in the previous step using
a 9/64" drill bit.

Step 10

Repeat Steps 2 through 7 to install the remaining
elevator half.

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Rudder

• Tail wheel assembly

Required Tools and Adhesives

• T-Pins • Hobby knife

• 6-minute epoxy • Drill

• Drill bit: 1/8" • Paper towel

• Rubbing alcohol • Petroleum jelly

Step 1

Locate the rudder and make a mark 1" from
the bottom. Drill the location using a 1/8" drill bit.
Make sure the drill is perpendicular to the hinge
line of the rudder.

16

Section 6: Installing the Tail Wheel

Step 2

Cut a groove from the hole to the bottom of the
rudder. This is necessary to provide clearance
for the tail wheel bearing.

Step 3

Test fit the tail wheel bracket into the rudder.Make
sure there is plenty of clearance for the bracket
bushing and that the hole has been drilled deep
enough to fit the tail wheel wire.

Step 4

Cut a slot in the aft end of the fuselage for the tail
wheel bearing using a hinging tool or hobby knife.
Position the top of the slot 7/8" from the bottom of
the fuselage.The slot should be 13/16" long, which
is the length of the tail wheel bearing.

Step 5

Test fit the tail wheel bearing into the slot. Make
the slot large enough that the bushing will fit without
forcing the wood apart.

Step 6

Apply a light coat of petroleum jelly onto the
tail gear wire where the bearing will ride.This is
done to prevent the epoxy from sticking to the
wire and bearing.

Step 7

Mix 1/2 ounce of 6-minute epoxy and apply it to
both the tail gear bearing and the slot in the
fuselage. Install the bearing. Use a paper towel and
rubbing alcohol to remove any excess epoxy from
the tail gear wire, bushing and fuselage.

Photo for Step 4

Section 7: Installing the Rudder

17

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Rudder

• CA hinge (3)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Thin CA • T-Pins

• 6-minute epoxy

Step 1

Locate the last three CA hinges, and place T-pins
in the center like we have done for the ailerons
and elevator.

Step 2

Install the hinges in the rudder.

Step 3

Test fit the rudder to the fuselage. Make sure the tail
gear wire goes into the rudder, and that the rudder
will rest tight against the fin and fuselage.The tail
gear bearing should not interfere with the rudder.

Step 4

Mix 1/2 ounce of 6-minute epoxy.Remove the
rudder, and place the epoxy only in the hole, not in
the groove. Epoxy in the groove will probably make it
difficult to use the rudder. Install the rudder as
described in the previous step.

Hint:You can combine the previous step with
the following step if you like.This will hold
the rudder in position while the epoxy cures.

Step 5

Check to make sure the rudder moves freely.It
should not rub against the fin at the tip.Apply thin
CA to both sides of the hinge. Make sure to
saturate the hinge, and don’t use accelerator.
Use a paper towel and CA debonder/remover to
clean up any excess CA.

Step 6

Once the CA and epoxy have fully cured, give
the rudder and fin the tug test to make sure the
hinges are well glued. Flex the rudder a few
times to break in the hinges.

18

Section 8A: Engine Installation

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Engine mount (2)

• 8-32 x 3/4" screw (4) • 3mm washer (4)

• 3mm x 20mm screw (4) • 3mm lock nut (4)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Drill • Drill bit: 9/64"

• Engine • Pliers

• Clamp

• Phillips screwdriver (large)

Step 1

Attach the engine mount to the firewall using four
8-32 x 3/4" screws.

Step 2

Position the engine on the mount.Adjust the engine
so the distance from the firewall to the drive washer
is 4

1

/4". Use clamps to hold the engine in position.

Step 3

Mark the locations for the engine mounting bolts.

Step 4

Remove the engine and drill the locations marked in
the previous step using a 9/64" drill bit.

Hint: Use a drill press for the best results.
This makes holes perfectly perpendicular
(square) to the mount.

Step 5

Attach the engine using four 3mm x 20mm
socket head screws, four 3mm washers and
four 3mm lock nuts.

Section 8B: Electric Motor Installation

19

Required Parts

• Fuselage

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Electric motor (Hacker C50 10L recommended)

• Electronic speed control (Hacker master 70-3P)

• Heat shrink • 8-32 lock nut (8)

• 8-32 x 12” threaded rod (2)

• 8-32 nut (4) • #8 washer (12)

• Plywood (4” x 12” x 1/8”) • Electrical connectors

• Propeller (APC 16x12E)

There are numerous ways to convert your Twist™ to
electric power. The following covers the installation
of a Hacker power system using Li-Po batteries.

