electrifly Spad XIII User manual

Great Planes®Model Manufacturing Co. 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 Great Planes’
liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further,
Great Planes reserves the right to change or modify this warranty
without notice.
In that Great Planes 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 send the defective part or item to Hobby
Services at the address below:
Hobby Services
3002 N. Apollo Dr., Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822 USA
Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as
much contact information as possible (daytime telephone number,
fax number, e-mail address), a detailed description of the problem
and a photocopy of the purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the
package, the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible.
READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.
Champaign, Illinois
[phone], Ext 5
airsuppor[email protected]
WARRANTY
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Entire Contents © Copyright 2008 GPMA1143Mnl V1.0
Wingspan: 34 in [865mm]
Wing Area: 390 sq in [25.2dm2]
Weight: 22.4 - 25.2 oz [635 – 715g]
Wing Loading: 8.3 – 9.3 oz/sq ft [25 – 28g/dm²]
Length: 27 in [685mm]
Radio: 4-Channel (minimum) with Micro Receiver, Four Micro Servos
Motor: ElectriFly™RimFire™28-30-950 Brushless
Propeller: Great Planes®10x3.5 Slo-Flyer Electric Propeller (GPMQ6655)
ESC: ElectriFly™SS-25
Battery: 11.1V, 1250mAh LiPo (must deliver 15 amps continuous)
™

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ............................................................... 2
AMA .................................................................................. 2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................................................. 3
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE ................ 3
REQUIRED ITEMS............................................................ 3
Radio Equipment ....................................................... 3
Motor, ESC & Propeller.............................................. 3
Battery Pack & Accessories....................................... 4
Adhesive and Building Supplies................................. 4
Optional Supplies and Tools....................................... 4
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES ...................................... 4
KIT INSPECTION.............................................................. 4
KIT CONTENTS................................................................ 5
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS .............................. 5
BEFORE YOU BEGIN ....................................................... 6
INSTALL THE TAIL............................................................ 6
Prepare for Tail Installation......................................... 6
Install the Tail to the Fuselage.................................... 7
INSTALL THE MOTOR & ESC.......................................... 8
INSTALL THE ELEVATOR & RUDDER SERVOS .......... 10
PREPARE THE WINGS................................................... 13
Install the Aileron Servos ......................................... 13
Install the Strut Mounts ............................................ 14
INSTALL THE WINGS ..................................................... 14
INSTALL THE LANDING GEAR ..................................... 16
INSTALL THE COWL & PROPELLER............................ 17
FINISH THE MODEL....................................................... 17
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ................................. 18
Center Controls & Check Control Directions............ 18
Set the Control Throws ............................................ 19
Balance the Model (C.G.)......................................... 20
Balance the Model Laterally..................................... 20
PREFLIGHT .................................................................... 21
Identify Your Model................................................... 21
Charge the Batteries ................................................ 21
Balance Propellers................................................... 21
Range Check ........................................................... 21
MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................................. 21
AMA SAFETY CODE...................................................... 21
CHECK LIST................................................................... 22
FLYING............................................................................ 22
Takeoff ..................................................................... 23
Flight ........................................................................ 23
Landing .................................................................... 23
INTRODUCTION
You’ll be proud to add the Great Planes SPAD XIII EP to your
WWI hangar. This particular SPAD bears the markings of the
famous 94th Aero Squadron, distinguished by their famous
“hat in the ring.” The American 94th Aero Squadron scored 70
kills by the end of the war, and 26 of these are credited to their
number one ace Captain Eddie Rickenbacker. You can now
relive those days fighting German Fokker D.VII’s and DR.I’s
in your backyard. Perform lazy eights, chandelles, hammer
head stalls, and dizzying spins: the Great Planes SPAD XIII
EP is stable enough to handle all of these with ease and
confidence. So grab a friend and let’s start a dog-fight!
Learn where the 94th Aero is today. Go to:
www.langley.af.mil/library/factsheets/
and click on “94th Fighter Squadron.”
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to
the SPAD XIII EP visit the Great Planes web site at www.
greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, and then select
the SPAD XIII EP. If there is new technical information or
changes to this model a “tech notice” box will appear in the
upper left corner of the page.
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 flying at public demonstrations and air shows. Failure to
comply with the Safety Code (excerpts printed in the back of
the manual) may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally,
training programs and instructors are available at AMA club
sites to help you get started the right 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 47302
Tele: [phone]
Fax [phone]
Or via the Internet at:
www.modelaircraft.org
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 flying near or over
groups of people.

