Modeltech Yak 54 User manual

Page 1 Kit Product Number MT3173E
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Made in China
FEATURES
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Wing Span: 66.5 Inches (1690mm) lWing Area: 875 Square Inches (56.45dm2) lLength: 65 Inches (1650mm)
Weight RTF: 8.5 to 10 Pounds (3.85 to 4.53kg) lWing Loading: ~23 Ounces/Square Foot (~68gr/dm2)
Functions: Ailerons, Elevator, Rudder, and Throttle lEngine Required: 1.00 to 1.35 Two-Stroke or 1.20 to 1.40 Four-Stroke
lPrecision-Built, CAD-Designed Airframe for Light Weight and High Strength
lLaser-Cut, Balsa and Plywood Construction
l Fiberglass Cowl and Wheel Pants
l Aluminium Landing Gear Brackets
l Two-Piece Plug-In Wing Panels with Aluminium Wing Joiner Tube
l Pull-Pull Elevator (or Optional Push-Pull) and Pull-Pull Rudder Control Linkages
l Removable Top Deck Canopy for Easy Radio Compartment Access
l Accepts a Wide Range of Engine Sizes
SPECIFICATIONS
Model Tech Co., Ltd.
Hong Kong
© 2008, Model Tech Co., Ltd.
All Rights Reserved
Version 1 November 2008
Optimized for Precision 3D aerobatics, the Model Tech Yak 54 ARF has enlarged and modied control surfaces to enhance control
response at low-airspeed and high-alpha. Wrung out by Model Tech test pilots in months of testing, the Yak 54 ARF has already proven
to be a stunning performer. You'll nd this Yak 54 ARF is perfectly 3D capable when matched with a YS 110 or Magnum 120 four-stroke
and is insanely overpowered with an engine such as the Mark/Moki 1.35 two-stroke. And regardless of the engine chosen, you can nd
proper balance more easily due to the multiple choices for servo positions and linkages. Exciting, yet well-behaved, this Yak 54 ARF
will have you in the air and pushing the envelope like never before.

Page 2
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These assembly instructions are designed to guide you through the entire assembly process of your new aircraft in the least amount of
time possible. Along the way you'll learn how to properly assemble your new aircraft and also learn tips that will help you in the future.
We have listed some of our recommendations below. Please read through them before beginning assembly.
lPlease read through each step before beginning assembly. You
should nd the layout very complete and straightforward. Our goal
is to guide you through assembly without any of the headaches
and hassles that you might expect.
lThere are check boxes next to each procedure. After you
complete a procedure, check off the box. This will help prevent
you from losing your place.
lCover your work table with brown paper or a soft cloth, both to
protect the table and to protect the parts.
lKeep a couple of small bowls or jars handy to put the small parts
in after you open the accessory bags.
lWe're all excited to get a new aircraft in the air, but take your
time. This will ensure you build a straight, strong and great ying
aircraft.
lIf you come across this symbol +, it means that this is an
important point or an assembly hint.
This R/C aircraft is not a toy! If misused or abused, it can cause serious bodily injury and/or damage to property. Fly only in open
areas and preferably at a dedicated R/C ying site. We suggest having a qualied instructor carefully inspect your aircraft before its rst
ight. Please carefully read and follow all instructions included with this aircraft, your radio control system and any other components
purchased separately.
Model Tech guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date of purchase. This does not cover
any component parts damaged by use, misuse or modication. In no case shall Model Tech's liability exceed the original cost of
the purchased kit.
In that Model Tech has no control over the nal assembly or material used for nal assembly, no liability shall be assumed for any
damage resulting from the use by the user of the nal user-assembled product. By the act of using the nal user-assembled product,
the user accepts all resulting liability.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
SAFETY WARNING
OUR GUARANTEE
THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM INSTALLATION ..................................................21
ELEVATOR CONTROL SYSTEM INSTALLATION (PUSH-PULL OPTION) ............ 22
ELEVATOR CONTROL SYSTEM INSTALLATION (PULL-PULL OPTION) ............. 25
RUDDER CONTROL SYSTEM INSTALLATION......................................................28
AILERON CONTROL SYSTEM INSTALLATION ..................................................... 31
COWL INSTALLATION.............................................................................................32
FLYING WIRES INSTALLATION..............................................................................34
FINAL ASSEMBLY.................................................................................................... 36
C/G AND BALANCING.............................................................................................38
LATERAL BALANCING ............................................................................................ 38
CONTROL THROWS ............................................................................................... 38
AIRCRAFT SETUP INFORMATION......................................................................... 39
PREFLIGHT CHECK AND SAFETY ........................................................................ 40
TRIM CHART ...........................................................................................................41
PRODUCT EVALUATION SHEET............................................................................ 43
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................... 2
SAFETY WARNING .................................................................................................. 2
OUR GUARANTEE ................................................................................................... 2
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................................................... 3
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES REQUIRED ....................................................................... 4
A NOTE ABOUT COVERING MATERIAL ................................................................. 4
TIPS FROM THE PROS............................................................................................ 4
KIT CONTENTS ........................................................................................................ 5
REPLACEMENT PARTS ........................................................................................... 7
WING ASSEMBLY..................................................................................................... 8
WING MOUNTING .................................................................................................. 10
STABILISER INSTALLATION...................................................................................11
TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION.................................................................................. 15
MAIN LANDING GEAR INSTALLATION ................................................................. 16
ENGINE INSTALLATION......................................................................................... 18
FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION....................................................... 19

Page 3
This section describes our recommendations to help you in deciding which types of accessories to purchase for your new aircraft.

