❏
13. Make sure any servo extension cords you may have
used 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. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
❏
17. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner.
❏
18. Place your name, address, AMA number and
telephone number on or inside your model.
❏
19. Cycle your receiver battery pack (if necessary) and
make sure it is fully charged.
❏
20. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before
your first flight.
❏
21. Remember to range check your radio when you get
to the flying field.
The Great Planes Venus 40 ARF is a great-flying model that
flies smoothly and predictably. The Great Planes Venus 40
ARF 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 you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles
on the ground by doing a few practice takeoff 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 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.
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 engine torque. Gain as much
speed as your runway and flying 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 traffic pattern.
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight 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 fly more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Great Planes Venus 40 ARF for the
first few flights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you
gain confidence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and
level flight. After flying around for a while, and while still at a
safe altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow flight 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 fly
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 fine tune the model
so it flies the way you like. Mind your fuel level, but use this
first flight to become familiar with your model before landing.
The Great Planes Venus 40 ARF is a very neutrally stable
airplane. It was designed as a pattern trainer and it likes
doing maneuvers large and smoothly. This is the area it
excels in and you should take advantage of that.
To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch
downward to gradually lose altitude. Continue to lose
Landing
Flight
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
25