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Identify which surface fl 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 fl uttered once,
under similar circumstances it will probably fl utter again
unless the problem is fi xed. Some things which can cause
fl utter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control
horns solidly; Poor fi 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 fl utter; Flying an over-powered model
at excessive speeds.
Takeoff
Before you get ready to takeoff, 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. If you need to calm your
nerves before the maiden fl ight, shut the engine down and
bring the model back into the pits. Top off the fuel, then check
all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind.
Remember to takeoff directly 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, 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 engine torque. Gain as much
speed as your runway and fl 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 engine torque. Be smooth on the
elevator stick, allowing the model to establish a
gentle
climb
to a safe altitude before turning into the traffi c pattern.
Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight line with you. Tell
him to remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a
comfortable altitude. While full throttle is usually desirable for
takeoff, most models fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the F-1 Rocket for the fi rst few fl ights, gradually
getting acquainted with it as you gain confi dence. Adjust the
trims to maintain straight and level fl ight. The Rocket is a very
fast airplane. Its clean airframe allows it to fl y very fast, yet it
exhibits good slow fl ight characteristics as well. Don’t let the
airplane get ahead of your skills. Fly the airplane at a speed
you are comfortable with. After fl ying around for a while, and
while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow
fl 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 fl y
around, executing various maneuvers and making mental
notes (or having your assistant write them down) of what trim
or C.G. changes may be required to fi ne tune the model so it
fl ies the way you like. Mind your fuel/battery level, but use this
fi rst fl ight to become familiar with your model before landing.
Landing
To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch downward
to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose altitude, but
maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn onto
the crosswind leg. Make your fi nal turn toward the runway
(into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed
and control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the
runway threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary to
maintain your glide path and airspeed. Because of its clean
airframe you may fi nd that you overshoot your fi rst landing.
If you are going to overshoot, smoothly advance the throttle
(always ready on the right rudder to counteract torque) and
climb out to make another attempt. When you’re ready to make
your landing fl are and the model is a foot or so off the deck,
smoothly increase up elevator until it gently touches down.
Once the model is on the runway and has lost fl ying speed,
hold up elevator to place the tail on the ground, regaining
tail wheel control.
One fi nal note about fl ying your model. Have a goal or fl ight
plan in mind for
every
fl ight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know,
or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions
(such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to
improve your skills (
though it is never a bad idea!)
, but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly fi nding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do a
loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction (anticipating
rudder corrections that will be required to maintain heading),
remember to throttle back at the top, and make certain you
are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A fl ight plan greatly
reduces the chances of crashing your model just because
of poor planning and impulsive moves.
Remember to think.
Have a ball! But always stay in control
and fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
This model belongs to:
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