GREAT PLANES Extra 330S ARF User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Wingspan: 41 in [1035mm]
Wing Area: 337 in2[21.8dm2]
Weight: 27 – 31 oz [765 – 880g]
Wing Loading: 11.5 – 13.2 oz/ft2[35 – 40g/dm2]
Length: 40 in [1015mm]
Required (not included):
Radio: 4-channel with four micro servos, two 6"
[152mm] servo extensions, two 16" [406mm]
servo extensions oneY-harness
Motor: RimFire™35-30-1250kV brushless out-runner
(GPMG4595) or Ammo™24-45-3790kV
brushless in-runner (GPMG0505) brushless out-runner
Gear-Drive: 24mm gear-drive with 4.5:1 gear ratio
ESC: 35A Brushless
Battery: 3-cell 1250 to 2100mAh LiPo battery & LiPo
compatible charger
WARRANTY
GreatPlanes®ModelManufacturingCo.guaranteesthiskittobefreefromdefectsinbothmaterialandworkmanshipatthedateofpurchase.
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]
Entire Contents © Copyright 2007 GPMZ1543 for GPMA1543 V1.0

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...............................................................2
AMA ..................................................................................2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................2
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING & USAGE .....................3
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE........................................3
Radio Equipment..........................................................3
Motor Recommendations.............................................3
Propeller.......................................................................4
ESC (electronic speed control) ....................................4
Battery Pack.................................................................4
Charger........................................................................4
Required Adhesive & Building Supplies.......................4
Optional Supplies & Tools ............................................4
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES......................................5
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS..............................5
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS ...........................................5
METRIC CONVERSIONS.................................................5
KIT INSPECTION..............................................................6
KIT CONTENTS................................................................6
PREPARATIONS...............................................................7
ASSEMBLETHEWING PANELS.....................................7
INSTALL THE WING PANELS..........................................9
ASSEMBLETHETAIL SECTION ...................................11
INSTALL THE TAIL SERVOS & PUSHRODS.................13
INSTALL THE LANDING GEAR.....................................13
MOUNTTHE MOTOR .....................................................15
In-runner Brushless Motor with 24mm Gear Drive........15
Out-runner Brushless Motor.......................................16
INSTALL THE RADIO & ESC .........................................17
INSTALL THE COWL, CANOPY & SPINNER ................18
APPLYTHE DECALS .....................................................20
GETTHE MODEL READYTO FLY.................................20
Check the Control Directions .....................................20
Set the Control Throws...............................................20
Balance the Model (C.G.)...........................................21
Balance the Model Laterally.......................................21
PREFLIGHT....................................................................21
IdentifyYour Model.....................................................21
Charge the Batteries..................................................21
Balance the Propellers...............................................22
Range Check .............................................................22
MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.................................22
AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)....................................22
CHECK LIST...................................................................23
FLYING............................................................................23
Takeoff........................................................................23
Flight ..........................................................................24
Landing ......................................................................24
3D FLYING......................................................................24
INTRODUCTION
The Extra 330S EP ARF is another great release in a line of
electric built-up, all out performance 3D planes. You can fly
incredible 3D maneuvers with the Extra 330S EP ARF just like
larger scale, expensive gas models.In addition, high capacity
LiPo battery packs and a brushless motor will allow you the
convenience of electric flying within a reasonable budget.
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to
the Extra 330S EP ARF, visit the Great Planes web site at
www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link, then
select the Extra 330S EP ARF. 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
WeurgeyoutojointheAMA(AcademyofModelAeronautics)
andalocalR/Cclub.TheAMAisthegoverningbody ofmodel
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 47302-9252
Tele. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Or via the Internet at:
http://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.
PROTECTYOUR MODEL,YOURSELF
& OTHERS....FOLLOWTHESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.Your Extra 330S EP 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 Extra 330S EP ARF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.

