JetCat SPH5 User manual

US Patent # 6216440 Copyright ©JetCat USA, LLC
July, 2007
Instruction manual
V5.0 ECU
JetCat
SPH5
JetCat USA, LLC
4250 Aerotech Center Way Building G
Paso Robles, CA 93446
[phone] Voice
[phone] FAX
www.jetcatusa.com
MADE IN GERMANY
1

PURCHASE AGREEMENT, FULL ASSUMPTION OF LIABILITY AND
INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
Buyer purchases from JetCat USA, a Limited Liability Company ("JetCat USA") or from one of JetCat USA’s authorized dealers, a
MINIATURE TURBOJET ENGINE for model aircraft, cars or boats ("Model Engine") for the invoice price, accompanying this sale, and Buyer
and JetCat USA agree to all of the following terms and conditions:
1. Buyer's Representations. Buyer represents that he/she is very experienced in model airplane operation, and that all of the
information set forth in the Purchase Application is true and correct. JetCat USA relies on such representations, and would not enter into this sale
but for these representations.
2. Buyer's Acknowledgment of Risks and Dangers. Buyer recognizes that operation of the Model Engine may be dangerous, and
that under certain circumstances, its handling will be dangerous. As set forth in Paragraph 3 below, Buyer accepts full responsibility for all of
these risks and waives all liability as against JetCat USA.
(a) Buyer's Acknowledgment of Danger. Buyer expressly acknowledges that use of the Model Engine is dangerous if
improperly handled, and could inflict injury if attempts are made to handle it properly, if the user does not fully acquaint himself/herself with the
Model Engine's operation procedures. The Model Engine may cause burns to the user, or the user's assistant, particularly in the start-up
procedure, and Buyer agrees to use extreme caution. The Model Engine exhaust is extremely hot, and will burn someone or something placed
directly behind the exhaust tube. Highly flammable liquid is used to operate the Model Engine, and it or its fumes will ignite easily and flare up
rapidly. The Model Engine itself remains extremely hot, after it is shut off, and requires a cooling down period. Improper use of the Model
Engine, or failure to follow Academy of Model Aeronautics ("AMA") guidelines and rules will result in injury to the user, the user's assistant, or
bystanders. Operation of the Model Engine in any location other than an approved location, and under safe circumstances could lead to injury to
bystanders. A risk exists from explosion, in the event of tampering, modifications leading to over-speed or extreme metal fatigue.
(b) Buyer's Obligation to Become Fully Acquainted With Operation Procedure. Buyer acknowledges receipt of
operating instructions for the Model Engine which depicts its handling and operation. Buyer agrees to thoroughly acquaint himself/herself with
these materials, and to require his/her assistant to become equally familiar with them. Buyer expressly agrees not to allow any person to assist in
the start-up procedure of the Model Engine, who has not become thoroughly familiar with these materials.
(c) Agreement to Use Qualified Assistant in Start-Up Procedure. Buyer acknowledges that the start-up procedure for
the Model Engine cannot be safely done, without an assistant. Buyer expressly agrees to use an assistant, who is thoroughly familiar with the
Model Engine and its operation as set forth above, on each occasion when the Model Engine is started up.
(d) Warning to Bystanders. Buyer acknowledges that injury or burns to bystanders could occur, during the start-up
procedure or when operating the Model Engine. Buyer expressly agrees to take all steps necessary to assure that no bystander will be in a
position to receive injuries during the start-up procedure, or while the Model Engine is running.
3. Full Assumption of Liability; Waiver and Release of JetCat USA. Buyer assumes all risk of injury, harm and damage, of every
nature whatsoever, to himself/herself and his/her property. Buyer fully and completely waives and releases any and all claims which he/she might
have at any time arising out of the purchase, handling, or operation of the Model Engine. This assumption, waiver and release is complete, full,
and comprehensive.
(a) Release Even If JetCat USA Is Negligent. The waiver and release contained herein releases JetCat USA from all
conduct, no matter how it could be characterized or alleged. JetCat USA shall not be liable for its own negligence, whether active, passive,
primary, or secondary. JetCat USA shall not be liable for its sole negligence. JetCat USA shall not be liable for its willful misconduct. JetCat
USA shall not be liable based on any theory in strict liability in tort. JetCat USA shall not be liable for any alleged breach of warranty, whether
express or implied, of any nature whatsoever, whether a warranty of fitness for a particular use, merchantability, or otherwise. There is no
warranty of merchantability; there is no warranty of fitness for a particular purpose; and there are no warranties which extend beyond the
description on the face hereof or JetCat USA’s One Year Limited Warranty.
(b) Waiver Effective for All Time. The waiver and release contained herein is effective, without regard to the passage of
time. It is effective indefinitely. It will not be changed by any modification to the Model Engine, to any later sale, or other changes in
circumstances.
(c) Release Extends to JetCat USA and All Its Associates. The waiver and release contained herein protects JetCat
USA, and all of its employees, officers, principals, owners, designers, and agents ("Associates").
(d) Waiver of Civil Code Section 1542. Buyer acknowledges the existence of, and fully and completely waives the
provisions of California Civil Code Section 1542, which provides:
"A general release does not extend to claims which the creditor does not know or suspect to exist in his favor at
the time of executing the release, which if known by him must have materially affected his settlement with the debtor."
4. No Modifications to Model Engine. Buyer agrees to make no modifications of any kind to the Model Engine. This Agreement
pertains to the entire life of the Model Engine.
2

