miniature aircraft X-Cell Stratus User manual

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 2 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Table Of Contents
REVISIONS TO THIS MANUAL .........................................................................................................................................................3
ERRATA ..................................................................................................................................................................................................3
KIT INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................................................................4
R/C HELICOPTER SAFETY.......................................................................................................................................................................4
GUIDELINES FOR SAFE R/C HELICOPTER FLIGHT ...................................................................................................................................4
X-CELL LIMITED WARRANTY...............................................................................................................................................................5
WARRANTY PROCEDURES ......................................................................................................................................................................5
X-CELL STRATUS WARRANTY REGISTRATION.......................................................................................................................................5
KIT ASSEMBLY.....................................................................................................................................................................................6
Supplies Needed for Assembly ...........................................................................................................................................................6
Adhesives Needed...............................................................................................................................................................................6
Tools Needed for Assembly................................................................................................................................................................7
Assembly Tips ....................................................................................................................................................................................7
UNBAGGED PARTS..................................................................................................................................................................................8
Kit Box ...............................................................................................................................................................................................8
LOWER FRAME ASSEMBLY...................................................................................................................................................................10
Bag 1 – Bottom Plate Components ..................................................................................................................................................10
Bag 2 – Engine Specific Components ..............................................................................................................................................17
UPPER FRAME ASSEMBLY ....................................................................................................................................................................40
Bag 3 – Left Upper Frame Components..........................................................................................................................................40
Bag 4 – Right Upper Frame Components........................................................................................................................................73
UPPER/LOWER FRAME ASSEMBLY .......................................................................................................................................................93
CONTROL SYSTEM ASSEMBLY..............................................................................................................................................................97
Bag 5 – Upper Control System Components....................................................................................................................................97
Bag 6 – Lower Control System/Canopy Components....................................................................................................................106
CANOPY ASSEMBLY ...........................................................................................................................................................................121
ROTOR HEAD ASSEMBLY ...................................................................................................................................................................127
Bag 7 – Rotor Head Components...................................................................................................................................................127
TAIL ROTOR ASSEMBLY .....................................................................................................................................................................149
Bag 8 – Tail Rotor Components.....................................................................................................................................................149
TAIL BOOM ASSEMBLY ......................................................................................................................................................................160
Bag 9 – Tail Boom Components.....................................................................................................................................................160
Bag 10 – Tail Rotor Components...................................................................................................................................................162
FINAL ASSEMBLY ...............................................................................................................................................................................178
ROTOR BLADES................................................................................................................................................................................178
SETUP INSTRUCTIONS...................................................................................................................................................................179
FINAL INSPECTION.........................................................................................................................................................................181
PRE-FLIGHT INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................................................................................................................181
INITIAL TRIMMING INSTRUCTIONS .........................................................................................................................................182
MAINTENANCE ITEMS...................................................................................................................................................................183
CANOPY CUT-OUT TEMPLATE – NO MUFFLER.....................................................................................................................185
CANOPY CUT-OUT TEMPLATE – WITH HATORI SB16/SB17................................................................................................186

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 3 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Revisions to this Manual
•10/01/05 – Version 1.2 - Revisions for final kitting modifications
•10/08/05 – Version 1.3 – Added Canopy Cut-Out Template
•11/01/05 - Version 1.3 – Added Canopy Cut-Out with Muffler
For the most current version of this manual, please refer to
www.miniatureaircraftusa.com, visit the Stratus helicopter kit and download the
assembly manual
Errata
None Noted

