GREAT PLANES EXTRA 330SC User manual

Champaign, Illinois
[phone], Ext 5
airsuppor[email protected]
Entire Contents © Copyright 2009 GPMA1129 Mnl V1.0
READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL.
WARRANTY
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.
Length: 35 in [890 mm]
Motor: RimFire™250
outrunner brushless motor
Radio: 4-channel
Wingspan: 32.5 in
[825mm]
Wing Area: 267 in2
[17.2 dm2]
Weight: 6.2–6.8 oz
[175–195 g]
Wing
Loading: 3.4–3.7 oz/ft2
[10–11 g/dm2]
SPECIFICATIONS
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
AMA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Indoor Motor and Battery Recommendations . . . . . . .3
Radio Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Adhesives and Building Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Optional Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
KIT INSPECTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
KIT CONTENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
BUILDTHE FUSELAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
RADIO INSTALLATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
PUSHROD LENGTH ADJUSTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
INSTALLTHE MOTOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Balance the Model (C.G.). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
PROTIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
GETTHE MODEL READYTO FLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Check the Control Directions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Set the Control Throws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
PREFLIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
IdentifyYour Model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Charge the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Balance Propellers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Ground Check and Range Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
MOTOR AND BATTERY SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . 17
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE. . . . . . . . 17
AMA SAFETY CODE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Radio Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
FLYING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Takeoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
INTRODUCTION
The indoor 3D flying craze started with flat foamies, which
helped get many modelers started in indoor flying. The
planes were heavy and sometimes difficult to assemble.The
Extra 330SC Indoor Foam Plane is the new generation of
flat foamies, light, easy and quick to build.The Extra 330SC
Indoor Foam Plane is capable of slow, mild 3D to all out wild
3D maneuvers. If your indoor flying area is small, you will be
pleased with what you can do with the Extra 330SC Indoor
Foam Plane.
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
Extra 330SC Indoor Foam Plane visit the Great Planes web
site at www.greatplanes.com.Open the“Airplanes”link, then
select the Extra 330SC Indoor Foam Plane. 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
If you are not already a member of the AMA, please join!
The AMA is the governing body of model aviation and
membership provides liability insurance coverage, protects
modelers’ rights and interests and is required to fly at
most R/C sites. The AMA has two classes of membership
available: Open membership or their Park Pilot Program,
which this aircraft qualifies for.The Park Pilot Program is for
people flying electric aircraft and gliders under two pounds
and which fly slower than 60mph. This will enable you to
enjoy most AMA benefits and organize clubs and flying sites
in more congested areas.
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302-9252
Ph. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Or via the Internet at:
http://www.modelaircraft.org
http://www.modelaircraft.org/parkflyer.aspx
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.
PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF
& OTHERS… FOLLOW THESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.Your Extra 330SC Indoor Foam Plane 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 330SC Indoor
Foam Plane, 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 good condition,
a correctly sized engine, and other components as specified
in this instruction manual. All components must be correctly
installed so that the model operates correctly on the ground
and in the air.You must check the operation of the model and
all components before every flight.
5. 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