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QTY. 1 Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS 2.4GHz Radio Control System
QTY. 1 Magnum XL 1.20RFS Four-Stroke Engine
QTY. 4 Airtronics 94162z High-Torque Metal Gear Ball Bearing Servos
QTY. 1 Airtronics 94358z High-Torque Metal Gear Ball Bearing Servo
QTY. 1 Airtronics 94102z Standard Servo
QTY. 4 Airtronics 12" (305mm) Servo Extensions*
QTY. 1 Magnum 2-3/4" (70mm) Aluminium Spinner
QTY. 1 APC 16 x 6 Composite Propeller
QTY. 1 Thunderbolt 4-Cycle Glow Plug
QTY. 1 Magnum Fueling Valve
QTY. 1 Global Silicone Fuel Tubing
QTY. 1 Du-Bro 1/4" Foam Rubber
QTY. 1 Monokote Opaque White Covering Material
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
WHAT GLOW ENGINE SHOULD I USE?
HERE'S A LIST OF WHAT WE RECOMMEND TO FINISH THE YAK 54 ARF
WHAT RADIO CONTROL SYSTEM AND SERVOS SHOULD I USE?
To get the most out of the aircraft, we suggest using a higher-end digital
programmable radio control system, such as the Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS
2.4GHz radio control system or the Futaba 7C FASST 2.4GHz radio control
system. Either of these two radio control systems will provide the advanced
features that most iers want for this type of aircraft.
Because of the size of the aircraft and the large control surfaces, you must use
high-torque ball bearing servos. For crisp, positive control, we suggest using
high-quality, dual ball bearing servos with a minimum of 100oz/in of torque on
the ailerons and the elevator halves. We suggest using a high-quality, dual ball
bearing servo with a minimum of 150oz/in of torque on the rudder. For throttle
control, a standard ball bearing servo can be used. We suggest using Airtronics
94162z servos for the ailerons and the elevator halves, an Airtronics 94358z
servo for the rudder, and an Airtronics 94102z servo for the throttle. Both the ailerons and the elevator halves use dual servos*.
*If your radio control system is not capable of mixing the two elevator servos to move the same direction, the use of an electronic servo
reverser will be necessary.
There really isn't too much else that you'll need to nish your Yak 54 ARF. You'll need a fueling valve, a 2-3/4" (70mm) aluminium
spinner, and propeller and a glow plug to suit your engine. You'll also need typical modeling supplies, such as foam rubber to protect
your receiver and battery. White covering material will also be required to seal the aileron and elevator hinge gaps.
WHAT OTHER ITEMS DO I NEED?
*The Yak 54 ARF allows the option of mounting the two elevator servos in the back of the fuselage (if using a heavier engine), or under the cockpit deck
(if using a lighter engine). If you mount the elevator servos under the cockpit deck, servo extensions should not be necessary.
The Yak 54 ARF can be own using either a 1.00 to 1.35 size two-stroke engine or a 1.20 to 1.40 size four-stroke
engine. The aircraft will y great using either type of engine within the recommended size range, although for
the best aerobatic performance, we suggest using an engine at the high end of the suggested size range.
For the best ight performance, we suggest trying to keep the ready-to-y weight of the aircraft as light as possible.
Using an engine that's bigger than recommended will only add extra weight to the aircraft, negating any of
the extra power from the larger engine and increasing the wing loading. In most cases, you'll get better ight
performance from a lightweight but powerful engine, than from simply a higher displacement engine. We don't
suggest using an engine that's outside of the recommended size range.
Whether you're going to use a two-stroke engine or a four-stroke engine, the engine will be mounted on
its side. If you're using a two-stroke engine, you will need to use an after-market Pitt's style mufer
to direct the exhaust out the bottom of the cowl. If you're using a four-stroke engine, the exhaust
header on most engines can be rotated down to allow the stock mufer to exit the bottom of the
cowl, so no after-market mufer should be necessary.

