Top Flite A0704 INSTRUCTION BOOK

Top Flite Models Champaign, IL

Ph: [phone], Ext. 5

Fax: [phone]

[e-mail]

™

WARRANTY

Top Flite® Model Manufacturing Co. guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both material and

workmanship at the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover any component parts damaged by use

or modification. In no case shall Top Flite’s liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit.

SPECIFICATIONS

Wingspan:

Wing Area: 1376 sq in [88.8 dm

86.5 in [2195mm]

2

]

Further, Top Flite reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without notice.

In that Top Flite has no control over the final assembly or material used for final assembly, no liability shall be

Weight:

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:

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1
Champaign IL 61822 USA

Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as much contact information as possible (daytime

Wing

Loading:

Length: 70 in [1780mm]

Radio: 7 channel minimum,

Engine: 3.0– 4.0 cu in

telephone number, fax number, e-mail address), a detailed description of the problem and a photocopy of the
purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the package the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible.

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

Entire Contents © 2011 Hobbico,® Inc. TOPA0704 Mnl

23– 25 lb
[10430–11340 g]

39– 42 oz/sq ft
[119–128 g/dm

10 channel is preferred

[50–55cc] two-stroke
gasoline engine

2

]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

Academy of Model Aeronautics . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

IMAA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Scale Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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

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

Engine Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Retractable Landing Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

Required Hardware & Accessories . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

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

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

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

PREPARATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Airplane Stand & Protective Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

ASSEMBLE THE WING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

INSTALL THE MAIN LANDING GEAR . . . . . . . . . . 9

FINAL WING ASSEMBL Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

. . . . . . . . . . . 3

INTRODUCTION

Of all of the warbirds ever manufactured, none has
risen to the level of the Corsair. The Corsair may be the
most recognized airplane of WWII and is certainly one
of the most unusual looking airplanes to come off the
production line. Top Flite is proud to release this classic
warbird in an easy to assemble ARF.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections
to the Corsair visit the Top Flite web site at
www.top-fl ite.com. Open the “Airplanes” link and then
select the Giant Corsair 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.

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 fl y at most R/C sites.

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Install the Rudder & Stab/Elevator. . . . . . . . . . 15

Install the Tail Wheel Asssembly . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Installing the Fixed Tail Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Installing the Retractable Tail Wheel . . . . . . . . 19

Install the Tail Wheel Doors (Optional) . . . . . . . 20

Install the Tail Cone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Install the Elevator & Rudder Servos . . . . . . . . 22

Install the Air Control System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Install the Engine, Throttle Servo

& Choke Servo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Install the Cowl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Install the Fuel Tank & Ignition Module . . . . . . 35

Install the Receiver, Battery & Complete the

Radio Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

INSTALL THE COCKPIT, PILOT & CANOPY . . . . 39

FINISHING TOUCHES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Finish the Cowl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Apply the Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Ph. [phone] Or via the Internet at:

Fax [phone] http://www.modelaircraft.org

IMPORTANT!!! Two of the most important things you

can do to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby
are to avoid fl ying near full-scale aircraft and avoid
fl ying near or over groups of people.

IMAA

The Top Flite Corsair is an excellent sport-scale model

and is eligible to fly in IMAA events. The IMAA
(International Miniature Aircraft Association) is an
organization that promotes non-competitive fl ying of
giant-scale models. If you plan to attend an IMAA event,

obtain a copy of the IMAA Safety Code by contacting
the IMAA at the address or telephone number below,

2

Check the Control Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Set the Control Throws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Balance the Model (C.G.). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Balance the Model Laterally. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

PREFLIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Identify Your Model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Balance Propellers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Ground Check & Range Check . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Radio Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Fuel Mixture Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

DLE MOUNTING PATTERN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

or by logging on to their web site at: www.fl y-imaa.org/

imaa/sanction.html.