5. Sale By Buyer to Other Party. Buyer agrees to fully inform any person to whom he/she sells or transfers the Model Engine,
concerning the handling, use, and operation of the Model Engine, and agrees to give all operating instructions to such person, at or before the
time of sale or transfer. The indemnity and hold harmless agreement contained in Paragraph 3 continues in effect, following such sale or transfer.
6. Severability. In the event any clause, provision, or term of this Agreement is held to be ineffective, void or otherwise
unenforceable for any reason, that clause, provision, or term shall be severed from this Agreement, and the Agreement shall otherwise remain
binding and effective. If any portion of Paragraph 3 is found to be unenforceable, then the parties agree that the fullest and most complete waiver
and release which is permitted by law, shall be effective.
7. California Law Applicable. The law of the State of California shall apply to any and all controversies which may arise out of or
relate to this Agreement, the sale of the Model Engine, or its ownership, use, or operation.
8. Arbitration. ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, OR THE
BREACH THEREOF, OR THE OWNERSHIP, USE, OR OPERATION OF THE MODEL ENGINE, SHALL BE SETTLED BY
ARBITRATION ADMINISTERED BY THE JUDICIAL ARBITRATION AND MEDIATION SERVICE/ENDISPUTE, AT ITS LOS
ANGELES OFFICE, UNDER ITS THEN APPLICABLE RULES AND PROCEDURES. THE ARBITRATION SHALL BE BINDING,
AND JUDGMENT ON THE AWARD RENDERED BY THE ARBITRATOR MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING
JURISDICTION. BUYER EXPRESSLY ACKNOWLEDGES AND WAIVES THE RIGHT TO FILE A LAWSUIT IN A COURT OF
LAW, TO HAVE THE MATTER DETERMINED BY A JURY, AND TO APPEAL. BUYER'S AGREEMENT TO THIS
ARBITRATION PROVISION IS VOLUNTARY. THE PARTIES HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE FOREGOING AND
AGREE TO SUBMIT DISPUTES ARISING OUT OF ALL MATTERS TO NEUTRAL ARBITRATION.
9. This Document Is the Full Expression of Parties' Agreement. This Agreement contains the full and complete agreement of the
parties. There is no representation, term, or provision which is outside this Agreement. Any and all discussions, oral agreements, and
representations are merged into this single written Agreement. This Agreement cannot be modified or amended in any way, except by written
Amendment, signed by the parties.
10. Paragraph Headings Not Controlling. The heading to any paragraph, or subparagraph of this Agreement, shall not be
dispositive, but may be used to interpret the parties' intentions.
11. No Interpretation of Agreement Against Either Party. Buyer understands and expressly acknowledges that he/she has the right
to have an attorney read and review this Agreement, before execution. This Agreement shall not be interpreted against either party, but shall be
interpreted as if it was drafted mutually by the parties.
12) If the Buyer is not prepared to fully accept the PURCHASE AGREEMENT, FULL ASSUMPTION OF LIABILITY AND
INDEMNITY AGREEMENT, the Buyer is advised to return this Model Engine immediately in new and unused condition to the place of
purchase.
3

