Top Flite A0706 INSTRUCTION BOOK

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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.
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
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.

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

Entire Contents © 2012 Hobbico, Inc. TOPA0706 Mnl

Hobby Services

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

SPECIFICATIONS

Wingspan:

Wing Area: 1198 sq in [77.3 dm

Weight: 22– 24 lb

Wing

Loading:

Length: 73-1/4 in [1860mm]

Radio: 7–8 channel

Engine: 50– 55 cc gasoline only

85 in [2160mm]

[9980 –10880 g]

42 – 46 oz/sq ft
[128 – 140 g/dm

2

]

2

]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

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

International Miniature Aircraft Association . . . . 2

Scale Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

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

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

Engine Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

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

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

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

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

Adhesives & Building Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Covering Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Optional Supplies & Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

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

MODEL INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

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

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

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

Mount the Aileron Servos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Install the Flap Servos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Install the Aileron & Flap Pushrods . . . . . . . . . . 8

Mount the Retracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Join the Wings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Install the Stabilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Install the Elevator & Rudder Servos . . . . . . . . 14

Mount the Retractable Tail Gear. . . . . . . . . . . . 14

INSTALL THE ENGINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

ASSEMBLE AND INSTALL THE FUEL TANK . . . 20

INSTALL THE AIR RETRACT CONTROLS . . . . . 21

INSTALL THE COWL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

APPLY THE FINAL DETAILS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Apply the Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Install the Propeller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Balance the Model Laterally. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Check the Control Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Set the Control Throws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Balance the Model (C.G.). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

PREFLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Identify Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Ground Check & Range Check . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

AMA SAFETY CODE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Radio Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

IMAA SAFETY CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Fuel Mixture Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Decal Placement Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Landing Gear Cover Template. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Identifi cation Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

INTRODUCTION

In the late 1930’s the German Ministry of Aviation was

concerned that in the future the Allies would develop a

plane that was better than the Bf 109. They asked the
German airplane designers to design a plane to meet

this concern. The Fw 190 met these demands. The Fw
190 was considered one of the best German prop planes

of WWII. Top Flite developed the Giant FW 190A-3 ARF

to get you in the air quickly with a great looking model,

without the sanding and covering required to build a kit.

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections

to the Giant FW 190A-3 ARF visit the Top Flite web

site at www.top-fl ite.com. Open the “Airplanes” link,

then select the Giant FW 190A-3 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.

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.

2

IMAA

The Top Flite Giant Fw 190A-3 ARF is an excellent

sport-scale model and is eligible to fl y 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, 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 Giant Fw 190A-3 is an ARF and may

not have the same level of detail as an “all-out” scratch­built 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.

For more information and scale details of the full-size
Fw 190A-3, 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 YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF & OTHERS...

FOLLOW THESE IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Your Giant Fw 190A-3 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 Giant Fw 190A-3

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 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 landing gear covers 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 Giant
Fw 190A-3 ARF that may require planning or decision
making before starting to build. Order numbers are
provided in parentheses.

ENGINE RECOMMENDATIONS

When considering engines for this model, refer to the
engine size recommendations on the cover of the
manual. Spark-ignition “gas” engines are most popular
with large-scale warbirds such as this. One advantage of
a gas engine is economy – gas engines tend to consume
less fuel than a glow engine as well. Additionally, gas

engines deposit little exhaust residue on the model.
Among other engines, this model was test fl own with a
DLE-55 engine. The DLE-55 and the O.S.® GT55 both

provide more than adequate power and fl y the Giant
Fw 190A-3 ARF in a scale-like manner.

Note: Instructions for mounting every possible engine

cannot be incorporated into this manual. Modelers using
another engine may refer to the instructions as a guide
for mounting their engine in a similar way. If using the
DLE-55 engine, the stock muffl er will work well and is
recommended.

Hardware required (not included) to mount the
DLE-55 engine.

❍ (4) 10-32 x 1-1/2" Socket head cap screws
❍ (4) #10 Lock washers
❍ (4) #10 Fender washers

Per the IMAA Safety Code, magneto spark-ignition
engines must have a coil-grounding switch on the aircraft
to stop the engine and prevent accidental starting, The

switch must be operated manually (without the use of
the transmitter) and accessible by the pilot and assistant.