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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.
6. Carefully read and follow all the instructions included with
your LiPo battery and battery charger. LiPo batteries are
not forgiving like NiCd or NiMH batteries. Overcharging or
charging the LiPo battery at too high a current will damage
the battery and could damage property.
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
Thisis a partial listof items requiredto finish theExtra 330SC
Indoor Foam Plane that may require planning or decision
making before starting to build.Order numbers are provided
in parentheses.
Indoor Motor and Battery
Recommendations
For best indoor flight performance, a lightweight battery is
recommended.We recommend:
❍(1) Great Planes®Competition Series 7.4 volt 300mAh
20C LiPo battery (GPMP0700)
❍(1) FlightPower™EON-X™Lite 7.4 volt 350mAh 25C
LiPo battery (FPWP4014)
❍(1) RimFire™250 (GPMG4502)
❍(1) 8amp Brushless ESC is recommended
(GPMM1800)
❍(1) 8x4 GWS Propeller (GWSQ2009)
Outdoor Motor and Battery Recommendations:
❍(1) Great Planes Competition Series 11.1 volt 300mAh
20C LiPo battery (GPMP0701)
❍(1) FlightPower EON-X Lite 11.1 volt 350mAh 25C
LiPo battery (FPWP4015)
❍(1) RimFire 300 (GPMG4505)
❍(1) 8amp Brushless ESC is recommended
(GPMM1800)
❍(1) 8x4 GWS Propeller (GWSQ2009)
Radio Recommendations
A 4-channel radio system is required.
❍(3) Futaba®S3114 Micro High Torque servos
(FUTM0414)
❍(1) Futaba R6004FF Mini Receiver (FUTL7624)
Charger
A LiPo compatable charger is required to charge LiPo
batteries. The Great Planes ElectriFly™PolyCharge4™is
designed for LiPo packs only; however, it is able to charge
four LiPo packs simultaneously. The ElectriFly Triton2™
charger will only charge one pack at a time, but is capable
of charging NiCd, NiMH, Pb acid and LiPo batteries. Order
numbers for both are provided below.
❍Great Planes PolyCharger4 DC Only 4 Output LiPo
Charger (GPMM3015)
OR
❍Great Planes ElectriFly Triton2 DC Comp Peak
Charger (GPMM3153)
Throughout the life of a LiPo battery, the individual cells
located inside the battery may become unbalanced. These
unbalanced cells can shorten the life of the battery or cause
it to malfunction. For this reason, it is always recommended
that a cell balancer be used when charging LiPo batteries.
The Electrifly Equinox™is a cell balancer that may be used
with any LiPo charger and is capable of maintaining the cell
balance of the battery.
❍Great Planes ElectriFly Equinox LiPo Cell Balancer
(GPMM3160)
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED
Adhesives and Building Supplies
This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are
required to finish the Extra 330SC Indoor Foam Plane
❍(1) UFO Foam Safe Thin CA 1oz. (HOTR1040)
❍(1) CA Activator Foam Safe 2oz.pump (GPMR6035)
❍(1) Hobby Knife with 5 blades (XACR3511)
❍(1) Phillips head screwdriver
❍Hobbico®Soldering Iron 30 Watt (HCAR0775)
❍Straightedge

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Optional Supplies
Here are optional tools that will help you build the Extra
330SC.
❍CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❍CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❍Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700)
❍Waxed Paper
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
•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.
KIT INSPECTION
Carefullremovethemajorpartsfromthekit.Takeaninventory
to make sure it is complete, and inspect the parts to make
sure they are of acceptable quality.If any parts are damaged
or 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
Ph: [phone], ext. 5
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: airsuppor[email protected]
KIT CONTENTS
1
62
4
7
3
5
Kit Contents
1. Vertical Fuselage
2. Aft Horizontal Fuselage
3. Forward Horizontal Fuselage
4. Fuselage Stringers
5. Landing Gear
6. Vertical Fuselage Doubler
7. Upper Motor Doubler

5
BUILD THE FUSELAGE
❏ 1. Locate the two ABS landing gear supports. Glue a
landing gear support to each side of the fuselage in the
location shown.
❏ 2. Remove the ten fuselage alignment crutches from
the surrounding foam. Note: Use a sharp hobby knife to cut
the crutch pieces from the surrounding foam, trimming the
tabs flush with the edges of the crutches.
❏ 3.Topreventthepartsfrom adheringto yourbuildingtable,
place a piece of waxed paper, or the clear plastic bag the
parts came in, on your table. Use foam safe CA to glue the
six alignment crutch feet to the alignment crutches. Make
sure the crutches and feet are flat against the building table
and that the crutches are perpendicular to the table.
❏ 4. Glue the forward horizontal fuselage (wings) to the
aft horizontal fuselage (stabilizer). Make sure the joint
between the two parts is tight. Lay a straightedge along
the center slots to make sure the parts are straight before
gluing. Note: It only requires a small amount of thin CA to
glue the parts together. Excessive amounts of CA will only
wick through the joint and harden on the bottom surface of
the parts.
❏ 5. Insert the aft end of the horizontal fuselage into the
front end of the vertical fuselage. Key the horizontal and
vertical fuselages together.
❏ 6. On your building table, place the four crutches with
the feet on them underneath the fuselage in the locations
shown. Note that the plane is positioned upside down and
the vertical fin is hanging over the edge of the table. Crutch
#1 is positioned in front of the radius at the front of the wing.
#2 is positioned under the carbon fiber strip in the wing.#3 is
positioned at the third hole in the side of the fuselage and #4
is positioned under the carbon fiber strip in the stabilizer.

