Phoenix Model Dolphin Instruction Manual

SPECIFICATION

- Wingspan: 1600mm (63 in)

- Length: 1285mm (50.5 in)

- Flying weight: 2800-3200 gr

- Wing area: 40.1 dm2

- Wing loading: 78g/dm2

- Wing type: Naca airfoils

- Covering type: Genuine ORACOVER®

- Spinner size: Plastic 58mm (included)

- Radio: 4 channel minimum (not included)

- Servo: 5 standard servo: 2 aileron; 1 elevator;

1 rudder; 1 throttle (not included)

- Recommended receiver battery:

4.8-6V / 800-1200mAh NiMH (not included)

- Servo mount: 21mm x 42 mm

- Propeller: suit with your engine

- Engine: .46-.55 / 2-stroke or .52/4-stroke

glow engine (not included)

- Motor: brushless outrunner 1000-1400 W,

480 KV (not included)

- Gravity CG: 75 mm (2.9 in) Back from the

leading edge of the wing, at the fuselage

- Control throw Ailerons: Low: 11mm up/down,

10% expo; High: 14mm up/down, 10% expo

- Control throw Elevators: Low: 11mm up/down,

12% expo; High: 14mm up/down, 12% expo

- Control throw Rudder: Low: 25mm right/left,

15% expo; High: 40mm right/left, 15% expo

- Experience level: Intermediate

- Plane type: Low wing sport

RECOMMENDED MOTOR AND BATTERY SET UP

- Motor: RIMFIRE .46-.55 (not included)

- Lipo cell: 6 cells / 4000 – 5500mAh (not included)

- Esc: 50-80A (not included)

We wish you many enjoyable flights with your plane and one again thank you for your choosing a Phoenix Model products.

Instruction Manual

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

1

Thank you for purchasing Phoenix Model products. With over 20 years experience in production and fly testing,

Phoenix Model is committed to bring the best quality products and good service to customers. Along with a team of
creative engineers and skilled workers, we will always accompany with customers by our great experiences, fully
enthusiasm... which will burn our passion!! Joining with us to explore and conquer challenges in the sky ...
Your satisfaction is our success.

Please read through this manual before starting construction.

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Tele. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Academy of Model Aeronautics: 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 fly at most R/C sites.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Or via the Internet at: http://www.modelaircraft.org

....................................................

........................................................

......................................................

............................................

....................................

.....................................................

................................................

................................................

.................................................

.............................

..................................

...................................................

...............................

................................

.............................

...............................................

.......................

...........................

...............................

........................................

..................................

Introduction

Warranty

Disclaimer

Safety precaution

Important building notes

Suggestion

Flight warnings

Flight warnings

Covering tools

Adhesives and required tools

Academy of model aeronautics national

model aircraft safety code

Preparations

Installing the aileron servos

Installing the control horns

Installing the aileron linkages

Wing Assembly

Installing the wing to the fuselage

Horizontal stabilizer installation

Vertical stabilizer installation

Tail wheel installation

Installing the wheel pants

1

2

2

2

2

2

2

3

3

3

3

5

5

6

6

7

8

8

9

10

10

..........................

.........................................

...........................

........................................

............................

...........................

.............................

........................................

.......................

.........................................

...............................................

................................................

.......................

Main gear installation

Installing the main landing gear

Installing the engine

Installing the motor and battery

Fuel tank installation

Servo installation

Installing the fuselage servos

Installing the elevator pushrod

Installing the rudder pushrod

Final assembly

Installing the spinner

Installing the receiver and battery

Installing the switch

Open and close the top hatch

Balancing

Lateral balance

Control throws

Flight preparation pre flight check

11

11

11

12

12

13

14

........................................

Installing the throttle 14

15

15

15

............................

15

......................................................

15

16

16

16

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

2

Phoenix Model guarantees the component parts in
this kit to be free from defects in both material and
workmanship at the date of purchase by the
purchaser.

This warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or
damage due to acts of God, accident, misuse,
abuse, negligence, commercial use, or modification
of or to any part of the Product.
This warranty does not cover damage due to
improper installation, operation, maintenance, or
attempted repair by anyone other than Phoenix
Model.

Further, Phoenix Model reserves the right to change
or modify this warranty without notice.

WARRANTY

Read this disclaimer carefully before using this
product. Please strictly follow the instruction manual
to assemble and use this.

In that Phoenix Model has no control over the final
assembly or material used for final assembly, Phoenix
Model is not responsible for loss of use , or other
incidental or consequential damages.
Furthermore, Phoenix Model cannot be held liable for
personal injury or property damage caused by the
use or misuse of Phoenix Model products. By the
act of using the user-assembled products, the user
accepts all resulting liability.

