❏
12. Secure connections between servo wires and Y-
connectors or servo extensions and the connection between
the battery pack and the on/off switch with tape, heat shrink
tubing or special clips suitable for that purpose.
❏
13. Make sure servo wires do not interfere with other
systems (servo arms, pushrods, etc.).
❏
14. Secure the pressure tap (if used) to the muffler with high
temp RTV silicone, thread locking compound or J.B. Weld.
❏
15. Make sure the fuel lines are connected and are
not kinked.
❏
16. Use an incidence meter to check the wing for twists
and attempt to correct before flying.
❏
17. Balance the propeller (and spare propellers).
❏
18. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner.
❏
19. Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone
number on or inside the model.
❏
20. Cycle the receiver battery pack (if necessary) and
make sure it is fully charged.
❏
21. If you wish to photograph the model, do so before
your first flight.
❏
22. Range check the radio when you get to the flying field.
The Shoestring ARF is a great-flying model that flies smoothly
and predictably. The Shoestring does not, however, possess the
self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and should
be flown only by experienced R/C pilots.
A fully cowled engine may run at a higher temperature than
an un-cowled engine. For this reason, the fuel mixture
should be richened so the engine runs at about 200 rpm
below peak speed. By running the engine slightly rich, you
will help prevent dead-stick landings caused by overheating.
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 steering by using pliers to bend the tail
gear wire so the model will roll straight down the runway
(when the rudder is centered). If you need to calm your
nerves before the maiden flight, 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.
Takeoff into the wind. When 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
Takeoff
CAUTION: (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while flying, you notice any unusual sounds, such as a
low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
flutter. Because flutter can quickly destroy components of
your airplane, any time you detect flutter you must
immediately cut the throttle and land the airplane! Check
all servo grommets for deterioration (this may indicate
which surface fluttered) and make sure all pushrod
linkages are secure and free of play. If the control surface
fluttered once, it probably will flutter again under similar
circumstances unless you can eliminate the free-play or
flexing in the linkages. Here are some things which can
cause flutter: Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control
horns solidly; Poor fit of clevis pin in horn; Side-play of
pushrod in guide tube caused by tight bends; Poor fit of Z-
bend in servo arm; Insufficient glue used when gluing in
the elevator joiner wire; Excessive
play or backlash in
servo gears; and Insecure servo mounting.
Fuel Mixture Adjustments
FLYING
23
EM60120
PATTERN