6
❏ 7.Test fit the #1 and #3 bottom crutches over their
corresponding top crutches. Install the ABS motor mount
onto the front of the firewall, but DO NOT glue it in place
at this time. Check that all the crutches are seated against
the fuselage and the horizontal and vertical fuselages are
keyed together. Then, glue the top and bottom of crutches
#1 and #3 together by applying a small amount of foam safe
CA to the tabs of the crutches. Be careful to not glue the
crutches to the fuselage.
❏ 8. Position the two wing tip crutches under the wing tips at
the counter balance joint and the bottom crutches #2 and #4
over the carbon fiber strip in the wing and stabilizer.
❏ 9. Make sure the horizontal and vertical fuselages are
keyed together and the crutches are flat on your building
table. Glue the horizontal and vertical fuselages together by
applying thin foam safe CA along the joint on the bottom
of the horizontal and vertical fuselages. Be careful when
gluing around the crutches. DO NOT glue the crutches to
the fuselage. Allow the CA to cure for a few minutes before
moving the plane. The use of foam safe accelerator will
quicken the curing of the CA, but use it sparingly. Excessive
amounts of accelerator can cause the CA to cure quickly,
causing it to get hot and melt the foam.
❏ 10. Carefully turn the Extra 330SC over and position the
bottom crutches #2 and #4 under the carbon fiber strips in
the wing and stabilizer. Check that the crutches are flat on
the building table and the horizontal and vertical fuselages
are keyed together. Use thin foam safe CA to glue the top of
the horizontal and vertical fuselages together.
❏ 11.Turn the plane back over so that it is sitting upside
down. Locate the two ABS brace supports.There is a slot
located in the center of each wing. Glue the ABS brace
supports into the slots, perpendicular to the underside of the
wing. It is possible that, during manufacturing, some glue
may have gotten into the slot. If this has happened, DO NOT
FORCE the supports into the slot. Use a sharp hobby knife
to remove any excess glue.

7
❏ 12. Locate the four long and two short ABS brace
doublers.
Note: For steps 13 through 15, DO NOT glue the parts until
told to do so.
❏ ❏ 13. Slide one of the long brace doublers onto a 1 x
390mm carbon rod.Slide the carbon rod through the brace
support in the wing and into the small hole in the landing
gear support.With the long brace doubler on the carbon rod
insert the other end of the carbon rod in the slot at the tip of
the wing. The carbon rod should go through the long brace
doublers and wing approximately 1/16" [1.5mm] through the
top of the wing.
❏ ❏ 14. Slide a second long brace doubler onto another
1 x 390mm carbon rod. Slide the carbon rod through the
brace support. Slide a short brace doubler on the rod and
then insert the end of the rod in the slot in the bottom of the
vertical fuselage. Insert the other end in the slot at the tip
of the wing. The carbon rod should go approximately 1/16"
[1.5mm] through the top of the wing.
❏ 15. Go back to step 13 and install the carbon rods on the
other side of the fuselage. Check that all the carbon rods
are straight.
❏ 16. Check that all the carbon rods and brace doublers are
in position and straight and the crutches are in position and
flat on the building table. Start by gluing the carbon rod and
long brace doublers to the wing at the wing tips.

8
❏ 17. Next check that everything is still straight and glue the
carbon rod to the landing gear support.
❏ 18. Position the short brace doublers so that both carbon
rods pass through the brace doubler on each side. Glue the
brace doubler and carbon rods to the vertical fuselage.
❏ 19. Once the glue has cured, glue the carbon rods to the
brace supports.
❏ 20. Use a sharp hobby knife to carefully cut the #1 and #3
top crutches from the bottom crutches.
❏ 21. Remove the motor mount and glue the upper motor
doubler to the front of the vertical fuselage.The front of the
upper motor doubler should be flush with the front of the
fuselage.
❏ 22.With the four bottom crutches in position, place
the fuselage stringer against the horizontal and vertical
fuselages.Note that the front of the stringer is against the aft
edge of the upper motor doubler and the aft bottom edge is
flush with the side of the horizontal fuselage. Use thin foam
safe CA to glue the fuselage stringer to the horizontal and
vertical fuselages.