JetCat USA, LLC One Year Limited Warranty
JetCat USA, LLC, a Limited Liability Company, (“JetCat USA”) warrants that this MINIATURE TURBOJET ENGINE for model aircraft, cars or boats
(“Model Engine”) enclosed with this warranty statement is free from defects in materials and workmanship during normal usage, according to the following terms
and conditions.
1) The limited warranty extends to the original purchaser ("Buyer") of the Model Engine and is assignable or transferable to any subsequent purchaser / end-user.
2) Warranty coverage begins the day you buy the Model Engine. For 1 year or 25 hours of measured use by the Electronic Control Unit (which ever comes first), all
parts except for batteries, electric motors, glow plug and frictional materials will be repaired or replaced free of charge. All parts, including repaired and replaced
parts are covered for the original warranty period. When the warranty on the Model Engine expires, the warranty on all replaced and repaired parts also expires.
3) Buyer must fully accept all conditions of the PURCHASE AGREEMENT, FULL ASSUMPTION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
4) The limited warranty extends only to Buyers who purchased the Model Engine in the United States or Canada and includes this written warranty statement.
5) During the limited warranty period, JetCat USA will repair or replace, at JetCat USA’s option, any defective parts with new or factory rebuilt replacement items if
such repair or replacement is needed because of Model Engine malfunction or failure during normal usage. No charge will be made to the Buyer for any such parts.
JetCat USA will also pay for the labor charges incurred by JetCat USA in repairing or replacing the defective parts. The limited warranty does not cover defects in
appearance. JetCat USA shall not be liable for any other losses or damages.
6) Upon request from JetCat USA, the Buyer must prove the date of the original purchase of the Model Engine by a dated bill of sale or dated itemized receipt.
7) The Buyer must bear the cost of shipping the Model Engine to JetCat USA in Paso Robles, California. JetCat USA shall bear the cost of shipping the Model
Engine back to the Buyer, within the continental United States, after the completion of service under this limited warranty. The Buyer must pay for any other
shipping charges.
8) The Buyer shall have no coverage or benefits under this limited warranty if any of the following conditions are applicable
a) The Model Engine has been subject to abnormal use, abnormal conditions, improper storage, unauthorized modifications, unauthorized repair, misuse,
neglect, abuse, accident, alteration, improper installation or other acts which are not the fault of JetCat USA, including damage caused by shipping.
b) The Model Engine has been damaged from external causes such as crash damage, foreign object damage, weather, Act of God, improper electrical
connections, or connections to other products not recommend for interconnection by JetCat USA.
c) The Model Engine is operated for commercial or institutional use.
d) The Model Engine serial number has been removed, defaced or altered.
9) If a problem develops during the limited warranty period, the Buyer shall take the following step-by-step procedure:
a) The Buyer shall ship the Model Engine prepaid and insured to JetCat USA.
b) The Buyer shall include a return address, daytime phone number and / or FAX number, complete description of the problem and proof of purchase.
c) The Buyer will be billed for any parts or labor charges not covered by this limited warranty.
d) If the Model Engine is returned to JetCat USA during the limited warranty period, but the problem with the Model Engine is not covered under the
terms and conditions of this limited warranty, the Buyer will be notified and given an estimate of the charges the Buyer must pay to have the Model
Engine repaired, with all shipping charges billed to the Buyer. If the estimate is refused, the Model Engine will be returned freight collect. If the Model
Engine is returned to JetCat USA after the expiration of the limited warranty period, JetCat USA’s normal service policies shall apply and the Buyer will
be responsible for all shipping charges.
10) The Model Engine consists of newly assembled equipment that may contain used components that have been reprocessed to allow machine compliance with
Model Engine performance and reliability specifications.
11) JetCat USA shall not be liable for delay in rendering service under the limited warranty, or loss of use during the period that the Model Engine is being repaired.
12) JetCat USA neither assumes nor authorizes any other person or entity to assume for it any other obligation or liability beyond that is expressly provided for in this
limited warranty.
13) This is the entire warranty between JetCat USA and the Buyer, and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements or understandings, oral or written, and
all communications relating to the Model Engine, and no representation, promise or condition not contained herein shall modify these terms.
14) If the Buyer is not prepared to fully accept the liability associated with the use of this Model Engine, the Buyer is advised to return this Model Engine
immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase.
15) This limited warranty allocates the risk of failure of the Model Engine between the Buyer and JetCat USA. The allocation is recognized by the Buyer and is
reflected in the purchase price of the Model Engine.
16) Questions concerning the warranty may be directed to:
JetCat USA, LLC
4250 Aerotech Center Way, Building G
Paso Robles, CA 93446
805-226-8700 Voice
805-226-8742 FAX
www.jetcatusa.com
4

