.
Be certain to range check your radio equipment according to the manufacturer's
instructions before attempting test flights. A lot of problems can also be avoided if
your engine has been well broken-in and the idle adjustments perfected on a test
stand or in another airplane before installation in the new model.
Before flying, you should adjust all of your push rod linkages so that the control
surfaces are in their neutral position when the transmitter sticks and trim levers
are centered. When you get to the field, don't be surprised if the elvator and
rudder are suddenly misaligned. Temperature and humidity changes can cause
the nylon push rod tubes to expand or contract slightly. Use the trim levers on the
transmitter to reneutralize the control surfaces, and do the final trimming in the
air.
The control surface movements listed are recommended for the first flight of your
MID-STAR 40. These movements will provide the model with a fair degree of
aerobatic capability if it's balanced correctly. Test flights may indicate a need for
slightly more or less movement, depending on individual model performance and
personal preference.
RECOMMENDED CONTROL
SURFACE MOVEMENTS
For test flying, the following are
suggested:
ELEVATOR
1/2" UP and 1/2"
DOWN
RUDDER
1" LEFT and 1"
RIGHT
AILERON
3/8" UP and 5/16"
DOWN
WARNING - DANGER Important: Read These Warnings:
Do not fly control line or towline models within 300 feet of electric power lines, instant death from electrocution can
result from coming close to them. Direct contact is not necessary.
A model airplane motor gets very hot and can cause serious bums. Do not touch the motor during or after operation.
Keep clear of the propeller, it can cut off a finger or put out an eye. Make sure the propeller is securely fastened in
place and is not cracked. Model airplane fuel is flammable and poisonous. Take the same precautions while
transporting and using it that you would with a can of gasoline or a bottle of poison.
Remember that it is possible to lose control of a model airplane. Do not fly in locations where the model may hit
people or damage property if loss of control occurs. Check your model and equipment regularly to insure it is in safe
operating condition.
FLYING
The MID-STAR 40 is a fun aircraft to fly, but it is not a basic trainer. If you have no previous R/C flying experience, we
suggest that you not attempt to fly this model without the assistance of an experienced pilot. Contact your local club or ask
your hobby dealer for the names of good fliers in your area and a suitable location for flying.
When you are ready for takeoff, point it into the wind and apply throttle. You'll
probably need a touch of right rudder to keep it going straight because engine
torque will try to make it drift to the left. When you reach flying speed, pull back
slightly on the elevator stick for a gentle liftoff.
If you are using a relatively large engine, don't expect the takeoff roll to last very
long! With its big wing, the MID-STAR 40 likes to jump into the air and get down
to business!
During the first part of the flight, concentrate on trimming the model to fly straight
and level. Novices should spend time flying around smoothly and getting used to
the "feel" of their new airplane. Experienced modelers will find the model
capable of almost any trick "in the book". Experiment With different control
throws and balance points until the model 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 1/8" 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