Step 1

Carefully measure and mark the centerline on the
firewall using the measurements as shown.

Step 2

Check the location of your particular motor. It may
be necessary to remove material from the firewall to
allow for motor clearance.

Step 3

Cut the 8-32 x 12” threaded rods so there are four
pieces 4” in length.

Hint: Place nuts onto the rod before cutting.
Removing the nuts over the cut ends will
clean the threads.

Step 4

Thread an 8-32 lock nut 3/8” onto one end of each
threaded rod. Repeat for all four threaded rods.

Step 5

Install the threaded rods into the firewall. Use #8
washers between the firewall and blind nuts.Tighten
the nuts to prevent the rods from rotating.

Step 6

Construct a motor mount using plywood.The shape
and style of the mount will vary depending on your
motor and imagination. Make sure the mount is wide
enough to fit tightly between the fuselage sides.

20

Step 7

Attach the motor to the motor mount plate.

Step 8

Thread an 8-32 nut and #8 washers onto each of
the threaded rods. Slide the motor and mount onto
the rods. Position the motor so the drive washer will
be 4-1/4” forward of the firewall. Secure the plate
using 8-32 lock nuts and #8 washers after making
sure it is parallel to the firewall. Use 5-minute epoxy
to glue the mount plate to the sides of the fuselage.

Step 9

Select a propeller appropriate for your motor system.
Install the propeller and spinner as shown.

Step 10

Prepare your ESC for connection to the motor and
motor battery following the instructions provided by
the manufacturer. Remove the covering from the
bottom of the fuselage and secure the ESC as
shown.

Step 11

Mount the battery in the fuselage. It will be
necessary to remove the throttle servo tray to fit
the length of the battery.Make sure the battery
can not shift during flight.

Section 9: Throttle Pushrod Installation

21

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly

• 10

1

/8" outer pushrod tube • Clevis

• 14

5

/8" pushrod wire • Clevis retainer

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Drill • Drill bit: 5/32"

• Medium CA • Sandpaper

Step 1

Determine the proper location for the throttle
pushrod. Mark the location with a felt-tipped pen.
Remove the engine and drill the firewall for the
pushrod tube using a drill and 5/32" drill bit.

Step 2

Test fit the throttle pushrod tube through the
firewall, through former 2, and into the fuselage.
Once satisfied with the fit, roughen the tube
using sandpaper. Slide the tube back into position
and use medium CA to glue it to the firewall and
former 2.Allow 1/4" of the pushrod to extend
forward of the firewall.

22

Section 9: Throttle Pushrod Installation

Step 3

Slide a clevis retainer onto a nylon clevis.Thread a
clevis onto a 145/8" wire, a minimum of 10 turns.

Step 4

Attach the clevis to the throttle arm on the
carburetor. Slide the pushrod wire into the pushrod
tube and re-install the engine. Bend the pushrod if
necessary so it moves freely.

Section 10: Fuel Tank Assembly

Required Parts

• Clunk (fuel pickup) • Metal caps (2)

• Fuel pickup tubing • Fuel tank

• Rubber stopper • M3 x 20 screw

• Metal tube (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Hobby knife

• Phillips screwdriver (small)
Note:The stopper provided with the Twist™

has three holes that are not bored completely
through the stopper. The holes are for the
fuel pickup, fill and vent lines. For these
instructions, only two holes will be used: one
for the fuel pickup and one for the fuel vent.

Only open the third hole if you are going to
use a separate fill line.

Step 1

Locate the fuel tank parts.

Section 10: Fuel Tank Assembly

23

Step 2

Locate the rubber stopper. Insert one of the metal
fuel tubes into one of the holes in the stopper so
that an equal amount of tube extends from each
side of the stopper. This tube will be the fuel tank
pickup that provides fuel to the engine.

Step 3

Slide the smaller cap over the tube on the smaller
end of the rubber stopper. This end will be
inserted into the fuel tank.The larger cap is placed
on the side of the rubber stopper that makes
the cap. Loosely install the M3 x 20 screw through
the center of the stopper.

Step 4

Bend the remaining fuel tube carefully to a
45-degree angle using your fingers.This will
be the fuel tank vent tube.

Use care not to kink the tube while bending.

