GREAT PLANES EXTRA-300SP 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 GPMA1022Mnl1.0
Wingspan: 55in [1395mm]
Wing Area: 590 in2[38.1 dm2]
Weight: 5.5–6.5 lb [2495–2950 g]
Wing Loading: 21–25 oz/ft2[66–77 g/dm2]
Length: 53 in [1345mm]
Radio: 4-5 channel, 4-5 servos
Engine: 0.46–0.55 cu in [7.5–9cc] two-stroke, 0.52–0.81 cu in [8.5–13cc] four-stroke
Electric Motor: RimFire .80 [50-55-500kV] with Silver Series 60A ESC

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ............................................................... 2
AMA .................................................................................. 2
ELECTRIC MOTOR AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ....... 3
DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE........................................ 3
Glow Engine Accessories .......................................... 3
Electric Motor Accessories......................................... 4
Radio Equipment ....................................................... 4
Additional Radio Accessories .................................... 4
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED .................................... 5
Required Hardware and Accessories ........................ 5
Adhesives and Building Supplies............................... 5
Covering Tools ........................................................... 5
Optional Supplies and Tools....................................... 5
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES ...................................... 5
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS .............................. 6
KIT INSPECTION.............................................................. 7
KIT CONTENTS................................................................ 7
SHRINK THE COVERING................................................. 8
BUILD THE WINGS........................................................... 8
Hinge the Ailerons...................................................... 8
Install the Wing Dowels.............................................. 9
Install the Aileron Servos ........................................... 9
ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE ........................................ 11
Attach the Horizontal Stabilizer................................ 11
Hinge the Rudder and Elevators .............................. 13
Landing Gear Installation ......................................... 14
Install the Elevator Servo ......................................... 14
Install the Hatch ....................................................... 15
Install the Electric Motor and Rudder Servo ............ 16
Install the Glow Engine and Rudder Servo .............. 19
Install the Fuel Tank ................................................. 20
Install the Radio Gear and Cowl .............................. 21
Mount the Prop and Spinner .................................... 22
Apply the Decals ...................................................... 22
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ................................. 22
Install and Connect the Motor Battery ..................... 22
Check the Control Directions ................................... 23
Set the Control Throws ............................................ 24
Balance Model (C.G.)............................................... 24
Balance the Model Laterally..................................... 25
PREFLIGHT .................................................................... 25
Identify Your Model................................................... 25
Charge the Batteries ................................................ 25
Balance Propellers................................................... 25
Ground Check.......................................................... 25
Range Check ........................................................... 26
ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS................................. 26
AMA SAFETY CODE...................................................... 26
CHECKLIST.................................................................... 27
FLYING............................................................................ 27
Mount the Wing ........................................................ 27
Fuel Mixture Adjustments ........................................ 27
Takeoff .......................................................Back Cover
Flight ..........................................................Back Cover
Landing ......................................................Back Cover
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46
ARF. This model has been designed to excel in all aspects of
RC aerobatic flight. Great lengths have been taken to ensure
the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF is able to fulfill the
demands of the most critical modeler. Whether you desire to
use glow or electric power, design features are in place to
enhance the attributes of both power systems. Two rudder
placement locations and alternate battery mounting positions
have been included to eliminate the need for lead ballast.This
model is capable of the most extreme 3D aerobatic maneuvers,
pinpoint precision, and relaxing Sunday flying. Whatever your
flying preference, the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF is
certain to make a great addition to your hangar.
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections
to the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF visit the Great
Planes web site at www.greatplanes.com. Open the “R/C
AIRPLANES” pull down tab across the top of the page, and
then select “ARFs-GLOW.” Scroll down the page and click on
“Extra 300SP .46 ARF”. If there is new technical information
or changes to this model an “Important! TECH NOTICE” box
will appear in the upper left corner of the page. Click on the
Tech Notice box to read the information.
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 shown.
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 Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 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 Great Planes Extra 300SP
.46 ARF, 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 (fuel
tank, wheels, etc.) 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 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 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.
9. WARNING: The cowl and wheel pants included in this kit
are made of fiberglass, the fibers of which may cause eye,
skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part
(wheel pant, cowl) to remove fiberglass dust, as the dust
will blow back into your eyes. Always wear safety goggles, a
particle mask and rubber gloves when grinding, drilling and
sanding fiberglass parts. Vacuum the parts and the work
area thoroughly after working with fiberglass parts.
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.
DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE
The recommended engine/motor size range for the Great
Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF is noted on the cover of the
manual. Your decision basically comes down to personal
preference and what your flying style is. Glow engines tend
to be lighter weight and have lower initial cost. However,
they create oil residue on the underside of the airplane and
require the ongoing purchase of fuel. Electric motors will
cost more initially, but are the easiest to operate and allow
for the cleanest cowl installation. If an engine in the upper
end of the size range is used, remember that this is a scale
model that is intended to fly at scale-like speeds, so throttle
management should be practiced.
If using the RimFire 42-60-480 brushless electric motor, you
must also purchase a 60A brushless ESC capable of handling
60A at 30V. The Great Planes SS-60 High Voltage Brushless
ESC (GPMM1850) is a suitable ESC for this motor.
Glow Engine Accessories
These are the items shown in the manual that were used
with the O.S.®81FS-a (OSMG0981). If using a different glow
engine the same or similar items will also be required.
❏Great Planes Tap and Drill Set 6-32 (GPMR8102)
❏Tap Handle (GPMR8120)
❏Great Planes Silicone Fuel Tubing Standard 3' (GPMQ4131)
❏Exhaust Deflector (HCAP2175)
❏Suitable propeller (14x6 for O.S. .81 FS-a, APCQ1406 or
12x6 for O.S. 55AX, APCQ1206)