IMAA

205 S. Hilldale Road
Salina, KS 67401

[phone]

SCALE COMPETITION

Though the Top Flite Corsair is an ARF and may not

have the same level of detail as an “all-out” scratch-built
competition model, it is a scale model nonetheless

and is therefore eligible to compete in the Fun Scale

class in AMA competition (we receive many favorable
reports of Top Flite ARFs in scale competition!). In Fun
Scale, the “builder of the model” rule does not apply. To
receive the fi ve points for scale documentation, the only
proof required that a full size aircraft of this type in this
paint/markings scheme did exist is a single sheet such
as a kit box cover from a plastic model, a photo, or a
profi le painting, etc. If the photo is in black and white

other written documentation of color must be provided.
Contact the AMA for a rule book with full details.

If you would like photos of the full-size Corsair for scale
documentation, or if you would like to study the photos to
add more scale details, photo packs are available from:

Bob’s Aircraft Documentation

3114 Yukon Ave Ph: [phone]
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Fax: [phone]

e-mail: www.bobsairdoc.com

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

PROTECT Y OUR MODEL, Y OURSELF AND

OTHERS... FOLLOW THESE IMPORTANT SAFETY

PRECAUTIONS

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

2. You must assemble the model according to the
instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as

doing so may result in an unsafe or unfl yable model.
In a few cases the instructions may differ slightly from
the photos. In those instances the written instructions
should be considered as correct.

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

4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in good
condition, a correctly sized engine, and other components
as specifi ed in this instruction manual. All components
must be correctly installed so that the model operates
correctly on the ground and in the air. You must check
the operation of the model and all components before

every fl ight.

5. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not fl own
this type of model before, we recommend that you get
the assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club
for your fi rst fl ights. If you’re not a member of a club, your
local hobby shop has information about clubs in your
area whose membership includes experienced pilots.

6. While this kit has been fl ight tested to exceed normal
use, if the plane will be used for extremely high stress
fl ying, such as racing, or if an engine larger than one

in the recommended range is used, the modeler is

responsible for taking steps to reinforce the high stress

points and/or substituting hardware more suitable for

the increased stress.

7. WARNING: The cowl and other misc. parts included

in this kit are made of fi berglass, the fi bers of which may

cause eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow

into a part to remove fi berglass dust, as the dust will
blow back into your eyes. Always wear safety goggles, a

particle mask and rubber gloves when grinding, drilling
and sanding fi berglass parts. Vacuum the parts and the
work area thoroughly after working with fi berglass parts.

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

REMEMBER: Take your time and follow the

instructions to end up with a well-built model that

is straight and true.

DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE

This is a partial list of items required to fi nish the

Corsair that may require planning or decision making

before starting to build. Order numbers are provided

in parentheses.

RADIO EQUIPMENT

The radio equipment and number of channels required

to fl y the Top Flite Giant Corsair ARF depends on the
capabilities of your transmitter and how the servos will

be connected.

The Giant Corsair ARF requires a servo to operate the

air control valve, throttle servo, two fl ap servos, two
aileron servos, two elevator servos and a rudder servo.

3

Servos with a minimum of 99 oz-in of torque are required
for operating the elevators, rudder, ailerons and fl aps.
We recommend that metal geared servos also be used.
Standard servos may be used for the throttle and choke
(the servo operated choke is optional) and a standard
servo is required to operate the retract air valve. The
following items were used in the testing of this model.

❍ Futaba

on all of the control surfaces as well as the tail
wheel steering.

❍ Futaba S3304 (FUTM0027) servos were used on

the throttle, choke (optional) and the retract valve.

❍ Futaba R6014HS (FUTL7645) 14-channel 2.4 GHz

FASST™ Receiver. (A 7-channel receiver is the
minimum number of channels you may use. This will
not allow for the use of the optional choke servo).

A receiver battery with a minimum of 1,000mAh is
recommended. 3,000mAh would be optimal for fl ying
the Giant Corsair ARF. The battery voltage should
be checked before every fl ight to be certain it has
enough “charge”.

In addition to the servos, the following items (or similar
items) are also required. The following items were used
in the testing of this model. The order numbers shown
in parentheses are for Futaba servos.

NOTE: The length and quantity of servo extensions and

Y-connectors may vary depending on the brand of radio

you are using and the radio installation.

