WING AREA WING LOADING oz/ft 2 [ g/dm 2 ]

Transcription

1 INSTRUCTION MANUAL WINGSPAN 100 in [2540 mm] LENGTH 49.5 in [1257mm] WING AREA 616 sq in [39.7 dm 2 ] WING LOADING oz/ft 2 [ g/dm 2 ] WEIGHT lb [ g] RADIO 4+ Channel WARRANTY Tower Hobbies guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover any component parts damaged by use or modification. In no case shall Tower Hobbies liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further, Tower Hobbies reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without notice. In that Tower Hobbies has no control over the final assembly or material used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted for any damage resulting from the use by the user of the final user-assembled product. By the act of using the user-assembled product, the user accepts all resulting liability. If the buyer is not prepared to accept the liability associated with the use of this product, the buyer is advised to return this kit immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase. To make a warranty claim, contact: READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL. TOWER HOBBIES WARNING! This product may use a lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. Improper handling may result in FIRE! You are responsible for following all safety precautions as outlined in this instruction manual Tower Hobbies. A subsidiary of Hobbico, Inc. 1 TOWA2045 v1.1

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION AMA SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS LITHIUM BATTERY WARNING! REQUIRED ITEMS Radio Components Battery and Charger Adhesives and Building Supplies Optional Supplies and Tools Covering Material Building Stand ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS KIT INSPECTION CONTENTS PREPARATION WING ASSEMBLY FUSELAGE ASSEMBLY GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY Check the Control Directions Set the Control Throws Preparing to Balance the Model Balance the Model Laterally Balance the Model (C.G.) PREFLIGHT Identify Your Model Charge the Batteries Ground Check and Range Check SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FLYING Mount the Wing Takeoff Flight Landing As a new owner of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS), you are responsible for the operation of this vehicle and the safety of those around you. Please contact your local authorities to find out the latest rules and regulations. In the United States, please visit: knowbeforeyoufly.org INTRODUCTION faa.gov/uas Congratulations on your purchase of the TOWER HOBBIES Vista Grande powered glider! The Vista Grande is the largest of the Tower Hobbies Vista sailplane series. The Grande boasts a long 100" wingspan with a dedicated spoiler and comes equipped with the powerful RimFire.32 ( ) brushless outrunner motor, 13.5 x 7 folding propeller and capable 70A ESC that will get your glider to soaring altitude in seconds! No need to bring along any launching equipment all you need is a charged up LiPo battery and you re ready for some thermal hunting. The huge wing area of the Vista Grande will collect the rising air and your glider will coast effortlessly for long flying sessions. When you re ready to land, flip a switch on your transmitter to raise the spoiler and make the perfect touch down right on your target! AMA We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) and a local R/C club. The AMA is the governing body of model aviation and membership is required to fly at AMA clubs. Though joining the AMA provides many benefits, one of the primary reasons to join is liability protection. Coverage is not limited to flying at contests or on the club field. It even applies to fl ying at public demonstrations and air shows. Failure to comply with the Safety Code may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally, training programs and instructors are available at AMA club sites to help you get started the right 2 way. There are over 2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the country. Contact the AMA at the address or toll-free phone number below. Academy of Model Aeronautics 5151 East Memorial Drive Muncie, IN Tele. (800) Fax (765) Or via the Internet at: IMPORTANT: Two of the most important things you can do to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid flying near full-scale aircraft and avoid fl ying near or over groups of people. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Protect Your Model, Yourself & Others Follow These Important Safety Precautions 1. Your Vista Grande should not be considered a toy, but rather a sophisticated, working model that functions very much like a full-size airplane. Because of its performance capabilities, this model, if not assembled and operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or spectators and damage to property. 2. You must assemble the model according to the instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing so may result in an unsafe or unflyable model. In a few cases the instructions may differ slightly from the photos. In those instances the written instructions should be considered as correct. 3. You must take time to build straight, true and strong. 4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in first-class condition. 5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in the air.