DISCLAIMER

Please trial fit all the parts. Make sure you have the
correct parts and that they fit and are aligned properly
before gluing! This will assure proper assembly. This
kit is hand made from natural materials, every plane
is unique and minor adjustments may have to be
made. However, you should find the fit superior and
assembly simple.

The painted and plastic parts used in this kit are
fuel proof. However, they are not tolerant of many
harsh chemicals including the following: paint thinner,
C/A glue accelerator, C/A glue debonder and
acetone. Do not let these chemicals come in contact
with the colors on the covering and the plastic parts.

Some parts included in this kit such as the cowl or
wheel pants are made of fiberglass, the fibers of
which may cause eye, skin and respiratory tract
irritation. Never blow into a part to remove fiberglass
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
fiberglass parts. Vacuum the parts and the work area
thoroughly after working with fiberglass parts.

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

To avoid scratching your new airplane, do not
unwrap the pieces until they are needed for
assembly. Cover your workbench with an old towel or
brown paper, both to protect the aircraft and to
protect the table. Keep a couple of jars or bowls
handy to hold the small parts after you open the bag.

SUGGESTION

Always operate in open areas, away from factories,
hospitals, schools, buildings and houses etc.
NEVER fly your aircraft close to people or built up
areas.
NEVER fly near power lines, aerials or other
dangerous areas including airports, motorways etc.
NEVER fly in wet conditions or on windy or stormy
days.
ALWAYS adjust the engine from behind the
propeller, and do not allow any part of your body to
be in line with the propeller.
THE PROPELLER IS DANGEROUS Keep fingers,
clothing (ties, shirt sleeves, scarves) or any other
loose objects that could be caught or drawn in,
away from the propeller. Take care at ALL times.
NEVER use damaged or deformed propellers
or spinners.
Keep all onlookers (especially small children and
animals) well back from the area of operation. This
is a flying aircraft, which will cause serious injury in
case of impact with a person or animal.
DO NOT dispose of empty fuel containers on a fire,
this can lead to an explosion.

FLIGHT WARNINGS

This is not a toy and pilots must be over the age
of 14
Be sure that no other flyers are using your radio
frequency.
Do not smoke near fuel
Store fuel in a cool, dry place, away from children
and pets.
Wear safety glasses.
The glow plug clip must be securely attached to
the glow plug.
Do not flip the propeller with your fingers.
Keep loose clothing and wires away from the
propeller.
Do not start the engine if people are near. Do not
stand in line with the side of the propeller.
Make engine adjustments from behind the propeller
only. Do not reach around the spinning propeller.
Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid
water exposure to all equipment not specifically
designed and protected for this purpose.

SAFETY PRECAUTION

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

3

When ready to fly, first extend the transmitter aerial.
Switch on the transmitter.
Switch on the receiver.
Check that the wings are correctly fitted to the
fuselage.
Operate the control sticks on the transmitter and
check that the control surfaces move freely and in
the CORRECT directions.
Check that the transmitter batteries have adequate
power.
ALWAYS take off into the wind.
If the model does not respond correctly to the
controls, land it as soon as possible and correct the
fault.
ALWAYS land the model INTO the wind, this ensures
that the model lands at the slowest possible speed.
Switch off the receiver.
Switch off the transmitter.
Empty the fuel tank after flying, fuel left in the tank
can cause corrosion and lead to engine problems.

A. GENERAL: A model aircraft is a non-human-carrying aircraft capable of sustained flight in the atmosphere. It may

not exceed limitations of this code and is intended exclusively for sport, recreation, education and/or competition.
All model flights must be conducted in accordance with this safety code and anyadditional rules specific to the
flying site.

1. Model aircraft will not be flown:
(a) In a careless or reckless manner.
(b) At a location where model aircraft activities are prohibited.

2. Model aircraft pilots will:
(a) Yield the right of way to all human-carrying aircraft.
(b) See and avoid all aircraft and a spotter must be used when appropriate. (AMA Document #540-D.)
(c) Not fly higher than approximately 400 feet above ground level within three (3) miles of an airport without notifying

the airport operator.

(d) Not interfere with operations and traffic patterns at any airport, heliport or seaplane base except where there is a

mixed use agreement.

(e) Not exceed a takeoff weight, including fuel, of 55 pounds unless in compliance with the AMA Large Model

Airplane program. (AMA Document 520-A.)

(f) Ensure the aircraft is identified with the name and address or AMA number of the owner on the inside or affixed

to the outside of the model aircraft. (This does not apply to model aircraft flown indoors.)