Electric Motor Accessories
These are the items shown in the manual that were used
with the RimFire .80 [50-55-500kV] (GPMG4740).
❏Great Planes Large Electric Motor Mount (GPMG1260)
❏Silver Series 60A ESC (GPMM1850)
❏Silver Series ESC Programming Card (GPMM1895)
❏Suitable propeller such as 15x7E (APCQ1830)
❏Velcro hook & loop adhesive strips (1"x6" [25x150mm]
GPMQ4480)
There may be many different battery and propeller
combinations available that will work well with the
recommended brushless RimFire motor for this model.
However, the following setup is one that has been tested with
the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF and has proven to
have the best overall performance.
❏Two ElectriFly™3200mAh 11.1V LiPo battery packs
(GPMP0623) These batteries will be connected in series.
This is what is refered to as a “6S” configuration, because
it is comprised of two 11.1V LiPo battery packs, each
consisting of three individual 3.7V LiPo cells connected
in series.
❏Great Planes ElectriFly Series Deans®U 2 to 1 battery
adapter (GPMM3143)
IMPORTANT: Before experimenting with different battery
combinations and connecting multiple battery packs with
adapter plugs, refer to the Battery Precautions on page 22.
If using LiPo batteries, a charger specially suited for charging
LiPo batteries is required. The Great Planes PolyCharge™4
(GPMM3015) is recommended for charging the batteries
recommended. The PolyCharge 4 will charge up to four
LiPo batteries simultaneously. If using the PolyCharge
4, a 12 volt source will also be required for powering the
charger. If you plan on charging four 3,200mAh batteries
simultaneously, a power source capable of delivering at
least 12.8A is required. A suitable 12V auto battery could
be used, or a portable source capable of converting 120V
AC to 12V DC such as the Rivergate 15A DC Bulldog Power
Supply (RHCP2015) is suitable. If charging only three 3,200
batteries simultaneously, the Hobbico®12 Volt Power Supply
(HCAP0250) is also suitable.
When charging LiPo batteries, it is recommended that you
use a balancer. A balancer will extend the life of the batteries
as well as reduce the risk of damaging the batteries during
charging. A suitable balancer for the Great Planes ElectriFly
Power Series™LiPo batteries is the Great Planes ElectriFly
Equinox™LiPo Cell Balancer (GPMM3160)
If not using a balancer, one charge adapter connector
per battery is also required. For the batteries and charger
recommended, the Great Planes Banana Plugs to Deans
Male Ultra Plug®battery charging connectors can be used
(GPMM3148).
Radio Equipment
The servo mounts for the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46
ARF have been sized from the factory to fit mini size servos.
If you desire to use standard servos simply enlarge the servo
mounts to fit. Provided below are two servo selection outlines.
The “Economy” setup is provided for the flier who enjoys
sport flying and is not concerned with a slight increase in
weight. The “Lightweight Precision” setup is provided for the
flier concerned with building the lightest, best performing
airplane possible.
MINIMUM SERVO TORQUE REQUIREMENTS
Elevator: 45 in-oz
Ailerons: 45 in-oz
Rudder: 70 in-oz
Throttle (Glow Setup Only): 20 in-oz
ECONOMY SETUP
Elevator: One Standard, Ball Bearing Servo
Futaba®S3004 (FUTM0004)
Ailerons: Two Standard, Ball Bearing Servo
Futaba S3004 (FUTM0004)
Rudder: One High Torque, Ball Bearing Servo
Futaba S3010 (FUTM0043)
Throttle: One Micro Servo
Hobbico CS-12 (HCAM0110)
LIGHTWEIGHT PRECISION SETUP
Elevator: One Micro Digital Servo
Futaba S9650 (FUTM0260)
Ailerons: Two Micro Digital Servos
Futaba S9650 (FUTM0260)
Rudder: One High Torque Digital Servo
Futaba S9252 (FUTM0222)
Throttle: One Micro Servo
Futaba S3155 (FUTM0655)
RECEIVER BATTERY REQUIREMENTS
A 4.8V NiMH or NiCd of at least 1400mAh capacity is required to
power the receiver and servos. The Hobbico HydriMax™4-Cell
4.8V 1400mAh 2/3A NiMH (HCAM6306) is a suitable receiver
battery pack for the Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF.
Additional Radio Accessories
Following are the servo extension wires and other radio gear
illustrated in this manual.
❏One 8" [203mm] servo extension for the throttle servo or
ESC (FUTM4140)
❏One 12" [305mm] servo extension for the rudder servo, if
mounting it in the reward mounting position (HCAM2100)
❏One receiver switch harness (HCAM2400)
There is no need to use a charge receptacle with this model,
because the hatch can be easily removed to access the
radio battery.
4

