Durafly Spitfire Mk1a User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
(PNF)
"Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few"
Winston Churchill, August 20th1940
Please read this manual carefully
before operating this plane.
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine
Spitfire Mk1a

CONTENTS
Introduction
Specifications
Contents Of Box
Required To Complete Model
Assembly
Setting Up Your Model
1
1
2
2
3-6
7-9
Model Flying Precautions
Pre-flight Checks
10
10
Flying Your Spitfire Mk1a.
Spitfire Mk1a TIPS
Spare Parts Listing
Decal Application Guidelines
11
12
13
13-14
DECAL TIPS
Decal guide Spitfire X4036 ‘D-AZ’
Decal guide Spitfire N3162 ‘EB-G’
Maintenance marking decal guide
15
16-18
19-21
22
Trouble Shooting 23
Contact and Notes 24

SPECIFICATION
Wingspan:1100mm (43.3”)
Flying weight:1200/1300g (42/45oz) 3/4 cell
Length:1000mm (39.3”)
Servos:6 x 9g type (2 aileron, 2 flap, elevator, rudder,)
Motor: Aerostar 3636 770Kv brushless outrunner.
Prop: 3 blade 11.25x7
ESC: Aerostar 50amp.
Battery: 2200-2600mah 3S 60-65C or 2200mah 4S 40C.
Channels: 5-6 channel required.
INTRODUCTION
The Supermarine Spitfire is THE defining aircraft of WW2, and the Mk1a is without doubt the most
poignant of all marques. During the darkest days of the war, the Mk1a Spitfire, more than any other
aircraft then or since, along with the pilots that flew it, came to symbolize the struggle and triumph
of a nation over adversity. This struggle was the Battle of Britain, those pilots ‘the few’ and the
triumph was the Spitfire!
Durafly’s Mk1a Spitfire is in itself a poignant and beautifully presented tribute to the ‘few’and this
legendary aircraft. The attention to detail in this PnF model is matched only by its superb performance
and grace in the air. The Mk1a is designed for 3 and 4S set-ups and boasts a range of features typical
of the Durafly standards including faithfully reproduced split flaps, scale outline and fine surface
detail and finish along with multiple decal options and LED system.
Very simply, you will not find a better rendition of a Spitfire at this scale from anyone other than
Durafly.
1
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

CONTENT:
OrangeRX R620X
6Ch 2.4Ghz:
Part No. 9171000757-0
REQUIRED TO COMPLETE MODEL:
Zippy Compact 2200mah
4S 40C Lipo:
Part No. 9067000026-0
ASPEC G2 2200mah
3S 65C Lipo:
Part No. 9472000003-0
OrangeRx T-SIX 2.4GHz 6CH
Programmable Tx:
Part No. 9403000001 Mode 1
9403000002 Mode 2
1. Main wing.
2. Fuselage.
3. Horizontal Tail/Spar
4. Wing Radiators
5. Scale Plastic Parts
6. Control Accessories/Hardware.
7. Prop/Spinner.
8. Multiple Decal Sheets/Markings.
9. Instruction Manual.
1
8
4
7
3
56
2
In its ‘Plug n Fly’ format the Spitfire Mk1a will still require some additional electronic components to
get it ‘flight ready’. Durafly recommends the products below for optimum performance and great
value. Available at
hobbyking.com
2
9

ASSEMBLY
A. B.
NOTE: Your Mk1a Spitfire comes with a choice of two scale markings/decals to choose
from. Application of these decals is highly recommended BEFORE you begin
assembly of the model. Please refer to ‘Decal application’ on pages 13-22 of this
manual for illustrated guides on how to apply each set.
1. Out of the box your Spitfire comes with reinforced foam hinges. However before assembly can
begin, each hinge line must be flexed back and forth 5-6 times to reduce tension and load on the
servo. Do this for all control surfaces before continuing.
2.3x6mm
1.7x6mm
3. Insert one half of the carbon tail spar into one of the horizontal tail pieces before sliding this half
into the tail slot of the fuselage. Now install the remaining tail piece (A). Secure both halves in
place with the supplied 2.3x6mm screws (B) and the elevator join with the single 1.7x6mm screw
(C). This installation is self aligning, but do double check to ensure equal alignment to the vertical
tail and wing.
3
C.
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