(g) Not operate aircraft with metal-blade propellers or with gaseous boosts except for helicopters operated under the

provisions of AMA Document #555.

(h) Not operate model aircraft while under the influence of alcohol or while using any drug that could adversely affect

the pilot’s ability to safely control the model.

(i) Not operate model aircraft carrying pyrotechnic devices that explode or burn, or any device which propels a

projectile or drops any object that creates a hazard to persons or property.

Exceptions:

• Free Flight fuses or devices that burn producing smoke and are securely attached to the model aircraft during

flight.

• Rocket motors (using solid propellant) up to a G-series size may be used provided they remain attached to the

model during flight. Model rockets may be flown in accordance with the National Model Rocketry Safety Code
but may not be launched from model aircraft.

Academy of Model Aeronautics National Model Aircraft Safety Code

Effective January 1, 2014

FLIGHT WARNINGS

Thin CA
30-minute epoxy
6-minute epoxy
Threadlocker thread locking cement
Mixing sticks
Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
Epoxy brushes
Denatured alcohol
Canopy Glue
Felt-tipped pen or pencil
Flat screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Drill
Hobby knife
Masking tape
Phillips screwdriver (large)
Phillips screwdriver (small)
Ruler
Sandpaper
Soldering iron
Solder
Hex wrench
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm),
1/8-inch (3,2mm), 3/16-inch (4,8mm),11/64-inch
(4.5mm), 13/64-inch (5,2mm), 1/4-inch (6,4mm)

ADHESIVES AND REQUIRED TOOLS

Top Flite® MonoKote® Sealing Iron
Top Flite Hot Sock Iron Cover
Top Flite MonoKote Trim Seal Iron
Top Flite MonoKote Heat Gun

COVERING TOOLS

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

4

• Officially designated AMA Air Show Teams (AST) are authorized to use devices and practices as defined within

the Team AMA Program Document. (AMA Document #718.)

(j) Not operate a turbine-powered aircraft, unless in compliance with the AMA turbine regulations. (AMA Document

#510-A.)

3. Model aircraft will not be flown in AMA sanctioned events, air shows or model demonstrations unless:
(a) The aircraft, control system and pilot skills have successfully demonstrated all maneuvers intended or anticipated

prior to the specific event.

(b) An inexperienced pilot is assisted by an experienced pilot.

4. When and where required by rule, helmets must be properly worn and fastened. They must be OSHA, DOT,
ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE approved or comply with comparable standards.

B. RADIO CONTROL (RC)

1. All pilots shall avoid flying directly over unprotected people, vessels, vehicles or structures and shall avoid
endangerment of life and property of others.

2. A successful radio equipment ground-range check in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations will be
completed before the first flight of a new or repaired model aircraft.

3. At all flying sites a safety line(s) must be established in front of which all flying takes place. (AMA Document
#706.)

(a) Only personnel associated with flying the model aircraft are allowed at or in front of the safety line.
(b) At air shows or demonstrations, a straight safety line must be established.
(c) An area away from the safety line must be maintained for spectators.
(d) Intentional flying behind the safety line is prohibited.

4. RC model aircraft must use the radio-control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC). Only individuals properly licensed by the FCC are authorized to operate equipment on
Amateur Band frequencies.

5. RC model aircraft will not knowingly operate within three (3) miles of any pre-existing flying site without a
frequency-management agreement. (AMA Documents #922 and #923.)

6. With the exception of events flown under official AMA Competition Regulations, excluding takeoff and landing, no
powered model may be flown outdoors closer than 25 feet to any individual, except for the pilot and the pilot's
helper(s) located at the flightline.

7. Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch an outdoor model aircraft in flight while it is still under
power, except to divert it from striking an individual.

8. RC night flying requires a lighting system providing the pilot with a clear view of the model’s attitude and
orientation at all times. Hand-held illumination systems are inadequate for night flying operations.

9. The pilot of an RC model aircraft shall:

(a) Maintain control during the entire flight, maintaining visual contact without enhancement other than by corrective

lenses prescribed for the pilot.

(b) Fly using the assistance of a camera or First-Person View (FPV) only in accordance with the procedures outlined

in AMA Document #550.

(c) Fly using the assistance of autopilot or stabilization system only in accordance with the procedures outlined in

AMA Document #560.

C. FREE FLIGHT

1. Must be at least 100 feet downwind of spectators and automobile parking when the model aircraft is launched.

2. Launch area must be clear of all individuals except mechanics, officials, and other fliers.

3. An effective device will be used to extinguish any fuse on the model aircraft after the fuse has completed its
function.