9
Note: The crutches are no longer needed, but the
top crutches provide a good stand while installing the
radio system.
❏ 23.Turn the plane upside down and glue the two
horizontal fuselage doublers to the front of the fuselage.
Make sure they are flush with the front of the fuselage and
against the vertical fuselage.
❏ 24. Glue the two vertical fuselage doublers to the front
of the fuselage.Make sure they are flush with the front of the
fuselage and against the horizontal fuselage doublers.
❏ 25. Glue the motor mount to the front of the fuselage.
Apply a bead of glue to the joint on all sides of the fuselage
and motor mount.
RADIO INSTALLATION
❏ 1. Connect the rudder servo to your receiver. Remove the
servo screwfrom the servoand installa large servoarm onto
the servo. Center the trims on the transmitter. Position the
servo arm so that one arm is perpendicular to the centerline
of the servo. Use diagonal pliers to remove the three extra
servo arms.
❏ 2. Install the rudder servo by placing it into the aft servo
mount location with the output shaft towards the front of the
fuselage. Glue the servo in place with foam safe CA. Be
careful to not get any glue inside the servo case.
❏ 3. Use foam safe CA to glue the elevator servo offset
around the elevator servo mounting hole.

10
❏ 4. Center the servo arm on the elevator servo and trim off
the three extra arms. Use foam safe CA to glue the elevator
servo to the elevator servo offset.
❏ 5. Install the pre-assembled elevator pushrod by inserting
the pushrod guides through the fuselage as shown.DO NOT
glue the pushrod guides in place at this time.
❏ 6. Remove the elevator servo arm and insert the z-bend
into the outer hole of the arm. Note: If you are not using a
computer radio, and do not wish to set your model up with
3D control throws, you will need to insert the z-bend in a hole
closer to the servo. The z-bend should be installed so that
the pushrod is on the back side of the servo arm, closest to
the fuselage. Center the servo and reinstall the servo arm
onto the servo, securing it with the servo screw.
❏ 7. Insert the z-bend in the elevator control horn. Insert
the control horn in the slot in the elevator. The notch in the
control horn should slide over the carbon fiber strip in the
elevator. If the control horn will not fit over the carbon fiber
strip, use a sharp hobby knife to remove the excess glue
from the slot. DO NOT glue the horn in yet.
❏ 8.With the transmitter and receiver switched on and the
elevator servo centered, make sure that the elevator control
horn is seated against the elevator. Check that the elevators
are centered. If they are not, you will need to adjust the
length of the z-bend.
PUSHROD LENGTH ADJUSTMENT
For your convenience, the
aileron and elevator
pushrods have been pre-
assembled. If you are not
using a Futaba S3114
servo, or due to
manufacturing tolerances,
it may be necessary to
change the pushrod
length. This may be done
by holding the heat shrink
tubing that connects the
pushrod to the z-bend and
gently rotating the z-bend
until the glue holding the
z-bend breaks loose.
Then, adjust the length by
pulling or pushing the
z-benduntiltheappropriate
length is achieved. Re-
glue the z-bend to the
pushrod using a drop of
thin CA. Be careful that
the CA does not run down
the pushrod and into the
pushrod guides.
❏ 9. Once the elevator is centered, apply a bead of foam
safe CA along the joint between the elevator control horn
and the elevator.

11
❏ 10. Insert the rudder pushrod, from the front, through
the five pushrod guides. The z-bend should be next to the
rudder servo arm.
❏ 11. Remove the servo arm from the rudder servo and
insert the z-bend in the servo arm so that it is on the outside
of the arm, away from the fuselage.Re-install the servo arm
screw in the servo.
❏ 12. Slide the black heat shrink tubing over the aft end
of the rudder pushrod. Insert the z-bend wire into the hole
in the rudder control horn from the bottom. Slide the other
end of the z-bend wire into the heat shrink and install the
rudder control horn in the rudder. Note: The rudder hinge
tape may be covering the front of the rudder control horn slot.
Use a sharp hobby knife to trim the tape from the slot.
❏ 13. Use foam safe CA to glue the rudder control horn to
the rudder.
❏ 14. Adjust the length of the pushrod so that when the
rudder servo is centered the rudder is centered. Secure
the z-bend wire to the rudder pushrod by shrinking the heat
shrink tubing using a soldering iron. Be careful when using
the soldering iron close to the foam.The foam will melt if it is
touched with the hot soldering iron.
❏ 15.Re-check that the rudder servo is centered and the
rudder is in the neutral position. Apply a drop of thin CA to
the end of the heat shrink to further secure the z-bend to
the pushrod.
❏ 16. Operate the rudder and elevator checking that the
pushrods do not bind in the pushrod guides. Adjust the
position of the pushrod guides so that the pushrods are
straight and the guides are 90° to the fuselage. Glue the
pushrod guides to the fuselage with foam safe CA.
❏ 17. Locate the anti-differential arm. Place the anti-
differential arm on the underside of the servo arm. If you
are using Futaba servo arms, the holes in the servo arm
and the holes in the anti-differential arm will align. If you are
using another brand of servo arm, you will need to use a #60
[1mm] drill bit to drill a pilot hole through the servo arm that
will align the servo arm with the anti-differential arm.
❏ 18. Attach the anti-differential arm to the servo arm using
two 3/64" [1.2mm] self tapping screws.