3 6. You must check the operation of the model before every flight to ensure that all equipment is operating and that the model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they show any signs of wear or fatigue. 7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not flown this type of model before, we recommend that you get the assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for your first flights. If you re not a member of a club, your local hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose membership includes experienced pilots. 8. While this model has been flight tested to exceed normal use, if a motor larger than the one recommended is used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to reinforce the high stress points and/or substituting hardware more suitable for the increased stress. WARNING: Drilling, sawing, sanding, or machining wood products can expose you to wood dust, a substance known to the State of California to cause cancer. Avoid inhaling wood dust or use a dust mask or other safeguards for personal protection. For more information go to We, as the ARF manufacturer, provide you with a top quality, thoroughly tested plane and instructions, but ultimately the quality and flyability of your finished model depends on how you build it; therefore, we cannot in any way guarantee the performance of your completed model, and no representations are expressed or implied as to the performance or safety of your completed model. REMEMBER: Take your time and follow the instructions to end up with a well-built model that is straight and true. ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WARNING! A spinning propeller has the potential to cause serious and permanent injury. WARNING! Once the motor batteries are connected, the propeller can start spinning at any time. Make sure the fail safe is set on your radio to prevent the motor from starting if the signal is lost. WARNING! Stand clear of the propeller when handling the aircraft. Make sure the aircraft is held securely until the battery has been disconnected. ALWAYS remove the propeller if the motor batteries will be connected while working on your plane. ALWAYS remove the motor batteries from the plane when charging. ALWAYS switch on the transmitter first, then the receiver. ALWAYS unplug the motor batteries first before switching off the receiver then transmitter. NEVER touch the motor during or right after operation. The motor gets HOT! NEVER switch off the transmitter with the motor batteries plugged in. NEVER reach through the arc of the propeller when plugging the battery into the ESC. LITHIUM BATTERY WARNING! This product requires the use of a lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. Improper handling of a LiPo battery could result in FIRE! A lithium battery fire has the potential to ignite surrounding areas and may cause property damage or cause personal injury. For safe LiPo handling, follow ALL of these guidelines: MOST IMPORTANT! Never leave the battery or charger unattended during charging or discharging. WARNING: Read the entire instruction sheet included with your motor batteries. Failure to follow the instructions could cause permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings and cause bodily harm! ALWAYS follow the charging instructions included with your charger for charging LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries can cause serious damage or fire if misused. ALWAYS use a LiPo-approved charger. ALWAYS set the charger s output volts to match the battery volts. ALWAYS charge a LiPo battery in a fireproof location. ALWAYS balance charge the battery. ALWAYS store and transport LiPo batteries in a fireproof container away from combustible materials. ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. ALWAYS keep LiPo batteries out of the reach of animals. A punctured battery may cause a fire. ALWAYS disconnect the battery and unplug the charger after the charge is complete. ALWAYS keep a supply of sand accessible when charging a LiPo battery. Dumping sand on the battery will assist in extinguishing a LiPo chemical fire. ALWAYS remove the batteries from the plane after a crash. Set them aside in a safe location for at least 20 minutes. If the batteries are damaged in the crash, they could catch fire. If the battery starts to swell, quickly move the battery to a safe location, preferably outside away from combustible material. Place it in a bucket, covering the battery with sand. NEVER use water to try and extinguish a LiPo fire. NEVER charge or use a battery that is deformed, bent, crushed, swollen, or has any type of visible damage. 3

4 NEVER use a NiCd/NiMH peak charger to charge a LiPo battery. NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell unless the battery is rated for a higher voltage. NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C unless the battery is rated for a higher charge rate. NEVER trickle-charge a LiPo battery. NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 140 F (60 C). NEVER disassemble or modify the pack wiring in any way or puncture the cells, as this may result in a fi re. NEVER discharge below 3.2V per cell. NEVER charge the battery or set the charger on combustible materials. NEVER charge the battery inside a vehicle or in a location that could be damaged in the event of a LiPo fire. NEVER put a LiPo battery in the pocket of any clothing. NEVER charge the batteries in the plane. Disconnect the batteries and remove them from the plane immediately after landing. NEVER allow the battery to short circuit by touching exposed wires together. This may cause a fire. NEVER operate or store batteries below 40 F (4 C) or above 110 F (43 C) ambient temperature. REQUIRED ITEMS Radio Components At least 4 channels are needed to operate the Vista Grande controls. Because the spoiler needs to be operated by a switch, dial, or slider, we recommend the Tactic TTX610 transmitter as a capable, inexpensive radio system suitable for this type of model. If it s likely you will grow your radio control interest beyond the Vista Grande in the future, we recommend the TTX660. This is a computerized transmitter which has a 30 model memory and several built-in mixing functions along with programmable mixes and many other convenient features. These functions will suffice for most types of radio control models in addition to the Vista Grande. NOTE: The TTX610 includes the 6-channel receiver but it is a separate purchase with the TTX660. You ll also need (2) 36mm long mini servos for the elevator and rudder and (1) 23mm long micro servo for the spoiler. NOTE: The opening in the plywood servo tray for the tail servos can be lengthened some if the servos of your choice are slightly longer than 36mm. A nylon servo tray for the spoiler servo is included and will not accommodate a micro servo longer than 23mm. TACJ2610 Tactic TTX610 6-Channel SLT System (includes TR625 receiver) TACJ2660 Tactic TTX660 6-Channel Computer Transmitter (does not include receiver) TACL0625 Tactic TR625 6-Channel SLT Receiver TACM0220 Tactic TSX20 Mini High-Speed 2BB Servo TACM0205 Tactic TSX5 Micro High-Speed Servo FUTM0004 Futaba S3004 Standard Ball Bearing Servo FUTM0414 Futaba S3114 Micro High-Torque Servo Battery and Charger The Vista Grande can use a 4S 14.8V mAh LiPo battery. A smaller capacity battery will benefit you by being lighter weight and the Vista will balance close to the recommended C.G. without the need for ballast. A larger battery will give you more motor power time but the glider will fly heavier with a more forward C.G. NOTE: There are many other batteries that will fit. Provided here are two batteries with acceptable capacity and discharge rate. ONXP2269 LiPo 4S 14.8V 2200mAh 30C ONXP3363 LiPo 4S 14.8V 3600mAh 50C A charger capable of charging LiPo batteries is required. The Triton EQ (GPMM3155) is a suitable charger as it has plenty of power for charging the LiPos recommended for the Vista Grande (and larger LiPos as well). The Triton EQ is also recommended for its versatility in charging all other types of batteries used in RC and may be powered by either a 12V DC power source or 110V AC. For an inexpensive alternative we recommend the Onyx 225 (DTXP4225) charger. It is not as feature packed as the Triton EQ but we like its easy-to-use programming and digital display. Adhesives and Building Supplies Tower Hobbies 6-minute Epoxy (TOWR3806) Tower Hobbies 30-minute Epoxy (TOWR3810) Mixing Sticks (50, GPMR8055) Mixing Cups (GPMR8056) Epoxy Brushes (GPMR8060) Tower Hobbies Build-It CA Thin Glue (TOWR3800) Tower Hobbies Build-It CA Medium Glue (TOWR3801) Denatured Alcohol (for epoxy clean-up) Masking Tape 1/16" [1.5mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.5mm] drill bits Drill Phillips Head Screwdriver Wire Cutters Pliers Stick-on Segmented Weights (GPMQ4485) CG Machine (GPMR2400) Paper Towels #1 Hobby Knife (RMXR6903) #11 Blades (5-pack, RMXR6930) Clamp Covering tools Top Flite MonoKote Sealing Iron (TOPR2100) Top Flite Hot Sock Iron Cover (TOPR2175) Top Flite MonoKote Trim Seal Iron (TOPR2200) Top Flite MonoKote Heat Gun (TOPR2000) Coverite 21 st Century Sealing Iron (COVR2700) Coverite 21 st Century Cover Sock (COVR2702) Coverite 21 st Century Trim Sealing Iron (COVR2750) 4