D. CONTROL LINE

1. The complete control system (including the safety thong where applicable) must have an inspection and pull test
prior to flying.

2. The pull test will be in accordance with the current Competition Regulations for the applicable model aircraft
category.

3. Model aircraft not fitting a specific category shall use those pull-test requirements as indicated for Control Line
Precision Aerobatics.

4. The flying area must be clear of all utility wires or poles and a model aircraft will not be flown closer than 50 feet
to any above-ground electric utility lines.

5. The flying area must be clear of all nonessential participants and spectators before the engine is started.

5

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

3. Place the servo into the servo tray. Center the
servo within the tray and drill 1,6mm pilot holes
through the block of wood for each of the four
mounting screws provided with the servo.

Remove the covering

2

INSTALLING THE AILERON SERVOS

1. Install the rubber grommets and brass eyelets
onto the aileron servo.

2. Using a modeling knife, remove the covering

from over the pre-cut servo arm exit hole on the
aileron servo tray / hatch. This hole will allow
the servo arm to pass through when installing
the aileron pushrods.

3

6. Repeat step # 2 - # 5 to install the second
aileron servo in the opposite wing half.

5. Place the aileron servo tray / hatch into the
servo box on the bottom of the wing and drill
1,6mm pilot holes through the tray and the
servo box for each of the four mounting screws.
Secure the servo tray in place using the
mounting screws provided ( 2mm x 12mm ).

4. Using the thread as a guide and using masking
tape, tape the servo lead to the end of the
thread: carefully pull the thread out. When you
have pulled the servo lead out, remove the
masking tape and the servo lead from the
thread.

Servo lead

4

5

6

PREPARATIONS

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.

1

6

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

INSTALLING THE CONTROL HORNS

1. One aileron control horn in positioned on each
aileron. Using a ruler and a pen, locate and
mark the location of the control horn. It should
be mounted on the bottom side of the aileron at
the leading edge, in line with the aileron
pushrod.

7

2. Drill two 1.6mm holes through the aileron using
the control horn as a guide and screw the
control horn in place.

9. Repeat step # 4 - # 8 to install the second
aileron linkage. After both linkages are
completed, connect both of the aileron servo
leads using a Y-harness you have purchased
separately.

10

9

3. Repeat step # 1 - # 2 to install the control horn
on the opposite aileron.

6. With the aileron and aileron servo centered,
carefully place a mark on the aileron pushrod
wire where it crosses the hole in the servo arm.

7. Using pliers, carefully make a 90 degree bend
down at the mark made. Cut off the excess
wire, leaving about 4mm beyond the bend.

8. Insert the 90 degree bend down through the
hole in the servo arm. Install one nylon snap
keeper over the wire to secure it to the arm.
Install the servo arm retaining screw and
remove the masking tape from the aileron.

4. Plug the aileron servo into the receiver and
center the servo. Install the servo arm onto the
servo. The servo arm should be perpendicular
to the servo and point toward the middle of the
wing.

5. Center the aileron and hold it in place using a
couple of pieces of masking tape.

2. Attach the clevis to the outer hole in the control
horn.

3. Locate one nylon servo arm, and using wire
cutters, remove all but one of the arms. Using a
2mm drill bit, enlarge the third hole out from the
center of the arm to accommodate the aileron
pushrod wire.

INSTALLING THE AILERON LINKAGES

1. Working with the aileron linkage for now, thread
one nylon clevis at least 14 turns onto one of
the 2mm x 180mm threaded wires.

8

7

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

12

Remover the covering

14

13

Epoxy

4) Insert the dihedral brace into one wing half up
to the centerline. Wipe off any excess epoxy that
may have squeezed out of the joint using paper
towels.

3) When satisfied with the fit of the dihedral
brace in each wing half, remove the brace .Mix
equal amounts of part A and part B 30 minute
epoxy. Coat all sides of the dihedral brace box
and half of the wing brace with the epoxy. Make
sure to cover the top and bottom as well as the
sides. Use enough epoxy to fill any gaps.

2) Test fit the dihedral brace into each wing half.
The brace should slide in easily up to the
centerline you drew. If it does not, use 220 grit
sandpaper with a sanding block and sand down
the edges and ends of the brace until the proper
fit is obtained.

11

Center line

5) Once the epoxy has cured, trial fit both wing
halves together.The center gribs should fit flush
together with little or no gaps existing. If gaps do
exist, use 220 Grit sandpaper and sand down
the high spots on the root ribs and the wing
joiner until the proper fit is obtainer.

6) To protect the covering from the epoxy used
to glue the wing halves together, carefully apply
masking tape around the edge of the root rip on
the top and bottom of each wing half.