5
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED
In addition to the items previously mentioned in the “Decisions
You Must Make” section, the following is a list of hardware
and accessories required to finish the Extra 300SP .46 ARF.
Part numbers are provided in parentheses.
Required Hardware and Accessories
❏Suitable propeller and spare propellers
❏R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] – HCAQ1000, or 1/2" [13mm]
– HCAQ1050)
❏Dubro Servo Arms Super Strength, Futaba J, Long
(DUBM6670, if setting up for 3D throws)
Adhesives and Building Supplies
Here is a list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are
required to finish the Extra 300SP ARF.
❏Great Planes Pro™CA Glue Thin (GPMR6002)
❏Great Planes Pro CA Glue Thick (GPMR6014)
❏Great Planes Pro Epoxy 6-Minute (GPMR6042)
❏Great Planes Pro Epoxy 30-Minute (GPMR6043)
❏Denatured Alcohol
❏Great Planes Pro Threadlocker (GPMR6060)
❏Micro Bearing Oiler (TRIC8025)
❏Hobby Knife with #11 blades (HCAR0101)
❏Hobbico Steel T-pins 1-1/4" (HCAR5150)
❏Marker
❏Drill Bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 5/32" [4mm],
3/8" [9.6mm]
Covering Tools
ATop Flite®or Coverite 21ST Century®model airplane covering
iron with a protective covering sock will be necessary for
tightening any covering on the model that may have loosened
or formed wrinkles between the time of production and your
purchase. The Coverite 21ST Century iron is preferred as it
has a longer cord and a rounded, contoured shoe. A trim iron
is not as much of a necessity, but would still be very handy
for sealing the edges down inside servo openings and other
small areas.
❏Coverite 21st Century sealing iron (COVR2700)
❏Coverite 21st Century iron cover (COVR2702)
❏Coverite 21st Century trim seal iron (COVR2750)
or
❏Top Flite MonoKote®sealing iron (TOPR2100)
❏Top Flite Hot Sock™iron cover (TOPR2175)
❏Top Flite MonoKote trim seal iron (TOPR2200)
Optional Supplies and Tools
Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help when assembling the Extra 300SP .46 ARF.
❏Long Nose Pliers (HCAR0625)
❏Diagonal Pliers (HCAR0627)
❏Phillips Head Screwdriver #1 (DTXR0174)
❏Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler Stainless Steel (HCAR0460)
❏3/8" Heat Shrink Tubing (GPMM1060)
❏Great Planes 4-in-1 Installation Tool (GPMR8035)
❏Hobbico Builder’s Triangle Set (HCAR0480)
❏Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler (HCAR0460)
❏Hobbico Retractable Fabric Tape Measure (HCAR0478)
❏Robart Build Stand (ROBP1402)
❏Rotary Tool (DRER0550)
❏Standard Hex Wrenches (BONR1530)
❏Metric Hex Wrenches (BONR1510)
❏Hemostats (BRUR1302)
❏Stick-on Segmented Lead Weights (GPMQ4485)
❏2 oz. [57g] Spray CA Activator (GPMR6035)
❏4 oz. [113g] Aerosol CA Activator (GPMR6034)
❏Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)
❏CA Debonder (GPMR6039)
❏Epoxy Brushes (GPMR8060)
❏Mixing Sticks (GPMR8055)
❏Mixing Cups (GPMR8056)
❏Denatured Alcohol
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
• There are two types of screws used in this kit:
Self-tapping screws are designated
by a number and a length. For example,
#6 x 3/4" [19mm].
Machine screws are designated by a
number, threads per inch, and a length.
For example, 4-40 x 3/4" [19mm].
Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are
designated by a number, threads per
inch, and a length. For example, 4-40 x
3/4" [19mm]
• 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.

6
• Whenever just epoxy is specified you may use either
30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or 6-minute epoxy. When
30-minute epoxy is specified it is highly recommended that
you use only 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy, because you
will need the working time and/or the additional strength.
• 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 Great Planes Extra 300SP .46 ARF is factory-covered
with Top Flite MonoKote film.Should repairs ever be required,
MonoKote can be patched with additional MonoKote
purchased separately. MonoKote is packaged in six-foot rolls,
but some hobby shops also sell it by the foot. If only a small
piece of MonoKote is needed for a minor patch, perhaps a
fellow modeler would give you some. MonoKote is applied
with a model airplane covering iron, but in an emergency a
regular iron could be used. A roll of MonoKote includes full
instructions for application. Following are the colors used on
this model and order numbers for six foot rolls.
Yellow (TOPQ0203)
Jet White (TOPQ0204)
Metallic Blue (TOPQ0402)
Metallic Platinum (TOPQ0408)
• The stabilizer and wing incidences and engine 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.
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS
Replacement parts for the Extra 300SP .46 ARF 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 telephone at [phone], or by
e-mail at [email protected].
REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST
Order Number Description How to Purchase
Missing pieces ....Contact Product Support
Instruction manualContact Product Support
Full-size plans........................Not available
Contact your hobby supplier for the following parts:
GPMA3217...... Wing Set
GPMA3218...... Fuselage w/Canopy Hatch
GPMA3219...... Tail Surface Set
GPMA3220...... Wing Joiner Tube
GPMA3221...... Cowl
GPMA3222...... Canopy
GPMA3223...... Landing Gear
GPMA3224...... Wheel Pants Set Left/Right
GPMA3225...... Decal Sheet

