GREAT PLANES Pluma 3D User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Wingspan: 32.5 in [830mm]
Wing Area: 518 in2[33.4dm2]
Weight: 8.4 – 9.5 oz [240 – 270g]
Wing Loading: 2.3 – 2.6 oz/ft2[7 – 8g/dm2]
Length: 38 in [955mm]
Radio: 4-channel radio system with micro receiver and three micro servos
Motor & Propeller: RimFire™28-22-1380 with APC 8" x 3.8 slo flyer prop (APCQ5000) or
GWS 8" x 4 (GWSQ2009) -OR-
RimFire 28-26-1000 with GP 10" x 4.5 slo-flyer prop (GPMQ6660)
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 ANDWARNINGS CONCERNINGTHE ASSEMBLY AND USE OFTHIS MODEL.
Champaign, Illinois
[phone], Ext 5
airsuppor[email protected]
Entire Contents © Copyright 2008
WARRANTY
GPMZ1130 for GPMA1130 V1.0
™

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...............................................................2
AMA ..................................................................................2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................2
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING & USAGE .....................3
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE........................................3
Radio Equipment..........................................................3
Motor, Propeller, Battery & ESC Recommendations.......3
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED ....................................4
Required Hardware & Accessories..............................4
Optional Supplies & Tools ............................................4
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES......................................4
KIT INSPECTION..............................................................5
KIT CONTENTS................................................................5
METRIC/INCH RULER......................................................5
GETTING STARTED.........................................................6
WING INSTALLATION......................................................6
Install the Wings...........................................................6
Link the Ailerons...........................................................7
HORIZONTAL & VERTICAL TAIL INSTALLATION..........8
Install the Horizontal Stabilizer.....................................8
Hinge the Rudder.........................................................9
INSTALL THE SERVOS ..................................................10
PUSHROD & CONTROL HORN INSTALLATION..........10
Install the Control Horns ............................................10
Install the Pushrods....................................................11
MOTOR & ESC INSTALLATION.....................................12
FINAL ASSEMBLY .........................................................13
Install the Wing Braces...............................................13
Install the Aileron Servo.............................................14
Install the Radio, Landing Gear, & Propeller..............15
BALANCETHE MODEL (C.G.) ......................................17
Set the C.G.................................................................17
Balance the Model Laterally.......................................17
SETTHE CONTROLTHROWS & DIRECTION
OFTRAVEL.....................................................................18
Check the Control Directions .....................................18
Set the Control Throws...............................................18
PREFLIGHT....................................................................18
IdentifyYour Model.....................................................18
Charge the Batteries..................................................19
Balance Propellers.....................................................19
Ground Check & Range Check..................................19
MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................19
AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)....................................19
CHECK LIST...................................................................20
FLYING............................................................................20
Takeoff........................................................................21
Flight ..........................................................................21
Landing ......................................................................21
TEMPLATES........................................... Back Cover Page
INTRODUCTION
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections
to the Pluma 3D ARF visit the Great Planes web site at
www.greatplanes.com. Open the “Airplanes” link and then
selectthePluma3DARF.Ifthereisnewtechnicalinformation
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.
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 Pluma 3D 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 Pluma 3D ARF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.
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 motor and components
throughout the building process.
5.You must correctly install all R/C and other components so
that the model operates correctly on the ground and in the air.

3
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
the pushrods, heat shrink tubing and Z-bends 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 the battery. Failure to follow all instructions
could cause permanent damage to the battery and its
surroundings, and cause bodily harm!
• ONLY use a LiPo approved charger.
• NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell.
• ONLY charge through the “charge” lead. NEVER charge
through the “discharge” lead.
• NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C.
• ALWAYS set charger’s output volts to match battery volts.
• ALWAYS charge in a fireproof location.
• NEVER trickle charge.
• NEVER allow battery temperature to exceed 150° F [65° C].
• NEVER disassemble or modify pack wiring in any way or
puncture cells.
• NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell.
• NEVER place on combustible materials or leave
unattended during charge or discharge.
• ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE
This is a partial list of items required to finish the Pluma
3D 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 plane.
• (3) Futaba®S3114 Micro HT Servo (FUTM0414)
• Futaba 156F Micro FM Receiver (FUTL0641)
• Receiver Crystal (FUTL62/63**)
-OR-
• Futaba R617FS FASST™Receiver (FUTL7621)
Motor, Propeller, Battery
& ESC Recommendations
Based on the type of flying you’ll primarily do, we have listed
two different motor/prop/ESC combinations. The lightest
weight setup is referred to as the “indoor setup,” while the
“outdoor setup” is a bit heavier (better stability to handle
wind gusts).
Indoor
• Motor – RimFire™28-22-1380 (GPMG4505)
• Prop – APC 8" x 3.8 slo flyer prop (APCQ5000) or
GWS 8" x 4 (GWSQ2009)
• Battery – Power Series 11.1V 300mAh LiPo
20C (GPMP0595)
• ESC – Silver Series 8 amp Brushless (GPMM1800)
Outdoor
• Motor – RimFire 28-26-1000 (GPMG4525)
• Prop – GP 10" x 4.5 slo-flyer prop (GPMQ6660)
• Battery – Power Series 11.1V 640mAh LiPo
20C (GPMP0601)
• ESC – Silver Series 12 amp Brushless (GPMM1810)