12
❏ 19. Insert the aileron servo in the fuselage. Center the
aileron servo trims and attach the servo arm to the servo
usingtheservoscrew.Notethedirectionoftheanti-differential
arm.The angle is the same as the aileron hinge line.
❏ 20. Use foam safe CA to glue the aileron servo to the
fuselage.
❏ 21. Insert the z-bend of both aileron pushrods in the
anti-differential arm.
❏ 22. Insert an aileron control horn onto each end of the
aileron pushrods. Insert the control horns in the slot of the
ailerons. Center the aileron trim on the transmitter. Check
that the ailerons are centered. If they are not, adjust the
length of the pushrods as needed. Then, glue the aileron
control horns in the ailerons, adjust the pushrods and apply
a drop of thin CA to the end of the heat shrink tubing.
INSTALL THE MOTOR
❏ 1. Install the motor to the motor mount using the included
#2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] self tapping screws.
❏ 2.Place a small piece of loop (soft) side of the self
adhesive hook and loop material to the back of the
ESC and the receiver.
❏ 3.Place a piece of hook (rough) material under the
fuselage, close to the front. Route the motor leads through
the fuselage and connect them to the motor. Attach the
ESC to the loop material.

13
❏ 4. Connect the servos to the receiver so that the wires do
not interfere with any of the pushrods. Note that a hole has
been provided to route the rudder and aileron servo wires to
the bottom right side of the fuselage.
❏ 5. Insertthe landinggearthrough thelandinggear support
and into the horizontal fuselage. Be careful not to push the
landing gear all the way through the horizontal fuselage.The
endshould beflushwith thetopofthe horizontal fuselage.Ifit
is difficult to insert both landing gear legs through the landing
gear support, use a hobby knife to enlarge the hole slightly.
Rotate the wheels so that they are parallel to each other.
Apply glue to the joint between the landing gear support and
the landing gear legs and the horizontal fuselage and the
landing gear legs.
❏ 6. Position the receiver on the side of the fuselage, under
the wing as far forward as possible.Make sure that the servo
wires do not interfere with the pushrods. Apply a piece of
hook material on the side of the fuselage, at the receiver
location. Attach the receiver to the fuselage. To prevent the
wires from interfering with the pushrods, use a small piece of
tape to attach them to the fuselage.
❏ 7. Install the propeller on the motor following the motor
instructions.Hint:The rubber o-ring can be difficult to stretch
over the screw, then the propeller and over the other screw.
A small jewelers phillips head screwdriver can be used to pry
the rubber o-ring over the screws and propeller. Be careful
not to allow the screwdriver to slip and damage the windings
inside the motor.
Balance the Model (C.G.)
More than any other factor, the C.G. (center of gravity/
balance point) can have the greatest effect on how a
model flies and could determine whether or not your first
flight will be successful. If you value your model and wish
to enjoy it for many flights, DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS
IMPORTANT PROCEDURE. A model that is not properly
balanced may be unstable and possibly unflyable.
Because the Extra 330SC is an indoor lightweight plane,
adding weight to balance the plane is not an option. At this
stage the model should be in ready-to-fly condition with all of
the components in place except the motor battery.The motor
battery will be moved forward and aft to balance the plane.
❏ 1. Use a fine-point felt tip pen to mark lines on the bottom
of the wing, 5/8" [16mm] aft from the carbon strip in the wing,