Page 4
qStraight Edge Ruler
qPencil
qBuilder's Triangle
q220 Grit Sandpaper
qSanding Block
qRotary Tool with Cutting Disc and Sanding Drum
qMasking Tape
qAirplane Stand
qMachine Oil or Petroleum Jelly
qT-Pins
qPaper Towels
qRubbing Alcohol
qEpoxy Mixing Sticks
qEpoxy Mixing Cups
qHeat Gun
qHeat-Sealing Iron
q5 Minute and 30 Minute Epoxy
qThin and Thick Cyanoacrylate (C/A)
qC/A Debonder
qThread Locking Compound
qFormula 560 Canopy Glue
qSilicon Sealant
q# 1 and # 2 Phillips Head Screwdrivers
q2.5mm and 3mm Hex Wrenches
q5.5mm and 7mm Nut Drivers
qWire Cutters
qAdjustable Wrenches (2)
qNeedle Nose Pliers
qModeling Knife
qScissors
qElectric Drill
qAssorted Drill Bits
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES REQUIRED
The covering material used on your aircraft is iron-on, heat-shrink covering material. It is possible with heat and humidity changes that
the covering material on your aircraft may wrinkle or sag. This trait is inherent in all types of heat-shrink material. To remove any wrinkles
that might be visible you will need to use a heat-sealing covering iron.
qPlug in and turn on your heat-sealing iron to the medium-high temperature setting. Allow your heat-sealing iron to heat up for
approximately 5~7 minutes.
qAfter your heat-sealing iron has reached temperature, lightly apply your heat-sealing iron to the wrinkled section of the covering
material. Move your heat-sealing iron slowly over the wrinkled section until the covering material tightens and the wrinkles disappear.
+If the colour layer smears from any of the seams the temperature of your heat-sealing iron is too hot. Turn the temperature dial
down and wait about 5 minutes for your heat-sealing iron to adjust to the lower temperature. You can remove any excess colour streaks
using a paper towel soaked with a small quantity of acetone.
A NOTE ABOUT COVERING MATERIAL
lDuring the covering process, sometimes colour may smear slightly from the seams. If you see any smeared colours on the covering
material, they can be quickly removed by simply wiping them off with a paper towel and a small amount of acetone.
l Make sure to test-t the parts together before applying glue. This will ensure that the parts t properly before gluing them together.
lWhen gluing anything that has a smooth surface, it's important to lightly roughen the gluing surfaces with 220 grit sandpaper. This
will allow the glue to stick better. Also, never glue directly to the covering material. Always remove the covering material from the gluing
surfaces prior to gluing the parts together.
lWhen cutting away the covering material from the gluing surfaces, be careful to cut only through the covering material. Try not to cut
down into the balsa structure because that can compromise the integrity of the airframe.
lWe do not suggest storing your aircraft in an extremely hot environment (like the back of your car in direct sunlight) for any length of
time. The extreme heat could cause the covering material to wrinkle or sag and possibly damage the fragile components of the radio
control system and/or battery.
lEpoxy can be cleaned up before it dries using rubbing alcohol, and C/A can be cleaned up before it dries using C/A Debonder.
l The control surfaces in your kit may be held in place for packaging purposes using temporary cloth hinges. These hinges should be
discarded after you remove the control surfaces from the ying surfaces.
TIPS FROM THE PROS

Page 5
Before you begin assembly, group the parts as we list them below. This will ensure that you have all of the parts before you begin assembly
and it will also help you become familiar with each part.
q(1) Fuselage with Cockpit Deck
q(1) Right Wing Panel with Aileron
q(1) Left Wing Panel with Aileron
q(1) Horizontal Stabiliser with Elevator Halves
q(1) Vertical Stabiliser with Rudder
q(1) Fiberglass Cowl
q(1) Tinted Canopy
q(2) Fiberglass Wheel Pants
q(2) Main Landing Gear Brackets
q(2) Main Gear Wheels
q(2) Threaded Axles
q(2) M8 Lock Nuts
q(6) M4 x 12mm Socket-Cap Screws
q(2) M3 x 10mm Machine Screws
q(6) M4 Flat Washers
q(2) M3 Blind Nuts
q(4) Wheel Collars
q(4) Grub Screws
KIT CONTENTS
AIRFRAME ASSEMBLIES
MAIN LANDING GEAR ASSEMBLY
q(1) Tail Wheel Wire
q(1) Tail Wheel
q(1) Nylon Tail Wheel Mounting Bracket
q(1) Nylon Steering Arm
q(3) M3 x 12mm Wood Screws
q(1) M2 x 12mm Wood Screw
q(3) Wheel Collars
q(2) Grub Screws
q(1) M3 x 6mm Socket-Cap Screw
TAIL WHEEL ASSEMBLY


q(2) Stranded Cables
q(2) M3 x 70mm Threaded Rods
q(4) Nylon Adjustable Control Horns
q(4) Threaded Couplers
q(4) Z-Bend Couplers
q(4) Metal Clevises - 2mm Thread
q(8) Crimp Collets
q(4) M3 Flat Washers
q(4) M3 Lock Nuts
q(4) M2 Hex Nuts
q(4) Pinned Hinges
ELEVATOR CONTROL SYSTEM (PULL-PULL OPTION)

Page 6
q(2) 2-3/8" (60mm) Threaded Pushrod Wires
q(2) M3 x 50mm Machine Screws
q(2) Nylon Adjustable Control Horns
q(4) Metal Clevises - 3mm Thread
q(4) M3 Flat Washers
q(2) M3 Lock Nuts
q(4) M3 Hex Nuts
q(8) Pinned Hinges
AILERON CONTROL SYSTEM
q(2) 8-1/2" (216mm) Threaded Pushrod Wires
q(2) M3 x 40mm Machine Screws
q(4) Metal Clevises - 3mm Thread
q(4) M3 Hex Nuts
ELEVATOR CONTROL SYSTEM (PUSH-PULL OPTION)
q(1) Stranded Cable
q(1) M3 x 70mm Threaded Rod
q(2) Nylon Adjustable Control Horns
q(2) Threaded Couplers
q(2) Z-Bend Couplers
q(2) Metal Clevises - 2mm Thread
q(4) Crimp Collets
q(2) M3 Flat Washers
q(2) M3 Lock Nuts
q(2) M2 Hex Nuts
q(3) Pinned Hinges
RUDDER CONTROL SYSTEM
q(1) 18" (457mm) Pushrod Wire with Z-Bend
q(1) Adjustable Pushrod Connector with Nut and Grub Screw
THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM
q(2) Aluminium Engine Mounting Beams
q(4) M4 x 35mm Socket-Cap Screws
q(4) M4 x 25mm Socket-Cap Screws
q(4) M4 Lock Nuts
q(4) M4 Blind Nuts
q(4) M4 Split Washers
q(12) M4 Flat Washers
ENGINE MOUNT ASSEMBLY
q(1) Stranded Cable
q(7) Aluminium Brackets
q(8) Metal Eyelets
q(3) M3 x 25mm Machine Screws
q(8) M3 x 10mm Machine Screws
q(1) M3 x 12mm Wood Screw
q(11) M3 Lock Nuts
q(23) M3 Flat Washers
FLYING WIRES

