Center of gravity, Preflight – E-flite F-16 400 DF ARF User Manual
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29
E-flite F-16 ARF Assembly Manual
Aileron High Rate
Up
1-inch
(25mm)
Down
7/8-inch
(22mm)
Aileron Low Rate
Up
3/4-inch
(19mm)
Down
5/8-inch
(16mm)
Elevator High Rate
Up
3/8-inch
(10mm)
Down
3/8-inch
(10mm)
Elevator Low Rate
Up
1/4-inch
(7mm)
Down
1/4-inch
(7mm)
Note: Measurements are taken at the inner or
widest point on the control surface.
Nose Wheel Steering (High Rate or Taxi)
Left
7/16-inch (12mm)
Right
7/16-inch (12mm)
Nose Wheel Steering (Low Rate or Takeoff)
Left
1/4-inch
(7mm)
Right
1/4-inch
(7mm)
Note: Steering measurement is taken at the end
of the Aluminum Steering Arm over the steering
servo arm.
These are general guidelines measured from our own
flight tests. You can experiment with higher rates to
match your preferred style of flying.
Center of Gravity
An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight is
properly balancing the model.
Caution: Do not inadvertently skip this step!
The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) location for
the F-16 is 2
3
/
16
–2
9
/
16
-inch (55–65mm) back from
the leading edge of the wing. Mark the location for the
Center of Gravity on the bottom of the wing next to the
fuselage as shown.
When balancing your F-16, support the plane
rightside-up at the marks made on the bottom of the
wing with your fingers or a commercially available
balancing stand. Adjust components as necessary
so the model hangs level or slightly nose down. This
is the correct balance point for your model. You
might find with the different power and landing gear
configurations that you need to shift the battery slightly
in the compartment or add a small amount of weight
to either the front or back of the fuselage to achieve
the correct balance.
After the first flights, the CG position can be adjusted
for your personal preference.
Preflight
Check Your Radio
Before going to the field, be sure that your batteries
are fully charged per the instructions included with
your radio. Charge both the transmitter and receiver
pack for your airplane. Use the recommended charger
supplied with your particular radio system, following
the instructions provided with the radio. In most cases,
the radio should be charged the night before going
out flying.
Note: Keep loose items that can get drawn into
the intake away from the intake. These items
include loose clothing, or other objects such as
pencils and screwdrivers.
Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator, rudder
and throttle) move in the correct direction.
Check the radio installation and make sure all the
control surfaces are moving correctly (i.e. the correct
direction and with the recommended throws). Test run
the motor and make sure it transitions smoothly from
off to full throttle and back. Also ensure the engine is
installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions,
and it will operate consistently.
Check all the control horns, servo horns, and
clevises to make sure they are secure and in good
condition. Replace any items that would be considered
questionable. Failure of any of these components in
flight would mean the loss of your aircraft.