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2.Youmustassemblethemodelaccordingtotheinstructions.
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 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 a motor 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 & USAGE
WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included with
this 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 the charger’s output volts to match the
battery volts.
• ALWAYS charge in a fireproof location.
• NEVER trickle charge.
• NEVER allow the 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.
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE
This is a partial list of items required to finish the Extra 330S
EP ARF that may require planning or decision making before
starting to build.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 model.The servos and receiver
shown in the manual are Futaba®S3114 micro servos and
the Futaba R114F micro receiver. Two 6" [150mm] servo
extensions, two 16" [400mm] servo extensions, and a
Y-harness are also required. Order numbers for these items
are provided.
❏(4) Futaba S3114 Micro High Torque Servo
7.7g (FUTM0414)
❏Futaba R114F FM Micro Receiver (Low Band – FUTL0442,
High Band – FUTL0443)
❏Futaba FM Single Conversion Short Crystal
(Low Band – FUTL62**, High Band – FUTL63**)
❏(2) Futaba C-25 Extension Slim Wire 150mm (FUTM4506)
❏(2) Futaba “J” 16" [400mm] Servo Extension (FUTM3955)
❏ Futaba “J”6" Dual Servo Extension (FUTM4130)
Motor Recommendations
TheExtra330S EPARFcomes withtwomountingboxes thatwill
accommodate either a brushless in-runner motor with gear drive
or a brushless out-runner motor. For all-out 3D performance,
we suggest the out-runner motor. For sport flying, either motor
choice is acceptable. The motors that have been tested and
perform well in this plane are listed below. If using the in-runner
motor with gear drive, be sure to install the 11T pinion that is
included with the gear drive to achieve a gear ratio of 4.5:1.
❏Great Planes RimFire™35-30-1250kV brushless
out-runner motor (GPMG4595)
❏Great Planes Ammo™24-45-3790kV brushless in-runner
motor (GPMG5185)
❏Great Planes Gear Drive 24mm motors (GPMG0505)

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Note: Motors from other manufacturers may work with the
Extra 330S EP ARF. However, the included firewall pieces
are designed to work specifically with the Great Planes
motors listed.
Propeller
IfusingtheAmmobrushlessin-runnermotorwith4.5:1gearbox
or the RimFire brushless out-runner motor, we recommend a
10" x 7" E Slo-Flyer electric propeller (GPMQ4123).
ESC (electronic speed control)
A brushless ESC (electronic speed control) is required for
this plane. We recommend using the Great Planes Silver
Series 35A Brushless ESC 5V/2A BEC (GPMM1830).
Battery Pack
The Extra 330S EP ARF has been tested with 11.1V LiPo
packs ranging from 1250mAh to 2100mAh. Order numbers
are provided for packs of this size.The lighter 1250mAh pack
is suggested for maximum performance.
❏Great Planes LiPo 1250mAh 11.1V 20C Discharge
w/Balance (GPMP0609)
❏Great Planes LiPo 1500mAh 11.1V 20C Discharge
w/Balance (GPMP0613)
❏Great Planes LiPo 2100mAh 11.1V 15C w/Balance
BP2100 (GPMP0721)
Note: Do not use Great Planes LiPo 1500mAh 11.1V
3S 8C Discharge (GPMP0831). This battery pack is not
capable of supporting the current draw of the recommended
power systems.
Also, if using a 1250mAh battery pack combined with the
brushless out-runner motor, avoid prolonged full throttle
flying since the current draw of the motor exceeds the
continuous maximum current draw rating of the battery pack.
The 1250mAh battery pack is capable of supporting shorter,
full throttle maneuvers.
Charger
Note: A cell balancer is required for the LiPo battery packs
listed above.
❏GreatPlanesElectriFly™EquinoxLiPo1to5CellBalancer
(GPMM3160)
A suitable charger is also required. The Great Planes
PolyCharge4™is designed for LiPo packs only, but is able
to charge four LiPo packs simultaneously.The Great Planes
Triton2™charger will only charge one pack at a time, but
is capable of charging NiCd, NiMH, LiPo, and lead acid
batteries. Order numbers for both are provided as follows:
❏Great Planes PolyCharge4 DC Only 4 Output LiPo
Charger (GPMM3015)
or
❏Great Planes ElectriFly Triton2 DC Comp Peak
Charger (GPMM3153)
Required Adhesive & Building Supplies
This is the list of adhesive and building supplies required to
finish the Extra 330S EP ARF. Order numbers are provided
in parentheses.
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro™CA (GPMR6001)
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)
❏Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)
❏Denatured alcohol
❏Drill bits: 1/8" [3mm]
❏#1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏#11 blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏Hobbico Steel T-pins 1" (100) (HCAR5100)
❏Great Planes Pro Threadlocker (GPMR6060)
❏CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏Small spring clamps
❏220-grit Sandpaper
Optional Supplies &Tools
Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Extra 330S EP ARF.
❏21st Century®sealing iron (COVR2700)
❏21st Century iron cover (COVR2702)
❏2 oz. [57g] Spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏4 oz. [113g] Aerosol CA activator (GPMR6034)
❏CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏Epoxy brushes (6, GPMR8060)
❏Mixing sticks (50, GPMR8055)
❏Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❏Hobbico Duster™can of compressed air (HCAR5500)
❏Panel Line pen (TOPQ2510)
❏Rotary tool such as Dremel®
❏Hobbico flexible 18" ruler stainless steel (HCAR0460)