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 4 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Kit Introduction
R/C Helicopter Safety
A radio controlled model helicopter is a technically complex device that must be built and operated with
care. It is also a fascinating and challenging part of the R/C sport, the mastery of which is very rewarding.
A model helicopter must be built exactly in accordance with the building instructions. The kit manufacturer
has spent much time and effort refining his product to make it reliable in operation and easy to build. The
essentially bolt together construction can proceed quite rapidly, giving the builder a strong sense of
accomplishment that encourages hasty progress from one construction phase to the next, so that the
completed model can be more quickly seen and enjoyed. It is essential to recognize and guard against this
tendency. Follow building instructions exactly. Vibration and stress levels are high and all fasteners and
attachments must be secure for safe operation.
Note that this is the first use of the word SAFETY in these comments. Previously the kit manufacturer’s
efforts to ensure reliable operation were mentioned. That is ALL that he can do. Safe operation is the
responsibility of the builder/flyer and starts with careful construction and continues with selection and
installation of reliable radio equipment and engine.
The need for safety is nowhere greater than at the flying field. A number of guidelines for safe flight have
been developed by experienced flyers and are set down here. It is urged that they be read, understood
and followed.
Guidelines for Safe R/C Helicopter Flight
•Fly only at approved flying fields and obey field regulations.
•Follow frequency control procedures. Interference can be dangerous to all.
•Know your radio. Check all transmitter functions before each flight.
•Be aware that rotating blades are very dangerous and can cause serious injury.
•Never fly near or above spectators or other modelers.
•If a beginner, get help trimming the model first and flight training later.
•Don’t “track” the main blades by holding the tail boom. This is a temptation to builders who cannot
hover yet and is very dangerous.
•Follow all recommended maintenance procedures for model, radio and engine.
WARNING!
This helicopter is not a toy, but a complex flying machine that must be assembled with care by a
responsible individual. Failure to exert care in assembly, or radio or accessory installation, may result in a
model incapable of safe flight or ground operation. Rotating components are an ever present danger and
source of injury to operators and spectators. Since the manufacturer and his agents have no control over
the proper assembly and operation of his products, no responsibility or liability can be assumed for their
use.

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 5 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
X-CELL Limited Warranty
The warranty covers defects in material or workmanship or missing components to the original purchaser
for 30 days from the date of purchase. Miniature Aircraft, USA will replace or repair, at our discretion, the
defective or missing component. Defective components must be returned to us prior to replacement.
Any part, which has been improperly installed, abused, crash damaged or altered by unauthorized
agencies, is not covered. Under no circumstances will the buyer be entitled to consequential or incidental
damages. The components used in this kit are made form special materials designed for special
applications and design strengths. We recommend that all replacement parts be original parts
manufactured by Miniature Aircraft, USA, to ensure proper and safe operation of your model. Any part
used which was manufactured by any firm other than Miniature Aircraft, USA, VOIDS all warrantees of this
product by Miniature Aircraft, USA.
Warranty Procedures
Mail all warranty information within 15 days of original purchase date. If service is required, send the
component in question (if not missing) together with a photocopy of your bill of sale and an accurate
description of the problem and part. Ship components fully insured and prepaid. Miniature Aircraft, USA is
not responsible for any shipping damages. We will, at our discretion, notify you of any costs involved, or
ship it COD. You are required to pay all postage, shipping and insurance charges.
X-Cell Stratus Warranty Registration
Please print or type, filling in the information listed below and mail immediately
Model No:____________ Serial No:____________ Price paid:___________________
Owners name:______________________________ Age_______________________
Address:____________________________________ Phone:___________________
City:_______________________ State:____________ Zip:___________________
Purchased from: ________________________________________________________
Dealer’s address ________________________________________________________
Comments: ____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
MINIATURE AIRCRAFT USA
31713 Long Acres Drive
Sorrento, FL 32776
Phone [phone]
FAX [phone]

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 6 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Kit Assembly
In order to assemble this kit, you will need a number of additional supplies and tools to ensure the best
final result. They are as follows:
Supplies Needed for Assembly
Blue Thread
Lock Red Thread Lock Green Thread Lock Oil Grease
Adhesives Needed
Slow
Cyanoacrylate JB Weld

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 7 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Tools Needed for Assembly
M5 Nut Driver
M5.5 Nut Driver
M7 Nut Driver
M4 Nut Driver
1.5mm allen driver
2.0mm allen driver
2.5mm allen driver
3.0mm allen driver
Needle Nose Pliers
Phillips Screwdriver #1
Flat Screwdriver 2.5mm
Razor Knife (Xacto)
8.0mm wrench
5.5mm wrench
4.0mm wrench
Assembly Tips
•Follow the instructions. The methods of construction documented in this manual have been proven
to work.
•Follow the order of assembly. The instructions have been organized into major sections and have
been written in such a way that each step builds upon the work done in the previous step.
Changing the order of assembly may result in unnecessary steps
•The photos in this manual are organized within each stop to correspond with the order of assembly.
The sequence of the photos within a step, is from top to bottom and from left to right.
•Clean all metal parts: All of the steel parts in this kit are coated with a lubricant to prevent them
from rusting. This coating can interfere with the adhesives and thread locks needed for assembly.
Use a solvent such as alcohol or acetone to clean the various metal parts, especially threads
•Use thread lock as indicated. Model helicopters are subject to vibration and failing to use thread
lock on any non-locking assembly may result in a part becoming loose or falling off

