.
If you're using a relatively large engine, don't expect the takeoff roll to last very long! With its big wing, the Four-Star 120
will lift off quickly and reliably.
The control surface movements listed on page 22 are fairly tame -
most modelers will want to increase the movements as they become
more familiar with the flying characteristics of the model. Experiment
with different control throws and balance points until the plane flies
exactly the way you want. Make any changes, especially to the
balance point, gradually. We recommend that you shift the balance
point no more than 1/4" at a time. In general, moving the balance
point forward will make the model more stable, slowing down snap
rolls and spins. Moving the balance point back increases its
sensitivity to control inputs; but if carried too far, the model can
become completely unstable and uncontrollable. The balance range
shown on the plans is a safe area to use for test flights. Don't exceed
the rearward limit unless you are a very experienced pilot.
Aerobatically, the Four-Star 120 can do any trick in the book. The primary aerobatic maneuvers listed on the back of "The
Basics of Radio Control" are no problem for this model. Here's how the Four-Star 120 handles some of the more advanced
maneuvers:
INVERTED FLIGHT
You'll need to hold just a touch of "down" elevator to keep the model flying level while inverted. Climb to altitude and try
some slow-speed inverted flight with your Four-Star. It truly flies as well upside down as it does right-side up!
SPINS
A proper spin begins with a stall. Just as the model stalls, chop the throttle, hold full "up" elevator, and deflect both the
rudder and ailerons either left or right. Once spinning, the "120" can easily be thrown from a left spin into a right spin and
back again. To recover, simply release the controls, then gently pull out of the ensuing dive.
FLAT SPIN
A flat spin can be fatal for most models, but the "120" actually does them fairly well. It does, however, require a balance
point near the rearward limit, a lot of control throw, a lot of power, and a lot of altitude! The exact setup will vary from
model to model, so you'll need to experiment. To do a flat spin you must first enter a normal spin, throttle up to full power,
then slowly move the aileron stick to the opposite side. To recover, chop the throttle, neutralize the ailerons, apply
opposite rudder and down elevator, and wait! A fully developed flat spin may take two to five rotations to recover, so don't
start the recovery procedure too late! This maneuver is very difficult and is definitely only recommended for highly skilled
pilots.
KNIFE EDGE
Knife edge flight is achieved by rolling the model 90 deg. so that the wing is vertical, then holding the nose up with rudder.
Since the Four-Star 120 doesn't have the neutral stability of a pattern ship, it requires a modest amount of "up" elevator to
maintain heading during knife edge flight. With enough rudder deflection and power, the Four-Star will actually climb in
knife-edge, using only the side of the fuselage for lift.
FLAT TURNS
The Four-Star will actually "yaw" through a 360 deg. turn without ever banking the wing. From level flight, simply hold full
rudder and some "up" elevator to keep the nose up. Some aileron correction may be necessary during the turn to keep the
wings level.
Needless to say (but we will anyway), when you attempt a stunt for the first time, give yourself plenty of altitude and
clearance from other people. Fly safe! You may need the room to recover from a messed up maneuver.
When landing, the Four-Star 120 may tend to "float" a bit more than models you have flown in the past, so be ready to go
around if it looks like you're going to overshoot the runway. As with any new airplane, it may take a few flights to get a feel
for the correct approach and landing speed. Remember to keep your control inputs smooth and gentle to avoid
overcontrolling. When you are certain the model will make it to the runway (even if the engine quits), bring the throttle to
full idle and concentrate on keeping the wings level during final approach.
Summary of Contents for Four-Star 120
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