5 Optional Supplies and Tools Here is a list of optional tools that will help you build the Vista Grande. CA Applicator Tips (HCAR3780) CA Debonder (GPMR6039) Servo Horn Drill (HCAR0698) AccuThrow Deflection Gauge (GPMR2405) Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700) Covering Material The fi lm covering on this model is not a product that is packaged and sold separately. Fortunately, if you need to repair the covering on your Vista Grande, TopFlite MonoKote offers colors that are a close match and are readily available from Tower Hobbies or your local R/C hobby supplier. The rolls are sold in either 6' or 25' lengths (part numbers for the 6 lengths are provided below) and are great to keep on hand for quick repairs. Please note: These colors are not a perfect match. We recommend replacing damaged covering in complete panels so the slight difference in color shades between the original covering and the MonoKote cannot be seen. For example, if the red wing tip becomes damaged, replace all of the red covering on that wing tip. Missile Red 6' (TOPQ0201) Jet White 6' (TOPQ0204) Building Stand Aluminum 6' (TOPQ0205) Sky Blue 6' (TOPQ0206) IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES Anytime a sheet metal screw is installed in wood, fi rst install the screw, remove the screw and apply a couple of drops of thin CA in the hole to harden the threads. After the CA has cured, reinstall the screw. Photos and sketches are placed before the step they refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following steps to get another view of the same parts. You will see this symbol anytime cyanoacrylate glue is required.. You will see this symbol anytime a threaded screw or nut is installed. You will see this symbol anytime epoxy is recommended. Anytime a hole needs to be drilled you will see this symbol with the recommended size drill bit. When you see this symbol, use a glue of your choice. ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS Replacement parts are available from Tower Hobbies for your Vista Grande. Our order assistance representatives are ready to answer your questions or to place your order. Call us at (800) A building stand or cradle comes in handy during the build. We use the Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402). Order No. TOWA2081 TOWA2082 TOWA2083 TOWA2084 TOWA2085 TOWA2086 GPMA5307 GPMA5308 GPMA5310 GPMA5311 GPMG4700 GPMM2160 Description Wing Fuselage Tail Surface Set Canopy Decals Spoiler Hardware Set Propeller Adapter Spinner Set Complete Folding Propeller Set Folding Propeller Blade Set 13.5" x 7 Great Planes RimFire Outrunner Brushless 60A 2S-6S Programmable 5V BEC ESC KIT INSPECTION 5 If any parts are missing or damaged, consult Tower Hobbies Order Assistance. Note: All parts are one per kit unless otherwise stated. Toll Free Order Assistance or airsupport@hobbico.com

6 CONTENTS 1. Center Wing w/ Spoiler 1 2. Outer Wing Panels 3. Fuselage 4. Canopy Hatch 5. Horz. Stab w/elevator 6. Vert. Fin w/rudder 7. Wing Joiners 2 8. ESC 9. Spinner Cone Folding Prop Blades Spoiler Servo Tray Wing Dowels, Bolt Plate, Alignment Pins 13. Vert. Fin Gussets Hook & Loop Material 15. Hinge Tape 16. Tail Pushrods 17. Hardware Bag PREPARATION WING ASSEMBLY Use a model airplane covering iron with a protective covering sock to remove any wrinkles present in the covering. The best temperature setting, with a covering sock on the iron, is approximately 300 F. If this doesn t seem to be enough heat to shrink the wrinkles, increase iron temperature in small increments until the wrinkles disappear You will need to make two wing joiners. Each joiner should be made from one piece of plywood and one piece of aluminum. Look at the pieces and notice that they can only match up one way (be sure you will be joining the layers together correctly). Coat one side of one of the pieces with epoxy (6-minute or 30-minute) and sandwich them together.

