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The balance point of the Xcalibur is 160mm back from
the leading edge at the root of the wing panels, this
should be measured with the undercarriage extended
and with any header tank (if used) full.
Balancing the Xcalibur
We recommend the use of a long runway for first flights, particularly if this is the first jet model you
have flown. The Xcalibur a good sized model with a matching performance, so it can cover a great
deal of sky in flight – having a long runway and plenty of available air space makes the early flights
much safer and more enjoyable.
Do carry out thorough range checks before flying, both with the turbine shut down and running,
and check for any radio interference caused by the turbine, throughout the rpm range. Also check
all the controls, ensuring that they operate in the correct direction and with the correct movements,
and that there is no slop or lost motion in any of the linkages. Check that all clevises and ball joints
are secure. Any clevises being used must have keepers fitted for added security. Finally check the
retracts to make sure they are operating correctly and that no air leaks have developed.
Once happy, refill the fuel and air tanks, and once the turbine is running check that it will hold full
power without any air appearing in the fuel lines which could then result in a flameout on take-off.
Taxi the model out to the runway being used – although flap can be used for take off we suggest
that this is not done for first flights. If the nosewheel is correctly trimmed then no rudder application
should be required during the early stages of the take off run unless taking off cross wind, and once
at flying speed a small amount of up elevator is all that is required to allow the model to lift off,
whereupon we suggest that the landing gear can be retracted and the model allowed to climb to
circuit height. Once at a comfortable height power should be reduced, as the model will quickly
build speed being a clean low drag airframe, generally around half power is ample to maintain a
comfortable cruise speed.
Fine trimming can now be carried out, and once the model is correctly trimmed we suggest that a
few handling manoeuvres are performed at a safe height, for example turns in both directions, slow
flight, a clean stall, etc, etc. When happy with the handling of the model it is recommended that the
model be slowed down, the undercarriage lowered and flap applied into landing configuration and
a simulated landing approach is flown at a safe height, so that descent rates and flight attitudes at
various throttle setting can be observed. With this completed the model can be flown through basic
and advanced aerobatics until it is time to land.
The Xcalibur is a fairly simple model to land, a normal approach should be flown to stabilise the
model and slow it enough to lower the undercarriage, once aligned with the runway the flap can
be lowered in stages until full flap is applied – note that more power will be required due to the
increased drag of the flap. You will find that the Xcalibur is very stable in the landing configuration
Flying Notes
160mm
