TAKEOFF
Before you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles
on the ground by doing a few practice runs at
low speeds
on
the runway. If necessary, adjust the nose 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 and then gradually
advance the throttle. 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.
FLIGHT
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 Kaos 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.
LANDING
To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch
downward to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose
altitude, but maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as
you turn onto the crosswind leg. Make your final turn toward
the runway (into the wind) keeping the nose down to
maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the
model reaches the runway threshold, modulating the throttle
as necessary to maintain your glide path and airspeed. If you
are going to overshoot, smoothly advance the throttle (always
ready on the right rudder to counteract torque) and climb out
to make another attempt. When you’re ready to make your
landing flare and the model is a foot or so off the deck,
smoothly increase up elevator until it gently touches down.
One final note about flying your model. Have a goal or flight
plan in mind for every flight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know, or
learning how the model behaves in certain conditions (such
as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to improve
your skills
(though it is never a bad idea!)
, but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly finding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction
(anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to
maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and
make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A
flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your
model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves.
Remember to think.
Have a ball! But always stay in control and fly in a safe
manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
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.
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