7 Any epoxy that squeezes out can be wiped away with a paper towel dampened with denatured alcohol. Use a few clamps to hold the pieces together while the epoxy hardens. Note: Make sure the pieces are carefully aligned with each other! to confirm the anti-rotation pins fit properly into the holes in the outer panels. If necessary, make adjustments to the holes so they fit. 4. It is not necessary to permanently epoxy the outer panels to the center section. All of our test flying was done with the outer panels attached to center section with regular, clear office tape. This allows the outer panels to be removed from the center section for easier transport and storage. At this time you can remove the outer panels and wing joiners and set them aside until it is time to balance the plane. Only the center section is needed to continue assembly. 5. Align the wing bolt plate on the top of the wing over the wing bolt hole. Use a fine, felt-tip pen to trace around the plate onto the wing. Remove the plate and follow the Expert Tip below or use a sharp hobby knife with a straightedge to remove the covering within the lines. If using a hobby knife to cut the covering, take great care not to cut into the wood. Cutting into the wood will weaken the wing in that area. 2. Test fit the wing joiners into the wing sections. The larger end of each joiner fits into the wing center section. You may need to make adjustments to the joiners for them to fi t properly. NOTE: If you need to sand the joiners some to fi t, remove only small amounts of material at a time while testing the fit frequently. Do not over-sand the joiners, resulting in a loose fit. When satisfied with the fit of the joiners in the wing sections, slide the outer wing sections on and confirm the panel ends mate up flush. Make adjustments to the ribs by sanding them flat if the panels do not mate up flush. EXPERT TIP How to cut covering from balsa. 3. Remove the outer wing sections and glue a nylon antirotation pin into each hole at the ends of the center wing section. Test fit the outer panels to the center section again Rather than using a hobby knife which could inadvertently cut into the balsa, use a heated soldering iron. Move the iron at a pace that will just melt the covering without burning into the wood the hotter the soldering iron, the faster you will have to move it. A sharp tip isn t necessary, but a finepoint does work best. 7

8 6. Peel the covering from the wing. Glue the wing bolt plate onto the wing. 8. Use sand paper to roughen the underside of the spoiler servo tray (180 or 220 grit is fine). Glue the servo tray with medium (or thick) CA or epoxy into the center wing section at the location shown. The tray should be approximately centered between the servo lead exit hole and the wing rib. Use a hobby knife or rotary tool to cut away the wood from the spoiler framework just above the servo tray screw hole. Remove as little wood as possible. 7. Choose a spoiler servo arm that has a hole approximately 5/8" [16mm] from the servo spline center. The other arms can be cut off. Enlarge that hole with a 3/32" [2.4mm] drill bit. Use a nut to install the 2-56 x 3/8" [9.5mm] screw into the arm as shown. Temporarily connect the servo to your radio system. Set up the switch or dial that you plan to use to operate the spoiler. Use the control to rotate the servo all the way in the spoiler up direction, and then install the servo arm as shown. This will get you close for having the spoiler operate correctly. You can fine tune the throw and arm position after it s been tested Use CA glue to attach the spoiler control bracket onto the underside of the spoiler. Take care not to put pressure in the middle of the bracket when pushing it into the slot in the spoiler. Your best bet would be to slide the bracket into place rather than pushing down on it.

9 10. A roll of clear tape is included to hinge the spoiler to the wing center section (if you ever need to replace the hinge tape, regular, clear offi ce tape will work fine). Center the spoiler in the opening on the wing and confirm the fit. The spoiler should lay flat in the opening and the leading edge must be tight to the sheeting. If you see any warping, remove the spoiler from the wing and use your covering iron or heat gun to heat the warped end while bending the spoiler gently in the opposite direction of the warp. Let the covering cool before releasing the spoiler. Check your results and repeat if necessary. 7/8" [22 mm] 12. The simplest way to get the screw on the servo arm into the spoiler bracket slot is to use pliers to flex the servo arm as shown. You can also loosen the screw and nut from the servo arm. Now would be a good time to temporarily hook up the spoiler servo to your receiver and test it using your transmitter. Use your end point adjustments in the transmitter to ensure the servo isn t binding when the spoiler is moved from down to up. If your transmitter does not have end point adjustment, you will need to adjust the servo arm position on the output spline and/or the hole position of the bracket screw on the servo arm. 11. Place the spoiler servo into the servo tray. Install the top plate over the servo using the two 2.5 x 10mm selftapping screws. 9