Page 7
q(2) Clear Mock-Up Cowl Halves (Not Pictured)
q(2) M3 x 16mm Machine Screws
q(5) M3 x 10mm Machine Screws
q(7) M3 Flat Washers
q(9) M2 x 10mm Flange-Head Wood Screws
q(2) Heat-Shrink Tubing
q(1) 1.5mm Hex Wrench
MISCELLANEOUS PARTS
q(1) Wing Joiner Tube
q(4) Knurled Aluminium Posts
q(4) Rubber O-Rings
q(4) M6 Flat Washers
q(4) Retaining Clips
WING MOUNTING ASSEMBLY
q(1) 500cc Fuel Tank
q(3) Aluminium Tubes
q(1) Rubber Stopper
q(1) Metal Plate - Small
q(1) Metal Plate - Large
q(1) Fuel Pick-up (Clunk)
q(1) Silicone Fuel Tubing
q(1) Metal Support Ring
q(1) M3 x 20mm Machine Screw
FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY
REPLACEMENT PARTS
If you need to order replacement parts, we recommend ordering directly from your local hobby retailer. If your hobby retailer does not
stock Model Tech products, you can order replacement parts directly from your local distributor, using the Customer Service Information
Sheet included with your kit.
Instruction Manual ............................................................ 116350
Fuselage with Cockpit Deck ............................................. 116351
Wing Panels with Ailerons ................................................ 116352
Stabilizer Set with Elevator Halves and Rudder............... 116353
Tinted Canopy .................................................................. 116354
Fiberglass Cowl................................................................ 116355
Cockpit Deck Only............................................................ 116356
Fiberglass Wheel Pants.................................................... 116357
Aluminium Main Landing Gear Brackets .......................... 116358
Main Gear Wheels............................................................ 116359
Tail Wheel Assembly......................................................... 116360
Hardware Set.................................................................... 116361
Aluminium Engine Mounts................................................ 116362
Flying Wires Set ............................................................... 116363
Fuel Tank (500cc) ............................................................. 116364
Wing Joiner Tube.............................................................. 116365
Wing Retaining Clips, Washers, and O-Rings.................. 116366

Page 8
q5 Minute Epoxy
qModeling Knife
qStraight Edge Ruler
qPencil
qMachine Oil or Petroleum Jelly
q(1) Right Wing Panel with Aileron
q(1) Left Wing Panel with Aileron
q(8) Pinned Hinges
qPaper Towels
qRubbing Alcohol
qEpoxy Mixing Sticks
qEpoxy Mixing Cups
qHeat-Sealing Iron
WING ASSEMBLY
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
STEP 1: HINGING THE AILERONS
IMPORTANT For utter-free control surfaces and crisp control response, it is imperative that the hinges be glued in properly. This
is achieved by having a tight hinge gap [no more than 1/32" (1mm) wide] and using plenty of epoxy glue. Poor hinge installation can
lead to control surface utter which can result in a catastrophic failure of the airframe.
qSlide one hinge into each of the four hinge slots in the aileron, making sure
that the hinges are centred.
qMark the outside edges of each of the four hinges onto the aileron.
qRemove each of the hinges and set them aside for now.
qCarefully cut a shallow bevel in the leading edge of the aileron, on both
the top and the bottom of each of the hinge slots, to recess the hinge pivot
points into.
q Test-t each of the hinges into the hinge slots. The hinges should be
centred and the centreline of each of the hinge pivot points should be even
with the leading edge of the aileron.
IMPORTANT The centreline of each hinge pivot point must be even with
the leading edge of the aileron so that the correct hinge gap can be achieved
when the aileron is hinged to the wing panel.
qApply a thin coat of machine oil or petroleum jelly to only the pivot point
of each of the four hinges.
IMPORTANT The machine oil or petroleum jelly will prevent any excess
epoxy from gluing the hinges solid.
qRemove the aileron from one wing panel and set is aside for now. Discard the temporary hinges that are used for packing.