Step 5

Slide the vent tube into one of the remaining two
holes in the stopper from the tank (small cap) side.

24

Section 10: Fuel Tank Assembly

Step 6

Locate the short piece of silicone fuel tubing and the
fuel tank clunk. Install the clunk onto one end of the
silicone tubing. Slide the silicone tubing (end
opposite the clunk) onto the fuel tank pickup tube
(straight tube) in the stopper.

Step 7

Carefully insert the stopper assembly into the fuel
tank. Note the position of the vent tube; it must be
up at the top portion of the fuel tank to function
properly.(Hint:The fuel tank is taller than it is wide.)
Also, it may be necessary to shorten the length of
the fuel pickup tubing to make sure the clunk does
not rub against the back of the fuel tank.You should
be able to turn the tank to any attitude and have the
clunk fall to the lowest point (all directions, except
for having the stopper facing down).

Step 8

Tighten the M3 x 20 screw carefully—do not over
tighten.This allows the rubber stopper to form a
seal by being slightly compressed, thus sealing the
fuel tank opening.

Important: Be sure to differentiate between
the vent and fuel pickup tube. Once the tank
is mounted inside the fuselage, it will be
difficult to tell the tubes apart.

Section 11: Fuel Tank Installation

25

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Fuel tank assembly

• Fuel tubing (red and green)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Foam: 1/2"

Step 1

Glue a piece of 1/2" foam to the sides of the fuel
tank compartment. Glue two pieces of 1/2" foam to
the upper inside of the fuel tank compartment so
there will be 1” of foam between the upper inside of
the fuselage and the fuel tank.

Step 2

Connect the two pieces of fuel tubing to the fuel
tanks pickup and vent tubes.

Hint: Connect the red tube to the vent,
and the green tube to the pickup. If you
forget, just come back to this paragraph to
remind yourself.

Step 3

Install the fuel tank into the fuselage. Make
any necessary supports to keep the tank from
moving during flight.

Hint: Make sure the rear support brace will
not interfere with the installation of the wing.

Step 4

Attach the muffler to the engine. Make the proper
connections to the engine using the engine
manufacturer’s instructions.

26

Section 12: Landing Gear Installation

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • 23/4" wheel (2)

• 5/32" x 1" axle w/nut (2) • 1" wheel

• 5/32" wheel collar (2) • Landing gear

• 8-32 x 1/2" screw (2)

• 3mm x 5mm screw (2)

• 1/16" wheel collar w/set screw

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Drill

• Drill bits: 1/16", 1/8", 5/32"

• Phillips screwdriver (large)

• Hex wrench (included in kit)

Step 1

Locate the main landing gear and two 8-32 x 1/2"
screws.Attach the main landing gear using the
screws.The angle on the gear should be towards
the rear of the plane.

Step 2

Attach an axle to the landing gear using the
supplied nut.

Step 3

Attach the wheel to the axle using a wheel collar
and 3mm x 5mm screw.

Hint:File a flat area where the screw
contacts the axle, to help prevent the screw
from loosening during flight.

Step 4

Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the remaining wheel.

Step 5

Attach the tail wheel using a 5/32" wheel collar.

Section 13: Radio Installation

27

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Wing assembly

• Servo w/hardware (5)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Drill • Drill bit: 1/16"

• Phillips screwdriver (small)

• Servo extension – 12" (2)

Step 1

Install the recommended servo hardware (grommets
and eyelets) supplied with your radio system onto
five servos (elevator, rudder,throttle, and aileron (2).

Step 2

Temporarily install the rudder servo.

Step 3

Mark the locations for the servo screws using
a felt-tipped pen.

Step 4

Remove the servo and drill the holes for the servo
mounting screws using a 1/16" drill bit.

Hint: Place a drop of thin CA onto each
screw hole to harden the wood around the
hole.Allow the CA to fully cure before
installing the servos.

Step 5

Attach a 12" servo extension onto the rudder
servo. Use your favorite method to secure the
extension to prevent it from coming loose during
flight. Secure the rudder servo using the screws
provided with the servo.

Step 6

Repeat Steps 1 through 5 for the elevator servo.

28

Section 13: Radio Installation

Step 7

Temporarily install the aileron servo and mark
the locations for the servo screws using a
felt-tipped pen.

Step 8

Remove the servos and drill the holes for the servo
mounting screws using a 1/16" drill bit.