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................................8
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.........................................................................................................................9
THE CHECKLIST ...................................................................................................................................10
BEFORE RUNNING THE TURBINE.............................................................................................................10
AFTER STOPPING THE TURBINE ..............................................................................................................10
FUEL / FUEL CARE................................................................................................................................11
FUEL SYSTEM..........................................................................................................................................11
HOPPER TANK .........................................................................................................................................12
PRIME THE PUMP AND SYSTEM................................................................................................................12
SPH5 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................13
TURBINE BATTERY..................................................................................................................................17
Charging the turbine battery ..............................................................................................................17
FUEL/FUEL SUPPLY..............................................................................................................................17
FUEL SYSTEM /LUBRICATION SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAM .............................................................18
FUEL SYSTEM CONNECTION DIAGRAM ..................................................................................................19
FUEL PUMP ADJUSTMENT........................................................................................................................20
STARTING GAS DIAGRAM .......................................................................................................................22
FILLING THE STARTING GAS TANK:........................................................................................................23
MOUNTING THE TURBINE.................................................................................................................24
POWER SUPPLY .......................................................................................................................................25
CHARGING THE BATTERY .......................................................................................................................25
GLOW PLUG ............................................................................................................................................25
GROUND SUPPORT UNIT (GSU) ........................................................................................................27
GSU CONTROL PANEL DESCRIPTIONS....................................................................................................27
GSU SWITCH DESCRIPTIONS ..................................................................................................................28
GSU LED DESCRIPTIONS........................................................................................................................28
THE LED I/O BOARD.............................................................................................................................29
JETCAT ECU VERSION 4.0 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................30
SETTING UP THE ECU..........................................................................................................................31
CALIBRATE THE TEMPERATURE PROBE...................................................................................................31
SETUP FAILSAFE MODE AND “LEARN RC”..............................................................................................32
SETTING THE FAILSAFE FOR JR PCM RECEIVERS –CALL JETCAT USA FOR FAILSAFE SETUP
PROCEDURES FOR OTHER RADIO BRANDS...............................................................................................32
TIME IN FAILSAFE (SECONDS).................................................................................................................33
NUMBER OF FAILSAFES...........................................................................................................................33
FAILSAFE DELAY.....................................................................................................................................33
FAILSAFE TIMEOUT .................................................................................................................................34
FAILSAFE RPM........................................................................................................................................34
5

“LEARN R/C”. TEACH THE ECU TO THE R/C SYSTEM ..............................................................34
TEST FUNCTIONS..................................................................................................................................37
TURBINE STARTING / RUNNING ......................................................................................................37
MANUAL STARTUP WITHOUT USING THE TRANSMITTER DIRECTLY FROM THE GSU..............................38
TURBINE STOPPING / COOL DOWN ................................................................................................39
MANUAL OFF ..........................................................................................................................................39
AUTOMATIC COOLING PROCESS.............................................................................................................39
TURBINE RUNNING STATES..............................................................................................................40
EXPLANATION OF THE TURBINE STATES ................................................................................................40
EXPLANATION FOR TURBINE SHUT DOWN .............................................................................................43
MENU STRUCTURE...............................................................................................................................44
MENU SELECTIONS .................................................................................................................................44
Selecting a Menu.................................................................................................................................44
Change Values / Items ........................................................................................................................44
THE RUN MENU .....................................................................................................................................45
THE MIN/MAX MENU .............................................................................................................................46
THE R/C CHECK MENU...........................................................................................................................47
THE INFO MENU ....................................................................................................................................47
THE STATISTIC-MENU.............................................................................................................................48
THE TEST FUNCTIONS MENU..................................................................................................................49
THE LIMITS MENU.................................................................................................................................49
HELICOPTER HEAD SPEED CONTROL MENU ............................................................................................51
THERE IS A SUB MENU IN THE TURBINE LIMITS MENU FOR ALTERING THE GEAR RATIO OF THE
HELICOPTER SO AS TO SET THE HEAD SPEED.ACCESS IT BY ENTERING THE TURBINE LIMITS MENU AS
BEFORE,THEN PRESS LIMITS AND +SIMULTANEOUSLY AND RELEASE...................................................51
U-ACCEL R1............................................................................................................................................51
:0.225 ......................................................................................................................................................51
U-IDLE R1 ...............................................................................................................................................51
:0.45 ........................................................................................................................................................51
U-ACCEL R2............................................................................................................................................51
:0.60 ........................................................................................................................................................51
U-IDLE R2 ...............................................................................................................................................51
:0.45 ........................................................................................................................................................51
NICAD CELLS...........................................................................................................................................51
6..............................................................................................................................................................51
NUMBER OF NICAD CELLS POWERING THE ECU. LEAVE AT 6IF USING 2LIPO CELLS ...........................51
RATIO TURB -> ROT................................................................................................................................51
9.73 .........................................................................................................................................................51
MAIN GEAR TO MOTOR RATIO.ADJUST BY PRESSING +/- KEYS WHILE HOLDING DOWN CHANGE VALUE.
SET THIS VALUE FOR YOUR HELICOPTER ................................................................................................51
RATIO TAIL-> ROT..................................................................................................................................51
4.53 .........................................................................................................................................................51
MAIN GEAR TO TAIL ROTOR RATIO.ADJUST BY PRESSING +/- KEYS WHILE HOLDING CHANGE VALUE
KEY DOWN.SET THIS VALUE FOR YOUR HELICOPTER.............................................................................51
PRESS THE +KEY TO SCROLL THROUGH UNTIL YOU REACH SHAFTHIR1:55,000 OR SOME OTHER
NUMBER.THE 55,000 IS THE RPM OF THE SECONDARY TURBINE AND WILL BE REDUCED BY THE
GEARBOX.BELOW THAT YOU WILL SEE ROT=1650 OR SOME OTHER NUMBER AND TAIL =7422 OR
6