❍ 4 - 24" [610mm] Pro Series Heavy Duty Servo

Extensions (HCAM2721) for the ailerons and fl aps

❍ 2 - 6" [152mm] Pro Series Heavy Duty Servo

Extensions (HCAM2701)

Depending on your choice of receiver and the
number of channels you will be using you may have
to use a “Y” harnesses on the aileron, flaps and
elevator. (FUTM4130)

❍ 1500mAh NiCd receiver battery or equivalent

(FUTM1285).

❍ 2 - Heavy duty switch harness (FUTM4385).

❍ 2 - Earnst Charge Receptacle (ERNM3001).

❍ 2 -1" Servo arms (FUTM2120)

®

S3305 (FUTM0045) servos were used

ENGINE RECOMMENDATIONS

The recommended engine size range for the Corsair is

3.0 – 4.0 cu in [50–55cc] two-stroke gasoline engine.
All of our testing was completed with the DLE 55
(DLEG0055) and the J’TEC Pitts Style Wraparound

Muffl er (JTCG1035). Another good choice would be
the O.S. GT55 (OSMG1555). Remember that this is a
scale model that is intended to fl y at scale-like speeds,
so throttle management should be practiced.

NOTE: Instructions for mounting every possible engine

cannot be incorporated into this manual. Modelers using
other engines should refer to this instruction manual
as a guide for mounting their engine in a similar way.

RETRACTABLE LANDING GEAR

The Top Flite Giant Corsair ARF requires the use of

retractable landing gear. This model is designed for
Robart pneumatic retracts. Following is the complete
list of items required to install the Robart retracts:

❍ Robart Main Gear for the Top Flite Giant F4U

Corsair (ROBQ1655)

❍ Robart Fork Pneumatic Retract Tail Wheel

(ROBQ2230)

❍ Robart Large Scale Deluxe Air Control Kit

(ROBQ2305)

❍ Robart High Pressure Air Tubing 10' (ROBQ2369)

NOTE: An air pump will also be required to pressurize

the air tank. The Robart hand pump could be used but
is not practical because of the large capacity of the
air tank in this model. A small, 12V electric pump is
recommended and can be purchased at an automotive
or hardware store.

ADDITIONAL LANDING GEAR OPTION

Just as we were putting this manual together Robart

introduced a new electric retract option. This will drop
into the same opening as the pneumatic landing
gear. For more information on these turn to page 46
of this manual.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

REQUIRED HARDWARE & ACCESSORIES

This is the list of hardware and accessories required

to finish the Corsair. Order numbers are provided

in parentheses.

❍ R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] - HCAQ1000, or 1/2"

[13mm] - HCAQ1050)

❍ 1" [25 mm] Servo Arm
(FUTM2120 for Futaba servos)

❍ 3' [900mm] gasoline fuel tubing (GPMQ4135)
❍ 1 oz. [30g] Thin Pro™ CA (GPMR6002)
❍ 1 oz. [30g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6008)
❍ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)
❍ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)
❍ Silver solder w/fl ux (STAR2000)
❍ Hobbico® Soldering Iron 60 Watt (HCAR0776)
❍ #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❍ #11 blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❍ R/C-56 canopy glue (JOZR5007)
❍ Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)
❍ Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❍ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❍ Masking tape (TOPR8018)
❍ Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060)
❍ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❍ Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❍ Rotary tool such as Dremel
❍ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200)
❍ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 1/8" [3.2mm], 5/32" 4mm,

5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.4mm], 7/64" [2.8mm}, 3/16"
[4.8mm, 1/4" [6.4mm].

OPTIONAL SUPPLIES AND TOOLS

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual
that will help you build the Corsair.

❍ 21st Century® sealing iron (COVR2700)

❍ 21st Century iron cover (COVR2702)

❍ 2 oz. [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035)

®

4

❍ 4 oz. [113g] aerosol CA activator (GPMR634)

❍ Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)

❍ Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)

❍ Mixing cups (GPMR8056)

❍ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)

❍ Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)

❍ Rotary tool such as Dremel

❍ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

● There are three types of screws used in this kit:

Sheet Metal Screws are designated by a number
and a length. For example #6  3/4" [19mm].

This is a number six screw

that is 3/4" [19mm] long.

Machine Screws are designated by a number,
threads per inch, and a length. For example

4-40  3/4" [19mm].

