Tower Hobbies RYAN STA Instruction Manual

INSTRUCTION

MANUAL

®

Tower
Hobbies®
guarantees
this kit to be
free from defects
in both material and
workmanship at the

WARR ANTY

date of purchase. This
warranty does not cover any
component parts damaged by
use or modication. In no case shall
Tower Hobbies’ liability exceed the
original cost of the purchased kit. Further,
Tower Hobbies reserves the right to change
or modify this warranty without notice.

In that Tower Hobbies has no control over the nal
assembly or material used for nal assembly, no
liability shall be assumed nor accepted for any damage
resulting from the use by the user of the nal 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
the address below:

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 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.

LENGTH

40 in [1016mm ]

WINGSPAN

53 in [1346mm]

WING AREA

424 sq in [27.35 dm2]

READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL

BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION.

IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS

AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE

ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

WEIGHT

60–65 oz [1700 –1842g]

WING LOADING

20.3 – 22.1 oz/ ft2 [61.9–67.4 g/dm2]

RADIO

4-Channel required

TOWER HOBBIES

Champaign, Illinois

[phone] ext. 6

[e-mail]

®

TOWA2090© 2017 Tower Hobbi es.® A subsidiary of Hobbico, Inc.

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

REQUIRED ITEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Radio Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Battery and Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Adhesives and Building Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Optional Supplies and Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

KIT INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

PREPARATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

WING ASSEMBLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Join the Wing Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Install the Landing Gear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

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

Rudder & Elevator Servo Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Install the Motor and ESC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

As a new owner of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS), you
are responsible for the operation of this vehicle and the safety
of those around you. Please contact your local authorities
to  nd out the latest rules and regulations.

In the United States, please visit:

knowbeforeyou y.org faa.gov/uas

AMA

We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)
and a local R/C club. The AMA is the governing body of model
aviation and membership is required to  y at AMA clubs.

Though joining the AMA provides many bene ts, one of the

primary reasons to join is liability protection. Coverage is not
limited to  ying at contests or on the club  eld. It even applies
to  ying at public demonstrations and air shows. Failure
to comply with the Safety Code may endanger insurance
coverage. Additionally, training programs and instructors are
available at AMA club sites to help you get started the right
way. There are over 2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the
country. Contact the AMA at the address or toll-free phone
number below.

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302-9252

Tele. [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at: www.modelaircraft.org

IMPORTANT: Two of the most important things you can do
to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid
 ying near full-scale aircraft and avoid  ying near or over
groups of people.

Finish Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Apply the Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Check the Control Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Set the Control Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Balance the Model Laterally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Balance the Model (C.G.). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

PREFLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Identify Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Ground Check and Range Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Protect Your Model, Yourself & Others…

Follow These Important Safety Precautions

1. Your Ryan STA EP 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, this model, 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 un 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  rst-class
condition.

5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.

6. You must check the operation of the model before every
 ight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.

7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not  own this
type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for
your  rst  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.

8. While this ARF has been  ight tested to exceed normal
use, if a motor larger than the one recommended is used,

2

the modeler is responsible for taking steps to reinforce
the high stress points and/or substituting hardware more
suitable for the increased stress.

9. WARNING: The cowl and wheel pants included in this kit

are made of  berglass, the  bers of which may cause eye,
skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part
to remove  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  berglass
parts. Vacuum the parts and the work area thoroughly after
working with  berglass parts.

We, as the ARF manufacturer, provide you with a top quality,
thoroughly tested plane and instructions, but ultimately
the quality and  yability of your  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.

REQUIRED ITEMS

Radio Components

A transmitter and receiver with 4-channels is required. The

Tactic TTX650 6-channel or Futaba 6J 6-channel radio system

are great low-cost radio systems perfect for the Ryan STA
EP ARF.

❍ (1) Transmitter Futaba 6J 6-channel S-FHSS (FUTK6000)

or Tactic TTX650 6-channel SLT (TACJ2650)

❍ (1) FUTL7627 Futaba R617FS 7-Channel FASST

Receiver

❍ (4) Servos Futaba S3150 Slim Digital Servo (FUTM0303)

or Hitec HS-81 Standard Mini Servo (HRCM3402)

❍ (2) Futaba 9” (229mm) Servo Extension (FUTM3910)

or Tactic 12” (305mm) Servo Extension (TACM2130)

❍ (1) Y-Harness FUTM4135 or TACM2751
❍ (1) Motor RimFire .32 (42-50-800) (GPMG4700)
❍ (1) Speed Control Castle Creations Phoenix Edge Lite

75 (CSEM1200)