7
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]
KIT CONTENTS
1. Cowl
2. Hatch & Canopy
3. Fuselage
4. Landing Gear
5. Wheel Pants
6. Spinner
7. Main Wheels
8. Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevators
9. Wing Tube
10. Tailwheel Assembly
11. Rudder
12. Right Wing w/Aileron
13. Left Wing w/Aileron
1
6
2
11
12 13
5
4
10
9
8
7
3
7

8
8
8
SHRINK THE COVERING
❏Examine the airframe for wrinkles in the covering or areas
where the covering isn’t adhered to the structure. Where
necessary, use a covering iron with a protective covering
sock to shrink any wrinkles and get the covering bonded to
the framework—use an iron temperature setting lower than
you normally would for MonoKote—around 300° – 325° F is
recommended. And use care over seams. If too much heat is
applied over seams and edges the covering may pull away.
Note: Lighter fluid can be used to remove any adhesive left
from the masking tape holding the control surfaces.
BUILD THE WINGS
Hinge the Ailerons
❏1. Drill a 5/64" [2mm] diameter hole, approximately 1/2"
[13mm] deep, in the center of each hinge slot on both the
wing and the aileron. This will allow the CA glue to properly
wick through the entire hinge.
❏2. Temporarily insert a T-pin into the middle of each hinge.
This will be used to properly align the hinge when mating the
aileron to the wing.
❏3. Insert one half of each hinge into the aileron.
❏4. Starting from the tip of the wing, insert the other half
of the hinges into the wing. Once all of the hinges have
been inserted into the wing, gently slide the wing from left
to right until the leading edge of the aileron is snug with the
trailing edge of the wing. The T-pins should provide a space
of approximately 3/64" [1.2mm] between the aileron and the
wing. Note: Do not force the hinges into the wing. If a hinge
does not easily slide into place, simply remove the aileron.
Use a hobby knife with #11 blade to widen the hinge slot
until it slides into place snugly.
❏5. With the T-pins in place, slide the aileron until it sits
flush with the tip of the wing. Remove the T-pins and apply 6

9
drops of thin CA glue to each side, of each hinge. At this point
do not flex the hinge. Wipe off any excess CA that appears
in the gap and set the wing aside. Repeat steps 1-7 for the
other aileron and wing half. Allow the CA to cure without the
aid of activator. Once the CA has cured move the aileron
back and forth to be sure the hinge is free.
Install the Wing Dowels
❏1. Locate the four 1/4" x 1" [6 x 25mm] dowels.They are the
four longer dowels included in the hardware pack. Remove
the servo hatches from the underside of each wing and set
them aside. Mark the center of each wing dowel.
❏2. Test fit the wing dowels by placing them into the holes
in the wing, up to the mark you have made.
During construction there will be several occasions where
epoxy cleanup will be necessary. Instead of wasting
whole paper towels, stack three or four paper towels on
top of each other and cut them into small squares. This
will conserve paper towels, and the little squares are
easier to use. For epoxy clean up, dampen the squares
with denatured or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol.
Install the Aileron Servos
❏1. Locate the servo hatch from the underside of the wing
that was set aside.
❏2. Trim away the covering from the servo hole as shown. If
using Futaba S9650 servos for the ailerons, you will need to
trim away the side mounts as shown.
❏❏3. Locate the four 3/4" x 1/2" x 5/16" [19 x 13 x 8mm]
blocks of wood. These will be used to hold the aileron servos
to the servo hatch. Hold the wood blocks to the servo,
making certain the block overhangs the servo on the side of
the servo that will be mounted to the hatch. Using a marker,
mark the location for the servo screws as shown.

10
❏❏4. Using a 1/16" [1.5mm] drill bit, drill a hole through
the blocks at the locations you just marked. Tap the hole by
screwing the servo mounting screws that came with your
servo into the holes and then removing them. Harden the
threads in the block by adding two drops of thin CA glue into
each hole. Set the blocks aside and allow the CA glue time
to cure. Using the hardware supplied with the servo, mount
the servo to the blocks.
❏5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the other aileron servo and
mounting blocks.
❏❏6. Mix together a small amount of 6 minute epoxy.
Place some of the epoxy on the wood blocks, being careful
not to get any epoxy on the servo. Place the hatch on a level
surface and place the blocks and servo on the hatch. Make
certain that the servo arm sits in the center of the opening
in the hatch. Use weight or a clamp to hold the blocks to the
hatch while the epoxy cures. Repeat this step for the other
aileron servo and hatch.
❏❏7. Using the radio and receiver, center the servo and
attach the control horn as shown. If any other arms are
present on the servo, remove them with a rotary tool or a
pair of diagonal pliers. Enlarge the last hole on the servo arm
using a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit.
❏❏8. Mount the servo hatch to the wing using the #2 x 3/8"
[10mm] sheet metal screws and #2 washers.
❏❏9. Hold a straight edge flush with the servo arm and
mark a straight line on the aileron. This is the mounting
location of the aileron control horn.
MOUNT THE HORN ALL THE WAY FORWARD
❏❏10.Place the aileron control horn on the aileron, centering
it on the mark you made in step 15. Use a T-pin to mark the
center of the holes. Use a 1/16" [1.5mm] drill bit to drill into
the aileron at the markings you just made, being careful not
to drill all the way through the aileron. Remove the mark you
made on the aileron using some denatured alcohol.
❏❏11. Use two #2 x 3/8" [10mm] sheet metal screws to
attach the control horn to the aileron. Remove the control
horn and place 2 drops of thin CA in each hole. Wipe any
excess CA from the aileron. Allow the glue to dry and reattach
the control horn to the aileron.