3
PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF
& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1. Your SPAD XIII ARF 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, the SPAD XIII, 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, and a correctly sized engine and components
throughout the building process.
5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.
6. You must check the operation of the model before every
flight to insure 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 kit has been flight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high stress flying, such
as racing, or if an engine larger than one in the recommended
range 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.
We, as the kit manufacturer, provide you with a top quality,
thoroughly tested kit 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.
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING
AND USAGE
WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included
with the battery.Failure to follow all instructions could cause
permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings,
and cause bodily harm!
• ONLY use a LiPo approved charger. NEVER use a
NiCd/NiMH peak charger!
• NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.
• ONLY charge through the “charge” lead. NEVER charge
through the “discharge” lead.
• NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C.
• ALWAYS set charger’s output volts to match battery volts.
• ALWAYS charge in a fireproof location.
• NEVER trickle charge.
• NEVER allow battery temperature to exceed 150°F (65°C).
• NEVER disassemble or modify pack wiring in any way
or puncture cells.
• NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell.
• NEVER place on combustible materials or leave
unattended during charge or discharge.
• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
REQUIRED ITEMS
This is a partial list of items required to finish the SPAD XIII
EP. Order numbers are provided in parentheses.
Radio Equipment
A 4-channel radio system with four micro servos and a micro
receiver are required for this plane. Many radio systems are
suitable, but we have chosen the following for this build-up.
❏Four Futaba®S3114 Micro HT Servo (FUTM0414) OR
minimum 20oz-in torque micro servos
❏Futaba R114F FM Micro Receiver (Low Band – FUTL0442,
High Band – FUTL0443)
❏Futaba FM Single Conversion Short Crystal
(Low Band – FUTL62**, High Band – FUTL63**)
❏One Y-harness (FUTM4130 or FUTM4135 for
digital servos)
❏One Servo Mounting Screw Set (FUTM2550)
Motor, ESC & Propeller
Recommendations
The SPAD XIII EP was tested extensively to find the best
“power package” that offers light weight, long flight time, and
excellent thrust.The power system we have chosen has more
than enough power to get you out of trouble. Choosing larger
propellers will damage the motor and/or speed control. The
order numbers for these are provided.