A.
A. B.
4. Using a pair of pliers (ball link pliers preferably) connect the elevator push rod to the elevator
control horn (A). To ensure both the elevator and rudder are neutral (with the servos centered)
loosen the grub screw of the piano wire fastener until both surfaces and slide the push rods until
both are neutral if required (B). The steerable tail wheel can be adjusted the same way (C).
Tighten all firmly when done.
2. With the aileron control horns at 90 degrees to the wing surface (neutral) insert the aileron
push rod into the top hole of the control horn. Secure in place with the plastic keeper and then
connect the ball link to the ball join using pliers (A). Repeat this same process for the flaps, the
exception being that the flap servo horns must be positioned as far rearwards as possible.
This will give a flap neutral position with the push rods connected (B).
B.
Note: Each ball link has a faint circle molded on one side.This
denotes the side that should be connected to the ball joint.
4
C.

A. B.
A.
Note: It is recommended that you balance the prop and spinner before
installing for optimum performance and efficiency.
6. Offer the wing up to the fuselage and ensure the servo wires pass through into the battery area
of the fuselage (A). Check again that no servo wires are caught between the wing and fuselage
before securing in place using the four 3x10mm bolts supplied (B)
7. Slide the spinner back plate onto the motor shaft making sure the ‘hex’ shape opening at the
rear of the plate fits over the ‘hex’ on the base of the shaft. This is followed by the prop and prop
nut. Tighten the prop nut firmly in place then finally screw the spinner in place.
8. With a small amount of contact glue, secure the under wing radiators and pitot tube in place
along with the fuselage aerial and cockpit mirror (A and B).
3x10mm
3 x 20 mm
5
B.
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

Nice studio image of sPITFIRE here.
10. Install you choice of 6 channel receiver (Orange X620 shown) in approximately the area shown
below. Ensure all wires are held away from the servo horns. Also shown is the exact location
of a 40C 2200mah 4S lipo (as far forwards as possible) to achieve the correct CG as detailed
in the following pages.
Note: The fuselage LED shares a Y-lead with the gear servo from the wing. Be sure to
connect the LED lead before attaching the wing.
Congratulations, basic assembly of your Spitfire Mk1a
is now complete. Please perform a final check
on all screws, bolts and components,
ensuring all are secure and firmly in place.
6

Roll left
Roll right
Pitch up
Pitch down
Yaw left
Yaw right
Aileron
(Roll)
Elevator
(Pitch)
Rudder
(Yaw)
Ailerons Elevator Rudder
SETTING UP YOUR MODEL:
1. With your receiver installed and all servos plugged into their corresponding channels, connect
the flight battery to the ESC to power up the electronics. With the model now armed, ensure all
servos are centered and all control surfaces are level. If not, adjust by turning the control clevis’s by
hand accordingly until the control surfaces are level as shown.
Note: For safety reasons, it is advised that this is done with the prop removed from the
model.
2. Check all control surfaces are moving in the correct direction with the applicable
stick input (see below)
7
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

Elevator
10-20mm
10-20mm
15-35mm
15-35mm
65mm~
14-22mm
14-22mm
Aileron
Rudder
65mm~ Flaps
Full 87 degrees
Half 40 degrees
3. The Spitfire Mk1a handles very well in flight and that’s not down to good design alone, but a good
pre-flight set-up too. Before you fly your Spitfire please follow the recommended settings below
for optimum handling and performance.
*Elevator ‘low rates’ 10mm ‘high rates’ 20mm in either direction from neutral.
*Rudder ‘low rates’ 15mm ‘high rates’ 35mm in either direction from neutral.
*Aileron ‘low rates’ 14mm ‘high rates’ 22mm in either direction from neutral.
4. Flaps on the Spitfire should be set for 3 stages (up/no flap, mid flap and full flap). Either via your
radio or mechanically by turning the clevis’s on the flap control rod (or via both in most cases), set
mid flap to approximately 40°degrees and full flaps to approximately 87° degrees to the wing. In
the ‘up/no flap’ position ensure the flaps close fully without straining either servo. Also ensure that
both flaps deploy equally at every stage.
Control throws:
8