SOME OTHER NUMBER.THIS IS THE HEAD SPEED AND TAIL ROTOR SPEED IN THE COMPUTER AT THE
MOMENT.TO CHANGE THE HEAD SPEED TO THE DESIRED VALUE,PRESS AND HOLD THE CHANGE VALUE
AND PRESS THE +OR –KEYS.THIS WILL CHANGE THE SHAFTHIR1 VALUE WHICH WILL IN TURN ALTER
THE ROT VALUE.SET THE SHAFTHIR1 VALUE SO THAT THE ROT VALUE EQUALS THE HEAD SPEED
YOU WANT.IF YOU ONLY WANT A SINGLE HEAD SPEED SETUP THEN THE AUX CONNECTION IS NOT
USED........................................................................................................................................................51
TROUBLESHOOTING ...........................................................................................................................53
REASON FOR SHUT-DOWN ......................................................................................................................54
MAINTENANCE......................................................................................................................................56
RESET THE ECU TO THE FACTORY DEFAULT VALUES............................................................................57
PARTS LIST .............................................................................................................................................59
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES.........................................................................................................................59
7

Introduction
Welcome to the Jet Age of model aircraft! JETCAT USA is pleased to sell, support and
service the JetCat turbine engine and greatly appreciates your purchase. We hope the
JetCat engine brings you many days of pleasurable flying.
Obviously, model turbine aviation - despite all the apparent fun involved - is serious
business. The JetCat engine has undergone extensive testing and redesign, in order
to ensure it is a safe and reliable model engine; however, it is not a recommended
power source for the average model builder. It requires a good background in model
flying and a working understanding of the principles of turbine engines, along with a
disciplined commitment to correct and safe operation, in accordance with these
instructions.
To begin, read this manual thoroughly. Develop an overall impression of the engine
and its operating procedures, measuring equipment and accessories. Study the
material step-by-step and ascertain how to install, operate and maintain your turbine
engine. If you are unsure about anything, re-read it again.
DO NOT OPERATE THE JetCat engine BEFORE YOU HAVE READ THE MANUAL
AND FULLY UNDERSTAND EVERY PROCEDURAL DETAIL
Should you still have doubts or questions, do not hesitate to contact JETCAT USA for
further assistance.
Once you are accustomed to handling the JetCat engine, you will observe that it is a
very reliable engine. Some experienced operators have expressed their belief that it
handles better than many piston engines. However, always remember this is a REAL
JET ENGINE, requiring knowledge, discipline and maintenance.
In order to learn more about the development of the model turbine engine and
understand its function, we highly recommend reading Gas Turbine Engines for Model
Aircraft by Kurt Schreckling and Model Jet Engines by Thomas Kamps. These books
are available through:
Traplet Publications
Traplet House
Severn Drive
Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire ISBN 0 9510589 1 6
United Kingdom WR8 0JL ISBN 0 9510589 9 1
8