❍ (1) 4mm Female Connector (3) (GPMM3115)
❍ (1) Male Star Connector (HCAM4010)
❍ (1) 1” x 6” Velcro (for addition battery packs) (GPMQ4480)

Propellers

❍ 13x8E Propeller (APCQ3080)
❍ 14x8.5 Propeller (APCQ4011)

Most modelers may already have a suitable LiPo charger,
but for those that do not, the Duratrax Onyx 235 AC/DC
Advanced Peak Charger (DTXP4235) is one of the chargers
recommended. The Onyx charger is perfect for 3S batteries
used with the Ryan STA EP ARF and may be powered either
by an external DC power source (such as a 12V battery), or
a 110V AC outlet. The Onyx also has an adjustable charge
rate to charge your batteries in as little as a half-hour or
less (depending on the condition of your batteries and the
manufacturer’s speci ed charge rate). The Onyx can also
charge large batteries and batteries other than LiPo. So it is a
versatile charger you can grow into. The 235 also has an LCD
digital display screen, so you can see how much capacity
it took to recharge the battery (required for monitoring the
condition of your batteries and calculating how long your
plane can  y).

Adhesives and Building Supplies

❍ Tower Hobbies 6-minute Epoxy (TOWR3806)
❍ Tower Hobbies 30-minute Epoxy (TOWR3810)
❍ Mixing Sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❍ Mixing Cups (GPMR8056)
❍ Epoxy Brushes (GPMR8060)
❍ Tower Hobbies Build-It CA Thin Glue (TOWR3800)
❍ Denatured Alcohol (for epoxy clean-up)
❍ Masking Tape
❍ #64 Rubber Bands (HCAQ2020)
❍ 1/16" [1.5mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.5mm] drill bits
❍ Drill
❍ Phillips head screwdriver
❍ Wire Cutters
❍ Pliers
❍ Stick-on segmented weights (GPMQ4485)
❍ Medium T-pins (HCAR5150)
❍ CG Machine (GPMR2400)
❍ Paper Towels
❍ #1 Hobby Knife (RMXR6903)
❍ #11 Blades (5-pack, RMXR6930)

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)
❍ Coverite 21st Century Sealing Iron (COVR2700)
❍ Coverite 21st Century Cover Sock (COVR2702)
❍ Coverite 21st Century Trim Sealing Iron (COVR2750)

Optional Supplies and Tools

Battery and Charger

A 3S 3200mAh – 3600 mAh LiPo battery is required to power
the Ryan STA EP ARF.

❍ Great Planes ElectriFly LiPo 3S 11.1V 3200 mAh 25C

Star Plug (GPMP0871)

❍ FlightPower LiPo FP50 3S 11.1V 3600 mAh 50C Star

Plug (FPWP5363)

Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Ryan STA EP ARF.

❍ CA Applicator Tips (HCAR3780)
❍ CA Debonder (GPMR6039)
❍ Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402)
❍ Servo Horn Drill (HCAR0698)
❍ AccuThrow De ection Gauge (GPMR2405)
❍ Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)

3

CONTENTS

2

1

18

19

20

1. Cowl

2. Fuselage

3. Belly Pan

4. Plywood Wing
Joiners (2)

5. Right Wing Half

6. Left Wing Half

3

4

6

21

22 23

7. Fin

8. Rudder

9. Left Landing Gear
Cover Top

10. Left Wheel Pant

11. Right Landing Gear
Cover Top

5

9

16

17

12. Right Wheel Pant

13. Left Landing Gear Wire

14. Right Landing
Gear Wire

15. Main Wheels (2)

16. Tail Gear Wire

17. Tail Wheel

7

10

24

12

15

8

11

1314

18. Wind Screen

19. Head Rest

20. Spinner

21. Horizontal Stabilizer

22. Left Elevator

23. Right Elevator

24. Elevator Joiner Wire

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

Replacement parts are available from Tower Hobbies for your

Ryan STA EP ARF. Our order assistance representatives are

ready to answer your questions or to place your order. Call
us at [phone].

Order No. Description

TOWA5015
TOWA5016
TOWA5017
TOWA5018
TOWA5019
TOWA5020
TOWA5021
TOWA5022
TOWA5023

Wing
Fuselage
Tail Surfaces
Cowl
Hatch
Landing Gear Set
Plastic Parts Set
Tail Wheel Assembly
Decals

Order No. Description

TOWA5024
TOWA5025
TOWA5026
TOWA4077

Belly Pan
Wheel Pants
Spinner
Wing Bolts (2)

KIT INSPECTION

If any parts are missing or damaged, consult Tower Hobbies
Order Assistance. (See phone numbers below.)

Note: All parts are one per kit unless otherwise stated.