❏Great Planes RimFire™28-30-950 Brushless Out-runner
Motor (GPMG4560)
❏Great Planes Silver Series 25A Brushless ESC 5V/2A
BEC (GPMM1820)
❏Great Planes 10x3.5 PowerFlow™Propeller (GPMQ6655)
(draws 15 amps max.)
❏Great Planes 3.5mm Male/2.5mm Female Bullet
Connector Adapters (GPMM3122)
❏Great Planes 3mm to 5mm Prop Adapter (GPMQ4959)
Battery Pack & Accessories
❏Great Planes LiPo 1250mAh 11.1V 15C Discharge
w/Balance (GPMP0713)
❏Great Planes LiPo 1500mAh 11.1V 15C Discharge
w/ Balance (GPMP0717)
A LiPo-compatible charger is required for these batteries,
along with a cell balancer. We recommend:
❏Great Planes Equinox™1-5 cell LiPo cell balancer
(GPMM3160)
❏Great Planes PolyCharge4™LiPo battery charger
(GPMM3015) OR Great Planes PolyCharge DC LiPo
battery charger (GPMM3010)
Required Adhesive & Building Supplies
This is the list of adhesive and building supplies required to
finish the SPAD XIII EP.
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro™CA (GPMR6001)
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)
❏R/C-56 Glue 4oz (JOZR5007)
❏Denatured alcohol
❏Drill bits: #55 [1.3mm], 1/16" [1.6mm]
❏#1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏#11 blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏Hobbico®Steel T-Pins 1" (100) (HCAR5100)
❏Great Planes Pro Thread locker (GPMR6060)
❏CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏220 grit sandpaper
❏Bru Line®hemostat – curved 5-1/2" (BRUR1303)
Optional Supplies & Tools
Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the SPAD XIII EP.
❏21ST Century®sealing iron (COVR2700)
❏21ST Century iron cover (COVR2702)
❏2 oz [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏4 oz [113g] aerosol CA activator (GPMR634)
❏Masking tape (TOPR8018)
❏CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏Great Planes Double-Sided Servo Tape 1"x3' (GPMQ4442)
❏Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❏Rotary tool (Dremel®) with cutoff wheel
❏Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler Stainless Steel (HCAR0460)
❏Builder’s Triangle Set (HCAR0480)
❏AccuThrow™Deflection Gauge (GPMR2405)
❏Hobbico 12 Volt DC power supply (HCAP0250)
❏Green 3M®Scotch Brite™
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
• When you see the term test fit in the instructions, it means
that you should first position the part on the assembly
without using any glue, then slightly modify or custom fit
the part as necessary for the best fit.
• Whenever the term glue is written you should rely upon
your experience to decide what type of glue to use. When
a specific type of adhesive works best for that step, the
instructions will make a recommendation.
• 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.
• The stabilizer and wing incidences and motor thrust
angles have been factory-built into this model. However,
some technically-minded modelers may wish to check
these measurements anyway. To view this information visit
the web site at www.greatplanes.com and click on
“Technical Data.” Due to manufacturing tolerances which
will have little or no effect on the way your model will fly,
please expect slight deviations between your model and
the published values.
KIT INSPECTION
Before starting to build inspect the parts to make sure they
are of acceptable quality. If any parts are missing or are not of
acceptable quality, or if you need assistance with assembly,
contact Product Support. When reporting defective or
missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written
in the Kit Contents list.
Great Planes Product Support
3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822
Telephone: [phone], ext. 5
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: airsuppor[email protected]
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ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS
Replacement parts for the ElectriFly SPAD XIII EP are
available using the order numbers in the Replacement Parts
List that follows. The fastest, most economical service can
be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order company.
To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Great Planes web site
at www.greatplanes.com. Choose “Where to Buy” at the
bottom of the menu on the left side of the page. Follow the
instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian
or International dealer.
Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services by
calling [phone], or via facsimile at [phone],
but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will
apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged
sales tax. If ordering via fax, include a Visa or MasterCard
number and expiration date for payment.
Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:
Hobby Services
3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign IL 61822
Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed
in the Replacement Parts List. Payment by credit card or
personal check only; no C.O.D.
If additional assistance is required for any reason contact
Product Support by e-mail at productsupport@greatplanes.
com, or by telephone at [phone].
Replacement Parts List
Order # Description How to Purchase
Missing pieces....... Contact Product Support
Instruction manual. Contact Product Support
Full-size plans .......................... Not available
Contact your hobby supplier for the following parts:
GPMA3100 Top Wing
GPMA3101 Bottom Wing
GPMA3102 Fuselage w/Belly Pan
GPMA3103 Tail Surface Set
GPMA3104 Wing Struts and Cabanes Set
GPMA3105 Landing Gear Set w/Wheels
GPMA3106 Cowl, Exhaust, Guns, Battery & Servo Hatches
GPMA2997 WWI Pilot Figure
GPMA3108 Motor Mount and Hardware Bag
KIT CONTENTS
1
6
2
5
4
9
8
7
3
5
5
1. Fuselage w/Cowl, Battery Hatch
2. Wheels
3. Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevators
4. Fin w/Rudder
5. Cabane Struts
6. Interplane Struts
7. Landing Gear
8. Upper Wing w/Ailerons
9. Lower Wing