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 8 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Unbagged Parts
This section documents the parts found in the kit box which are not common to other bags
Kit Box
Kit Box Contents

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 9 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Box parts list
1 122-90 Canopy
1 126-100 Assembly Instructions – CD-ROM
1 126-85 Decal Set

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 10 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Lower Frame Assembly
This section describes the assembly of the lower frame assembly
Bag 1 – Bottom Plate Components
Bag 1
Bag 1A parts list
2 0151 Struts
1 0548-5 Fan Shroud (right & left)
2 122-39 Skids
1 126-20 Carbon Main Base Plate

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 11 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 1B
Bag 1C

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 12 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 1B parts list
4 0008 M3.5 washer
4 0009 M3 Washer – large
4 0021 M4 Locknut
4 0060-1 M3 x 6 Socket Head bolt
2 0063 M3 x 10 Socket Head bolt
2 0067 M3 x 14 Socket Head bolt
4 0068 M3.5 x 15 Socket Head bolt
4 0080 M4 x 14 Socket Head bolt
1 0331 Shim Washer M13x.50
1 0546-11 Y.S. Upper Collet
2 0546-16 Clutch Dampers

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 13 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
1 0546-5 O.S. Upper Collet
1 0546-6 Brass Base Collet
1 0579-4 Fan Unit
2 126-23 Carbon Motor Side Mounts
2 126-86 Rectangular Blocks

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 14 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 1C parts list
1 0011 M5 Washer
1 0013 M5 Hex nut
1 0397 Fuel Line – 18” – outside of tank
1 0405 Fuel Vent
1 0408 Fuel Fitting nipple
1 0409 90° Fuel Fitting
1 115-30 5/8” Velcro – 28.5” length
1 115-65 Fuel Line – 3” – inside of tank
2 126-27 Rubber Tank Bump-ons
1 4295 Fuel Magnet

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 15 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 1D
Bag 1D content
4 0009 M3 Washer – small
4 0019 M3 Locknuts
5 0029 M2.2 x 9.5 Phillips screw
4 0058-1 M4 x 6 Socket Set Screws
6 0060-1 M3 x 6 Socket head bolt

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 16 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
4 0063 M3 x 10 Socket head bolt
4 0065 M3 x 12 Socket head bolt
4 0073 M3 x 20 Socket Head bolt
2 0586-16 Corner Blocks
2 126-26 “A” Frame Supports
2 126-73 Lower Graphite Shroud Brackets

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 17 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 2 – Engine Specific Components
Bag 2 - YS Bag 2A
Bag 2B
Bag 2C

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 18 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 2A - YS parts list
1 126-28 Main Motor Base Plate – YS
1 126-29 Adapter Plate – YS
1 126-52 Pressurized Fuel Tank
Bag 2B – YS parts list
1 0865-93 93 tooth main drive gear
Bag 2C - YS parts list
2 126-44 8.45 upper clutch plates (Right & left)
2 126-45 8.45 lower clutch plates (Right & left)

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 19 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 2 - OS Bag 2A
Bag 2B
Bag 2C

Assembly Manual for XCell Stratus Kits #1026
Created: 11/1/2005 Copyright Miniature Aircraft USA Page 20 Of 188
This document may not be distributed without permission of Miniature Aircraft USA
Bag 2A - OS parts list
1 126-21 Non-Pressurized Fuel Tank
1 126-24 Main Motor Base Plate – OS
1 126-25 Adapter Plate – OS
Bag 2B – OS parts list
1 0865-90 90 tooth main drive gear
Bag 2C - OS parts list
2 126-40 8.18 upper clutch plates (Right & left)
2 126-41 8.18 lower clutch plates (Right & left)