This is a number four screw

that is 3/4" [19mm] long with

forty threads per inch.

Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are designated
by a number, threads per inch, and a length. For
example 4-40  3/4" [19mm].

This is a 4-40 SHCS that is

3/4" [19mm] long with forty

threads per inch

● When you see the term test fi t in the instructions,

it means that you should fi rst position the part on

the assembly without using any glue, then slightly
modify or custom fi t the part as necessary for the

best fi t.

● Whenever the term glue is written you should rely

upon your experience to decide what type of glue to
use. When a specifi c type of adhesive works best for
that step, the instructions will make a recommendation.

● Whenever just epoxy is specifi ed you may use

either 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or 6-minute

epoxy. When 30-minute epoxy is specifi ed it is

highly recommended that you use only 30-minute

(or 45-minute) epoxy, because you will need the
working time and/or the additional strength.

● Photos and sketches are placed before the step

they refer to. Frequently you can study photos in
following steps to get another view of the same parts.

● The Corsair is factory-covered with Top Flite

MonoKote® fi lm. Should repairs ever be required,
MonoKote can be patched with additional MonoKote
purchased separately. MonoKote is packaged in six­foot rolls, but some hobby shops also sell it by the
foot. If only a small piece of MonoKote is needed
for a minor patch, perhaps a fellow modeler would
give you some. MonoKote is applied with a model
airplane covering iron, but in an emergency a regular
iron could be used. A roll of MonoKote includes full
instructions for application. Following are the colors
used on this model and order numbers for six foot rolls.

Flat Insignia Blue (TOPQ0507)

KIT INSPECTION

Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to
make sure it is complete, and inspect the parts to make
sure they are of acceptable quality. If any parts are
missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if you need

assistance with assembly, contact Product Support.

When reporting defective or missing parts, use the part

names exactly as they are written in the Kit Contents list.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Top Flite web

site at www.top-fl ite.com. Select “Where to Buy” in
the menu across the top of the page and follow the

instructions provided to locate a U.S., Canadian or

International dealer.

Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services

by calling [phone], or via facsimile at (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 Hobby Services

and payments by 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
personal check to: 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 or by telephone at

productsupport@top-fl ite.com [phone]

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Order No. Description

TOPA1850

TOPA1851

TOPA1852

TOPA1853

TOPA1854

TOPA1855

TOPA1856

TOPA1857

TOPA1858

TOPA1859

TOPA1860

TOPA1861

Wing Kit

Fuse Kit

Tail Set

Cowl

Canopy

Spinner

Cockpit kit

Landing gear covers

Tail cover

Dummy engine

Decal Sheet

Fiberglass parts set

Top Flite Product Support

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822

Ph: [phone], ext. 5 Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Top Flite Giant Scale Corsair

ARF are available using the order numbers in the

Replacement Parts List that follows. The fastest, most

economical service can be provided by your hobby
dealer or mail-order company.

5

PREPARATIONS

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

❏

parts of the kit from the box and inspect for damage.
If any parts are damaged or missing, contact Product

Support at the address or telephone number listed in

the “Kit Inspection” section on page 5.

2. Use a covering iron with a covering sock on high

❏

heat to tighten the covering if necessary. Do this for all
of the components of the model. Apply pressure over

sheeted areas to thoroughly bond the covering to the

wood. Refer to the separate instruction sheet titled

How To Tighten Covering On ARF Models. Follow the

instructions to tighten the covering. If you prefer to get
started on assembly right away, the tightening process
could be done later (but it is usually easiest to do while
the model is still in separate pieces).

3. Pull on all control surfaces to be sure all hinges

❏

are securely glued in place.

The foam stand is also a great aid when installing the

wing to the fuselage at the airfi eld. To assemble the
stand, slide the two plastic tubes into the foam cradles.
One side of the cradle fi ts the fuselage.

The foam pad can be used on your workbench to provide

cushioning for the components when working with them
on your workbench.

ASSEMBLE THE WING

Note: Throughout this instruction manual you will be
instructed to use screws to secure different parts. In
all cases, whenever a screw is threaded into wood

sheeting or wood blocks, w e recommend that you install
the screw and then remove it. Apply a drop of thin CA
glue into the hole to harden the threads. After the glue
has hardened, re-install the screw. Following this step
will insure that you have a solid thread for your screws.