6
6
6
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Before you begin assembling your model, inspect it for
wrinkled covering and areas where the covering may not be
tacked down adequately. Areas like the servo bay openings,
the radio antenna hole (bottom of fuse), and the slots for
the horizontal stabilizer and fin should be tacked down
before trimming them with a knife. The covering should
be tacked down to the wood using just enough heat to
soften the adhesive backing. Low heat should be enough
to accomplish this. More heat may be required to begin to
tighten the covering.
WARNINGS:
• Do not over shrink the covering or it will cause the control
surfaces or wings to twist
• Do not iron over decals
• Use only LOW heat over trim
INSTALL THE TAIL
Prepare for Tail Installation
❏1. Locate the wooden 3 x 20mm dowels. Holes are
provided in the leading edge of the lower wing. Test fit each
dowel making sure that the dowel sticks out 1/4" [6mm] from
the LE of the wing. When you are satisfied with the fit, wick
5 to 7 drops of thin CA into the dowel joint.
❏2. Using a 4-40 x 3/4" machine screw with a washer,
temporarily install the lower wing to the fuselage. Fitting the
lower wing will help you align the horizontal tail.
❏3. Lay the pre-hinged horizontal stabilizer assembly on a
flat surface. Make sure that the elevators lie flat on the table
and that the stab does not have any twist in it. Any twist
can be easily corrected at this point using a covering iron
on a medium heat setting. Twist the surface to the desired
position and heat the covering until it begins to shrink.
❏4. Insert the vertical fin into the top of the horizontal
stabilizer. Align the fin vertically and apply a bead of medium
CA to both sides of the joint.

7
Install the Tail to the Fuselage
❏1. Remove the small block of wood protecting the upper
structure of the aft fuselage. It may be glued in place, so
a hobby knife may be needed. While you’re at it, trim away
any covering in the slots that may prevent you from having a
good glue joint when you install the tail.
❏2. Slide the fin and stab into the fuselage from behind
the fuse.
❏3. Using a straight edge, align the TE of the fin so that it is
flush with the TE of the fuselage.
AA
A = A
B
B = B
B
❏4. Align the horizontal stab so that the tips of the stab are
the same distance from the aft corner of each wing tip. Align
the horizontal stab so that it is parallel with the bottom wing.
You can do this by setting the model on a flat surface, taking
a few steps back, and viewing it from behind.
❏5. When you’re satisfied with the positioning of the tail,
apply a bead of medium CA into the left and right stab to
fuse joints and also the fin to fuse joint. Be sure to apply CA
to the bottom of the stab to fuse joint also.
❏6. Prepare three CA hinges using T-pins as shown.The T-pin
will help keep the hinge centered as you install the rudder.

8
❏7. Fit the three hinges into the slots of the vertical fin. If the
slots are too tight or the hinge won’t slide in all the way, you
can use the back side of your hobby knife blade to dig them
out or make them a bit deeper.
❏8. Fit the rudder onto the hinges until it contacts the T-pins.
Remove the T-pins. Deflect the rudder as you push in on it and
add at least 3 drops of thin CA to both sides of each hinge.
Let the hinges air-dry without adding any CA accelerator.
❏9. Remove the bottom wing from the fuselage and retain
the screw and washer.
INSTALL THE MOTOR & ESC
❏1. Remove the steel Y-mount and the brass collar from the
motor. These will not be used.
❏2. Remove the two 2.5 x 6mm screws from the motor.
Apply thread locking compound to the threads and reinstall
the screws.
❏3. Apply thread locking compound to three 3 x 6mm screws
and use these to attach the supplied Y-mount to the motor.