10 13. Use sand paper to round one end of each wing dowel. Glue the dowels into the holes in the leading edge of the wing center section. The dowels should protrude beyond the leading edge approximately 1/2" [13mm]. The dowels should be perpendicular to the leading edge of the wing. adjust the holes accordingly if needed. FUSELAGE ASSEMBLY 1. Use a sharp hobby knife to cut off 1" [25mm] from the x 2" [51mm] nylon wing bolt. 2. Use the wing bolt to mount the wing center section to the fuselage. The wing will be used to align the horizontal stabilizer in the next step Fit the horizontal stab over the alignment tabs without using any glue. A clamp is useful in this step. If you don t have a clamp to secure the stab to the fuse then tape can also be used. We used another clamp to hold the elevator in the center position. Stand back several feet behind the model and confirm that the stab is parallel with the wing. If it isn t, remove the stab and lightly sand the stab saddle on the high side (for a stab just slightly out of level, try adding some weight to the high side). Check the stab again and repeat this process until the stab and wing are parallel. We recommend also confirming the stab is square with the fuse centerline. Measure from the centerline of the fuselage just above the slot for the front canopy hatch wire to each aft stab corner. These distances should be equal. If not, make any necessary adjustments to the slots in the stab until they are. Equal Distance When satisfied, use 30-minute epoxy to glue the stab in place. When applying the epoxy, brush a coat onto both the saddle and the stab. This will ensure a strong bond. Excess epoxy can be wiped away with a paper towel dampened with denatured alcohol. Allow the epoxy to cure completely before moving on to the next step.

11 beneath the gussets like you did with the wing bolt plate. The short gusset should be installed on the left side toward the aft end of the fin. 4. Use 30-minute epoxy to glue the vertical fin in place. Ensure the fin is perpendicular to the stab while the epoxy cures. Use masking tape as shown to hold the fin square to the stab and allow the epoxy to cure undisturbed. After this step is completed, the center wing section can be removed and set aside until it s time to balance the model. Hinge Line Hinge Line Correct Incorrect 6. Insert one of the 36" [914mm] pushrods into the rudder pushrod tube in the fuselage. The aft end of the pushrod should be used to align and mark the screw holes onto the rudder for the rudder control horn. The clevis holes in the control horn should be aligned over the rudder hinge line. Use a felt-tip pen to mark the control horn screw hole locations. 5. Two vertical fin gussets are included and should be glued in place as shown here. Trim away the covering from 11

12 BUILDER TIP MUST-HAVE ACCESSORY Installing clevises onto pushrods can be tedious using pliers and your fingers. Using a wrench is a little easier but it has a tendency to slip off the hexagonal base and is awkward to use. Picking up a clevis installation tool will make short work of getting clevises threaded onto pushrods and is way easier on your fingers. We keep one within reach during every ARF and kit build we do. Our favorite version is the Great Planes Clevis Tool GPMR Drill 5/64" [2mm] holes at the marks you made. Install the rudder control horn using two 2-56 x 1/2" [13mm] machine screws and a control horn backplate. Trim off the part of the backplate that overhangs the rudder hinge line. 9. Prepare your rudder servo by first using your radio system to electronically center it. Choose a servo arm that has a hole 1/2" [13mm] from the servo arm center. Enlarge that hole with a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit and cut off the unused arms. Install the servo arm onto the servo as shown. Install the servo grommets and eyelets. 8. Remove the pushrod from the rudder pushrod tube. Thread a nylon clevis 20 complete turns onto the pushrod. Slip a silicone clevis retainer onto the clevis. Reinstall the pushrod into the pushrod tube and clip the clevis into the second outer hole in the rudder control horn Place the servo in the tray as shown and position it so that the rudder pushrod passes over the enlarged servo arm hole. Mark and drill holes in the tray to mount the servo. If

13 installing the recommended Tactic servo, drill the holes with a 1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit. Threading a servo mounting screw into each hole and then removing it, followed by a drop of thin CA in the hole, will harden the surrounding wood for a very secure servo installation. When the CA glue is dry, install the servo with the screws included with the servo. bend at your mark. Cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6mm] beyond the bend. Fit the bent end of the pushrod wire into the servo arm hole and secure it with a 90 degree pushrod connector. Reinstall the clevis into the second outer hole in the rudder control horn. Slide the silicone clevis retainer up to the end of the clevis and you can now remove the clamp or tape holding the rudder centered. 90 Degree Pushrod Connector 1/16" 2-56 (.074") Pushrod Wire Servo Horn 12. The elevator pushrod should be installed into the hole in the servo arm closest to 13/32" [10.3mm] from the center of the servo arm. Install the elevator servo and pushrod and elevator control horn in the same manner that you did the rudder servo. 11. Use a small clamp or tape to hold the rudder in the neutral position. Mark the pushrod where it crosses the hole in the servo arm. Temporarily disconnect the clevis from the 13. Apply a couple drops of CA glue to the tail skid barbs before you press it into place to secure it. control horn, turn the pushrod sideways and make a 90 degree 13

