EN
Consult local laws and ordinances before choosing a fl ying location.
NOTICE:
This is not a high-speed sailplane. Avoid prolonged high speed dives
or damage may result.
Range Check your Radio System
After fi nal assembly, range check the radio system with the aircraft. Refer to
your specifi c transmitter instruction manual.
Choosing a Launch Area
Your local AMA radio controlled aircraft fl ying fi eld is the best location for
fl ying. However, if you do not have access to such a fi eld, many other open
areas will work. Avoid possible damage to your launch system and aircraft by
launching only in areas clear of brush, trees and other obstacles.
Hand Launch
Hold the Ka-8 fuselage under the wing. Launch the sailplane into the wind with
the wings level.
Hi-Start Launch
A Hi-Start launch kit consists of elastic tubing connected to a tow line. A good
Hi-Start launch propels a small sailplane 200–300 feet off the ground, ample
height for seeking thermals. The E-fl ite Hi-Start (EFLA650, sold separately)
includes a bright parachute to make it easier to fi nd the end of the line and to
align the Hi-Start with the wind in preparation for the next launch.
You may need assistance to safely launch your aircraft using the Hi-Start. On
your chosen fl ying fi eld, anchor your Hi-Start the furthest point upwind so that
you can launch into the wind.
CAUTION:
Avoid driving a stake into buried utility lines or damage and
injury could result. Contact local utility authorities for assistance if needed.
Launching
1. Choose an anchor spot in fi rm soil and drive the stake at an approximate
45-degree angle to your chosen launch path (see image
A
).
2. Slide the rubber loop through the open section of the stake. Pull on the
assembly to ensure it is securely attached to the stake and the stake is
secure in the ground.
3. Unroll the assembly downwind from the stake, ensuring there are no
tangles or knots. Once your assembly is completely laid out (but not
stretched), slowly walk away from the stake, stretching the rubber.
4. Walk approximately 120–150 ft (36–46 m) and attach the string loop to
the Hi-Start hook on the bottom of your airplane. Keep a fi rm grasp on your
Hi-Start and your aircraft. Ensure your transmitter and aircraft are powered
on and bound together.
5. Toss the aircraft into the wind at a 30 degree upward angle (see image B).
During launch, it may be necessary to use the transmitter for small correc-
tions before the sailplane reaches soaring altitude.
In normal wind conditions, the Hi-Start will unwind to approximately 450 ft
(137 m) and stretch an additional 100–120 ft (30–37 m). Increase or decrease
the stretch distance according to wind strength. Stretch the Hi-Start less on
windy days.
NOTICE:
Do not exceed 180 ft (55 m) when stretching the Hi-Start to launch
your sailplane.
Tip:
For your fi rst launches, elevator input should not be necessary. Use the
rudder to keep the airplane straight and use the ailerons to keep the wings
level during launch. After you become profi cient at launching, apply approxi-
mately 1/4 up elevator to increase launch height, however, too much elevator
may cause the airplane to stall.
When the sailplane reaches its maximum launch altitude, the ring should fall
from the hook. If the ring does not fall, fl y upwind or tap the down elevator.
Maintenance and Storage
Extreme and/or prolonged heat decreases the life of rubber cord. Store the
assembly in a cool, dry place, loosely wound on a spool.
NOTICE:
Avoid leaving the assembly in an automobile.
Hi-Start Precautionary Guidelines
• Make sure the stake is securely anchored. Check throughout the day to
make sure the stake is not loose. Reposition the stake if necessary to
account for changing wind conditions.
• During the launch, make sure there is no one between you and the anchor
stake.
• Do not over-stretch the rubber. Doing so can over-stress the airplane,
causing wing failure.
• Periodically check all knots. If the rubber or string shows wear, replace the
assembly.
Flying Tips and Repairs
45
Û
30
Û
B
45
Û
Wind
Hi-Start
Stake
A
Fly in this area
Stand here
600
feet (182.8 m)
Wind
Wind
11