9
❏4. Locate three 4-40 x 1" machine screws, one 10mm
standoff tube, two 14mm standoff tubes, and nine washers.
Note: Unlike the 3x25mm size, the 4-40x1" screws have a
coarse thread pitch. Test-fit, and use the screws that thread
into the blind nuts properly. Apply thread locking compound to
the screws and install the motor to the firewall as shown with
the 10mm standoff tube in the bottom position. Make sure that
the motor wires are routed through the left side of the fuse.
❏5. After you have tightened the screws, rotate the motor
by hand to check for free rotation. If the motor does not rotate
freely, you may have to remove it and use sandpaper (or a
Dremel tool) to grind down the bottom of the battery tray or
any obstruction.
❏6. Install three 3.5mm male/2mm female bullet connector
adapters onto the ESC motor leads (GPMM3122).
❏7. Coat the underside of the battery tray with thin CA as
shown. Apply a few thin lines of CA and dab up the excess
CA with a paper towel. Allow the CA to dry. This will prepare
the surface of the battery tray where the ESC and receiver
will mount.
❏8. From the supplied double-sided foam tape, cut a 1"
[25mm] piece and apply it to the back side of your ESC.
Remove the backing paper and stick the ESC to the back of
the battery tray as shown. Route the battery leads into the
battery compartment and connect the motor leads.
❏9.Prepare the battery strap using the supplied hook and loop
material as shown. Overlap the two strips by 1-1/4" [32mm].

10
❏10. Install the hook and loop battery strap on the battery
tray from the bottom.
INSTALL THE ELEVATOR
& RUDDER SERVOS
❏1. Use your radio to center your servos. With the servos
centered, reposition each servo arm so that one of the two
long arms is perpendicular to the servo case. You will need
one servo with the arm on the left side of the case and
one with the arm on the right side of the case. Clip off the
remaining unused arms.
❏2. Use a #55 [1.3mm] drill bit and enlarge the servo arm
holes. If you don’t have a #55 drill bit, use your hobby knife
to enlarge the holes.
❏3. Locate two Screw-Lock pushrod connectors, two
2-56 x 3/16" screws, and two plastic locking collars. Install
these on the rudder and elevator servos in the holes shown
if you are using Futaba micro servos.
❏4. Install the rudder and elevator servos as shown with the
servo leads facing aft. Do not run the leads forward.They will
interfere with the operation of the motor.
❏5. Plug a Y-harness into your receiver in the aileron
channel. This is Channel 1 on most Futaba radios. Apply a
1" [25mm] piece of double-sided foam tape to the back side
of your receiver.
If you are using a 2.4G radio,
you should omit the next step.
❏6. Find the antenna support plate beneath the covering.
Find the pre-drilled hole in the center of the plate and use a
hobby knife or a T-pin to poke through the covering.

11
❏7. Plug the elevator and rudder servos into their proper
channels on the receiver. Plug the ESC into the receiver.
Mount the receiver in the airplane as shown. Route the
antenna out of the fuselage and tape it to the lower fuse near
the opening where the tail skid will mount. NOTE: On Futaba
radios, Channel 2 is the elevator, Channel 3 is the ESC, and
Channel 4 is the rudder.
❏8. Insert the 1 x 550mm elevator and rudder pushrods into
the pushrod guide tubes as shown. Do not attach these to
the servos yet.
❏9. Find the pushrod support and position it in the fuse as
shown. Do not glue it in place yet. Route the antenna and the
ESC signal lead through the right side of the support. Route
the ESC motor leads and the aileron Y-harness through the
left side as shown.
❏10. Slide the elevator and rudder pushrods through
the pushrod support and into the Screw-Lock™pushrod
connectors on the servos. Adjust the vertical position of
the pushrod support until the pushrods are centered in the
support holes. When you are satisfied, glue the support
to the back side of the fuselage bulkhead. NOTE: Do not
tighten the screws on the pushrod connectors.