7) Mix a generous amount of 30 minute epoxy.
Coat the exposed half of the dihedral brace, the
wing joiner box and both root ribs with epoxy.
Slide the two wing halves together and carefully
align them at the leading and trailing edges.
Wipe away any excess epoxy using paper
towels. Use masking tape wrapped around the
center section to hold the halves in place until
the epoxy cures.

8) When the epoxy has cured, carefully remove
the masking tape from the wing.

9) Peel off the backing from the self adhesive
covering strip used to cover the center section
wing joint seam. Apply the strip to the center
section of the wing on the bottom first, and the
top using the rest of the material.

Wing Assembly

*Note* We highly recommend using 30 Minute
Epoxy over faster curing epoxies for several
reasons. First, slower curing epoxy is stronger. It
also providers more working time, allowing the
builder to properly align the parts. Using fast cure
epoxy when joining the wing halves could result in
the glue drying before the wing halves are aligned
properly, causing damage to the wing assembly.
Also, when joining the wing halves, the entire area
of both center ribs need to be joined completely
with no gaps existing. Not following these steps
carefully, may result in failure of the wing center
section during flight.

1) Locate the wing dihedral brace. Using a ruler,
locate it's center and place a mark. Draw a
vertical line at the mark just made .

Draw a centerline

18

3. Check the fit of the horizontal stabilizer in its
slot. Make sure the horizontal stabilizer is
square and centered to the fuselage by taking
measurements, but don't glue anything yet.

4. With the horizontal stabilizer correctly aligned,
mark the shape of the fuselage on the top and
bottom of the tail plane using a water soluble /
non-permanent felt-tip pen.

5. Remove the stabilizer. Using the lines you just
drew as a guide, carefully remove the covering
from between them using a modeling knife.

!

When cutting through the covering to remove it,

cut with only enough pressure to only cut
through the covering it's self. Cutting into the
balsa structure may weaken it. This could lead
to possible failure during flight.

2. Draw a center line onto the horizontal stabilizer.

6. When you are sure that everything is aligned
correctly, mix up a generous amount of 30
minute epoxy. Apply a thin layer to the top and
bottom of the stabilizer mounting area and to
the stabilizer mounting platform sides in the
fuselage. Slide the stabilizer in place and
re-align. Double check all of your
measurements one more time before the epoxy
cures. Remove any excess epoxy using a
paper towel and rubbing alcohol and hold the
stabilizer in place with T-pins or masking tape.

19

8

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

20

Remove the covering

HORIZONTAL STABILIZER INSTALLATION

1. Using a modeling knife, cut away the covering
from the fuselage for the stabilizer and remove it.

17

Remove the covering

16

plastic Screw

Installing The Wing To The Fuselage

Attach the wings to the fuselage and using the

nylon thumbscrews to secure the wing panels
to the fuselage.

15

Tape

stabilizer mounting area. Apply epoxy to the

lower rudder hinge. Set the stabilizer in place
and re-align. Double check all of your
measurements once more before the epoxy
cures. Remove any excess epoxy using a
paper towel and rubbing alcohol and hold the
stabilizer in place with T-pins or masking tape.
Allow the epoxy to fully cure before proceeding.

7. After the epoxy has fully cured, remove the
masking tape or T-pins used to hold the
stabilizer in place and carefully inspect the glue
joints. Use more epoxy to fill in any gaps that
were not filled previously and clean up the
excess using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol.

9

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

2. Slide the vertical stabilizer into the slot in the
mounting platform in the top of the fuselage.
Mark the shape of the fuselage on the left and
right sides of the vertical stabilizer using a
felt-tip pen.

3. Now, remove the vertical stabilizer and using a
modeling knife, carefully cut just inside the
marked lines and remove the film on both sides
of the vertical stabilizer. Just as you did with the
horizontal stabilizer, make sure you only press
hard enough to cut the film, not the balsa
vertical stabilizer.

4. Slide the vertical stabilizer back in place. Using
a triangle, check to ensure that the vertical
stabilizer is aligned 90 degree to the horizontal
stabilizer.

5. When you are sure that everything is a aligned
correctly, mix up a generous amount of 30
minute epoxy. Apply a thin layer to the slot in

the mounting platform and to the vertical

22

Remove
the covering

23

Remove the covering

VERTICAL STABILIZER INSTALLATION

1. Using a modeling knife, remove the covering on
the top of the fuselage for the vertical stabilizer.

21

Glue with epoxy

24

10

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

Glue with epoxy

25

3. Using a modeling knife, carefully cut out two line
from the margin of the hole onto the wheel pant.

Just cut only one side of the wheel pant, where

the main gear will install. Be sure to make a left
and right wheel pant.