Toll Free Order Assistance . . . . .800 637-6050

Fax Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .217 398-7721

E-mail: [e-mail]

4

PREPARATION

b. Switch on the transmitter and temporarily connect

the ESC and motor battery or a receiver battery to
the receiver.

c. Center the aileron trim on the transmitter.

Use a covering iron set to about 300° F with a covering sock
to go over the model tightening the covering where necessary.

NOTE: This covering material requires less heat than you
may be used to. Excessive heat will cause the covering to pull
away from the seams or may even cause the parts to bend.

WING ASSEMBLY

Let’s start with the right wing.

1. Pull on the ailerons to check that the CA hinges are

❏

securely glued. If needed, apply a couple drops of thin CA
and check again.

2. Follow the instructions included with your servos to

❏

install the rubber grommets and metal eyelets.

3. Install a servo lead extension (not included). Secure the

❏

connection with tape or shrink tubing (not included).

d. Install a servo arm so that one of the arms is

perpendicular to the centerline of the servo, as shown.
Remove the unused arms.

e. Unplug the motor or receiver battery and switch off

the transmitter.

5. Center the aileron servo arm in the aileron hatch opening.

❏

Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the two hardwood aileron servo
mounting blocks to the hatch.

4. Center the aileron servo.

❏

a. Connect the servo to the receiver.

6. Place a piece of thin cardboard or paper folded over

❏

several times between the servo and the aileron hatch. Drill

1/16" [1.5mm] holes for the servo mounting screws and install

the screws.

5

7. Remove the servo mounting screws and servo and

❏

apply a drop of thin CA in each hole to harden the threads
in the wood blocks.

8. After the CA has cured, reinstall the aileron servo

❏

and screws.

9. Tie the string from inside the wing to the end of the

❏

aileron servo wire. Wrapping a piece of masking tape around
the end of the servo wire and the string will help when pulling
the servo wire through the wing.

11. Mount the aileron servo hatch to the wing with four

❏

2x10mm sheet metal screws and 2 mm  at washers. After
installing the screws, remove the screws and hatch. Then,
harden the screw holes with thin CA. After the CA cures,
reinstall the screws and hatch.

12. Thread a nylon clevis 20 turns onto the 2-56 x 4-3/8"

❏

[110mm] metal pushrod. Slide a silicone clevis retainer over
the clevis.

10. Pull the servo wire through the wing and route the wire

❏

out of the hole in the top of the wing.

13. Attach the clevis in the middle hole of the nylon

❏

control horn.

6

17. Remove the screws and control horn and harden the

❏

screw holes with thin CA. Once the CA has cured, reinstall
the control horn.

18. Switch on the transmitter and receiver. Make sure the

❏

aileron servo arm and aileron are centered. Mark the pushrod
where it crosses the outer hole of the aileron servo arm.

14. Position the control horn on the aileron so that the

❏

pushrod is aligned with the aileron servo arm and the holes
in the control horn are aligned with the aileron hinge line.
Mark the two control horn mounting holes.

15. Drill 1/16" [1.5mm] holes at the marks. Do not drill

❏

completely through the wing.

16. Mount the control horn to the aileron with two 2x10mm

❏

sheet metal screws.

19. Make a 90 degree bend at the mark. Trim off the end

❏

of the pushrod ¼" [6.5mm] from the bend.

20. Insert the pushrod and secure it with a nylon Faslink.

❏

Slide the silicone clevis retainer over the clevis.

7

21. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the nylon wing dowel in

❏

the leading edge of the wing.
Return to step 1 and install the aileron servo in the left wing.

Join the Wing Panels

1. Use 6-minute epoxy to glue the two plywood wing

❏

joiners together.

3. Gather everything needed to glue the two wing halves

❏

together including 30-minute epoxy, mixing sticks, mixing
cup, epoxy brush, rubberbands, masking tape, 12" [305mm]
long wire or small diameter dowel, denatured alcohol, paper
towels and the two ¼-20 wing bolts from the parts bag.

4. Mix 2 oz. [59.1cc] of 30-minute epoxy. Working quickly,

❏

pour a generous amount into the joiner pocket of one wing
half. Use the wire or dowel to thoroughly distribute the epoxy,
coating all surfaces inside the joiner pocket. Coat the root rib
and one half of the wing joiner. Insert the wing joiner in the
wing. Coat the joiner pocket in the other wing half and the
other end of the wing joiner. Join the wing halves together.
Use the rubberbands to hold the trailing edges of the wing
together using the wing bolts and leading edge dowels.
Stand the wing up on end and use paper towels dampened
with denatured alcohol to remove the excess epoxy that
squeezes out. Use masking tape to hold the wing halves in
alignment if necessary.