When the riser is added it offers protection to the fi n/
rudder from the bench.

AIRPLANE STAND AND PROTECTIVE PAD

Your kit includes a foam stand and a protective pad to

help prevent “hangar rash” during the assembly process.

The other side of the cradle matches the contour of the

wing, allowing the cradle to be used for a wing holder.

6

1. Begin with your right wing panel fi rst so your

❏ ❏

assembly matches the photos in the manual. Cut three
arms from a servo horn, leaving a single servo arm.

The distance from the center of the arm to the outer

hole should be approximately 3/4" [19mm]. Center the
servo and install the arm as shown. Install the rubber
grommets and eyelets on the servo.

2. Remove the aileron servo cover from the

❏ ❏

bottom of the wing. Place your servo between the servo
mounting blocks located on the bottom of the cover. Drill
a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole through each of the servo mounting
holes into the hardwood block. Install the servo to the

servo cover with the screws included with your servo.
Attach a 6" [152mm] servo extension to the servo lead.
Secure the lead with heat shrink tubing, tape or some

other method to assure the leads stay connected.

3. On the other side of the servo cover drill a 1/6"

❏ ❏

[1.6mm] hole through the servo cover and into each

of the hardwood blocks. Secure the block to the cover

with a #2  3/8" [9.5mm] wood screw in each of the

holes you drilled.

4. With another servo, center the servo and install

❏ ❏

a 1" [25mm] servo arm (FUTM2120 for Futaba servos).
Remove the fl ap servo cover from the wing and install
the servo using the same technique used for the aileron.
Be sure to install the #2  3/8" [9.5mm] wood screw in
each of the holes you drilled.

5. There is a string that goes through the wing and

❏ ❏

is attached to the root rib of the wing panel. If needed,
tie the aileron servo lead to the string and then pull the
lead through the wing. (Since you are passing the lead
through a very short distance in the wing you probably
do not need to use the string). Secure the aileron servo
cover with four #2 X 3/8" [9.5mm] screws and four #2
fl at washers.

6. Using a fi ne tip marker draw a line from the

❏ ❏

servo arm toward the aileron. Under the skin of the
aileron there is a plywood plate. Place a large black
nylon control horn onto the aileron so that the horn is
in line with the line you have drawn. Holes in the horn
should be positioned over the hinge line.

7

7. Drill a 3/32" [2.4mm] hole through each of the

❏ ❏

mounting holes in the control horn, drilling into the

plywood plate. Do not drill through the top of the aileron.

Secure the control horn with four #4  1/2" [13mm]

screws. (Be sure you install the screw and then remove it.

Apply a drop of thin CA glue into the holes as instructed
at the beginning of this section of the manual).

8. On the threaded end of a 4-40  5-3/4" [146mm]

❏ ❏

wire install a 4-40 nut, silicone clevis keeper and

threaded clevis. Install the clevis into the second hole

from the end of the clevis. Install a 4-40 solder clevis

into the outer hole of the servo horn. Be sure the servo

and the aileron are centered. Make a mark on the wire

where it passes through the solder clevis. Cut the wire

on that mark. Remove the clevises and wire from the

control horn and servo arm. Solder the solder clevis to

the wire. If you are not familiar with solder techniques

use the method in the “Hot Tip” that follows this step.

HOW T O SOLDER

1. Use denatured alcohol or other solvent to
thoroughly clean the pushrod. Roughen the end of
the pushrod with coarse sandpaper where it is to be
soldered.

2. Apply a few drops of soldering fl ux to the end of
the pushrod, then use a soldering iron or a torch
to heat it. “Tin” the heated area with silver solder
by applying the solder to the end. The heat of the
pushrod should melt the solder – not the fl ame of
the torch or soldering iron – thus allowing the solder
to fl ow. The end of the wire should be coated with
solder all the way around.