RADIO EQUIPMENT

The radio equipment and number of channels required

to fl y the Top Flite Giant Fw 190A-3 ARF depend on
the capabilities of your transmitter and how the servos
will be connected.

3

The Giant Fw 190A-3 ARF requires a servo to operate

the air control valve, a servo to retract the tail gear, a
servo to steer the tail gear, a throttle servo, two fl ap
servos, two aileron servos, two elevator servos and a
rudder servo. Servos with a minimum of 50 oz-in [3.9kg­cm] 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). A micro servo is required to operate
the retract air valve. An optional servo-operated kill
switch may also be used (this is in addition to the IMAA­required, manually operated engine kill switch). A servo
operated kill switch is only really necessary for engines
that do not reliably shut off by closing the carburetor,
but could also serve as a backup.

Function Servos required

Elevators 2 (min. 50 oz-in torque)
(Futaba® S3305 FUTM0045)

Rudder 1 (min. 50 oz-in torque)
(Futaba S3305 FUTM0045)

Ailerons 2 (min. 50 oz-in torque)
(Futaba S3305 FUTM0045)

Flaps 2 (min. 50 oz-in torque)
(Futaba S3305 FUTM0045)

Tail Steering 1 (min. 50 oz-in torque)
(Futaba S3305 FUTM0045)

Tail Gear 1 (min. 50 oz-in torque)
Retract (Futaba S3305 FUTM0045)

Throttle 1 (standard)
(Futaba S9001 FUTM0075)

Retract 1 (micro)
(Futaba S3102 FUTM0034)

Optional 1 (standard)
Choke (Futaba S9001 FUTM0075)

Total 11-12 servos

A receiver battery with a minimum of 4.8V 2,400mAh is

recommended for fl ying the Giant Fw 190A-3 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 order numbers shown in
parentheses are for Futaba servos.

❍ (4) 6" Y-harness for elevator, rudder/steering,

ailerons and fl aps (FUTM4135)

❍ (2) 12" [305mm] servo extension for fl aps

(HCAM2711)

❍ (2) 24" [610mm] servo extension for ailerons

(HCAM2721)

❍ (2) Heavy Duty switch harness (FUTM4385)

❍ (2) Ernst Charge Receptacle 124 (ERNM3001)

❍ (1) HydriMax™ 3600mAh NiMH battery

(HCAM6333) for receiver

❍ (1) HydriMax 1600mAh NiMH battery

(HCAM6308) for engine ignition

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.

RETRACTABLE LANDING GEAR

The Top Flite Giant Fw 190A-3 ARF has been designed

for Robart pneumatic and electric main gear retracts
and mechanical tail gear. The tail gear on the full size
Fw 190A-3 did not retract fully into the fuselage. To
obtain the scale retraction of the tail gear, a mechanical
retract was used. Following is the complete list of items
required to install the Robart retracts:

❍ (1) Robart TFFW190 Top Flite Giant Fw 190

pneumatic retractable main landing gear
(ROBQ1658)

❍ (1) Robart TFFW190E Top Flite Giant Fw

190 electric retractable main landing gear

(ROBQ1657)

❍ (1) Robart #160 retractable tail gear assembly

(ROBQ2220)

❍ (1) Robart #157VRX Large-Scale Deluxe

Air Control Kit – includes pressure tank, air

line tubing, variable-rate air valve, T-fi ttings
(ROBQ2305)

4

❍ (1) Robart #169 10' [3048mm] red & purple

Pressure tubing (ROBQ2369)

❍ (1 pkg.) #190 Air Line Quick Disconnects

(ROBQ2395)

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 any automotive
or hardware store.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

REQUIRED HARDWARE & ACCESSORIES

In addition to the items listed in the “Decisions You
Must Make” section, following is the list of hardware

and accessories required to fi nish the Top Flite Giant FW

190A-3 ARF. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.