5. After the epoxy cures, remove the rubberbands and

❏

masking tape.

Install the Landing Gear

2. Without glue, insert the plywood wing joiner in one wing

❏

half and test  t the wing halves together to check the  t. Make
sure both wing halves  t together at the root without any
gaps. If needed, slightly sand the wing joiner for the best  t.

1. Trim the covering from over the slots for the right main

❏

landing gear.

8

2. Insert the main landing gear wire into the slots. Make

❏

sure the wire is completely seated in the slots.

3. Position the nylon  at straps over the landing gear wire

❏

and drill 1/16" [1.5mm] pilot holes in the hardwood rails. Don’t
drill through the top of the wing.

5. Look at the upper landing gear covers from the front

❏

to determine the left and right covers.

4. Secure the  at straps to the wing with 2x10mm sheet

❏

metal screws and 2mm  at washers. Remove the screws
and harden the threads in the wood with thin CA. Reinstall
the screws.

6. Temporarily slide the upper gear cover over the main

❏

landing gear.

9

8. Slide the upper gear cover over the wheel pant and slide

❏

the wheel pant down so that the axle is exposed.

9. Apply a drop of thread locker to a 3mm set screw. Install

❏

the set screw in a 4mm wheel collar. Slide the wheel collar
on the axle and tighten the set screw.

7. Slide the right wheel pant over the right landing gear.

❏

Slide the wheel pant down and position it so that the landing
gear is as far forward as possible. Then, rotate the wheel
pants into position.

10. Slide the main wheel on the axle and secure it with a

❏

second 4mm wheel collar and 3mm set screw.

10

11. Position the wheel pant so that the wheel collars are

❏

inside the pant and the wheel is centered. Center the upper
gear cover.

12. Mark and trim the upper gear cover to clear the

❏

screw heads.

14. Position a nylon strap in the recess and mark the

❏

hole locations.

15. Drill a 5/64" [2mm] hole through the wheel pants at

❏

the marks, perpendicular to the recess.

13. Drill 1/16" [1.5mm] pilot holes through the front and

❏

back of the upper gear cover and into the hard wood gear
rails. Secure the upper gear cover to the wing with 2x10mm
sheet metal screws. As before, use thin CA to harden the
threads in the wood rails.

16. Secure the wheel pants to the landing gear with the

❏

nylon strap, 2x10mm machine screw, 2mm  at washer and
2mm nut. Apply a drop of thread locker to the threads of the
screw before installing the 2mm nut. Do not over-tighten the
screws, crushing the  berglass wheel pant.

17. Return to step 1 and install the left main landing gear
and wheel pants.

11

ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE

1. Install the wing on the fuselage and secure it with the

❏

10- 24 x 2" [51mm ] nylon wing bolts.

2. Slide the horizontal stabilizer into the fuselage. Insert

❏

the vertical  n to position the horizontal stabilizer.

3. Check that the horizontal stabilizer is parallel with the

❏

wing. If it is not, lightly sand the stabilizer slot until it is parallel.

6. Insert a T-pin into the center of six CA hinges.

❏

4. IMPORTANT: Insert the elevator joiner wire in the

❏

stabilizer slot. Then, use 30-minute epoxy to glue the stabilizer
in the fuselage. Use the vertical  n to temporarily position
the stabilizer. Wipe off any excess epoxy with a paper towel
and denatured alcohol.

5. Use epoxy to glue the  n in. Make sure it is perpendicular

❏

to the horizontal stabilizer.

7. Insert the hinges into the trailing edge of the horizontal

❏

stabilizer, up to the T-pin.

8. Test  t the elevators to the horizontal stabilizer.

❏

9. Remove the elevators and clean the elevator joiner wire

❏

with denatured alcohol. Apply 6-minute epoxy in the joiner
wire holes in the elevators and reinstall the elevators on the
stabilizer. Remove the T-pins and apply 5 drops of thin CA
to both sides of each CA hinge.

12

10. Apply a dab of grease or oil to prevent epoxy

❏

from adhering.

14. Insert the rudder control horn in the slot on the left

❏

side of the rudder. Mark the control horn at the joint between
the control horn and the rudder.

15. Use sandpaper to sand off the paint below the line.

❏

16. Glue the rudder control horn in the rudder using

❏

6-minute epoxy.

11. Insert the tail gear wire in the aft end of the fuselage.

❏

Use the T-pin method to temporarily insert the three CA
hinges in the  n. Test  t the rudder on the  n.

12. Remove the rudder and note the position of the nylon

❏

tail gear bearing in the fuselage. Glue the tail gear bearing
in the fuselage with 6-minute epoxy.