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED
Required Hardware & Accessories
This is the list of adhesive and building supplies required
to finish the Pluma 3D ARF. Order numbers are provided
in parentheses.
❏1 oz.[30g]Thin Foam-Safe CA (HOTR1040)
❏1 oz.[30g]Thick Foam-Safe CA (HOTR1050)
❏1 oz.[30g] Medium Foam-Safe CA (GPMR6069)
❏1/2 oz.[15g]Thin Pro™CA (GPMR6001)
❏1/2 oz.[15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)
❏Drill bits: #57 [1mm], 1/16" [1.6mm]
❏#1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏#11 Blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏Hobbico®steelT-pins 1" (100) (HCAR5100)
❏Great Planes ProThreadlocker (GPMR6060)
❏CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏150-grit Sandpaper
❏Bru Line hemostat – curved 5-1/2" (BRUR1303)
❏Hobbico flexible 18" ruler stainless steel (HCAR0460)
❏Builder’s triangle set (HCAR0480)
❏2 oz.[57g] Spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
Optional Supplies &Tools
Here is a list of optional tools mentioned in the manual that
will help you build the Pluma 3D ARF.
❏Great Planes double-sided servo tape 1" x 3' (GPMQ4442)
❏Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❏Denatured alcohol
❏Rotary tool such as Dremel®with cutoff wheel
❏PolyCharge4™LiPo battery charger (GPMM3015)
❏Hobbico 12Volt DC power supply (HCAP0250)
❏Equinox™1 to 5 cell LiPo cell balancer (GPMM3160)
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
• When you see the term test fit in the instructions, it
means that you should first position the part on the assembly
without using any glue, then slightly modify or custom fit
the part as necessary for the best fit.
• Whenever the term glue is written you should rely upon
your experience to decide what type of glue to use. When
a specific type of adhesive works best for that step, the
instructions will make a recommendation.
• Photos and sketches are placed before the step they
refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following steps
to get another view of the same parts.
• The stabilizer and wing incidences and motor thrust
angles have been factory-built into this model. However,
some technically-minded modelers may wish to check these
measurements anyway.To view this information visit the web
site at www.greatplanes.com and click on“Technical Data.”
Due to manufacturing tolerances which will have little or no
effect on the way your model will fly, please expect slight
deviations between your model and the published values.
4

5
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 Great Planes 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]
To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4
5
Kit Contents
1 Fuselage
2 Center Cabane Strut
3 Speed Brakes (2)
4 Horizontal Stabilizer & Elevators
5 Rudder
6 Bottom Wing w/Ailerons
7 Interplane Struts (L&R)
8 Top Wing w/Ailerons
9 Inner & Outer Wheel Pants (L&R) &
Wheels (2)
KIT CONTENTS
KIT CONTENTS
1
2
34
5
9
8
7
6