❍ (2) Dubro #813 1/8" Fuel Line Barb

(DUBQ0670)

❍ (1) Dubro #554 X-large Tygon Fuel Line

(DUBQ0427)

❍ (1) R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] (HCAQ1000)

or 1/2" [13mm] (HCAQ1050)

❍ Propeller and spare propellers suitable for your

engine.

❍ (1) Painted Pilot (We used the 1/5 scale

German Pilot from Aces of Iron Productions)

❍ (1) 7/64" – 10" [254mm] long Ball-end Hex

Wrench

OR

❍ (1) 7/64" Ball-end Hex Wrench (GPMR8003)

plus (1) 5/32"  .014 Round Brass Tube K&S
#128 (K+SR2628) (See Page 35)

ADHESIVES AND BUILDING SUPPLIES

This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that

are required to fi nish the Giant FW 190A-3 ARF.

❍ 1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro™ CA (GPMR6001)
❍ 1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)
❍ Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)
❍ Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)

❍ Threadlocker thread locking cement

(GPMR6060)

❍ Mixing sticks (50) (GPMR8055)
❍ Mixing cups (50) (GPMR8056)
❍ Epoxy brushes (6) (GPMR8060)
❍ Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❍ R/C-56 canopy glue (JOZR5007)
❍ Milled fi berglass (GPMR6165)
❍ Masking tape
❍ Plan protector (GPMR6167) or wax paper
❍ Drill
❍ Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32"

[2.4mm], 1/8" [3.2mm], 3/16" [4.8mm], 13/64"
[5.2mm], 1/4" [6.4mm]

❍ Small metal fi le
❍ Stick-on segmented lead weights (GPMQ4485)
❍ Silver solder w/fl ux (STAR2000)

™

❍ Hobby Heat
❍ #1 Hobby knife (RMXR6903)
❍ #11 blades (5-pack, RMXR6930)
❍ Curved-tip canopy scissors for trimming plastic

parts (HCAR0667)

Micro Torch II (HCAR0755)

COVERING TOOLS

❍ Top Flite MonoKote® sealing iron (TOPR2100)
❍ Top Flite Hot Sock™ iron cover (TOPR2175)
❍ Top Flite MonoKote trim seal iron (TOPR2200)
❍ Top Flite MonoKote heat gun (TOPR2000)

OPTIONAL SUPPLIES AND TOOLS

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual
that will help you build the Giant FW 190A-3 ARF.

❍ 2 oz. [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❍ CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❍ CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❍ Builder’s Triangle Set (HCAR0480)
❍ Scale Warbird Template (TOPR2187)
❍ 36" metal ruler (HCAR0475)
❍ Hobbico® High Precision Diagonal Cutter 5"

(HCAR0630)

❍ Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0625)

❍ Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402)
❍ Switch & Charge Jack Mounting Set

(GPMM1000)

❍ Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❍ Rotary tool such as Dremel
❍ Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel

(GPMR8200)

❍ Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)
❍ AccuThrow™ Defl ection Gauge (GPMR2405)
❍ CG Machine™ (GPMR2400)
❍ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)

IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES

● Anytime a sheet metal screw is installed in wood,

fi rst install the screw, remove the screw and apply a
couple of drops of thin CA in the hole to harden the
threads. After the CA has cured, reinstall the screw.

● 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 Giant FW 190A-3 ARF 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.

White (TOPQ0204)
CubYellow (TOPQ0220)
Flat Black (TOPQ0508)
Flat Olive Drab (TOPQ0510)
Flat Dove Gray (TOPQ0511)

● 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.top-fl ite.com

5

and click on “Technical Data.” Due to manufacturing
tolerances which will have little or no effect on the way
your model will fl y, please expect slight deviations
between your model and the published values.

MODEL INSPECTION

Before starting to build, take an inventory of this model
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

instruction manual.

Top Flite Product Support

3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822

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

E-mail: productsupport@top-fl ite.com

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts for the Top Flite Giant FW 190A­3 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. Not all parts are available

separately (an aileron cannot be purchased separately,

but is only available with the wing kit). Replacement

parts are not available from Product Support, but can

be purchased from hobby shops or mail order/Internet
order fi rms. Hardware items (screws, nuts, bolts) are
also available from these outlets.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit www.top-fl ite.com and

click on “Where to Buy”. Follow the instructions provided
on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian or International

dealer.

Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services

by calling [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

TOPA1870

TOPA1871

TOPA1872

TOPA1873

TOPA1874

TOPA1875

TOPA1876

TOPA1877

TOPA1878

TOPA1879

TOPA1880

TOPA1881

TOPA1882

Wing

Fuselage

Horizontal Stabilizer

Rudder

Canopy

Cowl

Landing Gear Covers

Hatch

Tail Gear Cover

Decals

Cockpit Kit

Spinner 2 blade

Spinner 3 blade

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS

Stab = Horizontal Stabilizer
Fin = Vertical Stabilizer
LE = Leading Edge
TE = Trailing Edge
" = Inches
mm = millimeters
SHCS = Socket Head Cap Screw

To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4
(25.4mm = 1")

CONTENTS

9

13

17

18

19

4

20

29

26

27

1. Fuselage

2. Right Wing Half

3. Left Wing Half

4. Canopy

5. Left Horizontal Stabilizer

6. Right Horizontal Stabilizer

7. Rudder

8. Hinges

9. Vertical Fin Antenna Mount

10. Aluminum Stabilizer Tubes

11. Tail Wheel

12. Tail Gear Retract Cover

13. Fuel Tank

14. Engine Spacers

15. Throttle Servo/Rx Battery Tray

21

22

2

23

24

14

15

1

25

28

6

3

30

16. Cockpit Interior

17. Gun Covers

18. Wheel

19. Landing Gear Doors

20. Landing Gear Door Mounts

21. Guns

22. Forward Hatch

23. Cowl

24. Spinner

25. Plastic Fan

26. Cowl Ring

27. Fan Ring

28. Cowl Guns

29. Canopy Antenna Mount

30. Wing Dowels

8

5

12

11

7

10

16

17

19

18

6

ASSEMBLE THE WINGS

Important: If you remove all the parts from the plastic
bags, save the plastic bag the cowl comes in. The
bag will be used later when the cowl is installed.

Start with the left wing so the assembly matches the

photos the fi rst time through.

1. Lay a few paper towels on top of each other and cut

❏

them into small squares. These paper towel squares will
come in handy for wiping away excess epoxy throughout
the assembly process ( and will save you from wasting
whole paper towels).

be fl exing inward. If this is happening, don’t press down.
Simply let the heat of the iron shrink the covering. If
the wrinkles momentarily disappear, then immediately
reappear, the iron may be too hot, thus causing air

bubbles. Lower the temperature of the iron or use a
sharp #11 blade or pin to puncture several holes in the
covering, then reheat. The suggested iron temperature

is around 360 degrees F.

Fw 190 FACT

The Focke-Wulf FW 190 was designed by Kurt Tank
in the late 1930’s. It was used in a wide variety of
roles including fi ghter, fi ghter-bomber, and ground
attack. It was fi rst used on the Eastern Front in
Nov/Dec of 1942.

MOUNT THE AILERON SERVOS

1. Carefully remove the left aileron servo hatch

❏ ❏

from the wing by peeling off the masking tape holding the
hatch to the wing. Use a paper towel square dampened
with naphtha lighter fl uid or similar solvent to remove
any glue left behind from the tape.

When mounting the servo blocks on the bottom of the
servo hatch, make sure that the grain of the wood is
perpendicular to the hatch.

To increase the strength of the glue joint, use a T-pin
to prick holes into the gluing surface of the servo
blocks and the plywood servo hatch. Be careful not
to prick holes completely through the servo hatch
and covering.

3. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the two blocks to

❏ ❏

the bottom of the servo hatch over the embossed servo

block locations. Thoroughly coat the end of the blocks

and allow them to set for a few seconds to allow the

blocks to absorb the epoxy, then recoat the blocks. Use
clamps to hold the blocks to the servo hatch.