Safety Precautions
If other persons or animals are present while operating the JetCat ENGINE, ALWAYS
ENFORCE THE PROPER MINIMUM SAFE DISTANCES FROM THE TURBINE!
The recommended minimum safe distances are:
In front of the turbine = 15 feet
On the side of the turbine = 25 feet
Behind the turbine = 15 feet
In case of a mishap, fire extinguishers should be on hand at all times. JETCAT USA
recommends the CO/2 variety. Powdered extinguishers will contaminate the precision
components, upsetting the integrity of the turbine.
To the avoid hearing damage, always use hearing protection when you are near a
running turbine engine!
When the turbine is running, never place your hands closer than six inches into the area
of the intake. An extreme suction - which can grasp a hand, fingers or other objects in
a flash - prevails in this area. Be aware of this source of danger, always!
Prevent foreign materials from entering the intake or exhaust when working with the
turbine. Before operation, make sure there are no lose parts or debris near the turbine.
Objects being sucked in can cause severe damage.
Always exercise caution around the hot parts of the turbine, to avoid burns. The outer
case at the turbine stage and nozzle reaches 450-500°(Celsius), while the exhaust gas
may exceed 720 °C.
Assure that the fuel is mixed with approximately 5% synthetic oil. Use only synthetic
turbine oils available at local airport fuel suppliers or from JETCAT USA.
Never run the turbine in a closed room, or an area near any kind of flammable matter.
Do not fly turbine-powered aircraft near flammable materials, nor in forested tracts or
areas experiencing drought or dryness. Obey all forest fire regulations and warnings by
refraining from operating the JetCat ENGINE in restricted fire zones. Never operate
model turbine jet aircraft in or around residential or heavily populated areas.
After running the turbine, briefly point the nose upward to assure that there is no fuel left
in the engine.
Installation of unauthorized parts from another manufacturing source may also result in
engine failure. Do not introduce engine or electronic components other than those
delivered by JETCAT USA, unless you are willing to risk destroying your turbine!
JETCAT USA’s parts are designed and engineered specifically for the JetCat SPH5.
Accept no substitutes, unless you are prepared to sacrifice your helicopter.
9

The Checklist
Before Running the Turbine
•Charge ECU Battery
•Prepare fire extinguisher
•Check fuel lines and filter. Make sure they are clean with no restrictions
•Check that the fuel tank vent is unobstructed
•Mix 5 % oil in fuel (i.e.: 1 quart per 5 gallons of kerosene)
•Fill fuel tank(s). Make sure the main and header tanks are full
•Be certain the starting gas release valve is closed, before filling the starting gas tank
•Turn on receiver switch
•Place the model with nose into the wind
•Start turbine
After Stopping the Turbine
•Turn model into the wind. Stop turbine
•After the cooling process (approximately two minutes), turn off receiver switch
•After each flying session, open starting gas release valve, to empty the tank, before
storing the model. This should be executed in a safe area
10

Fuel / Fuel Care
The JetCat engine can use deodorized kerosene, 1-K kerosene or Jet-A1 for fuel. Fuel
must be mixed with 5% synthetic turbine oil.
Example formula: 1 quart of oil in 5 gallons of fuel.
JetCat recommends Aeroshell 500 turbine oil.
Fuel System
The input and output fuel tubing must be connected to the electronic shut-off valve as per
the drawing. The tube from the pump, fuel in, is towards the heat shrink tubing covered coil.
The tube to the engine, fuel out, is towards the edge of the valve. It will not shut off if
connected incorrectly!
When installing the fuel lines on components with nipples, slightly warm the tubing before
connecting. This will soften the tube, making it easier to install. When installing tubing on a
metal tube, secure the tubing by placing a tie-wrap around the connection. To remove
tubing from nipples, you must cut the tubing off. Be careful not to damage the nipple when
cutting off tubing. To insert tubing into Festo quick release fittings, use firm pressure until
you feel the tube snap in. To release, press in on the front ring, while pulling the tubing out.
ALWAYS use a gasoline-compatible stopper. Silicon stoppers swell and leak.
Check your fuel filters every ten (10) flights. You may be surprised how rapidly they can
clog up! The filter is installed with the O-ring located toward the fuel pump.
1Extremely Important:
Use caution not to pinch o-ring when assembling filters. Clean any aluminum dust off and
lubricate threads before assembling.
We recommend mounting the fuel filter vertically. This will limit the possibility of air
being trapped inside and then coming out at an inopportune time. It is also better not
to affix it but to leave it free to slightly move.
When running the engine at full power, check the fuel line from the pump to the engine. If
there is a large quantity of air bubbles flowing with the fuel, there is probably a restriction in
the fuel system or an air leak in a fitting.
Be careful not to over-pressurize the kerosene tanks and the kerosene shut off valve during
refueling operations. You might pump a bit of raw fuel past the valve and into the turbine,
and subsequently have a wet (hot!) start. We are now requiring a manual
shutoff valve downstream of the automatic kerosene shutoff valve, as an additional
precaution.
11