66
GETTING STARTED
Take the time to look over your Pluma 3D ARF. Assembly is
pretty simple and straight-forward, as you’ve already seen
by looking over the table of contents section in this manual.
Look for damage to the foam or broken parts.The Pluma 3D
ARF uses a light-weight type of flat foam that has a “skin”
applied to its outer surfaces.This creates a strong and rigid
airframe when completed, but special care is needed while
handling individual parts during build-up.Bending foam parts
can cause the skin to tear and severely weaken the foam, so
be careful not to force things into place.
❏ 1. Lay the wing panels and horizontal tail on a flat work
surface.Gently run your finger over the taped hinges to form
a secure bond between the tape and the foam.
If you ever need to remove a control surface DO NOT
attempt to pull the hinge tape off – this damages the
skinned layer of the foam – use a hobby knife to cut the
hinge tape along the hinge line.Replacement hinge tape
is available from your local hobby shop. Order Dubro
Electric Flyer Hinge Tape (DUBQ0916).
❏ 2. Apply a bead of thin foam-safe CA to both sides of
the140mm carbon fiber elevator joiner.
WING INSTALLATION
Install theWings
❏ 1. Glue the bottom wing to the bottom of the fuselage.
Apply a bead of medium or thick foam-safe CA to the wing
saddle and the two fuselage former tabs and mount the wing.
Note: The bottom wing can be identified by the servo hole
and the protruding LE stop.
6

❏ 2. Glue the interplane struts to the bottom wings using
thin foam-safe CA. Use a 90° builder’s square or the
template provided in the back of this manual to properly align
the interplane struts vertically. Note: The front edge of the
interplane struts has less curvature than the aft edge.
❏ 3. Apply thin foam-safe CA to the tabs on the interplane
struts and the center cabane strut. Install the top wing.
Link the Ailerons
❏ 1.Locatefour1x145mm carbon pushrods,eight 1 x30mm
Z-bends, and eight 25mm pieces of heat shrink tubing.
Assemble four aileron link rods as shown in the sketch
above so that they measure 2-1/8" [156mm] from Z-bend
center to Z-bend center. See the Expert Tip below on how
to assemble pushrods.
How to Assemble Pushrods
To join a wire Z-bend to a 1mm carbon pushrod, first slide
a piece of heat shrink tubing onto the carbon rod. Next,
place the wire Z-bend alongside of the carbon rod. Slide
the heat shrink tubing over the joint and heat it. If you
are working near foam, use a hot soldering iron to shrink
the heat shrink tubing. Run the tip along the sides of the
tubing, applying heat all around the heat shrink tubing.
Check to see that the length of the pushrod is still correct.
If you’re careful, you can reposition the Z-bend after the
heat shrink tubing is completely shrunk, but it’s good
to check it before you’ve completely shrunk the tubing.
When you’re satisfied, apply one drop of thin CA to the
end of the heat shrink tubing that is farthest away from
the Z-bend.Be careful not to allow the CA to wick into the
Z-bend if the Z-bend is attached to a control horn.
7

8
❏ 2. Locate eight aileron link horns. Fit them to the four
aileron links that you made.
❏ 3. Locate the foam parts shown above and build two
controlsurfacealignment tools.Note:Setting therectangular
pad at 90 degrees is not critical.
❏ ❏ 4.Set your model down on a flat work surface with the
TE of the aileron hanging over the edge. Working with one
wing at a time, fit the alignment tools to the top aileron.Test fit
two aileron link rods by inserting the link horns into the slots
in the upper and lower ailerons.Adjust the position of the link
hornsuntilthetopandbottomaileronsarecompletelyparallel
with zero control throw.When you’re satisfied with the aileron
position, use thin foam-safe CA to glue the aileron link horns
securely to each aileron. Run a bead along both sides of
each link horn and let the model sit until the CA cures.
❏ ❏ 5. Flip the model over and apply thin foam-safe CA to
the bottom side of each link horn. Let the CA cure.
❏ 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the opposite wing.
HORIZONTAL & VERTICALTAIL
INSTALLATION
Install the Horizontal Stabilizer
❏ 1. Test fit the horizontal stab to the fuselage, installing it
from the rear.You’ll need to spread the fuselage seam apart
a bit to get the stab in, so use care.
❏ 2.Align the stab vertically and horizontally as shown in the
sketches above.If the stab doesn’t sit parallel with the plane
8