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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, and 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.
• 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 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 Great Planes Extra 330S EP 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 Hobbico web site at
www.hobbico.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 is by credit card or
personal check only;no C.O.D.
IfadditionalassistanceisrequiredforanyreasoncontactProduct
Support by e-mail at pr[email protected],
or by telephone at [phone].
Replacement Parts List
GPMA3040 Wing Set
GPMA3041 Fuse
GPMA3042 Tail Surfaces
GPMA3043 Landing Gear
GPMA3044 Wheel Pants
GPMA3045 Cowl
GPMA3046 Canopy
GPMA3047 Battery Hatch
GPMA3048 Decals
GPMA2981 Spinner
GPMA2982 Hardware Set
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS
Fuse = Fuselage
Stab = Horizontal Stabilizer
Fin = Vertical Fin
LE = Leading Edge
TE = Trailing Edge
LG = Landing Gear
Ply = Plywood
" = Inches
mm = Millimeters
ESC = Electronic Speed Control
METRIC CONVERSIONS
1" = 25.4mm (conversion factor)
1/64" = .4mm
1/32" = .8mm
1/16" = 1.6mm
3/32" = 2.4mm
1/8" = 3.2mm
5/32" = 4.0mm
3/16" = 4.8mm
1/4" = 6.4mm
3/8" = 9.5mm
1/2" = 12.7mm
5/8" = 15.9mm
3/4" = 19.0mm
1" = 25.4mm
2" = 50.8mm
3" = 76.2mm
6" = 152.4mm
12" = 304.8mm
18" = 457.2mm
21" = 533.4mm
24" = 609.6mm
30" = 762.0mm
36" = 914.4mm

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KIT INSPECTION
KIT INSPECTION
Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to make sure it is complete and 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: [email protected]
Kit Contents
1 Cowl
2 Fuse
3 Canopy
4 Tail Skid
5 Spinner
6 Out-Runner Motor Mounting Box (8 pcs.)
7 In-Runner Motor Mounting Box (6 pcs.)
8 Landing Gear (2 pcs.)
9 Wheel Pants (L&R)
10 Wheels (2 pcs.)
11 Cowl Ring
12 Wing Alignment Jig (6 pcs.)
13 Vertical Fin & Rudder
14 Horizontal Stabilizer & Elevators
15 Right Wing Panel & Aileron
16 Spar Doublers (2 pcs.)
17 Left Wing Panel & Aileron
KIT CONTENTS
KIT CONTENTS
3
4
8
9
10
11
14
15
16
13
17
5
1
2
6
78
10
12
16