14
on both sides of the fuselage. Apply narrow (1/16" [1.5mm])
strips of tape over the lines so you will be able to feel them
when lifting the model with your fingers.
This is where your model should balance for the first
flights.Later,youmayexperimentbyshiftingtheC.G.3/16"
[5mm] forward or 1/4" [6mm] back to change the flying
characteristics. Moving the C.G. forward will improve the
smoothness and stability, but the model will then be less
aerobatic (which may be fine for less-experienced pilots).
Moving the C.G.aft makes the model more maneuverable
and aerobatic for experienced pilots. In any case, start at
the recommended balance point and do not at any time
balance the model outside the specified range.
❏ 2. Place the motor battery on the top of the fuselage on
the recommended CG. Lift the model from the bottom at the
recommended CG.
❏ 3. If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy.” Move the
motor battery forward to get the model to balance.If the nose
drops, the model is “nose heavy.” Move the motor battery aft.
Once you have determined the battery location required to
balance the plane, note the location and where the battery
would need to be attached on the bottom of the fuselage.
❏ 4. Apply the remaining hook and loop material to the side
of the fuselage at the approximate location for the motor
battery. Attach an opposite piece of hook and loop material
to the battery. Trial fit the motor battery to the side of the
fuselage and recheck the CG.
PRO TIP
For the most demanding rolling maneuvers, some of our
team pilots prefer to use some additional carbon tail bracing.
We have included additional lengths of carbon rods and
short ABS brace doublers that allows you to set-up your
Extra 330SC like the pros.
❏ 1. Position one of the 1 ×170mm carbon rods so that
it is 3" [76mm] from the vertical fuselage, on the carbon
strip in the stabilizer and below the 4th pushrod guide.Note
the angle and cut a small slot in front of the carbon strip
in the stabilizer and ¼" [6.5mm] above the bottom of the
vertical fuselage.
❏ 2. Slide two of the short ABS brace doublers onto the
170mm carbon rod.Insert the rod into the slots and slide one
of the doublers onto the stabilizer. Use foam safe CA to glue
the brace doubler and carbon rod to the stabilizer. Do not
glue it to the vertical fuselage.

15
❏ 3. Install the second 170mm carbon rod on the other side.
❏ 4. Position the brace doubler, on the 170mm carbon rod,
againsttheverticalfuselageandinsertthe1×185mmcarbon
rod into the slot in the vertical fuselage. Place the other
end of the rod over the horizontal fuselage approximately
3" [76mm] from the wing, ¼" [6.5mm] from the edge. Cut a
slot in the horizontal fuselage at this location. Slide a short
ABS brace doubler on the rod and insert the rod in the slot.
Now glue the two rods and the brace doubler to the vertical
fuselage.Also glue the 170mm rod and brace doubler, on the
other side, to the vertical fuselage. Do not glue the 185mm
rod to the horizontal fuselage.
❏ 5. Install the 1 ×150mm carbon rod in the horizontal
fuselage and the vertical fuselage, right behind the aft wing
brace, using the same method as before. Glue both brace
doublers, the oneon thehorizontalfuselage and theother on
the vertical fuselage, and the carbon rods to the fuselage.
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY
Check the Control Directions
❏ 1. Switch on the transmitter and connect the motor battery.
Check all the control surfaces to see if they are centered.
FULL
THROTTLE
RUDDER
MOVES
RIGHT
ELEVATOR
MOVES DOWN
RIGHT AILERON
MOVES UP
LEFT AILERON
MOVES DOWN
4-CHANNEL RADIO SET UP
(STANDARD MODE 2)
❏ 2. Make certain that the control surfaces 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.

16
Set the Control Throws
To ensure a successful first flight, set up your Extra 330SC
according to the control throws specified in this manual.
The throws have been determined through actual flight
testing and accurate record-keeping, allowing the model
to perform in the manner in which it was intended.If, after
you have become accustomed to the way the Extra 330SC
flies, you would like to change the throws to suit your
taste, that is fine. However, too much control throw could
make the model too responsive and difficult to control, so
remember, “more is not always better.”
❏ 1.Use a box or something similar to prop up the bottom
of the fuselage so the horizontal stabilizer and wing will
be level.
❏
2. Measurethe3Delevatorthrowfirst.Holdarulervertically
on your workbench against the widest part (front to back) of
the trailing edge of the elevator. Note the measurement on
the ruler.
❏ 3.Move the elevator up with your transmitter and move
the ruler forward so it will remain contacting the trailing
edge. The distance the elevator moves up from center is
the “up” elevator throw. Measure the down elevator throw
the same way.
❏ 4. Measure and set the high and low rate elevator
throws and the high, low, and 3D rate throws for the rest of
the control surfaces the same way.
If your radio does not have dual rates, we recommend
setting the throws at the high rate settings.
NOTE:The throws are measured at the widest part of the
elevators, rudder and ailerons.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
ELEVATOR
LOW RATE
1"
[25mm]
18 deg
Up & Down
RUDDER 1-5/8"
[41mm]
19 deg
Right & Left
AILERONS 1"
[25mm]
13 deg
Up & Down
HIGH RATE
1-7/16"
[35mm]
25 deg
Up & Down
2-5/8"
[67mm]
32 deg
Right & Left
1-3/4"
[44mm]
22 deg
Up & Down
3D RATE
2"
[50mm]
38 deg
Up & Down
3-3/4"
[95mm]
49 deg
Right & Left
3-3/4"
[95mm]
56 deg
Up & Down
PREFLIGHT
Identify Your Model
No matter if you fly at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or
if you fly somewhere on your own, you should always have
your name, address, telephone number and AMA number
on or inside your model. It is required at all AMA R/C club
flying sites and AMA sanctioned flying events (except when
flown indoors). Fill out the identification tag on page 18 and
place it on or inside your model.
Charge the Batteries
Follow the battery charging instructions that came with your
radio control system to charge the batteries. You should
always charge your transmitter batteries the night before
you go flying, and at other times as recommended by the
radio manufacturer.
CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your
radio system state differently, the initial charge on new
transmitter batteries should be done for 15 hours using
the slow-charger that came with the radio system.
This will “condition” the batteries so that the next charge
may be done using the fast-charger of your choice. If the
initial charge is done with a fast-charger the batteries may
not reach their full capacity and you may be flying with
batteries that are only partially charged.