11
❏❏12. Locate the two 2-56 x 6" [152mm] aileron pushrods,
2 nylon clevises, and 2 nylon FasLink™pushrod keeper. Screw
the clevis onto the threaded end of the pushrod by rotating
the clevis 18 complete revolutions. A Great Planes 4-in-1
Installation Tool (GPMR8035) makes this task much easier.
❏❏13. Place the clevis in the control horn without snapping
it shut. Mark the center of the servo arm on the pushrod.
Remove the clevis from the horn and make a 90° bend in the
pushrod at the mark.
❏❏14. Place a silicone clevis keeper on the pushrod. Then
place a FasLink on the pushrod and remove the excess
pushrod with a rotary tool or diagonal pliers. Connect the
clevis to the control horn but do not snap in place. Connect
the bent end to the servo. Re-center the servo and adjust
the linkage by screwing the clevis either in or out until the
aileron is straight. Once the aileron is straight, snap the clevis
in place, attach the FasLink, and slide the clevis keeper over
the clevis.
❏15. Repeat steps 6-14 for the other wing.
ASSEMBLE THE FUSELAGE
Attach the Horizontal Stabilizer
❏1. On the fuselage trim the covering away from the wing
tube holes, wing dowel holes, horizontal stabilizer location,
and wing bolt location as shown. Slide the wing tube through
the fuselage. Then slide the wings onto the wing tube, and
secure them using the nylon wing bolts.
❏2. Slide the horizontal stabilizer through the slot in the
fuselage. Using a ruler, center the trailing edge by measuring
from the fuselage to the tip of the stabilizer on both sides.

12
❏3.Once the trailing edge of the stabilizer has been centered,
insert a T-pin in both sides of the trailing edge as shown.
This will hold the trailing edge in place while it is aligned with
the fuselage.
❏4. A mark has been provided in the center of the front
former. Insert a T-pin on this mark, attach a string or a tape
measure, and adjust the horizontal stabilizer by rotating
it until the distance to either side matches. Once you are
satisfied that the horizontal is aligned correctly, as shown,
place a T-pin in the leading edge of the stabilizer to mark
where it intersects the fuselage.
❏5. Remove the T-pins and the stabilizer. Using a straight
edge, connect the marks you made with the T-pins. If there is
covering in between the marks and the already cut portion of
the covering, remove that section of the covering. Be careful
not to cut into the wood when removing the covering.
Use a soldering iron to cut the covering. The tip of the
soldering iron doesn’t have to be sharp, but a fine-tip does
work best. Allow the iron to heat fully. Use a straightedge
to guide the soldering iron at a rate that will just melt
the covering and not burn into the wood. The hotter the
soldering iron, the faster it must travel to melt a fine cut.
Peel off the covering.
❏6. For this step, make sure you have plenty of alcohol
and paper towels handy. Reinsert the T-pins in one side of
the horizontal stabilizer. Mix up a generous portion of 30
minute epoxy. Apply the epoxy to the top and bottom of the
stabilizer in the section that the covering has been cut away
from. Insert the stabilizer into the fuselage, mating it with the
T-pins. Wipe away any epoxy that appears around the joint
using alcohol-soaked paper towels.

13
❏7. View the stabilizer standing approximately 6' [2.5m]
behind the airplane. Make sure the horizontal stabilizer and
the wing are aligned. If they are not, add weight to the high
side of the horizontal stabilizer.
❏8. To make sure nothing has shifted, re-measure the
trailing edge of the stabilizer (Step 3) to make sure it is still
centered. Also re-measure from the trailing edge of the
stabilizer to the trailing edge of the wing (Step 4). Adjust the
horizontal stabilizer as necessary. Once you are satisfied that
everything is aligned, view the horizontal stabilizer again,
from the rear, to be sure it is still aligned with the wing. If
everything is aligned properly, do not disturb the model until
the epoxy has cured.
Hinge the Rudder and Elevators
❏1. First, locate 3 CA hinges for the rudder and place a
T-pin through the middle of each hinge. Test fit the hinges in
the rudder to be sure there are no obstructions in the hinge
slot. If a hinge does not go in properly, use a hobby knife to
clear the slot until the hinge slides snugly in place.
❏2. Clear away the covering from the bottom of the rudder
as shown.
❏3.Test fit the tail wheel into both the fuselage and the rudder
as shown. If the tail wheel does not fit properly, use a hobby
knife to modify the mounts so the tail wheel fits snugly.
❏4. Place a small amount of oil in the tail wheel hinge. Wipe
away any oil that gets on the nylon tab. Add a few drops of
thin CA to the tail wheel mounting hole in the rudder. Allow
the CA to fully cure before continuing.
❏5. Place all the hinges in the rudder up to the T-pins. Place
the tail wheel into the rudder. Mix up a small amount of 6
minute epoxy and apply it to the nylon tab on the tail wheel.
Insert the nylon tab and the hinges into the fuselage. The
bottom of the rudder should be aligned with the bottom of the
fuselage. Remove the T-pins and place 6 drops of thin CA to
both sides of the three hinges. Wipe any excess epoxy or CA
away from the hinge.
❏6. Allow a few minutes for the epoxy to harden. Once the
epoxy has hardened flex the hinge to be sure it moves freely.
❏7. Locate 6 CA hinges and place a T-pin through each
one. Place 1 hinge in each slot of the elevators. Slide the
other side of the hinge into the horizontal stabilizer. Make
certain the tip of the elevator sits flush with the tip of the
stabilizer. Remove the T-pins and place 6 drops of thin CA on
both sides of each hinge.