2. If necessary, use a covering iron with a covering

❏

sock to go over the wing, fl ap and aileron to remove
any wrinkles. The best method to remove the wrinkles
is to glide the iron over the covering until the wrinkles
disappear, then go over the area again, pushing down
on the iron to bond the covering to the wood. If the
wrinkles don’t disappear, the balsa in that area might

2. Install the rubber bushings and metal grommets

❏ ❏

in the aileron servo. Install a servo arm on the servo.
Position the aileron servo on the aileron servo hatch
cover as shown with the servo arm centered in the
opening. Set the two 3/4" x 3/4" x 3/8" [19 x 19 x

9.5mm] hardwood blocks over the embossed servo

block locations to check that the block locations are
correct. If not, mark the new location.

7

4. Once the epoxy has cured, remove the clamps.

❏ ❏

Place a 1/16" [1.6mm] spacer, such as a piece of

cardstock from a header card or a piece of paper

folded several times, under the servo and between
each mounting block. After the servo is installed the
spacer will be removed, providing adequate spacing
for vibration isolation.

5. Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes through the blocks

❏ ❏

for the servo mounting screws. Mount the servo to
the blocks with the screws that came with the servo.
Remove the servo mounting screws and apply a couple
of drops of thin CA in each hole to harden the threads.

Allow the CA to fully harden. Then, reinstall the servos

and remove the spacer.

6. Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes through the blocks at

❏ ❏

the two hole locations on the top of the hatch. Install
two #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] fl at head sheet metal screws to
secure the servo mounting blocks to the aileron servo
hatch. Use thin CA to harden the screw threads.

8. Use the string in the wing to pull the aileron

❏ ❏

wire through the wing.

9. Place the aileron servo hatch with the servo

❏ ❏

in the wing. Be certain that the hatch is positioned
correctly as shown. Secure the hatch using four #2 x
3/8" [9.5mm] sheet metal screws and #2 fl at washers.
Use thin CA to harden the screw threads.

10. Go back to step 1 and install the right aileron

❏

servo following the same procedure.

INSTALL THE FLAP SERVOS

3. Route the fl ap and aileron servo leads to the

❏ ❏

root of the wing and out the hole in the top of the wing.

INSTALL THE AILERON & FLAP PUSHRODS

Do the left aileron fi rst. Check that the hinges are
secure by pulling on the ailerons and fl aps.

1. Slide a silicone clevis retainer over a 4-40

❏ ❏

threaded metal clevis. Thread a 4-40 nut followed by
the 4-40 metal clevis, threaded 12 turns onto a 4-40
x 12" [304mm] metal pushrod. Attach the clevis to the
aileron servo arm 5/8" [16mm] from the center of the arm.

7. Connect a 24" [610mm] servo extension wire

❏ ❏

(not included) to the aileron servo. Cut a piece of the

included heat shrink tubing in half and slide it over the
servo connections. Shrink the tubing by applying heat.

1. Install the fl ap servos following the same

❏ ❏

procedure used to install the aileron servos. Note that
the fl ap servos face the same direction.

2. Connect a 12" [304mm] servo extension wire

❏ ❏

(not included) to the fl ap servo. Secure the extension to
the servo with a piece of heat shrink or electrical tape.

8

2. Position the control horn so that it is in line with

❏ ❏

the pushrod and over the plywood mounting plate. The

pushrod holes in the control horn should be aligned

with the hinge line of the aileron. On the aileron, mark
the four mounting holes. Remove the control horn and
drill a 5/64" [2mm] pilot hole at each mark. Do not

drill completely through the aileron. Attach the

control horn using four #4 x 1/2" sheet metal screws.
Use thin CA to harden the holes.

3. Install the metal solder clevis in the hole nearest

❏ ❏

the end of the control horn. Center the aileron servo
and aileron. Mark the pushrod where it meets the solder
clevis. Remove the pushrod and the solder clevis and
cut the pushrod ¼" [6.4mm] past the mark. Solder
the solder clevis to the pushrod using the techniques
described in the following Hot Tip.

HOW TO SOLDER

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

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.