13. Once the epoxy cures, glue the rudder to the  n using

❏

the same method used to attach the elevators.

17. Slide the tail wheel on the tail gear axle. Apply a drop

❏

of thread-locker to a 3mm set screw. Thread the set screw
into a 2mm wheel collar and install it on the tail gear.

13

Rudder & Elevator Servo Installation

1. Install the grommets on the rudder and elevator servos.

❏

2. Connect the rudder and elevator servos to the receiver.

❏

Switch on the transmitter and receiver. Center the rudder and
elevator trims. Install and position the servo arms as shown.

Trim off the excess arms.

6. Trim off the end of one of the nylon clevises as shown.

❏

7. Thread the nylon clevis 20 turns onto one of the 24"

❏

[610mm] metal pushrods. Slide a clevis retainer onto the clevis.

3. Insert the 2-56 x 24" [610mm] metal pushrods in the

❏

rudder and elevator pushrod tubes. Position the rudder and
elevator servos so that the pushrods align with the servo arm.

4. Secure the servos in the servo tray using the screws

❏

provided with the servos. Use thin CA to harden the threads
in the plywood servo tray.

5. Use adhesive backed hook and loop material to

❏

attach the receiver to the bottom of the servo/battery
tray. Route the receiver antennas following the radio
manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Insert the pushrod into the rudder pushrod tube. Attach

❏

the clevis to the rudder control horn and slide the clevis
retainer over the clevis.

9. Switch on the transmitter and receiver. Center the

❏

rudder and mark the rudder pushrod where it crosses the
rudder servo arm.

14

10. Make an L-bend at the mark, trim off the excess pushrod

❏

and attach the pushrod to the rudder servo with a Faslink.

11. Thread the last nylon clevis, 20 turns onto the second

❏

24" [610mm] metal pushrods. Slide a clevis retainer onto
the clevis.

12. Insert the pushrod into the elevator pushrod tube.

❏

Attach a nylon control horn to the clevis as shown.

13. Position the control horn on the elevator so that the

❏

holes in the control horn are aligned with the elevator hinge
line. Also make sure the control horn is positioned over the
elevator joiner wire inside the elevator. Mark the two control
horn mounting holes.

14. Drill 3/32" [2.5mm] holes through the elevator at

❏

the marks.

15. Attach the control horn to the elevator with two 2x12mm

❏

machine screws and a nylon control horn back plate.

16. With the transmitter and receiver switched on, position

❏

the elevator servo arm so that it is 90 degrees to the elevator
pushrod and mark the pushrod where it crosses the servo arm.

15

17. Make an L-bend at the mark, install the servo arm and

❏

Faslink, and then cut the excess pushrod. Notice that the
pushrod is installed from the top to allow the servo arm to
rotate without binding.

Install the Motor and ESC

1. Install the RimFire .32 motor to the front of the motor box

❏

with four 2.5 x 12mm machine screws, 2.5 mm lock washers
and 2.5mm  at washers. Apply a drop of thread-locker to
the threads of the machine screws before installing.

3. Make a hook and loop strap by overlapping a strip of

❏

hook material with loop material by 1" [25mm].

4. Secure the ESC to the bottom of the motor box with

❏

the hook and loop strap. Trim off the excess strap.

5. Connect the 3 motor wires to the ESC motor wires. Plug

❏

the ESC into the receiver.

6. With the propeller not installed, switch on the transmitter

❏

and position the throttle stick in the low position. Connect the
motor battery to the ESC. Arm the ESC if required following
the instructions included with the ESC. As the throttle stick is
advanced, the motor should start to rotate counterclockwise
when viewed from the front. If the motor rotates in the wrong
direction, switch two of the three motor wires and recheck the
motor rotation. If the motor goes to full power with the throttle
stick in the low position, the throttle will need to be reversed
on the transmitter.

2. Cut and attach a piece of adhesive backed hook and

❏

loop material to the bottom of the ESC. Attach the opposite
piece to the bottom of the motor box.

7. Rotate the motor to position the prop adapter as shown.

❏

16

Finish Assembly

1. Center the headrest behind the cockpit. Mark the outline

❏

of the head rest on the turtledeck.

8. Slide the cowl over the motor. Insert the plywood tab at

❏

the lower back of the cowl into the slot at the bottom of the
fuselage. Position the tab at the upper back of the cowl over
the slot in the top of the motor box and push the cowl down.

IMPORTANT: Do Not install the propeller and spinner until
after the control throws have been checked.

2. Use a T-pin to pierce holes through the covering just

❏

inside the outline of the headrest. This will strengthen the
glue bond between the headrest and turtledeck.