14
Landing Gear Installation
❏1.Locate the main landing gear, axles, wheels, wheel collars,
set screws, wheel pants, and four 4-40 SHCS. Attach the axles
to the landing gear. Make a mark on the landing gear 5/16"
[8mm] from each end. Using a rotary tool make a flat spot on
the underside of the axle from the each end to the mark.
❏❏2. Place a wheel collar on the axle and secure it to the
inward flat spot with the set screw. Be sure to use a drop
of thread locker on the set screw when you put it in. Place
a wheel on the axle and place another wheel collar on the
outward flat spot. Secure the second wheel collar to the axle
using the set screw and a drop of thread locker. Repeat this
step for the other wheel and axle.
❏3. Mount the wheel pants using the 4-40 x 1/4" SHCS as
shown. Be sure to place a drop of thread locker on the screw
before inserting it.
❏4. Trim the covering away from the three landing gear
mounting holes and mount the landing gear to the fuselage
using three 6-32 x 1/2" [13mm] socket head bolts.
Install the Elevator Servo
❏1. Make a mark on the elevator that is 1/2" [13mm] from
the inboard edge of the aileron. Mount both control horns on
the marks, using the same procedure that was used on the
aileron horn.
❏2. Locate the two elevator 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrods.
Thread a clevis onto the end of each pushrod. Slide a silicone
clevis keeper on each pushrod and down to the clevis. Install
the pushrods by sliding them into the elevator pushrod guides
from the tail, and connecting the clevises to the horns as
shown. Do not snap the clevises shut at this point.
❏3. Place the elevator servo in the elevator servo mounting
position as shown.Mark the location for the elevator mounting

15
screws. Using a 1/16" [1.5mm] drill bit, drill a guide hole at
the marks you just made. Install the elevator servo. Remove
the elevator servo and place 2 drops of thin CA in each of
the elevator mounting screw holes. Wait for the CA to fully
cure. Install the elevator servo with the hardware provided
with the servo.
❏4. Center the elevator servo using the radio and install the
servo arm. Align the servo arm perpendicular to the elevator
pushrod. Center the elevator and make a mark on one of the
elevator pushrods even with the servo arm. Slide two 5/32"
wheel collars onto the two elevator pushrods and make a 90°
bend to one of the pushrods at the location of the mark.
❏5. Enlarge the hole in the servo arm using a 5/64" [2mm]
drill bit. After trimming away its excess length, run the bent
pushrod through the hole. Keep the pushrod in place using
a nylon FasLink.
❏6. Trim the non-bent elevator pushrod so that it is
approximately 1" [25.4mm] shorter than the bent pushrod.
Place some thread locker on to the 6-32 x 1/4" [6mm] socket
head screws. Level the two elevator halves and tighten the
socket head bolts.
❏7. Double-check to be sure the two elevator halves are
level, snap the clevises shut, and slide the silicone clevis
keepers over the clevises.
❏8. Using 6 minute epoxy, secure the nylon pushrod guide
to the pushrod guide former. Be careful not to get any of the
epoxy into the nylon pushrod guide.
Install the Hatch
❏1. Locate the two 3/4" [19mm] long, 1/4" [6mm] diameter
wood dowels. Test fit the dowels by inserting them into the
holes located at the front of the hatch. The dowels should
stick about 1/2" [13mm] out from the face of the hatch.
Remove the dowels and glue them in place using a small
amount of 6 minute epoxy or thick CA.
❏2. Locate four small magnets. Glue two of the magnets
into the magnet mounting holes located at the rear of the
15