Hopper Tank
A hopper tank is recommended, between the main fuel tank and the engine. JetCat USA
highly recommends the BVM UAT for the hopper tank!
Always use the filter between the fuel pump and the solenoid valve as shown in the
diagram. This is true even when using the BVM UAT! The pump will emit small
particles that can block the solenoid valve from completely closing!
Prime the pump and system.
To prime the fuel pump and fuel lines (or for fuel pump test purposes), it is necessary to
open the fuel shutoff valve and run the fuel pump manually. For this purpose, use the Test–
Functions Menu selection, Pump TestVolt. This test opens the fuel valve and acts as a
speed control for running the pump.
,Extremely Important:
Pump Test allows the fuel pump to operate without the turbine running. However, if the fuel
feed line is not removed from the turbine during this procedure; it will become flooded with
fuel. When this occurs, the next turbine start can become highly combustible!
Before activating the pump test mode, ALWAYS remove the fuel feed line connected
to the turbine.
Press the Change Value/Item key to run the pump. If you want to change the voltage the
pump runs at, press either the ◄- or ►+ while pressing the Change Value/Item key.
12

SPH5 Introduction
Helicopters with glow and gas engines will no longer have to miss the advantages of turbine
engines. The generally available high energy or torque power band of turbine engines, is now
accessible through the SPH5 turbine reduction gear.
Therefore, as in the full scale industry, turbine engines will play a more prominent role in the RC
scale helicopter world.
These turbine engines have the same working principles as the full scale turbine systems.
Core gas turbine
2nd stage turbine
Exhaust pipe
Fan Speed sensor of
the output shaft.
Connect to Exp
on the ECU
gearbox
The ECU controls the unit partially through the measurement of the rpm of the second stage turbine.
If the sensor for the second stage turbine is defective or not connected, the engine can be started (
up to 65 k rpm limited) but it will not reach its full rpm of 165 K rpm.
13

14
Checking of RPM sensor for the second stage turbine:
As soon as the sensor for the second stage turbine has been connected to the Exp connector on the
ECU it is ready to be tested.is ready to be tested.
Connect the GSU with LED- Board and switch the radio on. You will see the voltage of the turbine
battery indicated on the lower left side.
Connect the GSU with LED- Board and switch the radio on. You will see the voltage of the turbine
battery indicated on the lower left side.
Rotate the fan rapidly and the display will switch to indicate the fans rpm. If you wiggle the fan blade
with the magnet in it above the sensor it will show a fan rpm reading. It is a good idea to check
BOTH magnets are being detected by the sensor.
Rotate the fan rapidly and the display will switch to indicate the fans rpm. If you wiggle the fan blade
with the magnet in it above the sensor it will show a fan rpm reading. It is a good idea to check
BOTH magnets are being detected by the sensor.
Attention: Please never run the engine under an unloaded condition. It should be installed and drive
the main rotor head with the blades.
The maximum rpm of the turbine engine can be set in the “Limits-Menu
Should the rpm sensor fail during flight, the rpm will be limited to the maximum rpm the engine has
had during that flight.
Turbine battery
voltage/fan rpm

AUXTHR
RC
receiver
(Empfänger)
"phone"- cable
("Telefonkabel")
The sequence of these connections can be changed as required (parallel bus system)
(Die Reihenfolge der Verbindungen spielt keine Rolle --> paralleles Bussystem)
Connection - diagramm
(Verbindungsschema)
ECU top-view
(von oben)
NiCad
battery (6 cells)
(optional)
linked to a 3 position switch
on the RC-transmitter
(3-Stufenschalter)
Throttle stick
(Gaskanal)
Receiver-
battery
(Empfängerakku)
Receiver-
ON/OFF switch
(Empfängerschalter)
The ECU is automatically
powered up whenever the
receiver is switched on
(Die Elektronik schaltet sich automatisch EIN
sobald der Empfänger eingeschaltet wird)
Jet-tronic
Info Min/Max
Change
Value
Item
Select
Menu
Run Limits
++ -
Manual
Standby / Man.
Ignition
Ignition on
Pump running
OK / Reset...
Remote - GSU
"phone"- cable
("Telefonkabel")
LED I/O-
board
RS232
Adapter
PC
GSU =ground support unit
(Programmier- und Anzeigegerät)
Airspeed
Sensor air pressure
(Staudruck)
static pressure
(statischer Druck)
(optional)
Shut-off
valve
fuel
Shut-off
valve
propane
pitot-tube
(Staurohr)
6-wire phone cable to turbine
6-adriges Telefonkabel, zur Turbine
6-wire phone cable
6-adriges Telefonkabel
Fuzzylogic
Microcomputer-Control
Battery
:7,2V
-
+
6CellsTemp.&Rpm
Sensor
Propane
Airspeed
Jet-tronic -II- P80
Smoker
Shut-Off
valves
Data-BUS
V2.0
Fuel
-
+
-
+
(connecttoturbine)
15