3. Wipe off the outline on the turtledeck. Lightly sand the

❏

bottom of the  ange on the head rest and clean it off with
denatured alcohol. Glue the headrest on the turtledeck with
Formula 560 canopy glue or thin CA.

4. Install the intrument panel decal. Use canopy glue to glue

❏

the wind screen in front of the cockpit. We do not recommend
CA. It may fog the wind screen.

17

5. Bolt the wing on the fuselage. Install the belly pan using

❏

the same procedure used to install the headrest.

Apply the Decals

6. Cut and attach two pieces of the rough adhesive backed

❏

hook and loop material to the battery tray. Attach a strip of
the soft adhesive backed hook and loop material to the back
of the motor battery.

7. Make a hook and loop strap by overlapping a strip of

❏

hook material with loop material by 1" [25mm].

8. Insert the strap through the battery tray. Position the

❏

motor battery on the tray, trimming the strap as necessary
to secure the motor battery to the battery tray.

18

1. The majority of the decals are die-cut from the factory.

FULL THROTTLE

RUDDER

MOVES RIGHT

ELEVATOR MOVES DOWN

RIGHT AILERON MOVES UP

LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN

❏

2. Be certain the model is clean and free from oily

❏

 ngerprints and dust. Prepare a dishpan or small bucket
with a mixture of liquid soap and warm water – ½ teaspoon
of soap per gallon of water. Submerse one of the decals in
the solution and peel off the paper backing. NOTE: Even
though the decals have a “sticky-back” and are not the water
transfer type, submersing them in soap and water allows
accurate positioning and reduces air bubbles underneath.

3. Position decal on the model where desired. Holding the

❏

decal down, use a paper towel to wipe most of the water away.

4. Use a piece of soft balsa or something similar to

❏

squeegee the remaining water from under the decal.

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

Check the Control Directions

DO NOT install the propeller until instructed to.

1. Switch on the transmitter and connect the  ight battery

❏

to the ESC.

3. Make certain that the control surfaces and throttle

❏

respond in the correct direction as shown in the diagram.
If any of the controls respond in the wrong direction, use
the servo reversing in the transmitter to reverse the servos
connected to those controls. Be certain the control surfaces
have remained centered. Adjust if necessary.

Set the Control Throws

2. Center the control surfaces.

❏

1. Hold a ruler against the widest part of the control surface

❏

and measure the high rate throw  rst.

19

Pushrod Farther Out

Pushrod Farther Out

LESS
THROW

Pushrod Closer In

MORE
THROW

MORE THROW

Pushrod Closer In

LESS THROW

2. If needed, adjust the location of the pushrod on the

60mm
67mm

2-3/8"
2-5/8"

❏

servo arm or on the control horn  rst. Then, use the endpoint
adjustment in your transmitter to  ne tune the throws.

3. Measure and set the low rate throws using the dual rates

❏

on the transmitter. Next, measure and set the high and low
rate throws for the rest of the control surfaces the same way.

If your radio does not have dual rates, we recommend setting
the throws at the high rate settings.

These are the recommended control surface throws:

HIGH RATE LOW RATE

ELEVATOR

RUDDERAILERONS

[16 mm]

[28mm]

[24mm]

Up

5/8"

12°

Right

1-1/8"

20°

Up

15/16"

31°

Down

5/8"

[16 mm]

12°

Left

1-1/8"

[28mm]

20°

Down

15/16"

[24mm]

31°

Up

7/16"

[11mm ]

8°

Right

7/8"

[22mm]

16°

Up

5/8"

[16 mm]

20°

Down

7/16"

[11mm ]

8°

Left

7/8"

[22mm]

16°

Down

5/8"

[16 mm]

20°

4. If the RimFire 32 is installed, use a 5/16" [8mm] drill bit

❏

to enlarge the center hole in the spinner backplate. Slide
the spinner back plate onto the prop drive, followed by
the propeller and secure them with the 8mm prop washer
supplied with the Ryan and the prop nut. Attach the spinner
cone to the spinner back plate with the two 2.5 x 10mm sheet
metal screws. Note: The propeller opening in the spinner
cone may need to be enlarged slightly so that the cone does
not rub on the propeller.

5. If installing a pilot (not included) now is the time to install it.

❏

Balance the Model Laterally

1. With the wing level, have an assistant help you lift the

❏

model by the propeller shaft and the bottom of the fuse under
the TE of the  n. Do this several times.

2. If one wing always drops when you lift the model, it

❏

means that side is heavy. Balance the airplane by adding
weight to the other wing tip. An airplane that has been

laterally balanced will track better in loops and other
maneuvers.