ANOTHER PICTURE OF Spitfire HERE.
With assembly and set-up now complete, your Durafly Mk1a Spitfire
should now be ready for flight. However we recommend you read
and follow the advice given in the following pages of this
manual before flying your Mk1a.
5. The center gravity(CG) for the Spitfire is approximately 62-67mm from the leading edge of the
wing. Using the recommended ‘Zippy Compact’ 2200mah 40C 4S lipo, the correct CG can be
attained by simply putting the lipo as far forward as possible. If using the recommended 65C
‘ASPEC G2’ 2200mah 3S, you may need to add an additional 20-30g of weight to the nose to
achieve the desired CG. Alternatively you can use a heavier/higher capacity 3S pack and
potentially not have to add any additional dead weight.
9
62-67mm
CG 62-67mm when measured from the
leading edge of the wing at the root.
Measure with the gear retracted and the
model inverted.
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

MODEL FLYING PRECAUTIONS
PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS
1. Always range check your model before any flight (especially when flying a new model for the first
time). Follow your radio manufacturers guidelines for performing this check.
2. Check all screw/bolts and mounting points are firmly secured, including control horns and
clevises.
3. Only fly with fully charged batteries (both in your radio and model). Failure to do so could result
in loss of control, damage to the model and/or persons/property around you. Check your
batteries are fully charged.
4. With the model powered up (Transmitter on first, then receiver/model) check that all surface are
free from damage/obstructions, moving in the correct directions and freely with stick input.
5. Inspect the model and prop for any damage that may have occurred during transit and listen for
any unusual sounds from the electronics when powered up. If in doubt, do not fly.
6. With the model held securely and the prop free of obstructions, increase the throttle just slightly
to confirm the rotations of the prop is correct. The model should want to pull straight forward with
throttle.
7. If this is your first flight with the model double check the C/G is at the correct position. If not adjust
battery position inside model accordingly.
8. If you are an inexperienced model pilot seek the help and assistance of an experienced pilot to
perform these final checks and to test fly the model for you.
● Select your flight area carefully. Always choose an open space that is unobstructed from trees
and buildings and away from crowed areas. Avoid flying in area’s with roads, electric/telephone
poles/wires and water near by or within close proximity to full size air traffic.
● Do not fly this model in poor weather. High winds, low visibility, inclement temperatures, rain and
storms are to be avoided.
● Never attempt to catch this model whilst in flight. Even a slow moving model can cause harm to
yourself and/other and risks damage to the model.
● This model is recommended for children no younger than 14 year old. All children, no matter what
age, should always be supervised by a capable and responsible adult when operating this model.
● Always unplug your model battery when not in use. Never leave the battery installed in the model.
● Remember to keep clear of the propeller at all times when your flight battery is connected.
● Before flying, always turn on your transmitter first then plug your flight battery into the model.
● After flying, always unplug your flight battery first then turn off your radio transmitter.
● Exercise caution when charging your batteries and follow in full your battery manufactures safety
guideline when doing so.
10