14 1" [25mm]. Be sure the strap will be long enough to wrap through the slots in the battery tray and around your battery. Apply the hook side from the self-adhesive hook and loop material to the battery tray. 14. Mix up a small batch of epoxy (6-minute is fine) and apply a thin coating in the dashed areas shown here. This will provide a smooth surface for the self-adhesive hook and loop material. Allow the epoxy to completely cure before moving on. 17. Feed the ESC motor leads underneath the battery tray up to the motor. Connect the motor leads to the motor and the ESC to the receiver. There is no need to secure the ESC down. It will stay in place beneath the battery tray. Route the battery connector up through the cutout in the battery tray. 15. Connect the tail surface servos and a 6" servo extension (for the spoiler servo) to the appropriate channels on your receiver. Because this model doesn t have ailerons, we recommend connecting the rudder servo to the aileron channel on the receiver. Use some of the included selfadhesive hook and loop material to attach the receiver in the fuselage. We taped the receiver antennas to the sides of the fuselage. 18. Now is a good time to test the operation of the motor without the propeller attached. If you are using a Tactic or Futaba transmitter, you will need to move the servo reversing to the REVERSE position for your throttle channel. With the throttle stick in the lowest position, turn on your transmitter and plug in the flight battery to the ESC. Move the throttle stick to full throttle. The ESC will beep twice confirming the full throttle position. Lower the throttle stick and the ESC will beep 4 times. The ESC is now armed. Advance the throttle and check the rotation of the motor. When looking at the motor from the front, it should rotate COUNTER-CLOCKWISE. If rotating the wrong direction, swap any two of the three motor lead connectors. 16. Make a battery strap from the non-adhesive hook and loop strap by overlapping two mating pieces by approximately 14

15 FAIL SAFE AND BRAKE FUNCTION While you have your radio operational and without the propeller mounted, set and check the Fail Safe function in your transmitter. Refer to the instructions that came with your radio control system to set Fail Safe on the throttle channel so that, in the event of signal loss, the motor will stop. To test the Fail Safe, with the propeller removed and the radio control system turned on, advance the throttle slightly (just enough to make the motor turn) and turn off the transmitter. If the Fail Safe is correctly set the motor will stop when the transmitter is turned off. While you still have your radio system powered up, check the motor brake: Advance the throttle stick to run the motor, then move the throttle stick all the way down to stop the motor. The motor should stop abruptly (not coast gradually to a stop). If the motor does not come to an abrupt stop and the brake in the ESC is not activated, activate the brake as described below: A. Disconnect the ESC from the battery so it will not receive power. B. With the transmitter turned on, advance the throttle stick to full throttle. C. With the prop removed, connect the battery to the ESC to power the motor and listen for the beeps: BEEP SEQUENCE Beep <pause> Beep Beep Beep <pause> Beep Beep FUNCTION Brake OFF Brake ON To change the brake operation, lower the throttle stick during the <pause> of the beep sequence of the desired brake function. The ESC will confirm the setting with a higher pitched beep. There will be another pause, then a single beep indicating the ESC is ready to be armed. To arm the ESC, move the throttle stick to full throttle. The ESC will beep twice confirming the full throttle position. Lower the throttle stick and the ESC will beep 4 times. CAUTION! The ESC is now armed and the motor will rotate when the throttle stick is advanced. Always be alert whenever working on or preparing to fly the Vista Grande when the battery is connected to the ESC. Stay safe by keeping everything clear of the front of the plane. GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY Check the Control Directions DO NOT INSTALL THE PROPELLER UNTIL INSTRUCTED TO. 1. Switch on the transmitter with the throttle stick in the lowest position and connect the flight battery to the ESC. 2. Center the control surfaces. FULL THROTTLE RUDDER MOVES RIGHT ELEVATOR MOVES DOWN 3. Make certain that the control surfaces and throttle respond in the correct direction as shown in the diagram. If any of the controls respond in the wrong direction, use the servo reversing in the transmitter to reverse the servos connected to those controls. Be certain the control surfaces have remained centered. Adjust if necessary. Set the Control Throws 1. Hold a ruler against the control surface and measure the high rate throw first. 15

16 LESS THROW Pushrod Farther Out Preparing to Balance the Model MORE THROW Pushrod Closer In 1. Assemble the folding propeller as shown. Fit the propeller blades into the hub and then install the pins. The locknuts should be just tight enough so the blades still rotate freely on the pins. Pushrod Farther Out Pushrod Closer In MORE THROW LESS THROW 2. If needed, adjust the location of the pushrod on the servo arm or on the control horn first. Then, use the endpoint adjustment in your transmitter to fine tune the throws. 3. Measure and set the low rate throws using the dual rates on the transmitter. Next, measure and set the high and low rate throws for the rest of the control surfaces the same way. If your radio does not have dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the high rate settings. 2. Fit the collet prop adapter onto the motor shaft. Slide it fully onto the motor. Fit the hexagonal collar onto the collet adapter. These are the recommended control surface throws: HIGH RATE LOW RATE ELEVATOR Up 1/2" [13mm] 17 Down 1/2" [13mm] 17 Up 3/8" [10mm] 12 Down 3/8" [10mm] 12 RUDDER Right 1-3/8" [35mm] 22 Left 1-3/8" [35mm] 22 Right 7/8" [22mm] 13 Left 7/8" [22mm] 13 SPOILER Full 7/8" [ 22 mm ] Half 7/16" [ 11mm] Put the spinner backplate onto the collet and tighten it down with the nylon spinner washer and prop nut. Install