9
of the wings, lightly sand the slot using 150-grit sandpaper
until the stab is aligned.
❏ 3.When you’re satisfied with the fit of the horizontal stab,
run a generous bead of thin foam-safe CA down the left and
right stab to the fuselage joints.Turn the model over and glue
the bottom of each joint as well.
❏ 4.Make sure that the upper and lower fuselage is aligned.
Apply a few drops of foam-safe CA to the aft fuselage seam
and glue the seam together.
❏ 5.Deflect the elevator up and down, checking for free travel.
Hinge the Rudder
❏ 1. Locate the 7-1/2" [190mm] strip of hinge tape. Cut the
tape so that you have one 4" [100mm] piece, one 2-3/4"
[70mm] piece, and one 3/4" [20mm] piece.
❏ 2. Position the rudder so that the LE of the rudder gently
touches the vertical fin and that the top of the rudder is even
with the top of the fin. Remove the backing paper and apply
the 100mm strip of tape to the top of the rudder on the right
side. Apply the 20mm piece to the bottom of the rudder.
Note: Pushing the rudder too hard against the fin can fold
the beveled edge over and cause limited rudder throw.
❏ 3. Apply the 70mm piece to the center section of the
rudder, making sure that you press the tape tightly into the
crease.A straightedge is helpful here.
❏ 4.Deflect the rudder left and right and check for free travel.

10
INSTALLTHE SERVOS
❏ 1.Remove the servo arm screws and the servo arms from
all three of your servos. Use your radio to center the servos.
Retain the servo arm screws.
❏ 2. Place one drop of foam-safe CA on the bottom of the
servo mounting tabs. Install the rudder servo on the right
side of the fuselage with the output shaft facing aft. Guide
the servo leads forward through the fuselage and apply a
bead of CA along the side of the servo case where it meets
the fuselage.
❏ 3. Install the elevator servo on the left side of the
fuselage with the output shaft facing aft. Guide the servo
leads forward through the fuselage. Note: The aileron servo
will be installed later.
❏ 4. Locate the longest servo arms that came with your
servos. Since we used Futaba 3114 micro servos, we chose
theoptionalfive-hole“X”armsthat Futaba supplied with each
servo. With the elevator and rudder servos centered, test fit
the servo arm to find the long arm that aligns perpendicular
with the servo case. Clip off the other unused arms and
temporarily fit each arm to each servo with the arm facing
down.Do not install the servo arm screw yet.
PUSHROD & CONTROL HORN
INSTALLATION
Install the Control Horns
❏ 1. Locate two control horns. Turn your model over and
install one control horn to the bottom of the left elevator.
Apply a bead of thin foam-safe CA around the base of the
control horn.

11
❏ 2. Install the other control horn to the right side of the
rudder as shown. Apply a bead of thin foam-safe CA around
the base of the control horn.
Install the Pushrods
❏ ❏ 1. Using a 1 x 560mm carbon pushrod, one metal
Z-bend, and one piece of 25mm heat shrink tubing,
build one end of the rudder pushrod. Slide three pushrod
supports onto the pushrod. Do not assemble the other end
of the pushrod yet.
❏ ❏ 2. Remove the servo arm that you temporarily fitted
to your rudder servo. Use a #57 [1mm] drill bit to enlarge
the outermost servo arm hole. Fit the rudder pushrod to
the outermost hole. Note: If you don’t have a #57 drill bit,
carefully use your hobby knife to enlarge the hole.
❏ ❏ 3. Install one control alignment tool onto the vertical
stabilizer to hold the rudder straight.
❏ ❏ 4. Fit the servo arm onto the rudder servo and extend
the pushrod all the way back to the rudder control horn.Fit a
Z-bend to the rudder control horn. Attach the Z-bend to the
rudder pushrod using a 25mm piece of heat shrink tubing.
Shrink the tubing with a hot soldering iron. Note: DO NOT
attempt to use a torch, cigarette lighter or heat gun near
the foam! It is nearly impossible to use these without melting
the foam.
❏ ❏ 5.With the pushrod straight, cut 2mm wide slots in the
fuselage for the pushrod supports using a hobby knife. Cut
the first slot so that it is 5-1/2" [140mm] from the Z-bend.
Space the next slot 5-1/2" [140mm] from that and so on.
Ensure that the pushrod is completely straight and use foam-
safe CA to glue the supports into the fuselage.
❏ 6. Repeat steps 1 through 5 for the elevator. Use the
1 x 490mm carbon rod and space the pushrod supports
4-7/8" [123mm] apart.