Step 9

Use a piece of string with a small weight (such as a
wheel collar) attached as a device to pull the servo
lead through the wing. Lower the weight through the
servo opening, allowing it to pass through the ribs
and out the hole in the center of the wing.

Step 10

Tie the string onto the servo extension. Gently pull
the extension through the wing using the string.
Untie the string when the servo lead has been pulled
through. Use tape to secure the servo lead to the
wing to prevent it from falling back into the wing
panel. Secure the aileron servo using the hardware
provided with the servo.

Step 11

Repeat Steps 7 through 10 for the other aileron
servo.

Photo for Step 9

Section 13: Radio Installation

29

Step 12

Secure the throttle servo using the screws supplied
with the servo.

Step 13

Wrap the receiver and receiver battery in
protective foam to prevent damage that may be
caused by engine vibration.

Step 14

Temporarily mount the receiver and battery into
the fuselage. It may be necessary to relocate the
battery forward or aft to balance the model as
described in the section "Control Throws and Center
of Gravity." Plug in any servo leads or extensions
at this time and connect any extensions necessary
for the aileron servos.

Step 15

Route the antenna out through the tube
in the fuselage.

Step 16

Mount the radio switch in the side of the fuselage
opposite the throttle linkage.

30

Section 14: Linkage Installation

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Wing assembly

• 4

3

/8" pushrod wire (2) • Nylon clevis (4)

• 10

5

/8" pushrod wire (2) • Clevis retainer (4)

• Nylon wire keeper (5)

• Nylon control horn (4)

• 2-56 x 1/2" screw (12)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Drill bits: 1/16", 3/32" • Drill

• Phillips screwdriver (small)

Step 1

Slide a clevis retainer onto a nylon clevis.Thread a
clevis onto a 10

5

/8" wire, a minimum of 10 turns.

Step 2

Remove the back plate from a control horn using
side cutters or a sharp hobby knife.

Step 3

Position the control horn on the elevator so the
horn aligns with the hinge line of the elevator.
Mark the position for the mounting holes using
a felt-tipped pen.

Step 4

Drill three 3/32" holes through the elevator at the
locations marked in the previous step.

Section 14: Linkage Installation

31

Step 5

Place 2–3 drops of thin CA into the hole to harden
the wood. Repeat this for each of the three holes.

Step 6

Attach the control horn using three 2-56 x 1/2"
screws and the control back plate.

Step 7

Center the elevator servo electronically using the
radio system. Install a servo arm onto the elevator
servo.Attach the pushrod with clevis to the control
horn. Physically place the elevator control surface in
neutral. Mark the pushrod where it crosses the holes
in the servo arm.

Step 8

Bend the wire 90-degrees at the mark made in
the previous step

32

Section 14: Linkage Installation

Step 9

Cut the wire 3/8" above the bend.

Step 10

Slide the wire through the hole one in from the end
of the elevator servo arm. Secure the wire using a
nylon wire keeper.

Step 11

Repeat Steps 1 through 10 for the rudder linkage.

Step 12

Slide a clevis retainer onto a nylon clevis.Thread a
clevis onto a 43/8" wire a minimum of 10 turns.

Step 13

Remove the back plate from a control horn using
side cutters or a sharp hobby knife.

Step 14

Position the control horn on the aileron so the
horn aligns with the hinge line of the aileron.
Mark the position for the mounting holes using
a felt-tipped pen.

Step 15

Drill three 3/32" holes at the locations marked in the
previous step.

Step 16

Place 2–3 drops of thin CA into the hole to harden
the wood. Repeat this for each of the three holes.

Step 17

Attach the control horn using three 2-56 x 1/2"
screws and the control back plate.

Section 14: Linkage Installation

33

Step 18

Center the aileron servo electronically using the
radio system. Install a servo arm onto the aileron
servo.Attach the pushrod with clevis to the control
horn. Physically place the aileron control surface in
neutral. Mark the pushrod where it crosses the
holes in the servo arm.

Step 19

Bend the wire 90-degrees at the mark made in the
previous step. Cut the wire 3/8" above the bend.

Step 20

Slide the wire through the outer hole in the aileron
servo arm. Secure the wire using a nylon wire
keeper.

Step 21

Repeat Steps 12 through 20 for the other
aileron servo.

Step 22

Center the throttle stick and trim with both the
receiver and transmitter on. Install the throttle
servo arm in the neutral position.

Step 23

Move the servo to the throttle closed position
using the radio system. Manually move the throttle
arm to the closed position. Mark the location
where the pushrod crosses the servo arm using a
felt-tipped pen.