FLYING YOUR SPITFIRE MK1a.
Before flying make sure you have followed closely the set-up guidelines on pages 6 through 9. Start
by taxying on the ground a little to get use to the handling. Be sure to always taxi with full up elevator
held in, flaps retracted and gentle use of throttle. This will keep the model tracking steady and true
plus has the added bonus of looking far more scale. For take off you'll want to hold in some right
rudder to counter the rotational torque on the initial roll out. Slowly advance the throttle whilst
holding in just a little up to keep the tail down as you begin to build up speed, correcting direction
with rudder as needed. As speed builds, ease off the amount of up elevator you have held in, then
as soon as you reach 3/4 throttle you'll start to see the Spitfire lift of the ground.
Once in the air retract to the landing gear as soon as you are comfortable and start exploring. If on
3S you will find you can cruise around happily on 75-85% throttle. On 4S however 50-60% is
sufficient for scale paced flying. Of course opening up to full throttle is very exciting, but generally
only need as desired. A full 'airshow' routine can be performed on either the 3 or 4S set-up including
loops, rolls, low banked passes, Slipt-S's etc, all vertical maneuvers being as large as you wish with
the 4S set-up. Flight times vary according to set-up and throttle use. An average flight of mixed
throttle flying will give you approximately 5-6 minutes on the 3S set-up. However flight times
upwards of 7 minutes can be achieved on 4S (as less throttle is needed). Your Spitfire may drop a
wing if really pushed into a stall, that said once it does stall its quite benign and easily recovered
from at height by centering all sticks and application of power thereafter.
Landing the Spitfire Mk1a is a pleasure and a real treat for those who like to practice 'scale' type
approaches as the Spitfire will need to be 'flown' onto the deck through a powered decent. Bringing
the retracts down shows no noticeable effect on the model nor do mid flaps. Once you have the
Spitfire fully lined up to the runway and no more than 8ft high full flaps can be deploy if desired (be
sure to maintain good throttle management). As soon as the Spitfire settles onto the ground hold in
full up elevator to prevent the model from nosing over. Flaps should be retracted before taxying
back to the pits.
11
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

Spitfire Mk1a TIPS
● For optimum flight performance and model longevity, it is highly recommend that you always fly
with a balanced prop. The supplied prop should be balanced, but it is always good to check first.
● Keep all leads within the fuselage area as tidy as possible. Tidy wires look better, allow for easier
access to all internal components, better battery installation, increased airflow around electronics
and a reduction in potential electronic signal interference (noise).
● Inspect the propeller frequently, especially if you have suffered a hard landing or the prop has
been knocked. If the prop is in any way damaged it must be replaced and any loose fixings must
be tightened.
● It is very important that your flight battery be as far forward as possible to prevent the Spitfire from
flying tail heavy. Ensure you follow exactly the guidelines for CG set-up on pages 6,8 and 9
before flying your Spitfire.
● A Zippy Compact 4S 2200mah 40C is the preferred pack to use on the Mk1a. If running a 3S
2200-2600mah set-up it is recommended that a pack with a discharge rating of 60C or higher be
used. For this reason a 4S 2200mah 40C pack would be ideal as it will have the same approximate
weight of the 65C+ 3S pack, but give you much more power to play with and generally longer
flight times (as you'll not need to fly at full throttle as much).
● Do not use full flaps on a windy day. Full flaps should generally only be used on calmer days and
only then with considered use of throttle to prevent the model from stalling.
● To further avoid any change of your Spitfire tipping over onto its nose on landing, switch to 'high'
rates on the elevator as soon as the model settles onto the ground after landing and hold full up
elevator.
● Do not leave your model in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. This will have an adverse
effect on the foam surface of the model.
Thank you again for purchasing the Durafly Spitfire mK1A. We hope
you’ll have many happy days of flying and look forward to bringing
you more Durafly models in the future.
Don’t forget, spare parts are available for this model,
please see the next page for details.
12