12
❏ 7. Install the servo arm screws.
MOTOR & ESC INSTALLATION
For this build-up we chose to install the Great Planes
28-26-1000 RimFire. We recommend this motor if you plan
on doing most of your flying outdoors.
❏ 1. Remove the three screws holding the Y-mount to the
back of the motor and the two screws for the prop saver.
Apply threadlocking compound to the screw threads and
reinstall the screws.
❏ 2. Test fit your motor by holding it in place up against the
firewall. Make sure that the Y-mount screws fit inside of the
clearanceholesinthefirewall.Ifitisnecessary,carefullyenlarge
the holes using a Dremel®tool or a sharp hobby knife.
❏ 3.IfyouareinstallingthemorepowerfulRimFiremotor,apply
a bead of thick foam-safe CA to the fuselage-to-firewall joint.
❏ 4. Install the motor using three 2.5 x 8mm self-tapping
screws. Remove the screws and the motor and harden the
screw holes with one drop of thin regular CA.Be careful not
to drip any regular CA onto the foam.
❏ 5.Route the motor wires through the firewall and connect
them to the ESC.Use your radio to test the direction of motor
rotation.If the motor rotates in the wrong direction, swap the
position of any two of the three motor leads and re-check the
direction of rotation.It’s easier to do this now than to find out
you have to swap the leads later after everything is mounted
and tucked away.

13
❏ 6. Cut a 1" [25mm] strip from the supplied adhesive-
backed hook and loop material. Peel the backing paper off
and stick the loop side (fuzzy side) onto the back of your
ESC. Peel the backing paper off of the hook side and place
a few thin beads of thin foam-safe CA on the sticky backing.
Mount it in the plane in the location shown.
FINAL ASSEMBLY
Install theWing Braces
For this section it is important that you set your model on a
flat surface facing up. Hang the tail over the end of the table
or work with the model on an elevated box or sheet of thick
wood. Do not disturb the model until you have finished the
rigging process – doing so may result in a warped wing and
will affect the flying characteristics.
❏ 1.With your plane on a level surface, install a 1 x 310mm
carbon rod through the hole in the center of the top wing.Run
it down to the hole at the base of the interplane strut on the
bottom wing.Install the other 1 x 310mm rod on the opposite
wing. Use a 90° square or the template in the back of this
manual to make sure that the fuselage is perpendicular to
the lower wing and that the wing struts are perpendicular
to the lower wing. When you’re satisfied that everything is
square, apply two drops of thin foam-safe CA to the ends of
each wing brace.
❏ 2. Install the 1 x 296mm carbon rods in the wings as
shown.Square the fuselage with the wing and glue the wing
braces in place.
❏ 3. Locate the four 1 x 135mm outer wing braces.Two will
be used for the left wing and two for the right wing.With the
braces fitted and the lower wing still flat on the table, hold a
straightedged ruler against the top wing.Align the wings and
glue the braces in place.

14
❏ 4. Locate the two 1 x 145mm front wing supports. Route
each through its respective hole in the LE of the upper wing
and into the holes in the forward fuselage. Before you glue
them in place, check to see that the upper wing is still aligned
with the horizontal stab.When you’re satisfied, glue the front
supports in place.
❏ 5.With the wings square, place a drop of thick foam-safe
CA at the junction of the main wing braces. CA accelerator
is helpful here.
❏ 6. After the CA cures, pick up the plane and check all the
wing brace glue joints. Go back and add CA to each side of
every joint.
Install the Aileron Servo
❏ 1.Turn the model over. Locate the two remaining control
horns. Glue them into the slots provided in the bottom of
each lower aileron.
❏ 2. Center your aileron servo using your radio.
❏ 3. Locate the plastic servo arm provided in the kit.
Remove the servo arm from your servo. Mount the servo
arm to your standard servo arm with the arms swept forward.
Use the supplied 1.5 x 4mm self-tapping screws to install the
extended arm to the standard servo arm. Install the screws
from the bottom so that the heads of the screws face the
body of the servo. Note: The output shaft of the servo will
face toward the front of the model.
❏ 4. Install your aileron servo with the output shaft facing
forward.Remember to install the servo arm screw.

15
❏ 5. Locate the two 1 x 112mm carbon aileron pushrods,
four pieces of heat shrink tubing, and the remaining four
Z-bends.Assemble one end of the pushrods as shown.
❏ 6.Install one control surface alignment tool on each aileron.
❏ 7. Fit the pushrods to the servo arm. Fit the remaining
Z-bends to the aileron control horns and slide a piece of
heat shrink tubing onto the carbon rods. Shrink the tubing
with a hot soldering iron, making sure that your ailerons stay
centered in the process.
❏ 8. Install the aileron servo arm screw.
Install the Radio, Landing Gear & Propeller
❏ 1.Plug your elevator, aileron, and rudder servos into their
proper channels.Plug the ESC signal lead into the receiver.
❏ 2. Cut a 1" [25mm] long piece of hook and loop material.
Stickthehook side (fuzzyside)to the backsideofyourreceiver.
Mount the receiver just ahead of the LE of the lower wing.
❏ 3. Locate the landing gear doubler plate. Roughen one
surface of the doubler plate using 150-grit sandpaper.