3. Place the clevis on the end of the pushrod. Add
another drop of fl ux, then heat and add solder. The
same as before, the heat of the parts being soldered
should melt the solder, thus allowing it to fl ow. Allow
the joint to cool naturally without disturbing. Avoid
excess blobs, but make certain the joint is thoroughly
soldered. The solder should be shiny, not rough. If
necessary, reheat the joint and allow to cool.

4. Immediately after the solder has solidifi ed, but
while it is still hot, use a cloth to quickly wipe off

the fl ux before it hardens. Important: After the joint
cools, coat the joint with oil to prevent rust. Note: Do

not use the acid fl ux that comes with silver solder for
electrical soldering.

This is what a properly soldered clevis looks like
– shiny solder with good flow, no blobs and flux
removed.

8

9. Install the pushrod assembly to the servo arm

❏ ❏

and the clevis. Be sure to install a silicone clevis keeper
onto both clevises.

10. The photo above shows how the clevis has

❏ ❏

been modifi ed for installation in the next step. Use a
sanding bar or moto-tool with a sanding drum to remove
the material on the top 1/4" [6mm] of the clevis. The
clevis needs to be even in this area on both sides of
the clevis.

Did You Know?…Did You Know?…

Early in the Pacifi c W ar , US Navy and Marine Corps
fi ghter pilots found themselves outclassed by the

agile and well-armed Japanese A6M Zero, but even

then work was underway to pro vide them with better

aircraft. One of those better air craft was the Vought

“F4U Corsair”, a rugged, powerful, and somewhat

unforgiving aircraft that featured a distinctive

inverted gull wing.

11. Install another control horn on the fl ap using

❏ ❏

the same technique used for the aileron. NOTE: The

fl ap control horn should be installed as shown here.
This gives a better mechanical advantage to the servo

for operating the fl aps.

12. Install the fl ap servo cover, securing it with four

❏ ❏

#2  3/8" [9.5mm] screws and #2 fl at washers

13. Position the fl ap to its fully retracted position

❏ ❏

and position the servo arm so that it is rotated back

towards the trailing edge of the wing. Make the fl ap

pushrod wire assembly using the same techniques used

for the ailerons in step #8. When you have completed

the pushrod assembly install the pushrod to the fl ap

control horn and the servo arm as in step 9.

INSTALL THE MAIN LANDING GEAR

Note: Just a reminder, whenever a screw is threaded

into wood sheeting or wood blocks w e recommend that

you install the screw and then remov e it. Apply a drop of

thin CA glue into the hole to harden the threads. After
the glue has hardened, re-install the screw.

1. Before beginning your installation you need to

❏ ❏

determine which of the landing gear is the right and

left. When installing the landing gear the longer half of
the landing gear foot should be towards the outer end
of the wing center section. Start with the installation of
the left landing gear (as viewed from the top rear) so
your work matches the photos shown here.

2. Cut two pieces of differently colored air line 30"

❏ ❏

[762mm] in length. Using masking tape, tightly tape
the two lines together. Taped inside the wing is a string.
Securely tie the string around the end of one of the air
lines below the masking tape.

3. Pull the string forward toward the end of the two

❏ ❏

air lines. Tape the string to the air line, keeping the string
as close to the center of the two air lines as possible. It
is a tight fi t to pull the air line through the wing so the
closer you can keep the string to the center of the two
air lines the easier it will be to pull them through the wing.

14. Repeat steps 1-13 for the left wing panel.

❏

9

4. On the top of the wing center section there is

❏ ❏

a hole located at the front of the wing where you will
fi nd a string attached. Gently pull the string that the

air line is attached to, pulling the air line out of the hole.

Do not pull too hard causing the string to break! If

the lines get caught on a rib while pulling the air line
through the wing, pull the air line and string back out,
re-position where the string is taped to the lines and
try pulling the line through again. Should you break the
string it will be very diffi cult to feed a new string into the
wing. Tape the air line to the top of the wing to prevent
the lines from falling back into the wing.

5. Repeat this for the left side of the wing.

❏

6. Install each of the two air lines onto the air in /

❏ ❏

out ports on the air cylinder. Make note of which color
air line you install on each so that you install them the
same way when installing the remaining landing gear.