Page 9
qMix a small quantity of 5 minute epoxy and carefully glue each of the four
hinges into only the aileron for now. Make sure that each of the hinges is
centred and that the centreline of each hinge pivot point is even with the
leading edge of the aileron. Remove any excess epoxy, using a paper towel
and rubbing alcohol and allow the epoxy to set up before proceeding.
qAfter the epoxy sets up, push the aileron and hinges into the corresponding
four hinge slots in the trailing edge of the matching wing panel. Make sure that
the tip of the aileron is even with the tip of the wing.
qMark the outside edges of each of the four hinges onto the trailing edge of
the wing panel.
qRemove the aileron from the wing panel and set it aside for now.
qCarefully cut a shallow bevel in the trailing edge of the wing panel, on
both the top and the bottom of each of the hinge slots, to recess the hinge pivot
points into.
qApply a thin coat of machine oil or petroleum jelly to only the pivot point
of each of the four hinges, then hinge the aileron to the wing panel, using 5
minute epoxy. Make sure that the leading edge of the aileron is pushed rmly
up against the trailing edge of the wing panel. There should be no more than
a 1/32" (.7mm) wide hinge gap and the tip of the aileron should be even with
the tip of the wing. Remove any excess epoxy, using a paper towel and rubbing
alcohol, and allow the epoxy to set up before proceeding.
qAfter the epoxy sets up, pivot the aileron up and down several times to free up the hinges. If there is any excess dried epoxy on any
of the hinge pivot points, it can be removed by carefully using the tip of a modeling knife to cut or chip it away.
qRepeat the previous procedures to hinge the second aileron to the other wing panel. After the epoxy fully cures, pull gently on both
ailerons to ensure that the hinges hold securely.
STEP 2: SEALING THE AILERON HINGE GAPS
IMPORTANT It is imperative that the aileron hinge gaps be sealed. Failure to do this can lead to control surface utter, which can
cause your aircraft to crash. Sealing the hinge gaps will also provide crisper control response and allow the aircraft to track straighter
and y truer, making ight trimming easier and more accurate.
qCut a piece of white covering material (not included) 1-1/2" (38mm) wide
and 25-5/8" (650mm) long.
qFold the length of covering material in half lengthwise so that there is a
sharp crease down the middle of the covering material.

Page 10
qRemove the protective backing from the covering material. With the control
surface fully deected in the 'UP' position, place the length of covering material
over the hinge line (on the bottom), making sure that the crease is pushed
completely down into the hinge line.
IMPORTANT Only the bottom of the hinge gap needs to be sealed. It is
not necessary to seal both the bottom and the top.
q Repeat the previous procedures to seal the aileron hinge gap on the second wing panel. Both ailerons should be able to smoothly pivot
completely up and completely down without interference from the covering material.
q With the control surface fully deected in the 'UP' position, use a heat-sealing
iron to adhere the covering material to both the trailing edge of the wing panel
and to the leading edge bevel of the aileron.
q Trim the excess covering material ush with both surfaces, then pivot the
aileron up and down several times to check for free movement.
STEP 1: INSTALLING THE WING MOUNTING POSTS
q Test-t and glue two aluminium wing mounting posts into each wing panel,
using 30 minute epoxy. When aligned properly, the hole in each wing mounting
post should be 1/2" (13mm) out from the root ribs and each hole should be
aligned straight up and down to make it easier to install the retaining clips. Make
sure to remove any excess epoxy using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol.
IMPORTANT Make sure that you measure to the centre of the hole in each
wing mounting post and not to the end of each wing mounting post.
q30 Minute Epoxy
qNeedle Nose Pliers
qModeling Knife
qStraight Edge Ruler
q(1) Fuselage with Cockpit Deck
q(1) Wing Joiner Tube
q(4) Knurled Aluminium Posts
q(4) Rubber O-Rings
q(4) M6 Flat Washers
q(4) Retaining Clips
qPaper Towels
qRubbing Alcohol
qEpoxy Mixing Sticks
qEpoxy Mixing Cups
WING MOUNTING
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE WING JOINER TUBE
qRemove the cockpit deck from the fuselage and set it aside for now.
qCut away the covering material from over the wing mounting holes and the
aileron servo wire access hole in each side of the fuselage.

Page 11
STEP 3: INSTALLING THE WING PANELS AND RETAINING CLIPS
qGently slide the wing joiner tube into the left wing panel until the wing joiner
tube bottoms out.
qCarefully slide the other end of the wing joiner tube through the fuselage
and rmly push the wing panel up against the fuselage side.
qSlide one rubber O-Ring over each of the two wing mounting posts, followed
by one M6 at washer.
q While holding the wing panel rmly up against the fuselage side, install one
retaining clip through the hole in each of the two wing mounting posts.
PRO TIP Use a pair of needle nose pliers to make it easier to install and
remove the retaining clips.
q Slide the right wing panel onto the wing joiner tube and push it rmly up
against the side of the fuselage.
qRepeat the previous procedures to install the two rubber O-Rings, two M6
at washers and two retaining clips to secure the wing panel into place.
q5 Minute and 30 Minute Epoxy
qModeling Knife
qStraight Edge Ruler
qPencil
q220 Grit Sandpaper
qMasking Tape
qAirplane Stand
q(1) Horizontal Stabiliser with Elevator Halves
q(1) Vertical Stabiliser with Rudder
q(7) Pinned Hinges
qMachine Oil or Petroleum Jelly
qT-Pins
qPaper Towels
qRubbing Alcohol
qEpoxy Mixing Sticks
qEpoxy Mixing Cups
qHeat-Sealing Iron
STABILISER INSTALLATION
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:

Page 12
STEP 1: ALIGNING THE HORIZONTAL STABILISER
qCut away the covering material from over each side of the horizontal stabiliser
mounting slot in the fuselage. The stabiliser mounting slot is 5/16" (8mm) tall
and 3" (76mm) long. The front of stabiliser mounting slot is 7-3/8" (187mm) in
front of the back of the fuselage.
qMeasure and draw a centreline mark on the trailing edge of the stabiliser.
qSlide the stabiliser into the mounting slot and temporarily align the two outer
marks you drew previously with the sides of the fuselage.
q When satised with the alignment, hold only the trailing edge of the stabiliser
in position using a T-Pin.
IMPORTANT The front of the stabiliser should be able to pivot slightly from side to side and the back should stay rmly in place and
aligned. The trailing edge should not be allowed to move from side to side.
qWith the wing panels installed, use a straight edge ruler to measure the
distance between the tips of the stabiliser and the tips of the wing. Pivot the
front of the stabiliser until both of these measurements are equal.
+When both of these measurements are equal, you're assured that the
stabiliser is square to the wing.
qMeasure out 7/8" (22mm) from each side of the centreline mark and draw
two marks. You will use these two outer marks to centre the trailing edge of
the stabiliser with the fuselage.
qRemove the elevator halves from the stabiliser and set them aside for now. Discard the temporary hinges that are used for packing.
A A-1

Page 13
q When you're satised that the stabiliser is square to the wing, use a T-Pin
to hold the front of the stabiliser rmly in place and aligned.
qLook from the front of the aircraft at both the wing and the stabiliser. When
aligned properly, the stabiliser should be parallel to the wing.
+If the stabiliser is not parallel to the wing, remove the stabiliser and sand
down the higher side of the stabiliser mounting slot until you're satised with
the alignment.
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE HORIZONTAL STABILISER
WARNING When cutting through the covering material to remove it in the next procedure, cut with only enough pressure to cut through
only the covering material itself. Cutting down into the balsa structure could weaken the stabiliser and cause it to fail during ight.
qRemove the stabiliser from the fuselage, then carefully cut away the
covering material from inside the lines you drew.
PRO TIP Use a heat-sealing iron to adhere the covering material down
where you cut it. This will prevent it from loosening up and wrinkling.
q When satised with the alignment, draw a line on each side of the stabiliser
where it meets the fuselage sides. Do this on both the top and the bottom.
qTo make it less messy during installation, apply masking tape to the fuselage
around the side of the mounting slot that the stabiliser will slide into and to the
top and bottom of the corresponding side of the stabiliser, too.
qApply a generous amount of 30 minute epoxy to ONLY the top and bottom gluing surfaces of the stabiliser, then push the stabiliser
into place and realign it, double-checking all of your measurements once more before the epoxy sets up. Quickly remove any excess
epoxy and use T-Pins to hold the stabiliser in place and aligned until the epoxy has fully cured.
qAfter the epoxy has fully cured, remove the T-Pins and masking tape and look closely at the glue joint. If there are any gaps between
the stabiliser and the fuselage, ll them using 30 minute epoxy for added strength.
IMPORTANT Because the stabiliser has to slide into place through the fuselage, apply epoxy only to the stabiliser. This will prevent
the epoxy from spreading over the entire length of one half of the stabiliser when you slide it into place.
BB-1

Page 14
STEP 5: SEALING THE ELEVATOR HINGE GAPS
STEP 4: HINGING THE ELEVATOR HALVES
STEP 3: ALIGNING AND INSTALLING THE VERTICAL STABILISER
qRemove the rudder from the stabiliser and set it aside for now. Discard the temporary hinges that are used for packing.
qPush the stabiliser down into the mounting slot, making sure that the rudder
post is pushed rmly into the slot in the back of the fuselage.
IMPORTANT When pushing the stabiliser into the mounting slot, be careful
not to crack the rudder post at the base of the stabiliser.
qRemove the stabiliser and carefully cut away the covering material from
below the lines you drew. Cut away the covering material from the bottom of
the stabiliser and from the sides and the front of the rudder post, too.
qGlue the stabiliser into place, using 30 minute epoxy. Double-check the alignment once more before the epoxy sets up, then wipe
away any excess epoxy and use pieces of masking tape to hold the stabiliser in place until the epoxy has fully cured.
qDraw a line on each side of the stabiliser where it meets the top of the
fuselage.
qCut two pieces of white covering material 1/2" (13mm) wide and 8-3/8"
(213mm) long.
qSeal the elevator hinge gaps, using the same techniques that you used to
seal the aileron hinge gaps.
qHinge the elevator halves to the horizontal stabiliser, using the same
techniques that you used to hinge the ailerons to the wing. Each elevator half
is hinged using two hinges and the tip of each elevator counter-balance should
be even with the tips of the stabiliser. There should not be more than a 1/32"
(.7mm) wide hinge gap.
IMPORTANT Remember to counter-sink the hinge pivot points and apply
machine oil or petroleum jelly to the hinge pivot points to keep from gluing the
hinges solid. Use the same techniques that you used for the aileron hinges.

