Hobbico NexStar ARF Instruction Manual

READ THROUGH THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL FIRST. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.
HCAZ3005 for HCAA2025 V1.0Entire Contents © Copyright 2004
Champaign, Illinois
(217) 398-8970
E-mail: airsupport@hobbico.com
ALMOST-READY-TO-FLY RADIO CONTROLLED MODEL AIRPLANE
Wingspan:68-3/4 in [1745mm] Length:56 in [1420mm] Wing Area: 722 sq in [46.6 dm2] Weight: 6.25–6.75 lb [2835–3060 g] Wing Loading: 21 oz/ft2[63 g/dm2] Radio: 4-5 channel
Engine: .46–.50 cu in [7.5–8.2cc] two-stroke
.52–.56 cu in [8.5–9.2cc] four-stroke
Hobbico®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 Hobbico’s liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further, Hobbico reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without notice.
In that Hobbico 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 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 this address.
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.
WARRANTY
Hobby Services
3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1
Champaign IL 61822
USA
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
AMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Radio Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Engine Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Hardware and Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Building Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Optional Supplies and Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
KIT INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
ASSEMBLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Assemble the Wing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Install the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Alternate Engine Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Landing Gear Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Install the Tail Surfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Radio Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Charge the Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Check the Control Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Check the Control Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Adjust the Throttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Balance the Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Identify Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
AMA SAFETY CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
CHECK LIST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
FINAL PREPARATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Gather Your Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
At the Shop Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Flight Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Check the Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Check the Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Range Check the Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fueling the Nexstar ARF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
FLYING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Taxiing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
MAINTENANCE TIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
AFTER YOU MASTER THE NEXSTAR ARF . . . . . . . . 27
Removing the SpeedBrakes Training Flaps . . . . . . . . 27
Removing the SpinControl Airfoil Extensions. . . . . . . 27
Installing Dual Aileron Servos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
NEXSTAR SELECT ARF FAQs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
FIN SKETCH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing a Hobbico NexSTAR ARF, the next generation in Radio Control Trainers.You have made the right decision by purchasing a “real” model airplane with the latest in aerodynamic and assembly technologies. Once assembled and set up, the NexSTAR will give you many hours of relaxing easy flying. Under the guidance of an experienced flight instructor, all you have to do is to concentrate on learning to fly.And after you have mastered the NexSTAR, your engine and radio may be transferred to your next model.
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF, visit the Hobbico web site at
www.hobbico.com.
Open the “Airplanes” link, and then select the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF. If there is new technical information or changes to this model a “tech notice” box will appear in the upper left corner of the page.
We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) and a local R/C club. The AMA is the governing body of model aviation and membership is required to fly at AMA clubs. Though joining the AMA provides many benefits, one of the primary reasons to join is liability protection. Coverage is not limited to flying at contests or on the club field.It e ven applies to flying at pub lic demonstrations and air shows. Failure to comply with the Safety Code (excerpts printed in the back of the manual) may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally, training programs and instructors are available at AMA club sites to help you get started the right way. There are over 2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the countr y. Contact the AMA at the address or toll-free phone number below:
Academy of Model Aeronautics 5151 East Memorial Drive Muncie, IN 47302-9252 Tele. (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 flying near full­scale aircraft and avoid flying near or o v er g roups of people .
AMA
INTRODUCTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2
1. Your Hobbico NexSTAR 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 Hobbico NexSTAR ARF, 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 unflyable model. In a few cases the instructions may differ slightly from the photos.In those instances the written instructions should be considered as correct.
3. You must take time to build straight, true and strong.
4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in first-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 flight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they show any signs of wear or fatigue.
7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not flown this type of model before, we recommend that you get the assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for your first flights.If y ou’ re not a member of a club, your local hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose membership includes experienced pilots.
Remember: Take your time and follow the instructions to end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.
This is a partial list of items required to finish the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF that may require planning or decision making before starting to build.Order numbers are provided in parentheses.