7. Place the landing gear on the landing gear rails.

❏ ❏

Manually move the landing gear leg up and down. You
will see that the air cylinder moves forward and aft when
the leg moves. The landing gear is properly positioned
on the rails when you can move the landing gear leg
up and down without the air line being pinched at the
back of the cylinder against the wing spar.

8. Double check your placement of the landing

❏ ❏

gear on the rails, then use a 1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit to
drill a pilot hole through each of the mounting holes in
the landing gear mounting plates and into the hardwood
mounting rails.

10

9. Using the pilot holes you drilled as your guide,

❏ ❏

drill a 7/64" [2.8mm] hole through each of the pilot holes
and into the hardwood rails. Secure the landing gear to
the mounting rails with four #6  1/2" [13 mm] screws.

11. Position the nylon landing gear door mounts

❏ ❏

on the back of the landing gear door, centering the
mounts on the door and the holes you drilled. Now that
you know where to place the mounts, tack glue the
mounts to the door with CA glue. Once the glue has
hardened turn the door over and drill a 1/16" [1.6mm]
hole through each of the holes you drilled and into the
nylon mounts. Attach the mounts to the door with four
#2  3/8" [9.5 mm] wood screws.

13. Locate the door cover. Drill a 3/32" [2.4mm]

❏ ❏

hole in each corner of the cover. Keep the holes as
close to the corners as possible.

14. Place the door cover over the opening for the

❏ ❏

landing gear. Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes through the holes
in the door cover and into the wing. Secure the cover
with four #2  3/8" [9.5 mm] wood screws. Be sure to
apply some thin CA into the holes to harden the threads.

10. Locate two of the nylon landing gear door

❏ ❏

mounts and the right landing gear door. Drill a 3/32"
[2.4mm] hole centered through each of the four molded
recesses in the door.

12. Snap the doors onto the leg of the landing

❏ ❏

gear. To adjust the fi nal position of the doors slide the

door up or down on the landing gear.

11

You now have a decision to make in completing the

installation of the landing gear. We have provided scale
inner doors for the more scale minded modeler. Because
of the costs and extra skill required for this we have
not engineered the installation of the doors as part of
the assembly process. We have provided the doors so
if you choose to have functional doors you will have
something to work with. If you will not be installing the
doors move on to step 15.

16. Using the axle and hardware that came with

❏ ❏

the retractable landing gear, install the wheel to the

landing gear. The center hub of the wheel may need
to be opened slightly. If your axle is a bit snug open the
wheel hub with a 1/4" [25mm] drill bit. Be sure you use
thread locker on the axle and axle nut.

FINAL WING ASSEMBL Y

1. Locate two nylon pins.

❏ ❏

Test fi t the pins into the holes

in the leading edge of the
wing. When you are satisfi ed
with the fi t, apply epoxy to the
ribbed end of the pins and into
the holes in the wing.

Insert the pins into the holes leaving approximately 1/2"
[13mm] of the pin extending from the leading edge of
the wing.

15. Locate four 3/8"  3/8"  1/4" wood blocks.

❏ ❏

Glue them fl ush with the surface of the wing over the

openings in the wheel well. (Do not be concerned about

the pre-drilled holes that you will cover . These holes are
for hinges if you would be installing doors). You may

need to slightly trim the block to get a good fi t.

17. Lower the landing gear so the wheel is in the

❏ ❏

wheel well. Place a wheel well cover over the opening
and center the cover over the wheel and the four wood

blocks you glued in place. Be sure the wheel can be
raised and lowered without touching the cover. Drill six

1/16" [1.6 mm] holes through the cover and into the four

wood blocks and the wing at the location shown in the

photo. Secure the cover to the wing with six #2  3/8"
[9.5 mm] screws and #2 fl at washers.

18. Repeat steps 6 – 17 for the left landing gear.

❏

12

2. Cut the four air lines approximately 3" [76mm]

❏ ❏

outside of the hole in the wing. Install a “T” fi tting to the
two pink colored lines and a “T” fi tting to the two purple
lines. Install a pink and purple extension of approximately
6" [152mm] onto each of the “T’s” and then install an
air line coupler to the end of each line.

4. Tape the leads to the wing to prevent them from

❏ ❏

dropping back into the wing.