PREPARATIONS
❏ 1.If you have not done so already, remove the major parts
of the kit from the box and inspect for damage. If any parts
are damaged or missing, contact Product Support at the
address or telephone number listed in the “Kit Inspection”
section on page 6.
❏ 2. Carefully remove the tape and separate all the control
surfaces.Use a covering iron with a covering sock on medium
heat to tighten the covering if necessary. Apply pressure over
sheeted areas to thoroughly bond the covering to the wood.
ASSEMBLETHEWING PANELS
❏ 1.Use a sharp hobby knife to trim open the hinge slots in
the wing panels and ailerons.Test fit the pre-cut CA hinges
into the slots. If any are difficult to install, enlarge the slots
with your knife.
❏ 2. Insert the CA hinges halfway into the slots in the wing
panels.Push smallT-pins through the middle of the hinges to
keep them centered. Insert the ailerons onto the other ends
of the hinges.Align the outer tips of the ailerons flush with the
wing tips. Pull the ailerons away from the panels far enough
to confirm that the hinges remained perpendicular with the
hinge line. If not, use a hobby knife or small screwdriver to
nudge them straight.
❏ 3. When satisfied, carefully remove the T-pins from the
hinges. Adjust the ailerons so there is a small gap between
the LE of the aileron and the wing.The gap should be small,
just enough to see light through the gap or slip a piece of
paper through. Use thin CA glue to secure the ailerons by
applying 6 to 7 drops onto both sides of each hinge.
❏ 4. Attach a 6" [152mm] servo extension to each aileron
servo and wrap the connection with transparent tape or heat-
shrink tubing.
7

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❏ 5. Trim the covering from the aileron servo bays on the
undersides of the wing panels.
❏ 6.Insert the servo leads into the servo bays and pull them
through the wing ribs. The servos can be installed using
the hardware included with the servos or they can be glued
in place. If gluing the servos in place, slit or puncture the
covering just beneath the servo mounting tabs where they
will contact the wing. This will ensure that the servo will be
glued to the plywood servo bay, not just the covering. Glue
theaileronservosinto the servo baysusing epoxyor CA glue
with the servo splines facing the LE of the wings. After the
glue has cured, confirm that the servos are properly secured
to the wings and reinforce with extra glue if necessary.
❏ 7.Locate two double-sided servo arms that fit the output
splines of your aileron servos and four adjustable clevises.
❏ 8. Temporarily connect your aileron servos and battery
pack to your radio and center the servos and trim levers on
the transmitter. Test fit the double-sided servo arms parallel
to the aileron hinge line. If the servo arm does not fit onto
the servo spline parallel to the hinge line, remove it from the
servo and rotate it 180°. Decide which way fits best (closest
to parallel) and cut off the arm that isn’t used. Be sure to
make a left and right servo arm.
❏ 9. Fit two adjustable clevises onto both 2mm x 90mm
aileron pushrods. Push one of the clevises from each
pushrod into the outer holes of the servo arms.

9
❏ 10. Locate the aileron double rib that has a rectangular
mounting block at the LE.Using the position of the pushrods
as a guide, cut a slot 3/8" [9.5mm] long perpendicular to the
hinge line just behind the bevel of the LE of aileron for each
control horn in the center of the mounting block. The slot
onlyneedsto bewide enoughtoaccommodate thethickness
of the control horn tab on the control horn (approximately
1/16" [1.6mm] thick). Do not cut all the way through the
ailerons! 3/16" to 1/4" [5mm to 6mm] deep is sufficient.Trim
the control horn backplate tabs shorter so that the control
horns sit flat in the slots you made.
❏ 11.Confirm that the holes in the control horn are centered
over the hinge line. When satisfied, coat the backplate tabs
with medium CA and press them into the slots.
❏ 12.Use the position of the control horn to adjust the length
of the pushrods as needed. Remove the servo arms from
the aileron servos.Connect the other adjustable clevises on
the aileron pushrods to the control horns and reattach the
servo arms. Fine tune the length of the pushrods inside the
clevises so that the ailerons are in the neutral position.Lock
the clevises onto the pushrods by threading a 2mm x 4mm
screw into each clevis screw hole.The screw head should fit
into the recessed hole in the adjustable clevises as shown
(installing the screws in the wrong direction may not properly
tighten the clevises onto the pushrods).The excess rod ends
can be cut away.
INSTALLTHEWING PANELS
❏ 1. Trim the covering from the wing pockets in the fuse.
For the best results, work slowly and use a new hobby knife
blade for this step.Be careful not to cut into the fuse sides.On
the wing panels, trim the covering that overlaps onto the wing
panel root ribs.