4. Slide a 4.5mm nut/ two 16mm flat washers /

4.5mm nut / collar / wheel / collar onto the axle.

5. Slide the axle assembly into the wheel pant.

There are just one nut and two flat washers

outside of the wheel pant.

6. Remove one nut, one flat washer. Attach the
main landing gear to the axle.

7. Center both collars and wheel in the middle of
the wheel pant, lock both collars in place using
a hexagon 2mm screw.

8. With the landing gear in place, tighten two nuts.

28

TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION

1. Set the tail wheel assembly in place on the
plywood plate.

2.

Drill 2,6mm pilot holes through the plywood plate.

3. Secure the tail wheel bracket in place using two
3mm x 12mm screw.

4. Align the tail wheel wire so that the wire is
parallel with the bottom of the rudder. The
control clasp has a pre-drilled hole through the
top of it. Slide this hole on to the tail wheel wire
while sliding the clasp over the bottom of the
rudder.

!

Cut

27

INSTALLING THE WHEEL PANTS

1. Locate the wheel pants from the hardware bag.
Mark the locations of the mounting axles onto
the wheel pants. The locations of the two
mounting holes are the middle of the wheel
opening, on right side, left side and 10mm from
the bottom of the wheel pant.

2. Using a 5mm drill bit, carefully drill two pilot
holes through the wheel pant at the TWO
marks you made.

16mm flat washer

Screws

26

Clasps

!

After installing the wheel pant, apply a small

drop of thin C/A to the bottom nut.

9. Repeat step # 1-8 to install the second wheel
pant assembly.

11

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

INSTALLING THE MOTOR AND BATTERY

This model can fly with electric, here is our
recommended for set up the system.

- Motor brushless: Rimfire .46 - .55

- Lipo cells: 6 cells / 4000 - 5500 mAh.

- ESC: 50A - 80A.

INSTALLING THE ENGINE

1. Install the engine mount to the fuselage.

2. Locate the long piece of wire used for the throttle
pushrod. One end of the wire has been
pre-bend in to a "Z" bend at the factory. This "Z"
bend should be inserted into the throttle arm of
the engine when the engine is fitted onto the
engine mount. Fit the engine to the engine
mount using the screws provided.

34

35

33

Installing the electric motor

60mm

35mm

16mm

32

31

29

30

MAIN GEAR INSTALLATION
INSTALLING THE MAIN LANDING GEAR

1. Four nuts have been installed at the factory.

2. Install main landing gear into the fuselage using
(4) 4mm x 20mm machine screws and 16mm
flat washers provided in the kit.

Screw

Remove the covering

Screw

Screw

Screw

SERVO INSTALLATION

INSTALLING THE FUSELAGE SERVOS

1. Install the rubber grommets and brass collets
into the elevator, rudder and throttle servos.
Test fit the servos into the servo tray. Trim the
tray if necessary to fit your servos

2. Mount the servos to the tray using the mounting
screws provided with your radio system.

To carburator

To muffler

39

40

Elevator servo

Rudder servo

Throttle servo

38

Zip tie

12

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

36

37

ESC

Battery

FUEL TANK INSTALLATION

1. Assemble the fuel tank.

2. Slide the fuel tank in the fuselage using foam
rubber to cushion the tank, and route the fuel
lines out the hole in the firewall.

Atter confirming the direction (see
front view of fuel tank). Insert and
tighten the screw.

5mm

13

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

43

44

Metal domino

8. Locate one nylon servo arm, and using wire
cutters, remove all but one of the arms. Using a
2mm drill bit, enlarge the third hole out from the
center to accommodate the elevator pushrod
wire.

9. Plug the elevator servo into the receiver and
center the servo. Install the servo arm onto the
servo. The servo arm should be perpendicular
to the servo and point toward the middle of the
fuselage.

10. Connect two elevator purshord to the metal
domino connector and secure it. Insert the wire
pushrod into the metal domino connector and
secure it.

11. With the elevator halves and elevator servo
centered, carefully place a mark on the elevator
pushrod wire where it crosses the hole in the
servo arm.

12. Using pliers, carefully make a 90 degree bend
up at the mark made. Cut off the excess wire,
leaving about 8mm beyond the bend.

13. Insert the 90 degree bend up through the hole
in the servo arm, install one nylon snap keeper
over the wire to secure it to the arm. Install the
servo arm retaining screw and remove the
masking tape the elevator halves.