12
❏11. Locate two control horns. Use 220 grit sandpaper to
lightly sand the tab portion of the horns.
❏12. Attach a control horn to the rudder pushrod. Install
the pushrod through the outermost hole of the horn. Install a
plastic retainer.
❏13. Glue the rudder horn to the rudder using thin CA. Make
sure that the horn is perpendicular to the rudder before you
glue it.
❏14. Attach a control horn to the 1 x 550mm elevator
pushrod. Install the pushrod through the outermost hole of
the horn. Install a plastic retainer. Glue the elevator horn to
the right elevator.
❏15. At this point (while the motor wires are still easy to
get to), you should check the rotation direction of the motor.
Turn on your transmitter and plug your airplane’s battery into
the ESC. Refer to the instruction manual that came with your
ESC to arm the motor. Check to see that the motor rotates
counter-clockwise as viewed from the front with the airplane
facing directly toward you. If it rotates backwards, reverse
any two motor leads.

13
PREPARE THE WINGS
Install the Aileron Servos
❏❏1. Enlarge the outer hole of the two remaining control
horns using a #55 drill bit. Glue the control horns to the
ailerons using thin CA.
WITH SERVOS CENTERED, POSITION
EACH ARM ONE SPLINE FORWARD.
FORWARD
❏❏2. Center both aileron servos. Reposition each servo
arm so that the long arm is one spline forward from being
perpendicular to the servo case. Clip off the remaining arms.
❏❏3. Clean each servo case with denatured alcohol.
Remove any label that will prevent you from gluing the servo
case directly to the servo bay cover and scuff the surface of
the case with some sand paper. To make it easier to remove
in the future, you may wrap the case in electrical tape or
heat-shrink tubing before you glue it in. Use medium CA to
glue a servo to the servo bay cover so that the tip of the
servo arm is centered in the opening. NOTE: This will set
the servo output shaft aft about 1/8" [3mm] from the center
of the opening.
❏❏4. As an alternative to gluing the servos in place, we
have provided 7 x 7 x 12mm wood blocks that you may use
to attach the servos to the servo bay covers. If you choose to
use these, make sure that you align the servo as detailed in
the previous step and then glue the blocks to the cover using
medium CA.
❏❏5. Connect each servo to a servo extension. Use heat
shrink tubing or one drop of medium CA applied to the
connector body to secure the servo lead to the extension.
Pull the extension leads through the center of the wing.
❏❏6. Use eight 2 x 7mm sheet metal screws to secure the
servo bay covers to the upper wing. Thread in each screw and
then remove it. Remove the cover and wick one drop of thin CA
into each hole. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws.

❏❏7. Install a Screw-Lock pushrod connector in the outer
hole of each aileron control horn. Position the connector
body on the outboard side of the horn. Secure it to the horn
with a plastic retainer, placing a 2mm washer between the
horn and the retainer.
❏❏8. Install a 1 x 65mm Z-bend pushrod through the
outer hole of each aileron servo arm. Connect the pushrods
to the ailerons.
Install the Strut Mounts
A
FORWARD
Upper Wing x 12
Lower Wing x 4 Lower Wing x 4
B
C
❏1. Locate the twelve strut mounts marked “A.” Test fit
these in the bottom of the top wing as shown. When you’re
satisfied with the fit, glue these to the wing using thin CA.
❏2. Install the four strut mounts marked “B” in the top of the
lower wing in the LE slots. Use the sketch above to help you
orient these properly before you glue them. Install the “C”
strut mounts in the TE slots of the lower wing.
INSTALL THE WINGS
❏1. Prepare the eight interplane wing struts as shown using
sixteen 2 x 7mm sheet metal screws. Attach the interplane
wing struts to the upper wing on the outboard side of each
strut mount. Do not tighten the struts yet.
14

15
❏2. Test fit the cabane struts to the fuselage as shown. Use
a 1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit to drill a hole for the screw where
shown. NOTE: Gluing these in place is optional and can be
done after you are assured of a proper fit of the upper wing.
❏3. Install the upper wing using six 2 x 7mm sheet metal
screws. Install two 2 x 7mm sheet metal screws in the lower
legs of the forward cabanes.
❏4. Route the aileron servo leads through the slot in the
fuselage. Use a tie strap to secure them to the cabane strut.
❏5. Connect the aileron leads to the Y-harness. Use a
drop of glue to attach the aileron Y-harness to the fuse side.
Place it in a location that will neatly keep wires away from
the pushrods.
❏6. Use a 4-40 x 3/4" machine screw and washer to attach
the lower wing to the fuse.
❏7. Attach the interplane wing struts to the lower wing.