10
❏ 2.Locate the parts for the wing alignment jigs.Glue the
parts together as shown.
❏ 3. Before gluing, test fit both wing panels into the fuse to
confirm a proper fit. The center spar extends into the fuse
and interlocks with the spar of the other wing panel. If both
wing panels cannot seat flat into the wing pockets, lightly
sand the tips of the interlocking spars until they do.
❏ 4. Note:This step must be performed on a clean, flat
work surface. Thoroughly coat the root ribs of the wing
panels and the wing pockets in the fuse with 30-minute
epoxy and slide them into place. Do not put epoxy on the
interlocking spars at this time. Being sure that the wing
panels are fully seated into the wing pockets, position the
wing alignment jigs underneath the second from the outside
wing ribs.The fuse must lay flat on its bottom side as shown.
These jigs will ensure that the wings are glued straight in the
fuse. Use a weight to hold the fuse down against your work
surface as well as the wings against the alignment jigs (we
used a sock filled with sand).Clean up any excess epoxy on
the outside of the wings where they meet the fuse, with a
paper towel dampened with denatured alcohol and allow the
epoxy to cure undisturbed.
❏ 5.Test fit the plywood spar doublers to the front and back
of the wing spars.The aft spar doubler will need to be lightly
sanded or cut to fit between the fuse sides. When satisfied
with the fit, coat one side of each spar doubler as well as
the front and back of the spars with epoxy. Fit the spars into
position and use clamps to hold the doubler in place while
the epoxy cures. The bottom edges of the doublers should
be flush with the bottom of the wing spars.

11
ASSEMBLETHETAIL SECTION
❏ 1. Fit the vertical fin into place and use a felt-tip pen to
trace around the fin where it meets the fuse. Remove the
fin from the fuse and trim the covering away 1/16" [1.6mm]
below the line that you made (do not trim the covering from
the TE of the vertical fin). Be careful not to cut through the
wood as this will weaken it. See the following ExpertTip for
removing the covering.
HOWTO CUT COVERING FROM BALSA
Use a soldering iron to cut the covering from the fin.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.
❏ 2.Wipe away the lines you drew and glue the fin into place.
❏ 3. Trim the covering from the LE of each elevator half
between the holes for the elevator joiner wire and the inner
sides as shown.
❏ 4.Test fit the elevator joiner into the elevator halves. Lay
the elevators on your work surface and confirm that they
both lay flat. If not, “tweak” or bend the elevator joiner wire
slightly until they do. Do not attempt to bend the joiner wire
while it is installed in the elevators. Do not glue the joiner
wire in place at this time.
❏ 5.Carefully cut a slot for the elevator control horn in the left
elevator half.The slot should be 5/16" [8mm] from the inside
edge, 3/8" [9.5mm] long, and parallel with the elevator inside
edge as shown.The slot should be cut completely through the
elevator. Test fit the control horn into the slot, being sure that
the control horn holes are positioned over the hinge line.

12
❏ 6. Trim the covering from the tail of the fuse for the
horizontal stabilizer. Insert the elevator joiner wire into the
back of the stab slot.
❏ 7. Position the stab into the stab saddle, centering it left
and right and making it square to the wings.Mark the outline
where the stab meets the fuse as you did with the vertical fin
and remove the covering inside your marks. Reposition the
stab into the fuse, stand back several feet behind the model
and view it from the rear.Confirm that the stab is parallel with
the wing panels. If not, use tape or a weight to straighten it.
CA glue or epoxy can be used to glue the stab in place.
❏ 8. If necessary, use a hobby knife to cut open the hinge
slots in the elevators and stab. Before gluing, roughen the
elevator joiner wire with sandpaper and clean it off with
alcohol. Prepare the elevators by inserting a CA hinge into
each hinge slot.UseT-pins to keep the hinges centered. Put
a light coating of epoxy onto the ends of the elevator joiner
wire.Install the elevators onto the joiner wire while fitting the
CA hinges into their mating slots in the stab.As you did with
the ailerons, use thin CA to glue the hinges.
❏ 9.Cut a slot for the rudder control horn 5/8" [16mm] from the
bottom of the rudder.Test fit a control horn into the slot, being
sure that the control horn holes are positioned over the hinge
line.Attach the rudder to fuse using three CA hinges.
❏ 10.Insert a control horn into the slot onthe underside of the
left elevator. Press a control horn backplate onto the control
horn tab on top of the elevator. Apply a few drops of CA glue
to the control horn and backplate to secure them in place.The
control horn tab can be trimmed flush with the backplate.