17
Balance Propellers
Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
youfly.Anunbalanced propcanbethesinglemostsignificant
cause of vibration that can damage your model. Vibration
of props on small models can cause a loss of power, but
vibration may also damage your radio receiver, battery and
possibly the motor bearings.
We use a Top Flite®Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer
(TOPQ5700) in the workshop and keep a Great Planes
Fingertip Prop Balancer (GPMQ5000) in our flight box.
Ground Check and Range Check
Always ground check the operational range of your radio
before the first flight of the day following the manufacturer’s
instructions that came with your radio. This should be done
once with the motor off and once with the motor running
at various speeds. If the control surfaces do not respond
correctly, do not fly! Find and correct the problem first.Look
for loose servo connections or broken wires, corroded wires
on old servo connectors, poor solder joints in your battery
pack or a defective cell, or a damaged receiver crystal from
a previous crash.
MOTOR & BATTERY SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
Failure to follow these safety precautions may result in
severe injury to yourself and others.
Do not run the motor in an area of loose gravel or sand; the
propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes.
Keep your face and body as well as all spectators away
from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you start and
run the motor.
Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt
sleeves, ties, scarfs, long hair or loose objects such as
pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the prop.
The motor can get hot! Do not touch it right after operation.
Once the motor battery is plugged in to the ESC, stay clear
of the propeller.The motor could start at any time.
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING
AND USAGE
WARNING!!Readtheentireinstructionsheetincludedwith
your 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 the pack wiring in
any way or puncture the cells.
NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell.
NEVER place the battery or charger on
combustible materials or leave it unattended
during charge or discharge.
ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF
CHILDREN.
NEVER charge the battery in the plane.
ALWAYS remove the battery from the plane after
a crash.Set it aside in a safe location for at least
20 minutes. If the battery is damaged in the crash
it could catch fire.
If the battery starts to swell, quickly move the battery to
a safe location, preferably outside: Place it in a bucket,
covering the battery with sand.
AMA SAFETY CODE (EXCERPTS)
Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code. For the complete Safety
Code refer to Model Aviation magazine, the AMA web site or
the Code that came with your AMA license.