16
❏ 4.Apply several generous beads of medium or thick foam-
safe CA to the back side of the landing gear doubler (the side
you just sanded). Center the doubler over the holes in the
bottom of the lower wing and glue it in place.
❏ 5. Locate the two pre-assembled landing gear legs and
the two foam wheel pants.You should have a right and a left
side of each of these.
❏ 6.Use medium or thick foam-safe CA to attach the wheel
pants to the landing gear legs.
❏ 7. Slide each landing gear leg though the holes provided
in the wing.They will go through the wing holes first, then the
fuselage side, and then cross over to the opposite fuselage
side. Rotate the landing gear rod until the wheels point
straight ahead.Glue the landing gear in place.
❏ 8. Mount the recommended propeller using a prop saver
O-ring. Please see the “Motor, Propeller, Battery, & ESC
Recommendations” section on page 3 of this manual to
match the correct prop to your motor.
❏ 9.With the hook and loop material that you have left over,
separate the hook side from the loop side and stick the hook
side (bristly side) inside the fuselage. Apply the remaining
loop material to your battery packs.

17
❏ 10. Speed brakes have been provided for you if you fly
indoors. These are optional and should not be installed until
themodelhasbeentest-flownandproperlytrimmedout.Install
them between the aileron link rods so that they are centered
vertically. Use thick foam-safe CA or tape to attach these to
the link rods.These should only be used indoors and will help
keep speed constant during up and downline maneuvers.
BALANCETHE MODEL (C.G.)
Set the C.G.
InordertoproperlysettheC.G.(centerofgravity)youwillneed
to configure the airplane with all of the equipment it will have
on board when you’re flying.To do this you’ll need to install the
battery pack in place and have the propeller attached.
To ensure a successful first flight, fly your model set up only
according to the C.G. and control surface throws specified in
this manual. The throws and C.G. are not arbitrary, but have
been determined through extensive testing and accurate
record-keeping. This provides you with the best chance for
success and enjoyable first flights that should be surprise-free.
Additionally, the throws and C.G. shown are true, real data
which will allow the model to perform in the manner in which it
was intended when flown by a pilot of the skill level for which
it was intended.DO NOT OVERLOOKTHESE IMPORTANT
PROCEDURES. A model that is not properly setup may be
unstable and possibly unflyable.
❏ 1.Place the battery pack in the plane.Do not connect the
battery to the ESC.
❏ 2.Use a felt-tip pen or 1/8" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately
mark the C.G.on the bottom of the upper wing on both sides
of the center cabane strut. If you are flying indoors primarily,
make two marks that are 2-5/8" [67mm] from the LE of the
upper wing. If you are flying outdoors, make two C.G. marks
that are 2-1/2" [63mm] from the LE of the upper wing. The
total C.G. range is from 1-3/4" [44mm] forward to 3-5/16"
[85mm] aft. Do not fly your model outside of this range.
❏ 3.Place your fingers ontheC.G.marks thatyoumade.Hold
the plane up with your fingertips and see where it balances.
❏ 4.If the tail drops, the model is “tail heavy”and the battery
pack must be shifted forward or weight must be added to the
nose to balance.If the nose drops, the model is“nose heavy”
and the battery pack must be shifted aft or weight must be
added to the tail to balance. If additional weight is required,
use Great Planes (GPMQ4485) “stick-on” lead.
❏ 5.IMPORTANT:Ifyoufounditnecessarytoaddanyweight,
recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed.
Balance the Model Laterally
❏ 1.Withthe wings level, liftthemodelbythemotorpropeller
shaft and the bottom of the fuselage under the TE of the fin.
Do this several times.
❏ 2.Ifonewingalwaysdropswhenyouliftthemodel,itmeans
thatsideisheavy.Balancetheairplanebyaddingweighttothe
other wing tip.An airplane that has been laterally balanced
will track better in loops and other maneuvers.