17 the spinner cone using the included 2.5 x 22mm flat head machine screw. Confirm that the spinner backplate does not contact the firewall. If it does, remove the assembly and back the collet prop adapter away from the firewall slightly. Reinstall the assembly and check the backplate spacing again. 4. Install the wing center section onto the fuselage. Use the wing joiners to attach the outer panels. You do not need to tape the panels in place right now. Only when you are ready to fly should you tape the outer panels on. Recommended C.G 3-1/2" [89mm] from wing leading edge Balance the Model Laterally 1. With the wing level, have an assistant help you lift the model by the spinner and the bottom of the fuse under the TE of the fin. Do this several times. 2. If one wing always drops when you lift the model, it means that side is heavy. Balance the airplane by adding weight to the other wing tip. An airplane that has been laterally balanced will track better. Balance the Model (C.G.) DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE. A model that is not properly balanced may be unstable and possibly unflyable. Forward C.G. 2-3/4" [ 70 mm] Recommended C.G 3-1/2" [89mm] from wing leading edge Aft C.G. 4" [102 mm] 2. With the plane ready to fly, and with motor batteries installed, use a Great Planes C.G. Machine or apply narrow (1/16" [2mm]) strips of tape at the front and rear C.G. locations so you will be able to feel them when lifting the model with your fingers to check the C.G. location. Do not at any time balance the model outside this C.G. range. 3. First, move the motor battery forward or aft to balance the plane. If needed, use Great Planes stick-on weight (GPMQ4485) to balance the plane. Place incrementally increasing amounts of weight on the bottom of the fuselage over the location where it would be mounted inside until the model balances. A good place to add stick-on nose weight is to the side of the battery compartment. Once you have determined if additional weight needs to be installed, permanently attach the weight with glue or screws. 4. IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any weight, recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed. PREFLIGHT Identify Your Model 1. Mark the C.G location on the underside of the wing at 3-1/2" [ 89 mm] from the wing s leading edge. You should always have your name, address, telephone number and AMA number on or inside your model. It is required at all AMA R/C club flying sites and AMA sanctioned flying events. Fill out the identification tag on page 20 and place it on or inside your model. You must also have your FAA number on your plane and accessible without any tools. Charge the Batteries Always charge your transmitter batteries the night before you go flying, and at other times as recommended by the radio manufacturer. 17

18 CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your radio system state differently, the initial charge on new NiMH transmitter batteries should be done for 15 hours using the slow-charger that came with the radio system. This will condition the batteries so that the next charge may be done using the fast-charger of your choice. If the initial charge is done with a fast-charger the batteries may not reach their full capacity and you may be flying with batteries that are only partially charged. If the transmitter comes with LiFe batteries, be sure to follow the instructions included with the transmitter and use the correct charger designed to charge LiFe batteries. Ground Check and Range Check Follow the radio manufacturer s instructions to ground check the operational range of your radio, before the first flight of the day. This should be done once with the motor off and once with the motor operating at various speeds. If the control surfaces do not respond correctly, do not fly! Find and correct the problem first. Look for loose servo connections or broken wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, loose motor connectors or try relocating the receiver antennas away from the motor battery. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ELECTRIC MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WARNING: Once the motor batteries are connected the electric motor can start at any time. Make sure the fail safe is set on your radio to prevent the motor from starting if the signal is lost. WARNING: Read the entire instruction sheet included with your motor batteries. Failure to follow the instructions could cause permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings and cause bodily harm! WARNING: Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate electric motors. ALWAYS switch on the transmitter first. Then, connect the motor battery. After flying, unplug the motor battery first, then switch off the transmitter. ALWAYS keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt sleeves, ties, scarfs, long hair or loose objects such as pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket pockets into the prop. ALWAYS keep your face and body as well as all spectators away from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you run the motor. ALWAYS wear safety glasses when operating the motor. ALWAYS remove the propeller if the motor batteries will be connected when working on your plane. ALWAYS remove the batteries when charging. ALWAYS follow the charging instructions included with your charger for charging LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries can cause serious damage if misused. ALWAYS unplug the motor batteries first. ALWAYS use a LiPo approved charger. ALWAYS set the charger s output volts to match the battery volts. ALWAYS charge a LiPo battery in a fireproof location. ALWAYS charge through the charge lead. ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. ALWAYS remove the batteries from the plane after a crash. Set them aside in a safe location for at least 20 minutes. If the batteries are damaged in the crash they could catch fire. If the battery starts to swell, quickly move the battery to a safe location, preferably outside. Place it in a bucket, covering the battery with sand. Never use water to try and put out a LiPo fire. NEVER operate the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand; the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes. NEVER touch the motor during or right after operation. The motor may be HOT! NEVER switch off the transmitter with the motor batteries plugged in. NEVER use a NiCd/NiMH peak charger to charge a LiPo battery. NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell unless the battery is rated for a higher voltage. NEVER charge through the discharge lead. NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C unless the battery is rated for a higher charge rate. NEVER trickle charge a LiPo battery. NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 150 degrees F [65 C]. NEVER disassemble or modify the pack wiring in any way or puncture the cells. NEVER discharge below 3.2 V per cell. NEVER place the battery or charger on combustible materials or leave it unattended during charge or discharge. NEVER charge the batteries in the plane. 18