DECAL APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Applying the supplied decals will take you longer than assembling the model. This is because great
care must be taken when doing so. The decals are a mix of two different types, vinyl and sticker,
each needing to be applied in a certain way. Please follow carefully the guidelines below to achieve
the best possible finish on your Spitfire Mk1a.
13
Fuselage: Main Wing set: Foam hatch:
Canopy Main landing gear: Rear WheelSet: Spinner set:
Cowl: Scale parts: Prop adapter: Accessories
Decal set Motor: Retracts: Propeller:
9499000080-0 9499000081-0 9499000082-0 9499000083-0
9499000084-0 9499000085-0 9499000086-0 9499000087-0
9499000088-0 9499000089-0 9499000090-0 9499000091-0
9499000092-0 9499000093-0 9499000094-0 9499000095-0
Horizontal tail:
SPARE PARTS LISTING
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

Note:
* All wing and fuselage roundels are made of standard sticker type decals and cut exactly to
the right size and simply need lifting from the backing paper and applying in place.
* All other markings are of the vinyl type decal and are supported on a clear adhesives
fronting film. These will need more care and attention when applying.The below guidelines
apply to both decal types where noted:
1. Study the scheme reference sheet carefully and understand fully where each decal should be
applied (sticker/vinyl).
2. Both decals types have been die cut so there is no need to cut the decals out.
3. Vinyl decal use a clear front cover/film that is used to remove the decal from the paper backing.
The ‘EB-G’ and ‘D-AZ’ markings are already correctly spaced for the fuselage roundal to fit in
between them, hence these 3 letter should be applied as one (vinyl).
4. Before lifting from the paper, rub the surface of the clear protective film to ensure all of the decal
sticks to this fronting. This will ensure the marking lifts fully off the backing paper (vinyl).
5. Position the decals carefully on the model according to the decal reference sheet then gently rub
(using a dry cloth) the decal in place rubbing from the center of the decal out to avoid wrinkles and
air bubbles (sticker/vinyl) See picture A.
6. If air bubbles are present, use the tip of a sharp blade to make a small hole in the bubble then rub
over it again to push the air out (sticker/vinyl).
7. Once the decal is firmly rubbed down and any air bubbles are removed, you can slowly remove
the front clear protective film. DO NOT pull this clear film upwards to remove it, instead pull the
film slowly off to the side. This will ensure the decal doesn’t lift up from the surface of the model
when you remove the clear film. (vinyl).
14

DECAL TIPS
●Rub the clear front film before you remove the decal from the paper back to ensure it lifts fully from
the backing (vinyl type).
● Remove the clearing fronting by pulling it off to the side once positioned , DO NOT pull this film
directly upwards, this could cause the decal to rip (vinyl type).
● To avoid bubbles under the larger decals, use a sharp blade to remove the small molding marks
from the surface of the foam where the decal is to be applied, see image below (vinyl/sticker
type).
● Scale ‘maintenance’ decals found on ‘DA-Z’ sheet can be used on either scheme (vinyl type).
● Position all decals carefully. Once applied, it can not be removed without lifting the paint from the
model (vinyl/sticker type).
● Be patient and take your time applying decals and you will be left with a perfect finish (vinyl/sticker
type).
● It is strongly recommended that a covering iron be used to seal the edges of the decals. If not,
changes in temperature can result in lifting at these edges (vinyl/sticker type).
8. Very gently rub the decal again with a cloth now that the clear film is removed to ensure all edges
are firmly stuck down (sticker/vinyl).
9. Finally the use of a covering iron is STRONGLY recommended to seal the decals to the painted
foam surface and prevent them from lifting at the edges over time. Set the iron to a low temperature
and gently run the iron lightly over the surface of the decal as illustrated on the following page. Use
of a cloth to cover the head of the iron is recommended to help prevent damage to the foam and the
decal. A house hold iron can be used if no covering iron is available (sticker/vinyl). See picture B.
15
A. B.
Durafly 1100mm Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a

x
4036
x
4036
01
05
06
01
02
03
04
05
06
07 08
09
1111
10
Spitfire Mk1a X4036 ‘D-AZ’, Pilot Officer Robert Doe,
No.234 Sqn, Middle Wallop, August 1940
16

M
V
X
D
D
A A C
J
F U
H
M
XW
V
x
4036
x
4036
01
02
03
04
05
05
06
06
11
17