18
SETTHE CONTROLTHROWS &
DIRECTION OFTRAVEL
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 motor
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 ruler or the templates provided in the back of this
manual to accurately measure and set the control throw of
each control surface as indicated in the chart that follows. If
your radio does not have dual rates, we recommend setting
the throws at the low rate setting. Note: The throws are
measured at the widest part (inboard or lowest part) of the
elevators, ailerons, and rudder.
These are the recommended control surface throws:
HIGH RATE
ELEVATOR: 1-3/8" [35mm], 26° up
1-3/8" [35mm], 26° down
RUDDER: 2-3/4" [70mm], 36° left
2-3/4" [70mm], 36° right
AILERONS: 2-3/8" [60mm], 43° up
2-3/8" [60mm], 43° down
LOW RATE
ELEVATOR: 1" [25mm], 17° up
1" [25mm], 17° down
RUDDER: 1-9/16" [40mm], 19° left
1-9/16" [40mm], 19° right
AILERONS: 1-9/16" [40mm], 27° up
1-9/16" [40mm], 27° down
3D RATE
ELEVATOR: 2-1/8" [55mm], 46° up
2-1/8" [55mm], 46° down
RUDDER: 3-7/8" [100mm], 56° left
3-7/8" [100mm], 56° right
AILERONS: 2-7/8" [75mm], 58° up
2-7/8" [75mm], 58° down
PREFLIGHT
IdentifyYour 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. Fill out the identification
tag on page 21 and place it on or inside your model.

19
Charge the Batteries
Follow the battery charging instructions that came with your
radiocontrolsystem tochargethebatteries.Youshouldalways
charge your radio 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 and receiver 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.
Balance Propellers
Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before
youfly.Anunbalancedpropcanbethesinglemostsignificant
cause of vibration that can damage your model.Not only can
screws and bolts loosen, possibly with disastrous effect, but
vibration may also damage your radio receiver and battery.
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 & 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 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 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Failure to follow these safety precautions may result
in severe injury to yourself and others.
Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate
electric motors.
Use safety glasses when running electric motors.
Do not operate 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 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 gets hot! Do not touch it during or right after
operation.
Do not throw anything into the propeller of a running motor.
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.
General
1) Iwillnot flymymodelaircraftin sanctionedevents,airshows,
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.

20
7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device
that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).
Radio Control
1)I willhave completeda successful radioequipmentground
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.
2) I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of 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) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three
milesofanypre-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
checksand proceduresthat should beperformed beforethe
model is flown.To help avoid this, a check list is provided to
make sure these important areas are not overlooked.Many
arecovered in the instructionmanual,sowhereappropriate,
refer to the manual for complete instructions. Be sure to
check the items off as they are completed.
❏ 1. Check the motor for secure attachment.
❏ 2. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
❏ 3. Inspect your propeller for proper attachment. Replace
any prop saver that shows evidence of damage or one
that has cracks in it.
❏ 4. Check the wheels for free rotation, the axles and
landing gear for security, and add a drop of light
machine oil to the axles.
❏ 5. Make sure all hinges are securely stuck to the
flight controls.
❏ 6. Check the control horns for secure attachment to the
control surfaces.
❏ 7. Pull / push on each of the pushrods and check to see
that the connections do not slip.
❏ 8. Check the servo arms for secure attachment and make
sure that the arm screws are in place and are tight.
❏ 9. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA where
appropriate
❏ 10.Check that all servo connectors are fully plugged into
their respective channels on the receiver.
❏ 11.Make sure any servo extension cords you may have
used do not interfere with other systems (servo arms,
pushrods, etc.).
❏ 12.Check the receiver for secure attachment. This must
not be “stuffed into place.”
❏ 13.Extend your receiver antenna.
❏ 14.Check the C.G. according to the measurements
provided in the manual.
❏ 15.Placeyourname,address,AMAnumberandtelephone
number on or inside your model.
❏ 16.Fully charge your transmitter battery and check the
battery voltage after it is charged.
❏ 17.Range-check your radio when you get to the flying field.
❏ 18.Confirm thatallcontrolsoperateinthe correctdirection
and the throws are set up according to the manual.
❏ 19.If you wish to photograph your model, do so before
your first flight.
FLYING
The Pluma 3D ARF is an airplane suitable for both indoor
and outdoor flying. If you plan on flying outdoors, make sure
that you choose days with very light to calm winds (gusting
to 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.
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 (so the problem may be resolved) by
checkingalltheservogrommetsfordeteriorationorsignsof
vibration.Makecertainallpushrodlinkages 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; Poor fit of clevis
pin in horn; Side-play of wire pushrods caused by large
bends; 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.