34

Section 14: Linkage Installation

Step 24

Make a 90-degree bend at the mark made in the
last step.Temporarily connect the pushrod to the
throttle arm. Check the movement of the throttle to
verify there is no binding at either low or high
throttle. If there is, make the necessary adjustment
to eliminate any binding.

Step 25

Secure the throttle pushrod to the servo arm using
a nylon wire keeper. Install the throttle servo arm
screw when complete.

Section 15: Canopy Installation

Required Parts

• Fuselage assembly • Canopy

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Canopy glue (RC-56)

• Sandpaper (medium grit)

Step 1

Install a pilot of your choosing. Use epoxy or
Zap-A-Dap-A-Goo to secure the pilot.

Step 2

Position the canopy onto the fuselage so the
front edge of the canopy is 3

7

/8" forward of the
instrument panel. Draw a line around the canopy
using a felt-tipped pen so 3/8" of the canopy will
overlap onto the fuselage.

Photo for Step 2

Section 15: Canopy Installation

35

Step 3

Use a hobby knife and scissors to trim the canopy
along the lines drawn in the previous step.

Step 4

Position the canopy back onto the fuselage.Trace
around the canopy and onto the fuselage using
a felt-tipped pen.

Step 5

Lightly sand the inside edge of the canopy and
slightly inside the line drawn on the hatch using
medium sandpaper.

Step 6

Apply a bead of RCZ56 Canopy Glue (ZINJ5007)
around the inside edge of the canopy.Position the
canopy onto the hatch. Use tape to hold it secure
until the glue fully cures.

Recommended CG

Control Throws

36

Adjusting the Engine

Step 1

Completely read the instructions included with your
engine and follow the recommended break-in
procedure.

Step 2

At the field, adjust the engine to a slightly rich
setting at full throttle and adjust the idle and low­speed needle so that a consistent idle is achieved.

Step 3

Before you fly,be sure that your engine idles reliably,
transitions and runs at all throttle settings. Only
when this is achieved should any plane be
considered ready for flight.

The amount of control throw should be adjusted as
closely as possible using mechanical means, rather
than making large changes electronically at the
radio. By moving the position of the clevis at the
control horn toward the outermost hole, you will
decrease the amount of control throw of the control
surface. Moving it toward the control surface will
increase the amount of throw.Moving the pushrod
wire at the servo arm will have the opposite effect:
Moving it closer to center will decrease throw,and
away from center will increase throw.Work with a
combination of the two to achieve the closest or
exact control throws listed.

Note:Aircraft is being tested. The correct
throws and center of gravity will be added
during layout.

Low Rate High Rate

Aileron 1" (15°) up 15/8" (23°) up

1" (15°) down 1

5

/8" (23°) down

Elevator 1" (14°) up 2" (25°) up

1" (14°) down 2" (25°) down

Rudder 1

3

/4" (18°) left 2" (22°) left

1 3/4" (18°) right 2" (22°) right

Note:Control throws are measured at the
widest part of the elevator, rudder,and aileron
unless noted otherwise.

Use the following throws for 3D aerobatics:
Aileron 2

1

/2" (35°) up 21/2" (35°) down
Elevator 23/4" (35°) up 23/4" (35°) down
Rudder 2

1

/2" (28°) right 21/2" (28°) left

An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight
is properly balancing the model.This is especially
important when various engines are mounted.

Caution: Do not inadvertently skip this step!

The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) range for
the Twist™ is 4"–5" behind the leading edge of the
wing against the fuselage. It is suggested to start at
the forward end of the range until comfortable with
the flight characteristics of your aircraft. If
necessary,move the batter y pack or add weight to
either the nose or the tail until the correct balance is
achieved. Stick-on weights are available at your local
hobby shop and work well for this purpose.

Preflight

37

Charge both the transmitter and receiver pack for
your airplane. Use the recommended charger
supplied with your particular radio system, following
the instructions provided with the radio. In most
cases the radio should be charged the night before
going out flying.

Check the radio installation and make sure all the
control surfaces are moving correctly (i.e. the correct

direction and with the recommended throws).Test­run the engine and make sure it transitions smoothly
from idle to full throttle and back.Also ensure the
engine is tuned according to the manufacturer’s
instructions, and it will run consistently and
constantly at full throttle when adjusted.

