Build Instructions
Model Setup
DO NOT ATTEMPT FLIGHT IF THE WINGS ARE WARPED.
Inspect the wings for any warps that may
have occurred when covering the model, or while the model was in storage. Remove all warps before
flight.
Lack of aileron control on this model will make flying with a warped wing difficult.
Rudder -
Center the rudder. Then, set the direction, rate of travel, and dampening (expo) of the control.
The rudder servo should be controlled by the aileron channel on your radio, as the rudder on this model
also controls the roll of the aircraft. The rudder should follow aileron stick travel, i.e., moving the aileron
stick to the
right
should move the rudder to the
right
.
Elevator -
Center the elevator. Then, set the direction, rate of travel, and dampening (expo) of the
control. The elevator will be controlled by the elevator channel on your radio. Moving the elevator stick
back
should move the elevator
up
. Moving the elevator stick
forward
should move the elevator
down
.
The
PuddleBug UM
was designed to be a very docile flyer but is capable of astonishingly sprightly
handling. Start with the minimum control travel listed below and work your way up. The use of dual rates
on your transmitter will allow you to quickly switch from docile trainer to nimble aerobat! With the push
rods connected, per the instructions in this manual, set the control throws as follows:
Preflight
It is recommended that you have an experienced pilot assist you with preflighting your new model.
Just like having someone proofread something you’ve written, having a second
fresh
set of eyes inspect
your final product is often helpful in avoiding disaster.
While not a thorough preflight check, listed below are some of the major items that you should consider
checking when developing your own preflight check list. Get in the habit of always preflighting your
models
before
every flight
.
Weight and Balance
-
Check the balance of your model (C.G., center of gravity). For proper
performance, the model should balance using the points indicated on the plan set – copy these marks to
the completed model using a marker or trim tape. Use your
right
and
left
index fingers to suspend the
model from
below
, at the marked balance points. If the top of the fuselage and horizontal stabilizer
appears to hang level with the horizon, the model is properly balanced and ready to fly.
If the nose or tail of the model hang
down
, move the battery forward and backward to make subtle
changes, or add clay ballast to the nose or tail as required to obtain proper balance.
Check Weather
-
The
first flight should be outdoors in
zero
wind conditions. The
PuddleBug UM
can fly
in winds up to 5 miles per hour.
Inspect the Airframe
-
Always check for warps and obvious signs of wear or damage.
Do not fly a
warped or damaged model.
Inspect Control Surfaces
- Always check control surfaces for center, proper direction of travel, rate of
throw, secure push rod connections, hinges, and receiver/servo mounting hardware.
Check Wing Attachment Points
-
Always make sure you inspect for damage and wear. Make sure that
the wing and wing struts, if applicable, are properly attached.
PuddleBug
TM
UM
- Build Instructions © 2010 Stevens AeroModel, all rights reserved.
Page 18
Rudder Travel
+/- 15 degrees (minimum)
+/- 30 degrees (maximum)
Elevator Travel
+/- 15 degrees (minimum)
+/- 25 degrees (maximum)