14. Using thick CA glue, secure the pushrod
sleeves to the pushrod sleeve guide.

7. Attach clevis to the third hole in the control
horn.

3. Working from inside the fuselage, slide the
threaded end of the pushrod until it reaches the
exit slot. Carefully reach in with a small screw
driver and guide the pushrod out of the exit
slot.

4. Install the clevis on the elevator pushrod. Make
sure 6mm of thread shows inside the clevis.

5. The control horn should be mounted on the
bottom, left side and right side of the elevator at
the leading edge, in line with the elevator
pushrod.

6. Drill two holes through the elevator using the
control horn as a guide and screw the control
horn in place.

42

Control horn elevator

41

Remove the covering

INSTALLING THE ELEVATOR PUSHROD

1. Locate the pushrod exit slot on the right side
and left side of the fuselage. It is located
slightly ahead and below the horizontal
stabilizer.

2. Carefully cut away the covering material from
the slot.

14

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

INSTALLING THE RUDDER PUSHROD

1. Locate the pushrod exit slot on the left of the
fuselage.

2. Carefully cut away the covering material from
the slot.

46

8. Locate one nylon servo arm, and using wire
cutters, remove all but one of the arms using a
2mm drill bit, enlarge the third hole out from the
center to accommodate the rudder pushrod wire.

9. Plug the rudder servo into the receiver and
center the servo. Install the servo arm onto the
servo.

10. Center the rudder and hold it in place using a
piece of masking tape.

11. With the rudder and rudder servo centered,
carefully place a mark on the rudder pushrod
wire where it crosses the hole in the servo arm.

12.Using a pliers, carefully make a 90 degree bend
up at the mark made. Cut off excess wire,
leaving about 8mm beyond the bend.

13. Insert the 90 degree bend up through the hole
in the servo arm. Install one nylon snap keeper
over the wire to secure it to the arm. Install the
servo arm retaining screw and remove the
masking tape from the rudder.

14.Using thick CA glue, secure the pushrod
sleeves to the pushrod sleeve guide.

7. Attach clevis to the third hole in the control
horn.

3. Working from inside the fuselage, slide the
threaded end of the remaining pushrod down
the inside of the fuselage until the pushrod
reaches the exit slot. Carefully reach in with a
small screw driver and guide the pushrod out of
the exit slot.

4. Install the clevis on the rudder pushrod. Make
sure 6mm of thread shows inside the clevis.

5. The control horn should be mounted on the left
side of the rudder at the leading edge, in line
with the rudder pushrod.

6. Drill two holes through the rudder using the
control horn as a guide and screw the control
horn in place.

47

48

!

INSTALLING THE THROTTLE

1. Install one adjustable metal connector through
the third hole out from the center of one servo
arm, enlarge the hole in the servo arm using a
2mm drill bit to accommodate the servo
connector. Remove the excess material from
the arm.

After installing the adjustable metal connector

apply a small drop of thin C/A to the bottom
nut. This will prevent the connector from
loosening during flight.

2. Plug the throttle servo into the receiver and turn
on the radio system. Check to ensure that the
throttle servo output shaft is moving in the
correct direction. When the throttle stick is
moved forward from idle to full throttle, the
throttle barrel should also open and close using
this motion. If not, reverse the direction of the
servo, using the transmitter.

45

Remove the covering

Rudder pushrod

3. Secure the switch in place using the two
machine screws provided with the radio system.

INSTALLING THE SWITCH

1. The switch should be mounted on the fuselage
side, opposite the muffler, close enough to the
receiver so the lead will reach. Use the face
plate of the switch cut out and locate the
mounting holes.

2. Cut out the switch hole using a modeling knife.
Use a 2mm drill bit and drill out the two
mounting holes through the fuselage side.

2. Wrap the receiver and battery pack in the
protective foam to protect them from vibration.
Use a rubber band or masking tape to hold the
foam in place.

INSTALLING THE RECEIVER AND BATTERY

1. Plug the servo leads and the switch lead into
the receiver. You may want to plug an aileron
extension into the receiver to make plugging in
the aileron servo lead easier when you are
installing the wing. Plug the battery pack lead
into the switch.

FINAL ASSEMBLY

INSTALLING THE SPINNER

Install the spinner back-plate, propeller and

spinner cone.

The propeller should not touch any part of the

spinner cone. If it dose, use a sharp modeling
knife and carefully trim away the spinner cone
where the propeller comes in contact with it.

!

51

Receiver

Battery

52

Open and close

OPEN AND CLOSE THE TOP HATCH

15

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

3. Slide the adjustable metal connector / servo
arm assembly over the plain end of the
pushrod wire. Position the throttle stick and the
throttle trim at their lowest positions.