Page 15
STEP 6: HINGING THE RUDDER
IMPORTANT Although you need to seal the aileron and elevator hinge gaps, it's not necessary to seal the rudder hinge gap.
qHinge the rudder to the vertical stabiliser, using the same techniques that
you used to hinge the elevator halves to the horizontal stabiliser. The rudder
is hinged using three hinges and the bottom of the rudder should be even with
the bottom of the fuselage. There should not be more than a 1/32" (.7mm)
wide hinge gap.
qThick C/A
q#1 and # 2 Phillips Head Screwdrivers
q2.5mm Hex Wrench
qElectric Drill
q(1) Tail Wheel Wire
q(1) Tail Wheel
q(1) Nylon Tail Wheel Mounting Bracket
q(1) Nylon Steering Arm
q(3) M3 x 12mm Wood Screws
q(1) M2 x 12mm Wood Screw
q(3) Wheel Collars
q(2) Grub Screws
q(1) M3 x 6mm Socket-Cap Screw
q(1) 1.5mm Hex Wrench
q5/64" (2mm) Drill Bit
qPencil
qRotary Tool with Cutting Disc
qAirplane Stand
TAIL WHEEL INSTALLATION
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
STEP 1: ASSEMBLING THE TAIL WHEEL BRACKET
qPush one wheel collar into the top of the steering arm, making sure that the threaded hole in the wheel collar lines up with the hole
in the side of the steering arm. Partially thread the M3 x 6mm socket-cap screw into the wheel collar.
qPush the tail wheel wire up through the tail wheel mounting bracket, then
slide the steering arm over the tail wheel wire and push it down against the
mounting bracket.
qRotate both the tail wheel wire and the steering arm so that they face the
back of the mounting bracket. While holding the two in alignment, tighten the
socket-cap screw, then cut the end of the tail wheel wire off ush with the top
of the steering arm.
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE TAIL WHEEL ASSEMBLY
q When satised with the alignment, mark the locations of the three mounting
screws onto the fuselage.
qPlace the tail wheel mounting bracket onto the fuselage, making sure that the mounting bracket is centred and that the steering arm
pivot point is even with the rudder hinge line. The steering arm mounting tabs should t over the bottom of the rudder, too.

Page 16
qDrill three 5/64" (2mm) diameter pilot holes through the fuselage, then install
the tail wheel mounting bracket, using three M3 x 12mm wood screws.
qThread the M2 x 12mm wood screw through the hole in the bottom of the
steering arm mounting bracket and into the rudder, to secure the steering arm
into place.
IMPORTANT Apply a drop of thick C/A to the threads to help secure the
wood screw more rmly.
STEP 3: INSTALLING THE TAIL WHEEL
qSlide one wheel collar with grub screw onto the axle, then slide the tail wheel
onto the axle.
qSecure the tail wheel to the axle, using the remaining wheel collar and grub
screw. After tightening the grub screws, double-check that the tail wheel
spins freely.
qCentre the rudder, then loosen the socket-cap screw in the side of the
steering arm.
qAlign the tail wheel wire with the bottom of the rudder, then tighten the
socket-cap screw rmly.
q Thick C/A
q# 1 Phillips Head Screwdriver
q3mm Hex Wrench
qAdjustable Wrenches (2)
qModeling Knife
qElectric Drill
q(2) Fiberglass Wheel Pants
q(2) Main Landing Gear Brackets
q(2) Main Gear Wheels
q(2) Threaded Axles
q(2) M8 Lock Nuts
q(6) M4 x 12mm Socket-Cap Screws
q(2) M3 x 10mm Machine Screws
q(6) M4 Flat Washers
q(2) M3 Blind Nuts
q(4) Wheel Collars
q(4) Grub Screws
q(1) 1.5mm Hex Wrench
q5/32" (4mm) Drill Bit
qStraight Edge Ruler
qPencil
qRotary Tool with Cutting Disc and Sanding Drum
qAirplane Stand
MAIN LANDING GEAR INSTALLATION
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:

Page 17
STEP 1: INSTALLING THE LANDING GEAR BRACKETS
qInstall the two main landing gear brackets onto the fuselage, using six
M4 x 12mm socket-cap screws and six M4 at washers.
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE MAIN GEAR WHEELS AND WHEEL PANTS
qTemporarily install one main gear wheel onto one axle, using two wheel
collars and grub screws, making sure that the wheel is centred on the axle.
qInstall one threaded axle onto each landing gear bracket, using two M8
lock nuts. Make sure to tighten the lock nuts rmly to hold the threaded axles
securely into place.
qCarefully measure and cut a 1/2" (13mm) wide slot in the inside of one wheel
pant. The slot should be cut in the centre of the moulded mounting plate and
the top of the slot should be 3/8" (10mm) from the bottom edge of the moulded
mounting plate.
IMPORTANT Measure from the bottom of the moulded mounting plate,
not from the bottom of the wheel pant.
qSlide the wheel pant over the hex hub and the wheel. When aligned properly,
the bottom edge of the wheel pant should be parallel to the bottom edge of the
landing gear bracket.
qWhile holding the wheel pant in place, draw a mark on the side of the wheel
pant, using the predrilled hole in the landing gear bracket as a guide.
qRemove the wheel pant and carefully drill a 5/32" (4mm) diameter hole
through the wheel pant at the mark you drew.
3/8" (10mm)