5. Glue a nylon pin into the forward hole in the root

❏ ❏

rib of the wing center section. The pin should extend
approximately 1/2" [13 mm] from the rib. Do this on both
sides of the wing center section.

3. On the top center rear of the wing is a hole with

❏ ❏

a string taped. The opposite end of the string is taped
to the root rib of the wing. Tie two 24" [610mm] servo
extensions to the string and pull them through the wing.
Do this for both the left and right side of the wing.

13

6. Locate one of the carbon fi ber tubes with a

❏ ❏

nylon insert and a pre-drilled hole in one end. The
hole is pre-tapped. Insert and then remove a 4-40  1"
[25 mm] socket head cap screw into the hole to check
that the tapped hole and bolt fi t well.

7. On the top of the wing towards the trailing edge

❏ ❏

of the wing is a pre-drilled and tapped hole. Insert and
then remove a 4- 40  1" [25 mm] socket head cap
screw into the hole to check that the tapped hole and
bolt fi t well.

9. In the rear hole in the top of the wing, insert a

❏ ❏

ball wrench that is small enough to fi t through the hole.
A 2-56 wrench works well for this. Insert the end of the
carbon tube with the tapped hole into the hole, sliding it

in until it contacts the wrench. Raise the wrench a little
until the tube is able to be inserted further into the wing.
Use the wrench to locate and align the hole in the tube
with the hole in the wing.

aligned properly the bolt will thread through smoothly.
Leave the bolt in place for the next couple of steps.

8. On the top and bottom of the wing near the

❏ ❏

center of the wing are two pre-drilled and tapped holes.
Insert and then remove a 4-40  3/4" [19 mm] socket
head cap screw into each hole to check that the tapped
hole and bolt fi t well.

10. Thread the 4- 40  1" [25 mm] socket head cap

❏ ❏

screw into the wing and through the hole in the tube. Be
sure that you do not force the bolt. When the holes are

14

11. Test fi t the right wing panel onto the wing

❏ ❏

center section. As you slide the wing together be sure

to align the fl ap on the outer wing panel with the fl ap
tab extending from the fl ap in the wing center section.
Once you are satisfi ed with the fi t of the wing and center
section remove the outer wing panel.

12. Cut a 3"  3" [76 mm  76 mm] square from

❏ ❏

a plastic bag. Make a small hole in the center of the
plastic and slide it over the carbon tube.

14. Once the glue has hardened remove both of

❏ ❏

the wing bolts. Then, slide the outer wing panel from
the wing center section.

15. Repeat steps 1-14 for the left wing panel.

❏

Did You Know?…Did You Know?…

INSTALL THE RUDDER & STAB / ELEVATOR

13. Apply a light coating of epoxy to the carbon

❏ ❏

tube. Install the outer wing to the wing center section.

As you slide the tube into the wing center section clear

away any excess epoxy. Repeat this until the wing panels
are pushed tightly together. Once the wings are together
tighten the 4-40  3/4" [19 mm] socket head cap screw
in the forward hole in the top of the wing to keep the
wings securely together while the epoxy hardens.

According to old stories, the Japanese learned to
call the F4U “Whistling Death” because of the high­pitched sound it made, though such a melodramatic
name sounds suspiciously like an invention of
American publicists. It was also known as the

“Bent Wing Bird”, though on the other side of the

coin this name sounds more like something out
of company press releases. Whatever the enemy
or the aircrew actually called the F4U, it was still a
machine to be reckoned with, one way or another.
Many pilots became aces in the Corsair, but even

its most passionate advocates admitted that it was

a handful.

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE

Note: Just a reminder, whenever a screw is threaded

into wood sheeting or wood blocks w e recommend that

you install the screw and then remov e it. Apply a drop of

thin CA glue into the hole to harden the threads. After
the glue has hardened, re-install the screw.

15

1. Install the threaded nylon control horn onto the

❏

threaded end of the elevator control wires.

2. This next step can be a bit tedious so plan to take

❏

your time. Install a 6 -32  1-1/2" [38mm] socket head
cap screw into the two holes in the fi berglass fairing
on top of the elevator passing through and exiting from