There are four different w a ys y ou can set up your Ne xSTAR. The “standard,” most economical setup would be to use four servos - three servos in the fuselage (for the throttle, rudder and elevator) and one servo in the wing f or the ailerons.This requires only a standard, 4-channel radio. The second option would be to use two servos in the wing (one for each aileron). Using two aileron servos will increase the roll rate (for when you are ready to graduate to slightly more advanced aerobatics).This option will require a Y-harness to connect the servos, but a standard 4-channel radio ma y still be used. The third option would be to “mix” the two aileron servos electronically so the ailerons can be operated as both ailerons and flaps (flaperons).Doubling the ailerons as flaps adds another dimension to your flying regimen as you will be able to execute super-slow landings and flight. The use of flaperons will require a minimum 5-channel computer radio for mixing the servos electronically. The fifth option is for those who have a 5-channel, non-computer radio, but still desire functional flaps.This will require a sixth servo to operate the flaps separately. Instructions are provided on how to cut the ailerons so the inboard portion can be operated as flaps. All of these options may be done with standard servos and the regular 500mAh-600mAh battery pack that came with your radio (special servos or a larger battery pack are not required).
The recommended engine size range for the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF is .46 to .50 two-stroke or .52 to .56 four-stroke . If an engine in the upper end of the size range is used, remember that this is a model that is intended to fly at scale­like speeds, so throttle management should be practiced.Any engine in the lower range will be able to fly this model with authority. Therefore, the engines in the high range are only recommended for modelers who fly at high altitude.
Engine Recommendations
Radio Equipment
DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE
NOTE:We, as the kit manuf acturer , provide y ou with a top quality
kit and great instructions, but ultimately the quality of your finished model depends on how you build it;therefore, we cannot in any way guarantee the performance of your completed model, and no representations are expressed or implied as to the performance or safety of your completed model.
PRO TECT YOUR MODEL,Y OURSELF
& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
3
4
In addition to the items listed in the “Decisions Y ou Must Make” section, the following is a list of hardware and
accessories required to finish the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.
6" [150mm] Servo extension (HCAM2701 for Futaba®) ❏ R/C foam rubber (1/4" HCAQ1000, or 1/2" HCAQ1050)3/4" to 1" [19 to 25mm] Heavy duty transparent tapeHook & loop material (1" x 6" [25 x 150mm] GPMQ4480)Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)
If you decide to install two aileron servos in your wing connected to the same channel, you will also need the following:
1 additional standard servo (for a total of 5)Y-harness (HCAM2751 for Futaba)12" [300mm] servo extension (HCAM2711 for Futaba)2 Control horns4 2-56 x 3/4" screws2 Nylon clevises2 Nylon faslinks2 Silicone retainers2 2-56 x 6" pushrods
If you decide to install two aileron servos in your wing connected to different channels for flaperons, you will need:
1 additional standard servo for a total of 55-channel computer radio (2) 12" [300mm] servo extension (HCAM2711 for Futaba)6" [150mm] servo extension (HCAM2701 for Futaba) 2 Control horns4 2-56 x 3/4" screws2 Nylon clevises2 Nylon faslinks2 Silicone retainers 2 2-56 x 6" pushrods
If you decide to install two aileron servos and one flap servo in your wing, you will need:
All materials listed in one of the options above1 additional standard servo for a total of 66" [150mm] servo extension (HCAM2701 for Futaba)2 Nylon clevises 2 Nylon faslinks2 Silicone retainers 2 2-56 x 6" pushrods
In addition to common household tools and hobby tools, this is the “short list” of the most important items required to build the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF.
#1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)#11 blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)3/4" to 1" [19mm to 25mm] Heavy duty transparent tape.Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060)Small metal file (TAMR4046)
Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that will help you build the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF.
Top Flite®MonoKote®sealing iron (TOPR2100) ❏ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0630)Switch & Charge Jack Mounting Set (GPMM1000)Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)AccuThrow™Deflection Gauge (GPMR2405) ❏ CG Machine™(GPMR2400) ❏ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer™(TOPQ5700)
There are two types of screws used in this kit: Socket Head Cap screws are designated by a number and
a length.
For example #6 x 3/4"
This is a number six screw that is 3/4" long.
Machine screws are designated by a number , threads per inch, and a length.
For example 4-40 x 3/4"
This is a number four screw that is 3/4" long with forty threads per inch
.
·
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.
·
SHCS is the abbreviation for Socket Head Cap Screw which is a machine screw with a socket head.
·
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.hobbico.com and click on “Technical Data.” Due to manufacturing tolerances which will have little or no effect on the way your model will fly, please expect slight deviations between your model and the published values.