13
❏ 11. Attach a control horn to the right side of the rudder
perpendicular to the hinge line in the same manner.
INSTALLTHETAIL SERVOS & PUSHRODS
❏ 1. Trim the covering from the elevator and rudder servo
bays just in front of the stab on both sides of the fuse.
❏ 2. Attach a 16" [400mm] servo extension to the elevator
and rudder servos.Secure the servos in the servo bays with
the splines facing forward. Use your radio system to center
the servos.
❏ 3. As you did with the ailerons, test fit the double-sided
servo arms perpendicular to the rudder servo case. If the
servo arm does not fit onto the servo spline perpendicular to
the servo case, remove it from the servo and rotate it 180°.
Decide which way fits best (closest to perpendicular) and
cut off the arm that isn’t used. Attach an adjustable clevis
to the outer holes of the arm and to the rudder control horn.
Attach the arm to the servo with the servo arm screw. Install
a 6-3/4" [170mm] pushrod into the clevis, center the control
surface, and use a 2mm x 4mm self-tapping screw to secure
the clevis to the pushrod.The excess pushrod length can be
cut off.
❏ 4. Install the elevator pushrod in the same manner.
INSTALLTHE LANDING GEAR
❏ 1. Trim the covering from the landing gear slots in
the fuse.
❏ 2. Measure and mark 1-5/8" [41mm] from the front and
1/4" [6mm] from the bottom of the wheel pants. Drill a 1/8"
[3mm] hole at your marks (or use a reamer) on the inside of
each wheel pant. Accuracy during this step will ensure that
your wheels are positioned straight inside the pants. When
drilling the hole, make a pilot hole with a smaller bit first, then
enlarge the hole to the correct diameter. Be sure to make a
left and right wheel pant!

14
❏ 3. Fit the 3mm x 25mm machine screw (axle) through the
axle hole in the wheel and secure the wheel to the axle using
a 3mm nut and thread-locking compound. Be sure the nut is
loose enough to allow the wheel to rotate freely on the axle.
Fit the wheel and axle inside the wheel pant with the end of
the axle screw exiting the hole you drilled in the wheel pant.Fit
the end of the screw through the landing gear leg (the tapered
sides of the landing gear legs face the rear of the plane) and
install another 3mm nut tightly against the landing gear leg,
securing the wheel pant in place. The addition of silicone
adhesive between the wheel pant and landing gear leg will
help prevent the wheel pant from rotating on the axle. Apply
thread-locking compound onto the screw and nut to secure
the wheel assembly. Repeat this step for the other wheel.
❏ 4. Attach the landing gear to the fuse using four
3mm x 8mm machine screws, four 3mm washers, and
thread-locking compound.
❏ 5. Use a hobby knife to cut open the covering from the
slot in the bottom tip of the tail skid.Glue the included 3mm
washer into the slot.The washer will prevent the tail skid from
being worn down when flying from a paved runway.
❏ 6.Glue the tail skid to the underside of the fuse 1/4" [6mm]
from the aft end using medium CA or epoxy.The longest side
of the skid goes against the fuse. Be sure to remove the
covering from the top of the skid and the fuse where the skid
will be glued before you attach it.

15
MOUNTTHE MOTOR
The Extra includes motor mounting parts for both the Great
Planes brushless 35-30-1250kV RimFire out-runner motor
and the brushless 24-45-3790kV Ammo in-runner motor
equipped with the Great Planes 24mm gear drive. Other
motors may be able to be installed.However, modification to
one of the motor mounting boxes would be necessary to suit
the size and mount pattern of your equipment.
In-runner Brushless Motor with 24mm Gear Drive
❏ 1. Locate the six pieces that make up the in-runner
motor mounting box. Attach the motor to the gearbox
using the screws included with the gearbox (be sure to
read the instructions included with the gearbox). Remove
the brass collar on the gearbox shaft and attach the motor
mounting box front piece to the gearbox using three 3mm
x 8mm machine screws, three 3mm washers, and thread-
locking compound.Assemble the box as shown with medium
CA glue (the longer side piece being on the left of the box).
When the motor mounting box is fully assembled, all sides
should be flush with each other as shown, and can only
assemble one way.
❏ 2.Use medium CA or epoxy to thoroughly glue the motor
mounting box assembly to the fuse, being sure that the box
is flat against the firewall.The tabs on the back of the motor
mounting box will fit into the slots in the firewall.