Balance the Model (C.G.)

DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE.

A model that is not properly balanced may be unstable and
possibly un yable.

IMPORTANT: With the propeller removed and the control
throws set, set the fail safe on the transmitter. We recommend
checking the fail safe by switching off the transmitter with
the motor battery connected to the ESC. The motor must
not come on when the transmitter is switched off. Unplug
the motor battery from the ESC.

1. Mark the C.G location on the top of the wing, between

❏

2-3/8" [60mm] to 2-5/8" [67mm] from the wing’s leading edge.

20

2. With the plane ready to  y, with an empty fuel tank or

❏

motor batteries installed, use a Great Planes C.G. Machine or
apply narrow (1/16" [2mm]) strips of tape at the front and rear
C.G. locations so you will be able to feel them when lifting the
model with your  ngers to check the C.G. location. Do not
at any time balance the model outside this C.G. range.

3. First, move the motor battery forward or aft to balance

❏

the plane. If needed, use Great Planes “stick-on” weight
(GPMQ4485) to balance the plane. Place incrementally
increasing amounts of weight on the bottom of the fuselage
over the location where it would be mounted inside until the
model balances. A good place to add stick-on nose weight is
to the motor box. Do not attach weight to the cowl—this will
cause stress on the cowl and could cause the cowl to crack
or come off in  ight. Once you have determined if additional
weight needs to be installed, permanently attach the weight
with glue or screws

4. IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any

❏

weight, recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.

PREFLIGHT

Identify Your Model

You should always have your name, address, telephone

number and AMA number on or inside your model. It is
required at all AMA R/C club  ying sites and AMA sanctioned
 ying events. Fill out the identi cation tag on page 23 and
place it on or inside your model. You must also have your
FAA number on your plane and accessible without any tools.

Charge the Batteries

Always charge your transmitter and receiver batteries the night
before you go  ying, and at other times as recommended
by the radio manufacturer.

CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your radio
system state differently, the initial charge on new NiMH
transmitter batteries should be done for 15 hours using
the slow-charger that came with the radio system.
This will “condition” the batteries so that the next charge
may be done using the fast-charger of your choice. If the
initial charge is done with a fast-charger the batteries may
not reach their full capacity and you may be  ying with
batteries that are only partially charged.

If the transmitter comes with LiFe batteries, be sure to
follow the instructions included with the transmitter and
use the correct charger designed to charge LiFe batteries.

Ground Check and Range Check

Follow the radio manufacturer’s instructions to ground check
the operational range of your radio, before the  rst  ight of
the day. This should be done once with the motor off and
once with the motor operating at various speeds. If the control
surfaces do not respond correctly, do not  y! Find and correct
the problem  rst. Look for loose servo connections or broken
wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, loose motor
connectors or try relocating the receiver antennas away from
the motor battery.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

WARNING: Once the motor batteries are connected the
electric motor can start at any time. Make sure the fail safe
is set on your radio to prevent the motor from starting if the
signal is lost.

WARNING: Read the entire instruction sheet included with
your motor batteries. Failure to follow the instructions could
cause permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings
and cause bodily harm!

WARNING: Get help from an experienced pilot when learning
to operate electric motors.

ALWAYS

motor battery. After fl ying, unplug the motor battery fi rst, then
switch off the transmitter.

ALWAYS keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing,
shirt sleeves, ties, scarfs, long hair or loose objects such
as pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the prop.

ALWAYS keep your face and body as well as all spectators
away from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you run
the motor.

ALWAYS wear safety glasses when operating the motor.
ALWAYS remove the propeller if the motor batteries will be

connected when working on your plane.

ALWAYS remove the motor batteries when charging.
ALWAYS follow the charging instructions included with your

charger for charging LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries can cause
serious damage if misused.

21

switch on the transmitter fi rst. Then, connect the

ALWAYS unplug the motor batteries  rst.
ALWAYS use a LiPo approved charger.
ALWAYS set the charger’s output volts to match the battery

volts.

ALWAYS charge a LiPo battery in a  reproof location.
ALWAYS charge through the “charge” lead.
ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
ALWAYS remove the batteries from the plane after a crash.

Set them aside in a safe location for at least 20 minutes. If
the batteries are damaged in the crash they could catch
 re. If the battery starts to swell, quickly move the battery
to a safe location, preferably outside. Place it in a bucket,
covering the battery with sand. Never use water to try and
put out a LiPo  re.

NEVER operate the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand;
the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.

NEVER touch the motor during or right after operation. The
motor may be HOT!

NEVER switch off the transmitter with the motor batteries
plugged in.