·
To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by
25.4 (25.4mm = 1")
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
Optional Supplies & Tools
Building Supplies
Hardware & Accessories
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED
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 par ts are missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if you need assistance with assembly, contact Product Support.When reporting defective or missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written in the Kit Contents list.
Great Planes Product Support Telephone: (217) 398-8970, ext. 5
3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1 Fax: (217) 398-7721
Champaign, IL 61822 E-mail: airsupport@greatplanes.com
KIT INSPECTION
5
Parts photographed
1. Fuselage
2.Wings
3.Wheels
4. Engine mount
5. 2mm Control rods
6.Wing joiner rods
7. IsoSmooth engine mount
8. 11" x 5" [280 x 127mm] NexSTAR nylon propeller
9. Assembled fuel tank
10. 2-1/2" [64mm] Spinner
11. Nose landing gear
12. 1/4-20 x 2" [51mm] Nylon wing bolt
13. EasyAlign tail bolts
14. CenterCore wing Joiner
15. Fin/Rudder
16. Aluminum main landing gear
17. Stab/elevator
18. SpeedBrakes training flaps
19. Leading Edge Airfoil Extensions
Parts not photographed
4 Nylon clevis 4 Nylon Faslinks 4 Silicone retainers 2 Nylon Aileron Control Horns 4 #4 x 3/4" [19mm] Wood screws 6 #4 x 5/16" [8mm] Machine screws 4 4mm x 3/4" [19mm] Machine screws 4 4mm x 1-1/8" [30mm] Machine screws 4 4mm Nuts 4 4mm Washers 4 4mm Lock washers 2 Nylon control horns 4 #2 x 1/2" [12mm] Wood screws 2 Screw-lock pushrod connector
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2
3
4
6
5 7
8
9 10 11 12
16
13
14
15
19
18
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Replacement parts for the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF are available using the order n umbers in the Replacement Parts List that follows.The fastest, most economical service can be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order company.
To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at
www.hobbico.com. Choose “Where to Buy” at the bottom
of the menu on the left side of the page. Follow the instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian or International dealer. If a hobby shop is not available, replacement parts may also be ordered from Tower Hobbies®at www.towerhobbies.com, or by calling toll free (800) 637-6050.
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®or MasterCard
®
number and expiration date for payment. Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:
Hobby Services
3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign IL 61822
Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed in the Replacement Parts List. Payment by credit card or personal check only; no C.O.D.
If additional assistance is required for any reason contact Product Support by e-mail at:
productsupport@greatplanes.com
or by telephone at (217) 398-8970.
REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST Order Number Description How to purchase
HCAA3736 . . Wing kit . . . . . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3737 . . Spin-Control Airfoil
Extensions/Speed
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3738 . . Fuselage kit
w/o engine mount . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3739 . . Engine mount . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3740 . . IsoSmooth
engine mount . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3741 . . Tail set . . . . . . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3742 . . Landing gear . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3743 . . Decal set . . . . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
HCAA3744 . . NexSTAR nylon
11 x 5 prop . . . . . . . . .Local hobby dealer
Missing pieces . .Contact Product Suppor t
Instruction manualContact Product Suppor t
Full-size plans . . . . . . . . . . . .Not available
This new mount may look like other aluminum engine mounts, but make no mistake, it is unique. The engine mounting lugs are installed in rubber boots that absorb engine vibration to protect your airframe and radio components, increasing their life span. The IsoSmooth engine mount works so well that you should check your propeller for nicks or cracks, because with this mount, you won't feel a thing.
The NexSTAR ARF is equipped with a high speed needle valve extender/limiter to make engine adjustments safer and easier.The extender/limiter has been set at the factory to limit the movement of the high speed needle so that it cannot be adjusted out of the optimum range.This way the engine will always work at its peak performance without the worry of engine damage. The extender/limiter will allow the needle to be set from the leanest desired setting for safe operation (fully clockwise) to the richest desired setting for break in (fully counterclockwise).
Extender/Limiter
IsoSmooth™Engine Mount
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS
6
The wings of most trainers are mounted with rubber bands. This allows for some flexibility in case of a hard landing. Rubber bands work well, but they are just plain ugly and a mess. The PivotFlex Wing Mounting System combines the looks of a bolt-on system with the flexibility of rubber bands. The new system allows the wing to move under sudden loads (such as a wing tip hitting the ground) and will release the wing from the airplane under extreme loads such as a crash—all that while looking great.