18
General
1) I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air
shows, or model flying demonstrations until it has
been proven to be airworthy by having been previously,
successfully flight tested.
2) I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately
400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the
airport operator. I will give right-of-way and avoid flying
in the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary,
an observer shall be utilized to supervise flying to avoid
having models fly in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the
flying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately
fly my models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous
manner.
5) I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name
and address or AMA number, on or in the model. Note:
This does not apply to models while being flown indoors.
7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device
that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).
Radio Control
1) Iwill have completedasuccessfulradioequipmentground
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.
2) Iwill not flymymodel aircraft in the presenceof spectators
until I become a qualified flier, unless assisted by an
experienced helper.
3) At all flying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be
established in front of which all flying takes place with the
other side for spectators. Only personnel involved with
flying the aircraft are allowed at or in the front of the flight
line.Intentional flying behind the flight line is prohibited.
4) Iwilloperatemymodelusingonlyradiocontrolfrequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications
Commission.
5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three
miles of any pre-existing flying site except in
accordance with the frequency sharing agreement
listed [in the complete AMA Safety Code].
9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch
a powered model in flight; nor should any part of the
model other than the landing gear,intentionally touch
the ground, except while landing.
CHECK LIST
During the last few moments of preparation your mind
may be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the first
flight. Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook
certain checks and procedures that should be performed
before the model is flown. To help avoid this, a check list
is provided to make sure these important areas are not
overlooked.Many are covered previously in the instruction
manual, so where appropriate, refer to the manual for
complete instructions. Be sure to check the items off as
they are completed (that’s why it’s called a check list!).
❏ 1. Check the C.G. according to the
measurements provided in the manual.
❏ 2. Be certain the battery and receiver are
securely mounted in the fuse with hook and
loop material.
❏ 3. Confirm that all controls operate in the correct
direction and the throws are set up according
to the manual.
❏ 4. Make sure all servo arms are secured to the
servos with the screws included with your radio.
❏ 5. Make sure all wires are clear of servo arms
and pushrods.
❏ 6. Make sure all hinge tape is securely attached.
❏ 7. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
❏ 8. If you wish to photograph your model, do so
before your first flight.
❏ 9. Range check your radio when you get to the
flying field.
FLYING
TheExtra330SCIndoorisanairplanesuitableforbothindoor
and outdoor flying. If you plan on flying outdoors, make sure
that you choose days with very light to calm winds (less than
5 mph). If this is your first experience with an indoor-style
foamie, seek help from experienced modelers. Join a local
flying club or ask your local hobby dealer where the nearest
approved flying sites are in your area.

19
CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
flutter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a flying surface (such as a wing or
stab)rapidlyvibratesupanddown(thuscausingthenoise).
In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, flutter can
actually cause the control surface to detach or the flying
surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by
an impending crash. The best thing to do when flutter is
detected is to slow the model immediately by reducing
power, then land as soon as safely possible.Identify which
surface fluttered. Make certain all pushrod linkages are
secure and free of play. If it fluttered once, under similar
circumstances it will probably flutter again unless the
problem is fixed. Some things which can cause flutter
are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control horns
solidly; Excessive free play in servo gears; Insecure servo
mounting; and one of the most prevalent causes of flutter;
Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.
Takeoff
The Extra 330SC can take off from a smooth surface (ROG)
or can be easily hand launched. If you want to perform an
(ROG) takoff, make sure the surface you are using is free
of holes that can flip the plane over or break the landing
gear. Rise-off-ground (ROG) takeoffs should be reserved
for indoor flying and should be performed with the model
rolling away from you and others. For the first flight set the
controls to low rate. If for the first flight the plane is to be
hand launched, have an assistant hand launch it. This will
allow you, the pilot, to have both hands on the control sticks
to make any flight corrections if the plane is out of trim.Once
the Extra 330SC has been flown and trimmed out, you will
be able to hand launch the plane easily by yourself. If you
are flying outdoors, always takeoff into the wind.
Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight line with you.
While full throttle is usually desirable for takeoff, the Extra
330SC will fly great at ½ to ¼ throttle indoors.
Take it easy with the Extra 330SC for the first few flights,
gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain confidence.
Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level flight. After
flying around for a while, and while still at a safe altitude
with plenty of battery power remaining, practice slow flight
and execute practice landing approaches by reducing the
throttle to see how the model handles at slower speeds.Add
power to see how it climbs as well. Continue to fly around,
executing various maneuvers such as gentle rolls, loops,
stalls and hammerheads, making mental notes (or having
your assistant write them down) of what trim or C.G.changes
may be required to fine tune the model so it flies the way you
like. Mind your battery power. It is best to have a timer set to
alert you when it is time to land.
Landing
To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on
the downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch
downward to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose
altitude, but maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as
you turn onto the crosswind leg.You will notice that the plane
bleeds off speed very quickly if the nose is raised with power
off. Make your final turn toward the landing area, keeping
the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level the
attitude when the model reaches the edge of the landing
area, modulating the throttle as necessary to maintain
your glide path and airspeed. If you are going to overshoot,
smoothly advance the throttle (always ready on the right
rudder to counteract torque) and climb out to make another
attempt. When you’re ready to make your landing flare and
the model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up
elevator.You may also have to blip the throttle until it gently
touches down.
One final note about flying your model. Have a goal or flight
plan in mind for every flight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know,
or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions
(such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to
improve your skills (though it is never a bad idea!), but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly finding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, remember to throttle back at the
top, and make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low
rates). A flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing
your model just because of poor planning and impulsive
moves. Remember to think.
Have a ball! But always stay in control
and fly in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
This model belongs to:
Name
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone Number
AMA Number

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