4. Slide a silicone clevis retainer over the solder

❏ ❏

clevis. Reinstall the aileron pushrod with the threaded
clevis attached to the control horn. Adjust the threaded
clevis so that the aileron is centered. Apply a drop of

thread locker to the threads of the pushrod behind the

clevis. Tighten the 4-40 nut against the clevis.

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

9

5. Assemble and connect the fl ap pushrod following

❏ ❏

the same procedure. We installed the pushrod in the
outer hole of the control horn and the hole 5/8" [16mm]
from the center of the servo arm.

6. Return to step 1 and install the aileron and fl ap

❏

pushrods on the right wing.

Fw 190 FACT

The FW 190 was designed with a wide landing
gear which gave it better ground handling on
the rough landing fi elds used during the war.
The landing gear was also raised and lowered
electrically, whereas most fi ghters of that period
used hydraulic systems.

MOUNT THE RETRACTS

Install the left retract fi rst.

1. Trim the axle that is included with the Robart

❏ ❏

retracts to 1-5/8" [41mm] long. File a fl at spot at the end
of the axle. Insert the axle through the included 5-1/4"
[133mm] wheel. Slide the 4mm thick wheel spacer
onto the axle. Insert the axle into the retract. Apply
a drop of threadlocker to the 10-32 x 3/16" [4.8mm]
set screw, included with the retract, and tighten the
set screw onto the fl at of the axle. Make sure that the
wheel rotates freely.

2. Test fi t the retract unit with the wheel into the

❏ ❏

wing. Position the retract so the wheel is centered in
the wheel well. Adjust the strut position in the retract

body as necessary to achieve the correct spacing all
the way around the wheel.

3. Temporarily attach the retract to the wing with

❏ ❏

two 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] machine screws. Extend the
retract. View the wheel from directly above. Rotate
the strut so that the wheel is parallel to the root of the
wing. Lock the strut in position by applying a drop of
threadlocker to the threads and securely tightening the

bolt at the top of the strut.

4. Double check that the wheel will fully retract into

❏ ❏

the wing. Extend the retract to make sure it does not

interfere with any part of the wing and that the retract

is operating smoothly.

5. Cut an 18" [457mm] piece of red pressure tubing

❏ ❏

and a 23" [584mm] piece of purple pressure tubing from
the tubing included with the Robart Air Control Kit (not

included). Connect the red tube to the front of the air
cylinder and the purple to the back of the air cylinder.

6. Connect both pressure tubes to the string in

❏ ❏

the retract bay. Guide the pressure tubing through the
ribs and out the hole in the top of the wing. Tape the

pressure tubing to the top of the wing.

10

7. Secure the retracts in the wing. Apply a drop of

❏ ❏

threadlocker to the threads of six 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm]
machine screws and #6 lock washers before threading
them into the retract plate.

8. Use a sharp hobby knife to remove the covering

❏ ❏

from over the fi ve mounting holes in the plywood retract
cover. Set the retract cover over the retract and drill a

1/16" [1.6mm] pilot hole using the holes in the cover

as a guide.

10. Snap three of the nylon landing gear door

❏ ❏

mounts onto the landing gear strut as shown. Center
the landing gear cover over the retract. Check that the

landing gear door mounts are aligned with the gear door.

12. Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] pilot holes at the screw

❏ ❏

locations in the cover. Secure the landing gear cover

to the landing gear door mounts with six #2 x 3/8" fl at-

head sheet metal screws. Note that the landing gear

cover can be rotated on the landing gear strut. Once
the wing is installed on the fuselage and the orientation
of the wheels is checked and correct, the landing gear

door mounts can be secured to the landing gear struts
with a drop of thin CA.

13. Return to step 1 and mount the right retract in

❏

the right wing.

JOIN THE WING

Note: Keep the retracts in the retracted (up) position so

they do not extend and retract as you handle the wing.

9. Mount the retract cover to the wing with fi ve #2

❏ ❏

x 3/8" sheet metal screws and fi ve #2 fl at washers. Use

thin CA to harden the holes.

11

1. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the two 5/16 x 1-1/4"

❏

[8 x 30mm] wood wing alignment dowels 5/8" [15mm]

into the root of the left wing half.