NEVER use a NiCd/NiMH peak charger to charge a LiPo
battery.

NEVER charge in excess of 4.20v per cell unless the batter y
is rated for a higher voltage.

NEVER charge through the “discharge” lead.
NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C unless the battery

is rated for a higher charge rate.

NEVER trickle charge a LiPo battery.
NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 150 degrees

F [65 C].
NEVER disassemble or modify the pack wiring in any way

or puncture the cells.

NEVER discharge below 2.7V per cell.
NEVER place the battery or charger on combustible materials

or leave it unattended during charge or discharge.
NEVER charge the batteries in the plane.

FLYING

The Ryan STA EP ARF is a great- ying sport model that  ies

smoothly and predictably. However, it does not possess the
self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and
should be  own only by experienced R/C pilots.

CAUTION: (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while  ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
 utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a  ying surface (such as a wing or
stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise).
In extreme cases, if not detected immediately,  utter can
actually cause the control surface to detach or the  ying
surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by
an impending crash. If  utter is detected, slow the model
immediately and land as soon as safely possible. Identify
which surface  uttered (so the problem may be resolved) by
checking all the servo grommets for deterioration or signs
of vibration. Make certain all pushrod linkages are secure
and free of play. If it  uttered once, under similar circum­stances it will probably  utter again unless the problem is
 xed. Some things which can cause  utter are; Excessive
hinge gap; Not mounting control horns solidly; Poor  t of
clevis pin in horn; Side-play of wire pushrods caused by
large bends; Excessive free play in servo gears; Insecure
servo mounting; and one of the most prevalent causes of
 utter; Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.

Takeoff

Before taking off, see how the model handles on the ground
by doing a few practice runs at low speeds on the runway.
Hold “up” elevator to keep the tail wheel on the ground. If
necessary, adjust the tail wheel so the model will roll straight
down the runway.

Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, point
the model straight down the runway, hold a bit of up elevator
to keep the tail on the ground to maintain tail wheel steering,
and then gradually advance the throttle. As the model gains
speed, decrease up elevator allowing the tail to come off the
ground. One of the most important things to remember with
a tail dragger is to always be ready to apply right rudder to
counteract motor torque. Gain as much speed as your runway
and  ying site will practically allow before gently applying up
elevator, lifting the model into the air. At this moment it is likely
that you will need to apply more right rudder to counteract
motor torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the
model to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before
turning into the traf c pattern.

22

Flight

It is a good idea to have an assistant on the  ight line with
you to keep an eye on other traf c. Take it easy with the
Ryan STA EP ARF for the  rst few  ights, gradually getting
acquainted with it as you gain con dence. Adjust the trims
to maintain straight and level  ight. After  ying around for a
while, and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of battery
power remaining, practice slow  ight and execute practice
landing approaches by reducing the throttle to see how the
model handles at slower speeds. Add power to see how she
climbs as well. Continue to  y around, executing various
maneuvers and making mental notes of what trim or C.G.
changes may be required to  ne tune the model so it  ies
the way you like. Mind your  ight time, but use this  rst  ight
to become familiar with your model before landing.

Landing

To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on

the downwind leg. Continue to lose altitude, but maintain
airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn onto the
crosswind leg. Make your  nal turn toward the runway (into
the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and
control. The Ryan STA likes to come in with a little more
speed than trainer type planes. Level the attitude when the

model reaches the runway threshold, modulating the throttle
as necessary to maintain your glide path and airspeed. If
you are going to overshoot the runway, smoothly advance
the throttle (always ready on the right rudder to counteract
torque). Climb out to make another attempt. When the model
is a foot or so off the ground, smoothly increase up elevator
until it gently touches down. Once the model is on the runway
and has lost  ying speed, hold up elevator to place the tail
on the ground, regaining tail wheel control.

If using the recommended 3200 – 3600 mAh LiPo batteries,
set your transmitter timer to 4.5 minutes for the  rst  ight.
After landing, check the capacity of the batteries and adjust
the timer as needed. With good throttle management and
scale type  ying, 6 to 8 minute  ights are possible.

FINAL NOTE: Have a goal or  ight plan in mind each time you
 y. This may be learning or improving a maneuver or learning
how the model behaves at certain speeds and control rates.
Every maneuver should be deliberate, not impulsive. A  ight
plan reduces the chances of crashing your model because
of poor planning and impulsive moves.

Have a ball! But always stay in control

and  y in a safe manner.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

This model belongs to:

Name

Address

City, State, Zip

Phone Number

AMA Number

FAA Number

23

© 2017 Tower Hobbi es.® A subsidiary of Hobbico, Inc.

TOWA0000

24