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Out-runner Brushless Motor
❏ 1. Locate the six pieces that make up the out-runner
motor mounting box and four 3mm blind nuts. Press the
blind nuts into the backside of the motor mounting box front
piece and apply some medium or thick CA around the edges
of the blind nuts to glue them in place (be careful not to get
glue in the threads).The holes in the front piece are slightly
off-center to accommodate the motor right thrust. Be sure
that the blind nuts are installed on the correct side as
shown. Assemble the box as shown with medium CA glue
(the longer side piece being on the left of the box).
❏ 2.Use medium CA or epoxy to thoroughly glue the motor
mounting box assembly to the fuse, being sure that the box
is flat against the firewall.The tabs on the back of the motor
mounting box will fit into the slots in the firewall.
❏ 3. Use the flat head screws included with the motor and
thread-locking compound to attach the plywood motor
adapter to the back of the out-runner motor case.
❏ 4. Attach the motor to the motor mounting box using four
3mm x 8mm machine screws, four 3mm flat washers, and
thread-locking compound.

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INSTALLTHE RADIO & ESC
❏ 1.The ESC and receiver will be secured inside the plane
withdouble-sidedservotape.Forbetteradhesion ofthe tape,
brush on a light coating of epoxy where the components will
be installed. As shown in the picture, we will install the ESC
to the underside of the top piece of the motor mounting box
and the receiver to the front of the wing spar. The ESC can
also be installed on the side of the motor mounting box.Also,
apply a coat of epoxy to the battery tray.
❏ 2. Connect the servo leads to the receiver. If you are
using a 4-channel receiver, you will also need a dual servo
extension or Y-harness for the aileron servos. Cut pieces of
double-sided servo tape to secure the ESC and receiver
where you applied epoxy in step #1. Connect the ESC to the
motor leads and receiver.
❏ 3.Route the receiver antenna out of the battery hatch and
down the underside of the fuse. Use clear tape to hold the
antenna in place.For a cleaner look, run the receiver antenna
through the inside of the fuse to the tail. The antenna exits
from a small hole drilled in the location shown. We used a
piece of leftover pushrod that we had in the shop and inserted
it through the hole in the tail of the plane and fished it through
the formers to the front.Tape the antenna to the pushrod and
draw it back through the fuse and out the hole.
❏ 4. Make a hook and loop strap 8" [203mm] long by
overlappingtwopiecesandcuttingittolength.Feeditthrough
the battery tray in the location shown.The strap can be glued
to the battery tray with medium CA to keep it in place.
❏ 5.Test fit your battery into place and adjust the length of
the strap as necessary. When you balance the model, the
exact position of the battery pack will be determined. When
you know where the pack will need to be to balance, mark
its position onto the battery tray and put a piece of adhesive-
backed hook and loop material onto the pack and battery
tray to hold it in place during flight.

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❏ 6.Glue the two hatch dowels halfway into the holes in the
front of the battery hatch. Glue two magnets into the battery
hatch with medium CA as shown. Do not use too much CA
because it may prevent the magnets from sitting flush inside
the holes.If the magnets do not sit flush with the hatch bottom,
use long nose pliers to carefully press them in place. A light
skin coating of thin CA over the magnets that overlaps onto
the wood frame of the hatch will help secure the magnets in
place.Let the CA glue harden without accelerator.
❏ 7.Glue two magnets into the fuse for the battery hatch.Be
sure that the magnets are glued with the correct polarity
facing out!The magnets in the fuse must be attracted to the
magnets in the battery hatch.
❏ 8.Test fit the battery hatch onto the fuse.
INSTALLTHE COWL, CANOPY & SPINNER
❏ 1. Prepare the inside of the cowl by lightly scuffing it
with 220-grit sandpaper. When satisfied, clean the inside
with alcohol.
❏ 2.Glue the four plywood magnet back pieces to the cowl
ring. Glue a magnet into each of the four holes in the cowl
ring by coating the insides of the holes with medium CA. A
light skin coating of thin CA over the magnets that overlaps
onto the cowl ring will help secure the magnets in place.Let
the CA glue cure without accelerator.
❏ 3.Gluefourmagnetsintotheholes inthefuse asshown.Be
sure that the magnets are glued with the correct polarity
facing out! The magnets in the fuse must be attracted to the