16
INSTALL THE LANDING GEAR
❏1. Locate two 3 x 25mm fine thread machine screws
and four 3mm nuts. Apply thread locking compound to each
screw and install each to a wheel using one 3mm nut. To
achieve the proper spacing, turn the nut until it contacts the
wheel and then back it off 1/2 of a turn.
❏2. Install a wheel and axle assembly to each landing gear
leg using a 3mm nut. Hold the outboard nut while you tighten
the inboard nut.
❏3. Use four 2-56 x 3/8" machine screws and four small
washers to attach the landing gear legs to the bottom wing.
❏4. Install the 4 x 150mm axle tube.
❏5. Install the tail skid using your choice of glue.

17
INSTALL THE COWL & PROPELLER
❏1. Install the cowl. Make sure that the cowl magnets are
firmly engaged and that the cowl is secure. NOTE: The
heads of the motor screws may interfere with the cowl’s grill.
Please trim the grill if this is the case.
❏2. Balance your propeller using the method described in
the “Balance Propellers” section.
❏3. Fit a 3mm to 5mm prop adapter (GPMQ4959) to the
motor shaft. Install the propeller (GPMQ6655), the prop
washer, and the prop nut onto the prop adapter. Tighten the
prop nut.
FINISH THE MODEL
The actual SPAD XIII was covered in fabric and had a
“doped” finish brushed onto it. This gave it a semi-gloss
or dull finish. Depending on how much you care to detail
or personalize your SPAD, you may choose to replicate
this finish. Use some green 3M Scotch Brite™to scuff the
surface of the plastic film covering, working in a fore-aft
motion. This will dull the finish and simulate brush marks.
It also gives your model a “weathered” look. Try working
in an inconspicuous area first.
❏1. Trim the covering from the holes in the fuse where the
left and right exhaust stacks will mount.

18
❏2. Apply glue to the exhaust stacks and install them onto
the fuse. R/C-56 Glue (JOZR5007) is recommended.
❏3. Turn the model over and glue the belly fairing to the
bottom wing using R/C-56 Glue. Medium CA is also suitable,
but only one small drop should be used at the LE former
and at the TE former so that the panel can be removed later.
Install the fairing with the hole facing aft.
❏4. Apply a strip of double-sided tape to the bottom of the
pilot figure and attach it to the cockpit floor.
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY
Center the Controls & Check the
Control Directions
WARNING: Once the battery is connected to the ESC,
stay clear of the propeller!
❏1. Turn on the transmitter, center the trims, and move the
throttle stick all the way down. Plug your airplane’s battery
into the ESC and check to see that all servo arms are
positioned properly. If necessary, remove the servo arms
from the servos and reposition them so they are centered.
Reinstall the screws that hold on the servo arms.
❏2. With the transmitter and receiver still on, check all the
control surfaces to see that they are centered. If necessary,
adjust the pushrods to center the control surfaces. Apply
thread locking compound to the locking screw threads and
tighten all of the Screw-Lock pushrod connectors.
❏3. Install the servo bay hatch.