4. Manually push the carburator barrel fully
closed. Angle the arm back about 45 degree
from center and attach the servo arm onto the
servo. With the carburator barrel fully closed,
tighte the set screw in the adjustable metal
connector.

5. Remove the excess throttle pushrod wire using
wire cutters and install the servo arm retaining
screw.

49

50

Throttle rod

BALANCING

1. It is critical that your airplane be balanced
correctly. Improper balance will cause your
plane to lose control and crash.

THE CENTER OF GRAVITY IS LOCATED 75mm

BACK FROM THE LEADING EDGE OF THE
WING, AT THE FUSELAGE.

2. Mount the wing to the fuselage. Using a couple
of pieces of masking tape, place them on the
top side of the wing 75mm back from the
leading edge, at the fuselage sides.

16

DOLPHIN

Instruction Manual

Ailerons : 11mm up 11mm down
Elevator : 11mm up 11mm down
Rudder : 25mm right 25mm left

Ailerons : 14mm up 14mm down
Elevator : 14mm up 14mm down
Rudder : 40mm right 40mm left

!

3. If the nose of the plane falls, the plane is heavy
nose. To correct this first move the battery
pack further back in the fuselage. If this is not
possible or does not correct it, stick small
amounts of lead weight on the fuselage under
the horizontal stabilizer. If the tail of the plane
falls, the plane is tail heavy. To correct this,
move the battery and receiver forward or if this
is not possible, stick weight into the firewall.
When balanced correctly, the airplane should
sit level or slightly nose down when you lift it
up with your fingers.

LATERAL BALANCE

After you have balanced a plane on the C.G.

You should laterally balance it. Doing this will
help the airplane track straighter.

1. Turn the airplane upside down. Attach one loop
of heavy string to the engine crankshaft and
one to the tail wheel wire. With the wings level,
carefully lift the airplane by the string. This may
require two people to make it easier.

2. If one side of the wing fall, that side is heavier
than the opposite. Add small amounts of lead
weight to the bottom side of the lighter wing
half's wing tip. Follow this procedure until the
wing stays level when you lift the airplane.

75mm

FLIGHT PREPARATION PRE FLIGHT CHECK

1. Completely charge your transmitter and receiver
batteries before your first day of flying.

2. Check every bolt and every glue joint in your
plane to ensure that everything is tight and well
bonded.

3. Double check the balance of the airplane

4. Check the control surface

5. Check the receiver antenna . It should be fully
extended and not coiled up inside the fuselage.

6. Properly balance the propeller.

Elevator Control

Aileron Control

CONTROL THROWS

1. We highly recommend setting up a plane using
the control throws listed.

2. The control throws should be measured at the
widest point of each control surface.

3. Check to be sure the control surfaces move in the
correct directions.

11mm

11mm

Rudder Control

25mm

25mm

11mm

11mm

HIGH RATE

LOW RATE

I/C FLIGHT WARNINGS

Always operate in open areas, away
from factories, hospitals, schools,
buildings and houses etc. NEVER fly
your aircraft close to people or built
up areas.

THE PROPELLER IS DANGEROUS
Keep fingers, clothing (ties, shirt
sleeves, scarves) or any other loose
objects that could be caught or drawn
in, away from the propeller. Take care
at ALL times.

Keep all onlookers (especially small
children and animals) well back from
the area of operation. This is a flying
aircraft, which will cause serious
injury in case of impact with a person
or animal.

NEVER fly near power lines, aerials
or other dangerous areas including
airports, motorways etc.

NEVER use damaged or deformed
propellers or spinners.

DO NOT dispose of empty fuel
containers on a fire, this can lead to
an explosion.

NEVER fly in wet conditions or on
windy or stormy days.

ALWAYS adjust the engine from
behind the propeller, and do not allow
any part of your body to be in line
with the propeller.

I/C FLIGHT GUIDELINES

When ready to fly, first extend the
transmitter aerial.

Operate the control sticks on the
transmitter and check that the control
surfaces move freely and in the
CORRECT directions.

ALWAYS land the model INTO the
wind, this ensures that the model lands
at the slowest possible speed.

Switch on the transmitter.

Switch off the transmitter.

Check that the transmitter batteries
have adequate power.

Switch off the receiver.

Switch on the receiver.

ALWAYS take off into the wind.

Check that the wings are correctly
fitted to the fuselage.

If the model does not respond correctly
to the controls, land it as soon as
possible and correct the fault.

Empty the fuel tank after flying, fuel left
in the tank can cause corrosion and
lead to engine problems.