16
hatch, using thin or thick CA. Once the CA dries, place the
remaining two magnets over the ones mounted in the hatch.
Make a mark on the unmounted magnets. This mark will be
used to determine which way the magnets should face when
they are inserted into the fuselage.
❏3. Using thin or thick CA, glue the unmounted magnets
into the fuselage with the marks facing into the mounting
holes. Once the CA has had time to fully cure, install the
hatch by sliding the hatch dowels into the openings in the
front former, laying the hatch on the fuselage, and sliding the
hatch toward the tail to lock it into place.
❏4. Locate the two plywood washers. Install the plywood
washers around the hatch alignment dowels. Press down
on the front of the hatch slightly and, using some thick CA,
tack the plywood washers in place as shown. Spray some
activator on the CA to stop it from wicking onto the hatch
dowels. Gently remove the hatch, while placing counter
pressure to the washers so they do not come unglued. With
the hatch removed, apply more thick CA or 6 minute epoxy
around the washer to fully secure it to the fuselage.
❏5. Locate the canopy and the four #2 x 3/8" sheet metal
screws. Install the canopy, making sure that the leading edge
of the canopy sits flush with the top of the hatch. Drill a 1/16
[1.5mm] hole through the canopy and through the front two
plywood mounting plates. Insert a wood screw into each
hole, remove the screws, and add two drops of thin CA to
the holes. Install the front two canopy screws.
❏6.Lightly pull the canopy rearward against the two mounting
screws you installed. Drill a 1/16" [1.5mm] hole through the
canopy and rear mounting plates. Install the rear canopy
screws, remove them, and harden the hole with CA. Trim the
canopy screws with a rotary tool or diagonal pliers until they
sit flush with the inside of the canopy mounting plate.
❏7. If you would like to install a pilot figure and a scale
instrument panel, this would be the appropriate time to
mount them. Clean the inside of the canopy and install it.
View the canopy from the front, making sure the front of the
canopy sits flush with the hatch.
Install the Electric Motor
and Rudder Servo
❏1. If you are using a glow engine instead of an electric
motor, skip ahead to page 19.
❏2. To use the Great Planes Large Electric Motor Mount
(GPMG1260) with this model, you’ll need to make a few
modifications. With a permanent marker, mark both sides of
the two motor mount pieces as shown.
❏3. Cut the motor mount with a hack saw or rotary tool along
the line (this will remove approximately 3/4" [19mm] from the
mount). Mount the electric motor using the 3mm machine
screws supplied with it. Be sure to use thread locker.

17
❏4. Loosen the socket head cap screws on the side of the
engine mount and adjust the engine mount until the distance
from the rear of the mount to the prop washer is 5-1/8" [130mm].
Re-tighten the bolts on the side of the engine mount, using
thread locker to secure the mount. Bolt the engine mount to the
front of the airframe using the four 6-32 x 1/2" [13mm] socket
head cap screws, #6 washers, and #6 lock washers provided.
❏5. Cut out the perforated portions on the underside of the
firewall and mount the ESC using the three #4 x 3/8" [9.5mm]
sheet metal screws and #4 washers, as shown. Remove the
ESC and harden the screw holes with thin CA. Re-mount the
ESC. Remove the prop washer and prop nut from the motor
and connect the motor to the ESC. Check the rotation of
the motor by turning on your transmitter, plugging the ESC
into the receiver, and plugging a LiPo battery into the ESC.
Be careful!! The motor will rotate when the throttle stick
is moved. Stand clear. If the rotation of the motor is not
counter clockwise as viewed from the front of the airplane,
remove any two of the wires that connect the ESC to the
motor and swap them.Verify that the motor rotation is correct.
Disconnect the batteries and receiver. Note: If using the
Great Planes SS-60 ESC you will need to plug a battery into
the receiver, because the Great Planes SS-60 ESC does not
have a Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC).
❏6. Cut the hook and loop material into two 7-1/2" [190mm]
long strips. Overlap the hook and loop material 1" [25.4mm] as
shown to create a battery strap. Using thick CA, glue a small
section of the scrap hook side of the material to the battery
tray. Attach some self adhesive loop material to the underside
of the batteries. This will keep the batteries from sliding.
❏7.Thread the two battery straps into the slots in the battery
tray. When you are ready to fly, use these straps to secure
the battery to the battery tray as shown.
❏8. When using an electric motor it is best to mount the
rudder servo in the tray next to the elevator servo. If you do
not wish to mount the servo in the tray, skip ahead to step 5
in the “Installing the Glow Engine” section.

18
❏9. Installing the rudder servo in the tray is very similar to
the way the elevator servo was installed in the tray. Locate
the rudder pushrod and slide it down the rudder pushrod
guide, as shown.
❏10. The position of the pushrod guide exit is easily found
by lightly pushing on the rudder pushrod. Trim the covering
from around the pushrod guide exit. Center the rudder and
mark where the rudder pushrod overlaps the rudder.
❏11. Measure a second mark 5/16" [8mm] from the hinge
line, as shown. Using a 5/32" [3.6mm] drill bit, drill a hole
through the rudder at point where the two marks intersect.
Slide the 6-32 x 2" [51mm] rod through the hole and center
it. Apply a drop of thread locker to each side of the bolt and
secure it with the two 6-32 nuts and washers.
❏12. With the rod secure, install a nylon swivel to the end of
the rod as shown. Install a clevis and clevis keeper to the end
of the pushrod and slide the pushrod into the pushrod guide.
Hook the clevis onto the nylon swivel, but do not snap it shut.
❏13. Place the rudder servo into the mounting tray. Mark the
mounting holes and, using a 1/16" [1.6mm] drill bit, drill pilot
holes for the mounting screws. Install the servo screws and
remove them. Place two drops of CA in each mounting hole.
Once the CA has cured, install the servo using the hardware
provided with the servo.
❏14. Center the servo and the rudder. Mark the location
where the rudder pushrod intersects the servo arm. Make a
90° bend in the pushrod at the mark. Enlarge the servo horn
hole using a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit. Place the bend through the
servo hole, slide the FasLink in place, and trim off the excess
pushrod. If the rudder is no longer straight when the rudder
servo is centered, adjust by rotating the clevis as required.
Once the rudder is straight, snap the clevis shut and slide
the silicone clevis retainer over the clevis.
❏15. There is a cooling air exit provided in the bottom of
the airframe just in front of the battery tray. Cut the covering
away from this section to provide cooling for the battery,
ESC, and motor.