19 FLYING CAUTION: (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If, while flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such as a low-pitched buzz, this may indicate control surface flutter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an aileron or elevator) or a flying surface (such as a wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, flutter can actually cause the control surface to detach or the fl ying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by an impending crash. If flutter is detected, slow the model immediately and land as soon as safely possible. Identify which surface fluttered (so the problem may be resolved) by checking all the servo grommets for deterioration or signs of vibration. Make certain all pushrod linkages are secure and free of play. If it fluttered once, under similar circumstances it will probably flutter again unless the problem is fixed. Some things which can cause flutter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control horns solidly; Poor fit of clevis pin in horn; Side-play of wire pushrods caused by large bends; Excessive free play in servo gears; Insecure servo mounting; and one of the most prevalent causes of flutter; Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds. Mount the Wing Clear Tape AND to teach you how to fly. No matter how stable or forgiving the Vista Grande is, attempting to learn to fly on your own is dangerous and may result in destruction of your model or even injury to yourself and others. Therefore, fi nd an instructor and fly only under their guidance and supervision until you have acquired the skills necessary for safe and fully controlled operation of your model. Pilot Launch Assistant WIND The Vista Grande may be self-launched by the pilot, but if you are a beginner it will be easier to have an assistant launch the Vista Grande for you. Switch on the transmitter with the throttle stick in the bottom position, then plug the motor battery into the ESC. Be careful of the propeller! Before flying any model, always check to be certain that all the controls are operating and in the correct direction by moving the control sticks on the transmitter and observing their response. Once you have confirmed that the controls are operating correctly, arm the motor and point the nose into the wind and apply full power. Toss the model into the air at a nose-level or slightly nose-up attitude. The model should climb aggressively and at a steep angle. Be ready to apply down elevator to prevent the Vista from looping. If possible, set up a mix of some down elevator with full throttle. Once at a comfortable altitude, cut the throttle and trim the Vista for a straight and level glide path. Flight Install the center wing section onto the fuselage with the wing bolt. Insert the wing joiners into the center section and then install the wing outer panels. Being sure the outer panels are pushed snugly up against the wing center section, use two pieces of clear tape, one for the top and one for the underside, to secure the outer panels to the wing center section. When you are done flying for the day, you can carefully peel the tape off or just run a hobby knife along the seam to cut the tape. Use your first flight to get a feel for the controls. The purpose of the motor is only for gaining altitude so you should have the motor off for most of your flight. Some elevator input is needed when rudder is applied to keep the Vista level during turns. You will find that the Vista Grande will be able to glide for a while. Once you become an experienced pilot, you will learn how to search for rising air currents where motor power will no longer be necessary to remain aloft for ten, twenty, thirty minutes or more. Takeoff IMPORTANT: If you are an inexperienced modeler we strongly urge you to seek the assistance of a competent, experienced R/C pilot to check your model for airworthiness 19

20 Depending on the size battery you are using, you can expect anywhere from 6 to 12 climbs to gliding and thermal hunting altitude. We recommend using a flight timer connected to your throttle stick so the timer only counts while the motor is operating. Set the timer to sound an alarm at a conservatively low flight time (3 minutes) for your fi rst fl ight. When you recharge your pack, make a note about how much capacity is put back into the battery by the charger. Ideally, your fl ight timer should be set so that the timer alarm will go off when you have used 80% of the battery capacity. Use your first couple flights and recharge amounts to determine how long your timer should be set for. We also recommend testing the spoiler at altitude to see how the glider responds. The nose will drop some when the spoiler is first raised and you will need to compensate for this with elevator when landing. Landing Prepare for your final landing approach by flying the Vista downwind and coming around into the wind toward your landing area. At this time, raise the spoiler to provide additional sink so the Vista doesn t glide beyond your landing area. Gauge how far you think the Vista will glide until touch down. If it looks like you will come up short, blip the throttle some to get the needed glide speed to reach your landing area. If you are sure to go long and you have the space and battery charge to do so, lower the spoiler and throttle up to make another circuit and come around again to land, making the necessary altitude adjustments on your approach to hit your landing area (avoid using motor power with the spoiler up). Be sure you have the motor off before the Vista is near the ground. When the Vista is nearing touch-down (a foot or two above the ground), increasingly add some up elevator to slow the model without allowing it to climb. When the model makes contact, expect it to skid some along the grass before coming to a stop. Make a note of the elapsed time on your flight timer. Unplug the battery from the Vista and then turn off your transmitter. Congratulations! You have made your first successful flight with your Vista Grande. Allow the motor to cool and charge up your battery after checking the pack voltage. Make adjustments to your flight timer if necessary. Also, now that you know how the Vista responds to the spoiler, we recommend doing an elevator-spoiler mix if your radio is capable of programmable mixing which will apply a little up elevator when the spoiler is raised to compensate for the drop of the nose. One final note about fl ying your Vista Grande. Have a goal or a flight plan in mind for each flight. Rather than taking to the air without knowing what you are going to do, take a minute to think about the next flight whether it s searching for rising air currents (thermals) or learning how to control the model in different orientations. A little planning ahead should keep you from executing an impulsive maneuver you weren t actually ready for, possibly resulting in a crash. Have a ball! But always stay in control and fly in a safe manner. GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING! 2018 Tower Hobbies. A subsidiary of Hobbico, Inc. TOWA2045 v1.1 This model belongs to: Name Address City, State, Zip Phone Number AMA Number FAA Number 20