16
Connection - diagramm (2/2)
(Verbindungsschema)
ECU bottom-view
(von unten)
Glow-plug
Starter device
Fuel-pump
Outputs are unfused !
max. 12A
F
u
zzylo
gic
Microcomputer-Control
Jet-tronic -II- P80
-
To turbine (3 wire cable)
(Zur Turbine 3-adriges Kabel)
Fuelpump
(Kraftstoffpumpe)
Gas valve
(Propane
Fuel valve
1 or 2 connections
to the Rx
Fuel
p
um
p

Connect fuel
valve to bottom
connector
Connect gas valve to
bottom connector below
airspeed input
Turbine battery
All the components ( starter, glowplug, ECU, fuel pump etc) are powered by a single 6 cell
battery which is connected directly to the ECU.
Caution It is not permitted to under any circumstances to fit a switch in the battery cable.
The ECU power supply is switched on automatically when the receiver is powered on. During
each flight (duration 10 minutes or so including start up and cool down sequences) the battery
has to supply 300-400mAH. On the early 1250 mAH batteries, a recharge every 3 flights is
necessary. Later batteries are of 2400mAH capacity and can power 5-6 flights maximum. More
often is preferable for safety.
Charging the turbine battery
Under normal circumstances the turbine battery should be disconnected for charging, however,
leaving it connected and using a Y-lead is acceptable as long as the charger does not reverse
the supply for testing the batteries charge level.. Under no circumstances should the charger be
connected to the ECU without a battery being present.
Attention: As of the ECU Software version 5.00J you can, within the Limits Menu, select the
type of battery. The available options are NiCad (minimum of 2400 mAH) or LiPo (minimum of
3300 mAH). The standard setting is NiCad
Fuel/fuel supply
Suitable fuels are Kerosene or Jet A-1 aviation fuel to which turbine oil must be added at the
rate of 5%.
Approximate formula 1 quart oil to 5 gallons kerosene.
Special turbine oil should always be used as lubricant e.g Aeroshell 500 or Exxon turbine oil.
17

Please note that not all types of turbine oil mix with petroleum.
Fuel system / lubrication system connection diagram
Reducer/filter
Caution! Mount this
pipe at least 5cm
from the
engine/exhaust pipe
and secure it so it
cannot possibly touch
hot parts!
Gearbox
lubrication
connection
Fuel feed
from pump
18

Fuel System Connection Diagram
Main Tank(s)
Brass clunk
Vent
To Turbine Fuel
Connection
Tank Fill
(Kerosene)
Neoprene
Stopper !
Note: All tubing 4mm(except as noted)
in
out
Fuel
Pump
Kerosene Shut Off
Valve
Safety Petcock
!open before starting
turbine!
Filter
BVM
UAT
1/4 inch section of 4 mm
tubing acts as an adapter for
large BVM UAT tubing
BVM UAT supplied tubing
BVM UAT supplied plug
The UAT is available from JetCat USA,LLC or Bob Violett Models, Florida (407) 327-
6333.
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Fuel pump adjustment
After the turbine has ignited on propane, the starter motor further accelerates the
turbine. At approx. 5000 RPM, the fuel pump is automatically started at minimum power
by the ECU. Beginning from this first pump start voltage, the fuel flow is then slowly
increased by increasing the pump voltage.
The initial pump voltage that the pump is supplied immediately after ignition has been
factory adjusted. If the fuel pump is changed or after several turbine runs the pump is
breaking in thus delivering too much fuel at start-up causing long flames behind the
turbine exhaust, it might be necessary to readjust the pump start voltage.
For adjustment of the pump start voltage, the ECU incorporates a special adjustment
function, which can be accessed as follows:
Interrupt fuel supply to the turbine. If the fuel supply to the turbine is not disconnected /
interrupted the turbine can be “filled” with fuel during the following adjustment
procedure!!! ÆDanger of a “Hot Start”
Switch off ECU and plug in GSU (RC transmitter is not being used)
Press and hold the key “Change Value/Item” on the GSU and switch on the ECU
Release the “Change Value/Item” when the display of the GSU shows the following:
Pump start volt.
Uaccelr1:
By pressing the “Run” key will run the pump at the current start voltage value.
To increase the pump start voltage by one increment, press the ►+ key.
To decrease the pump start voltage by one increment, press the ◄- key.
The pump start voltage should now be adjusted in such a manner, that the pump just
begins to steadily turn and that the fuel is delivered in a thin fuel stream (a little bit more
than just dripping out of the tubing). To test this, press the “Run” key several times to
check that the pump starts steadily running on different pump rotor positions.
Normal values for the pump start voltage are between 0.100 and 0.325V.
Important:
At the end of the adjustment procedure press the “Manual” key to store the new setting
and resume to normal operation.
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