Page 18
qInstall one M3 blind nut into the wheel pant, then carefully apply a bead of
thick C/A around the blind nut for extra security.
PRO TIP Thread one M3 x 10mm machine screw and one at washer
into the blind nut, then tighten the machine screw to draw the blind nut
into place.
qSlide the wheel pant back into position and secure it to the landing gear
bracket, using one M3 x 10mm machine screw.
qLoosen the grub screws in the wheel collars, centre the wheel between the
sides of the wheel pant opening, then retighten the grub screws and double-
check that the wheel spins freely.
qRepeat the previous procedures to install the second wheel and wheel pant assembly. When installing the second wheel pant, make
sure that it's parallel to the rst wheel pant.
q3mm Hex Wrench
q7mm Nut Driver
q(2) Aluminium Engine Mounting Beams
q(4) M4 x 35mm Socket-Cap Screws
q(4) M4 x 25mm Socket-Cap Screws
q(4) M4 Lock Nuts
q(4) M4 Blind Nuts
q(4) M4 Split Washers
q(12) M4 Flat Washers
qStraight Edge Ruler
ENGINE INSTALLATION
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
STEP 1: INSTALLING THE ENGINE MOUNTING BEAMS
IMPORTANT The following procedures outline the installation of a four-stroke engine. If you are installing a two-stroke engine, the
installation procedures are the same. The Magnum XL 1.20RFS engine is shown.
q Remove the mufer assembly from your engine, then install your spinner
backplate (not included) onto the crankshaft, using the propeller washer and
nut included with your engine.
qTemporarily mount your engine onto the engine mounting beams, using four
M4 x 35mm socket-cap screws, eight M4 at washers and four M4 lock nuts.
PRO TIP Mount the engine as far forward as possible to ensure that the
engine mounting beams remain square.

Page 19
STEP 1: ASSEMBLING THE RUBBER STOPPER
q Line up the engine mounting beams within the precut slots in the rewall
and temporarily install the four M4 x 25mm socket-cap screws, four M4 split
washers, four M4 at washers and four M4 blind nuts.
q Carefully centre the engine mounting beams over the precut slots and rmly
tighten the four socket-cap screws to draw the blind nuts into the back of
the rewall.
STEP 2: ALIGNING THE ENGINE
qLoosen the four socket-cap screws and lock nuts so that the engine can be
slid back and forth.
qMeasure the distance from the front of the fuselage to the back of the
spinner backplate. Adjust the depth of the engine so that the measurement is
9" (229mm).
q When satised with the alignment, rmly tighten the four socket-cap screws and lock nuts.
q(1) 500cc Fuel Tank
q(3) Aluminium Tubes
q(1) Rubber Stopper
q(1) Metal Plate - Small
q(1) Metal Plate - Large
q(1) Fuel Pick-up (Clunk)
q(1) Silicone Fuel Tubing
q(1) Metal Support Ring
q(1) M3 x 20mm Machine Screw
FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
qSilicon Sealant
q# 2 Phillips Head Screwdriver
qModeling Knife
qScissors
qStraight Edge Ruler
qPencil
qMasking Tape
qAirplane Stand
IMPORTANT Discard the shortest aluminium tube. It will not be used for our style of fuel tank setup which uses a fuel valve. Only
a fuel pick-up line and a mufer pressure line are required.
qPush the two aluminium tubes through the rubber stopper, then slide the
large diameter metal plate over the tubes at the front of the rubber stopper
and slide the small diameter metal plate over the tubes at the rear of the
rubber stopper.
qAdjust the tubes so that they both are 3/8" (10mm) out from the front of the
stopper assembly.
IMPORTANT The precut mounting slots in the rewall are elongated to allow you to mount engines of varying width. To ensure that
the engine lines up with the centre of the cowl, it's important that the engine mounts be centred within the precut mounting slots.

Page 20
STEP 3: INSTALLING THE FUEL TANK
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE RUBBER STOPPER ASSEMBLY
qSecure one end of the silicone fuel tubing onto the end of the clunk.
qSlide the silicone fuel tubing, with the clunk attached, onto the end of the
aluminium fuel pick-up tube (straight tube). Adjust the length of the silicone
tubing until the end of the clunk is 4" (102mm) back from the rear of the stopper
assembly.
qCarefully bend the longer of the two aluminium tubes up at a shallow angle,
being careful not to kink the tubing as you bend it.
IMPORTANT When the stopper assembly is installed into the fuel tank,
the top of the pressure tube (the tube you just bent) should rest just below
the top of the fuel tank.
qPlace the metal support ring over the neck of the fuel tank opening, then
carefully push the stopper assembly into the fuel tank and rotate it until the
aluminium pressure tube rests just below the top of the fuel tank.
q When satised with the alignment, install and tighten the M3 x 20mm
machine screw until the rubber stopper expands and seals the fuel tank opening.
qWith the stopper assembly installed, double-check to make sure that the clunk can move freely inside the fuel tank. Ideally, the clunk
should be about 1/4" (6mm) in front of the back of the fuel tank. This will ensure that the clunk can't get stuck in the fuel tank during
ight. Also double-check that the end of the pressure tube rests just below the top of the fuel tank.
PRO TIP Holding the fuel tank up to a bright light will allow you to see inside to double-check the correct position of the clunk and
the pressure tube.
qCut two pieces of silicone fuel tubing (not included) to a length of 10" (254mm)
and install them onto the aluminium tubes at the front of the fuel tank.
PRO TIP Mark the ends of the silicone tubing 'pressure' and 'pick-up' so that
you don't confuse them when it comes time to connect them to the engine
and the fuel valve later on.
qUse strips of foam rubber wedged between the fuel tank and the fuel tank
support bulkhead (or your favorite method) to hold the fuel tank rmly in place.
qApply a layer of silicon sealant to the fuel tank opening (around the fuel
tubing) at the front of the rewall to prevent exhaust residue from getting inside
the fuselage.
q Feed the ends of the fuel tubing through the predrilled hole in the rewall and slide the fuel tank into position, making sure that the
front of the fuel tank is pushed up against the back of the rewall. Double-check that the fuel tubing is not kinked.