19
magnets in the cowl ring.As you did with the cowl ring, apply a
light skin coating of thin CA over the magnets after they have
been glued into the fuse.Let the CA cure without accelerator.
❏ 4.Connect the cowl ring onto the fuse.Slide the cowl over
the cowl ring and onto the fuse. Confirm that the spinner
backplate properly fits your motor shaft. If not, ream or drill
it to the correct diameter. Temporarily install the spinner
backplate onto the prop shaft. Adjust the position of the
cowl on the fuse so that the colors line up with the covering
on the fuse. The spinner backplate should be centered
over the front cowl opening, and the backplate should be
approximately 3/32" [2.4mm] beyond the front of the cowl.
When satisfied, tack glue the cowl to the cowl ring in three or
four spots by reaching through the front opening in the cowl.
A CA applicator tip is very useful in this step. If you do not
have an applicator tip long enough, use a stick to apply a dot
of epoxy to each of the four cowl ring corners.
❏ 5.Carefully remove the cowl (and cowl ring) from the fuse
and apply a fillet of medium or thick CA glue along the front
of the cowl ring where it touches the cowl.
❏ 6. Cut a cooling hole out of the underside of the cowl
as shown.
❏ 7.Reattach the cowl to the fuse.Install the propeller, prop
washer, and prop nut onto the prop shaft. Install the spinner
cone using the included spinner screws.
❏ 8. If you plan to install the instrument panel decal, do so
now.Finish up the assembly by taping the canopy in position.
Clear tape works well for this.

20
APPLYTHE DECALS
1.Use scissors or a sharp hobby knife to cut the decals from
the sheet.
2.Be certainthemodel isclean andfreefrom oilyfingerprints
and dust. Prepare a dishpan or small bucket with a mixture
of liquid dish soap and warm water–about one teaspoon of
soap per gallon of water.Submerse the decal in the soap and
water and peel off the paper backing.Note: Even though the
decals have a “sticky-back” and are not the water transfer
type, submersing them in soap & water allows accurate
positioning and reduces air bubbles underneath.
3.Position decal on the model where desired.Holding the decal
down, use a paper towel to wipe most of the water away.
4.Use a piece of soft balsa or something similar to squeegee
remaining water from under the decal. Apply the rest of the
decals the same way.
GETTHE MODEL READYTO FLY
Check the Control Directions
❏ 1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver and center the
trims. 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
controlsurfacestoseeiftheyarecentered.Ifnecessary,adjust
the clevises on the pushrods to center the control surfaces.
❏ 3. 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 ControlThrows
Use a Great Planes AccuThrow (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 for your
first few flights at the low rate setting.
Note: The throws are measured at the widest part of the
elevators, rudder and ailerons.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
High Rate Low Rate
ELEVATOR: 5/8" [16mm] up 5/16" [8mm] up
5/8" [16mm] down 5/16" [8mm] down
RUDDER: 2-1/2" [64mm] right 1-1/4" [32mm] right
2-1/2" [64mm] left 1-1/4" [32mm] left
AILERONS: 3/4" [19mm] up 7/16" [11mm] up
3/4" [19mm] down 7/16" [11mm] down
3D Rates
ELEVATOR: 1-1/4" [32mm] up
1-1/4" [32mm] down
RUDDER: 3" [76mm] right
3" [76mm] left
AILERONS: 1-1/4" [32mm] up
1-1/4" [32mm] down
IMPORTANT: The Extra 330S EP ARF has been
extensively flown and tested to arrive at the throws at
which it flies best. Flying your model at these throws will
provide you with the greatest chance for successful first
flights. If, after you have become accustomed to the way
the Extra flies, you would like to change the throws to suit
your taste, that is fine. However, too much control throw
could make the model difficult to control, so remember,
“more is not always better.”