12
Balance the Model (C.G.)
The C.G. (Center of Gravity) is the location on the wings,
measured back from the leading edge on both sides of
the fuselage, where the model balances. In addition to the
control surface throws, the C.G. has a GREAT effect on the
way the model fl ies. If the C.G. is too far aft (tail heavy), the
model will be too responsive and diffi cult to control. If the
C.G. is too far forward (nose-heavy), the model will be too
stable and not responsive enough. Follow the instructions
to make sure the model is balanced properly and the C.G.
is in the correct location.
❏
1. Turn the model over and mark the balance point on the
bottom of each wing using a fi ne felt-tipped pen. Make a line
on each wing that is 2-5/8" [67mm] back from the leading
edge of the wing at the wing root (where the wing meets the
fuselage). This is where you will balance your model.
❏
2. With all parts in place including battery pack (do not
plug it in), propeller, and canopy, lift up the model by placing
your fi nger tips on the marks you just made or use a Great
Planes C.G. Machine
™
as shown here. The model should
remain level. If the tail drops, nose weight must be added.
If the nose drops, tail weight must be added. Note: While
this model is essentially designed to balance out of the box,
there can be variations from model to model so don’t skip
this step. If you decide to use a different battery pack, you
will also need to add weight.
If you need to add weight to balance your model, please
purchase Great Planes Segmented Lead Weights
(GPMQ4485).
PREFLIGHT
Identify Your Model
No matter if you fl y at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or
if you fl y somewhere on your own, 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 fl ying
sites and AMA sanctioned fl ying events and simply a “good
idea” even if fl ying somewhere else. Write this information
on a strip of masking tape and place it on the inside of the
battery hatch (or simply write the information directly on the
battery hatch).
Charge the Battery
Be certain to refer to the instructions that accompany the
charger to properly and safely charge the battery that goes
in the model and powers the motor and controls.
When discharging the battery, DO NOT attempt to fully
discharge the battery pack by repeatedly running the motor
to the ESC’s low voltage cutoff. This will drastically shorten
the life of your Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries and could
cause the individual cells to become imbalanced.
Balance Propellers
The propeller supplied with this model should be balanced. If
you need to replace it, follow these procedures to balance a
new prop or if you experience more vibration than usual.
Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
you fl y. An unbalanced prop can be the single most signifi cant
cause of vibration that can damage your model. Not only
Summary of Contents for SKYFLY
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