The EasyAlign Tail Mounting System aligns the stabilizer with the fuselage and fin while tightening the tail bolts.The tail bolts slide into blocks in the fuselage under the stabilizer. As the tail bolts are tightened, both the fin and stab are aligned and secured while strengthening the aft area of the fuselage.No tools are necessary for installation.
To speed and simplify assembly, the Hobbico NexSTAR ARF comes equipped with the SnapGear Landing Gear. This new gear offers effortless and tool less main landing gear installation. It takes only a few seconds to install the landing gear and it can also be removed from the fuselage in seconds.
The Hobbico NexSTAR ARF uses a three-line fuel line system to simplify fueling and de-fueling.
Three-Line Fuel System
SnapGear™Landing Gear
EasyAlign™Tail Mounting System
PivotFlex™Wing Mounting System
7
The CenterCore wing rib is a nylon part that comes preinstalled onto one of the wing halves.It performs several functions: it aligns the two wing halves; it is a mount for the aileron servo;the incorporated wing dowel holds the wing in place; and it holds and aligns the wing bolt to the PivotFle x
Wing Mounting System. Joining the wing halves and wing installation on the fuselage has never been easier.
These are the extensions that are installed at the leading edge near the tips of the wings. These extensions were developed by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) to help light airplanes prevent stalls and spins during landing approaches. That is exactly what they do for your NexSTAR ARF. They slow down the airplane, increase its stall resistance and prevent it from spinning, all desired characteristics of a trainer airplane. The wing extensions can be remov ed after you become proficient with the NexSTAR ARF, for faster, more aerobatic performance.
The SpeedBrakes Training Flaps were designed to allow your NexSTAR ARF to fly slower, reduce top speed and shorten the landing approach. Thanks to these flaps, your NexSTAR ARF will bleed off speed quickly when the throttle is reduced so that long landing approaches are not necessary. Additionally, the top speed is considerably reduced to make the airplane easier to handle. These SpeedBrakes can also be removed after acquiring some experience with the airplane for faster, more aerobatic performance.
SpeedBrakes™Training Flaps
SpinControl™Airfoil Extensions
CenterCore™Wing Rib
8
For this section you will need:
Note: The following steps show the assembly of the wing using one aileron servo. For a 2-servo installation, please refer to the section “After You Master the NexSTAR in its Original Form” on page 27.
1.Mark a line on the bottom of the wings 1/4" [6mm] from
the end of the tips.
2. Install the Airfoil Extensions on both wings as shown
using 3/4" to 1" [19 to 25mm] heavy duty clear plastic tape.
3.Locate the Spin-Control Airfoil Extension decals on the
decal sheet and apply them to both wings following the scheme on the top of both wings. Also apply the NexSTAR decal on the top of the left or right wing.
4. Install the CenterCore wing rib on the right wing using
two #4 x 3/4" [19mm] screws.
5. Install the aileron ser vo as shown using the hardware
supplied by the manufacturer.
1 Left wing 1 Right wing 2 Airfoil extensions 2 SpeedBrakes training
flaps 1 CenterCore wing rib 1 Steel wing rod 1 Anti-Rotation steel pin 2 Nylon clevises 2 Nylon faslinks 2 Silicone retainers 2 2-56 X 6" [150mm]
pushrods
2 Nylon horns 4 #4 x 3/4" [19mm]
Wood screws
6 #4 x 5/16" [8mm]
Wood screws 1 Standard servo 1 Phillips screwdriver
3/4" to 1" [19 to
25mm] Heavy duty
clear plastic tape
Assemble the Wing
ASSEMBLY
9
6. Install the wing rod and the anti-rotation pin into the
right wing.
7.Carefully slide the left wing all the way onto the rod and
into the CenterCore wing rib until it stops.
8.Use tw o more #4 x 3/4" [19mm] screws to hold the two
wing halves together.
9. Cut and bend a 2mm x 6"[150mm] pushrod to match
the sketch above. Make a left and a right pushrod.
10. Cut a servo arm as shown above and use a Hobbico
Servo Horn Drill (or a #48 or 5/64" [2mm] drill bit) to enlarge the servo arm holes. Install the arm on the servo. Install a clevis and a clevis retainer on the threaded end of the pushrods.Slide the unthreaded end of the pushrod into y our servo arms and install Faslinks to secure them.
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