19
FULL THROTTLE
RUDDER MOVES RIGHT
ELEVATOR MOVES UP
RIGHT AILERON MOVES UP
LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN
4-CHANNEL RADIO SETUP
(STANDARD MODE 2)
❏4. Make certain that the control surfaces and the 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
To ensure a successful first flight, fly your SPAD XIII set up only
according to the C.G. and control surface throws specified in
this manual. The throws and C.G. are not arbitrary, but have
been determined through extensive testing and accurate
record-keeping. This provides you with the best chance for
success and enjoyable first flights that should be surprise-
free. Additionally, the throws and C.G. shown are true, real
data which will allow the model to perform in the manner in
which it was intended when flown by a pilot of the skill level
for which it was intended. DO NOT OVERLOOK THESE
IMPORTANT PROCEDURES. A model that is not properly
setup may be unstable and possibly unflyable.
The building steps earlier in this manual that show the
mechanical setup for the elevator, rudder, and aileron
linkages show you the best way to configure the linkages to
achieve the proper throws using Futaba micro servos and a
Futaba radio system. If you are using a different radio system
or you cannot achieve the proper control throws using our
suggested linkage configuration, you may have to install the
pushrods in different holes on the servo arms or the control
horns. Keep in mind that changing the throws mechanically
is preferred to changing them using your radio’s end-point
adjustment. End points can be used to “fine-tune” to get the
proper throws.
Use a Great Planes AccuThrow gauge or a ruler to accurately
measure and set the control throw of each control surface as
indicated in the chart that follows. If your radio does not have
dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the HIGH
rate setting.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
High Rate Low Rate
ELEVATOR: 9/16" [14mm] up 3/8" [10mm] up
9/16" [14mm] down 3/8" [10mm] down
RUDDER: 7/8" [22mm] left 3/4" [19mm] left
7/8" [22mm] right 3/4" [19mm] right
AILERONS: 7/8" [22mm] up 1/2" [13mm] up
7/8" [22mm] down 1/2" [13mm] down
NOTE: The throws are measured at the widest part of
the control surfaces.
If you wish to set the control throws using angles instead of
linear measurements, you may cut out the paper templates
that we have provided for you in the back of this manual.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
High Rate Low Rate
ELEVATOR: 18° up 13° up
18° down 13° down
RUDDER: 17° left 13° left
17° right 13° right
AILERONS: 20° up 10° up
20° down 10° down
NOTE: The throws are measured at the widest part of
the control surfaces.

20
Balance the Model (C.G.)
❏1.At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fly condition
with all of the systems in place including the motor, landing
gear, radio system, battery, and all hatches. Place the battery
in the battery compartment but do not connect it.
❏2. Use a felt-tip pen or 1/8" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately
mark the C.G. on the bottom of the top wing on both sides
of the fuselage. The C.G. is located 2-1/8" [54mm] back
from the leading edge of the wing.
This is where your model should balance for the first
flights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting
the C.G. up to 1/8" [3mm] forward or 1/8" [3mm] back
to change the flying characteristics. Moving the C.G.
forward may improve the smoothness and stability, but
the model may then require more speed for takeoff and
make it more difficult to slow for landing. Moving the C.G.
aft makes the model more maneuverable, but could also
cause it to become too difficult to control. In any case,
start at the recommended balance point and do not at
any time balance the model outside the specified range.
❏3. With all parts of the model installed (ready to fly) and a
battery pack in place (do not connect it), place your fingers
on the marks you made and balance the model.
❏4. If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy” and the battery
pack must be shifted forward or weight must be added to the
nose to balance. If the nose drops, the model is “nose heavy”
and the battery pack must be shifted aft or weight must be
added to the tail to balance.
❏5. Using a felt-tip pen, mark the position of the battery
pack in the battery compartment. This will help eliminate trim
changes or unwanted surprises each time that you change
the battery. When using different capacity batteries, you may
have to re-balance your plane and place an additional mark
in the battery compartment. Install the 2" [50mm] piece of
hook & loop material in the battery tray.
❏6. If additional weight is required, use Great Planes
(GPMQ4485) “stick on” lead. A good place to add stick-
on nose weight is to the firewall (don’t attach weight to the
cowl—it is not intended to support weight). Begin by placing
increasing amounts of weight on the top of the fuse over the
firewall until the model balances. Once you have determined
the amount of weight required, it can be permanently attached.
If required, tail weight may be added by cutting open the
bottom of the fuse and gluing it permanently inside.
IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any weight,
recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.
Balance the Model Laterally
❏1. With the wing level, lift the model by the motor shaft
and the bottom of the fuse under the TE of the fuse. 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 in loops and other maneuvers.