19
Install the Glow Engine
and Rudder Servo
❏1. If you have already installed the electric motor skip
ahead to the step 1 on page 21. Install the provided 2-piece
glow engine mount onto the front of the airframe using the
provided #6 x 3/4" [19mm] socket head screws, #6 washers,
and #6 lock washers. Adjust the mount so that it fits the width
of the glow engine being used. Be certain to keep the mount
centered on the cross hair marks etched into the firewall.
❏2. Check that the distance from the rear of the engine
mount to the drive washer of the engine is 4-15/16" [125mm].
To achieve this distance with some of the larger 4-stroke
engines, it may be necessary to remove the nose wheel
mount from the upper portion of the engine mount as shown.
Mark the engine mounting holes using the Great Planes Dead
Center Hole Locator (GPMR8130). Remove the engine. Drill
and tap the holes for #6-32 bolts, making sure that the holes
are at a 90° angle to the engine mount. Attach the engine
to the engine mount using the four 6-32 x 1" [25mm] socket
head bolts, four #6 washers and four #6 lock washers. Note:
If using the O.S. 81FS-a 4-stroke engine, you will need to
remove the carburetor extension to allow for clearance of the
fuel lines.
❏3. Locate the throttle servo and install it as shown, using
the hardware provided with the servo. Bend the pushrod and
adjust it so that the throttle servo can move the throttle arm
through the entire range. Connect the throttle servo to the
receiver and test the motion.
❏4. The recommended location for the rudder servo when
using a glow engine is on the underside of the plane. This is
done to help balance the plane. If you do not wish to mount
the rudder servo in the recommended glow setup mounting
position on the underside of the airplane, or you are installing
a lightweight engine, a second rudder servo mount has
been provided next to the elevator servo in the fuselage.The
directions for mounting the rudder servo in this position are
located in steps 7-12 in the “Installing the Electric Motor and
Rudder Servo” section.
❏5. Locate the rudder servo mount on the underside of the
fuselage and remove the covering from the bay as shown.
Attach a 12" [304mm] extension to the rudder servo and run
the lead through the fuselage. Place the rudder servo into the
mounting tray. Mark the mounting holes and, using a 1/16"
[1.5mm] drill bit, drill pilot holes for the mounting screws.
Install the servo screws and remove them. Place two drops
of CA in each mounting hole. Once the CA has cured, install
the servo using the hardware provided with the servo.

20
❏6. Locate the 6-32 x 2" [51mm] threaded rod. Draw a
line on the rudder that is 5/16" [8mm] away from the rudder
hinge line. Draw a second line that is 5/16" [8mm] from the
bottom of the rudder. Using a 5/32" [4mm] drill bit, drill a hole
through the rudder at point where the two marks intersect.
Slide the 6-32 x 2" [51mm] rod through the hole, apply a drop
of thread locker to each side of the rod and secure it with the
two 6-32 nuts and washers.
❏7. Install a nylon swivel onto one side of the threaded
rod. Locate the rudder pushrod. Install the nylon clevis onto
the threaded end of the pushrod. Slide the silicone clevis
keeper over the pushrod. Using coarse sandpaper, roughen
the outside of the pushrod from the threads to 4 inches from
the threads. Clean the pushrod using alcohol.
❏8. Lightly coat the outside of the rough portion of the
pushrod with JB Weld (JBWR8276) or 6 minute epoxy. Slide
the 3-3/4" [95mm] long carbon tube over the pushrod leaving
approximately 1/8" [3mm] from the threads to the carbon
tube. Install the pushrod onto the nylon swivel.
❏9. Center the servo and the rudder. Mark the location
where the rudder pushrod intersects the servo arm. Make a
90° bend in the pushrod at the mark. Enlarge the servo horn
hole using a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit. Place the bend through the
servo hole, slide the FasLink in place, and trim off the excess
pushrod. If the rudder is no longer straight when the rudder
servo is centered, adjust by rotating the clevis as required.
Once the rudder is straight, snap the clevis shut, and slide
the silicone clevis retainer over the clevis.
Install the Fuel Tank
VENT/PRESSURE
FUELING/DEFUELING
(OPTIONAL)
FRONT VIEW
PICKUP TO CARB
❏1. Locate the fuel tank. Remove all of the parts from inside
the tank. Assemble the stopper as shown. Install the stopper.
Make sure the clunks do not contact the rear of the tank. If
they do, remove the stopper assembly and trim the tubing.
Draw a mark on the rear of the fuel tank indicating which
direction is the top of the tank.