Check all the control horns, servo horns and clevises
to make sure they are secure and in good condition.
Replace any items that would be considered
questionable. Failure of any of these components in
flight would mean the loss of your aircraft.

Range Testing the Radio

Before each flying session, range-check your radio.
This is accomplished by turning on your transmitter
with the antenna collapsed.Turn on the radio in your
airplane.With your airplane on the ground, you

should be able to walk 30 paces away from your
airplane and still have complete control of all
functions. If not, don't attempt to fly! Have your radio
equipment checked out by the manufacturer.

38

2004 Official AMA

National Model Aircraft Safety Code

7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any
device that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of
any kind) including, but not limited to, rockets,
explosive bombs dropped from models, smoke
bombs, all explosive gases (such as hydrogen-filled
balloons), ground mounted devices launching a
projectile.The only exceptions permitted are rockets
flown in accordance with the National Model
Rocketry Safety Code or those permanently attached
(as per JATO use); also those items authorized for
Air Show Team use as defined by AST Advisory
Committee (document available from AMA HQ).In
any case, models using rocket motors as a primary
means of propulsion are limited to a maximum
weight of 3.3 pounds and a G series motor. (A
model aircraft is defined as an aircraft with or
without engine, not able to carry a human being.)

8) I will not consume alcoholic beverages prior to,
nor during, participation in any model operations.

9) Children under 6 years old are only allowed on
the flight line as a pilot or while under flight
instruction.

RADIO CONTROL

1) I will have completed a successful radio
equipment ground range 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 by 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
involved 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. (Only properly
licensed Amateurs are authorized to operate

GENERAL

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 higher than approximately
400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without
notifying the airport operator. I will give right-of-way
and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
Where necessary,an obser ver 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.

4) The maximum takeoff weight of a model is 55
pounds, except models flown under Experimental
Aircraft rules.

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

6) I will not operate models with metal-bladed
propellers or with gaseous boosts, in which gases
other than air enter their internal combustion
engine(s); nor will I operate models with extremely
hazardous fuels such as those containing
tetranitromethane or hydrazine.

39

equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.)

5) Flying sites separated by three miles or more are
considered safe from site-to site interference, even
when both sites use the same frequencies.Any
circumstances under three miles separation require
a frequency management arrangement, which may
be either an allocation of specific frequencies for
each site or testing to determine that freedom from
interference exists.Allocation plans or interference
test reports shall be signed by the parties involved
and provided to AMA Headquarters.Documents of
agreement and reports may exist between (1) two or
more AMA Chartered Clubs,(2) AMA clubs and
individual AMA members not associated with AMA
Clubs, or (3) two or more individual AMA members.

6) For Combat, distance between combat
engagement line and spectator line will be 500 feet
per cubic inch of engine displacement. (Example:
.40 engine = 200 feet.); electric motors will be
based on equivalent combustion engine size.
Additional safety requirements will be per the RC
Combat section of the current Competition
Regulations.

7) At air shows or model flying demonstrations,a
single straight line must be established, one side of
which is for flying, with the other side for spectators.

8) With the exception of events flown under AMA
Competition rules, after launch, except for pilots or
helpers being used, no powered model may be
flown closer than 25 feet to any person.

9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other
person touch a powered model in flight.

Organized RC Racing Event

10) An RC racing event,whether or not an AMA Rule
Book event, is one in which model aircraft compete
in flight over a prescribed course with the objective
of finishing the course faster to determine the
winner.

A. In every organized racing event in which
contestants, callers and officials are on the course:

1.All officials, callers and contestants must properly
wear helmets, which are OSHA, DOT, ANSI, SNELL or
NOCSAE approved or comparable standard while on
the racecourse.

2.All officials will be off the course except for the
starter and their assistant.

3.”On the course” is defined to mean any area
beyond the pilot/staging area where actual flying
takes place.

B. I will not fly my model aircraft in any organized
racing event which does not comply with paragraph
A above or which allows models over 20 pounds
unless that competition event is AMA sanctioned.

C. Distance from the pylon to the nearest spectator
(line) will be in accordance with the current
Competition Regulations under the RC Pylon Racing
section for the specific event pending two or three
pylon course layout.

11) RC night flying is limited to low-performance
models (less than 100 mph).The models must be
equipped with a lighting system that clearly defines
the aircraft’s attitude at all times.

2004 Official AMA

National Model Aircraft Safety Code

6369

© 2004, Horizon Hobby,Inc.

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Champaign, Illinois 61822

[phone]

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