21
3. Adjusting the servo linkages
Set the servos and the control surfaces to “neutral”
(centre), then tighten the screws in the pushrod
connectors to secure the wire pushrods.
4. Checking the installation
All components should be installed in the stated
positions and secured using Velcro (hook-and-loop)
tape:
The flight pack should be fitted in the extreme nose,
with the receiver behind it. Even at this early stage it is
a good to check the Centre of Gravity as stated in Point
6. Apply the Velcro tape (“loop” side) to the inside of the
fuselage floor at the flight pack and receiver positions.
If the Velcro tape does not seem to stick strongly enough,
apply a little cyano to the joints.
The final position of the flight pack cannot be determined
until the model is complete and you are able to set the
final CG position. Ensure that the Velcro tape for the
battery is securely fixed to the model.
Check that the battery is held in place firmly before
each flight.
Temporarily connect the receiving system as described
in the instructions supplied with the RC system.
Don’t connect the flight battery to the speed
controller until you have switched on the transmitter
and checked that the motor control (throttle) is at
the “OFF” position.
The model is supplied as standard with a BEC speed
controller, i.e. it draws current for the receiving system
from the flight pack itself. This means that a separate
receiver battery is not required.
Hold the model securely and switch the motor on briefly,
so that you can check the direction of rotation of the
propeller. Before you do this remove any loose,
lightweight objects from the area behind the model
before the propeller does it for you.
Caution: even small motors and propellers are
capable of inflicting injury.
5. Gilding the lily - applying the decals
The kit is supplied with a multi-colour decal sheet. Cut
out the individual name placards and emblems and apply
them to the model in the position shown in the kit box
illustration, or in an arrangement which you find
pleasing. The cabin can be coloured using a black wa-
terproof felt-tip pen, continuing the colour down to the
edge.
6. Balancing
The EasyStar, like any other aircraft, must be balanced
at a particular point in order to achieve stable flying
characteristics. Assemble your model ready to fly, and
install the flight battery.
The Centre of Gravity (CG) should be about 5 mm
from the rear edge of the spar cover. Mark this point.
This setting corresponds to about 78 mm from the
root leading edge, measured on both sides of the
fuselage.
Support the model at this point on two fingertips and it
should balance level. If not, you can move the flight
battery forward or aft to correct the balance point. Once
the correct position is found, mark the position of the
battery inside the model to ensure that the pack is always
replaced in the same position.
7. Preparing for the first flight
For the first flight wait for a day with as little breeze as
possible. The early evening is often a good time.
Be sure to carry out a range check before the first
flight.
Just before the flight, charge up the transmitter battery
and the flight pack using the recommended procedures.
Ensure that “your” channel is not already in use before
you switch on the transmitter.
Ask your assistant to walk away from the model, holding
the transmitter. The aerial should be fitted but completely
collapsed.
Your assistant should operate one of the functions
constantly while you watch the servos. The non-
controlled servo should stay motionless up to a range
of about 60 m, and the controlled one should follow the
stick movements smoothly and without any delay. Please
note that this check can only give reliable results if the
radio band is clear of interference, and if no other radio
control transmitters are in use - even on different
channels. If the range check is successful, repeat it
with
the motor running
. There should be only a very slight
reduction in effective radio range with the motor turning.
If you are not sure about anything, please don’t risk a
flight. Send the whole system (including battery, switch
harness and servos) to the service department of your
RC system manufacturer and ask them to check it.
The first flight ...
Don’t try unpowered test-glides with this model!
The EasyStar is designed for hand-launching, and
should always be launched exactly into any wind.
5mm
78mm