E-flite F-16 400 DF ARF w/Motor & Fan Unit - Manual (Page 20)

20 E-flite F-16 ARF Assembly Manual
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.
Before each flying session, be sure to range check your
radio. See your radio manual for the recommended
range and instructions for your radio system. Each
radio manufacturer specifies different procedures for
their radio systems. Next, start the motor. With the
model securely anchored, check the range again.
The range test should not be significantly affected. If
it is, don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio equipment
checked out by the manufacturer.
Note: Keep loose items that can get entangled
in the propeller away from the prop. These
include loose clothing, or other objects such as
pencils and screwdrivers. Especially keep your
hands away from the propeller.
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.
Range Test Your Radio
 1. Before each flying session, be sure to range
check your radio. This is accomplished by turning
on your transmitter with the antenna collapsed.
Turn on the receiver in your airplane. With
your airplane on the ground and the engine
running, you should be able to walk 30 paces
(approximately 100 feet) away from your airplane
and still have complete control of all functions.
If not, don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio
equipment checked out by the manufacturer.
 2. Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator,
rudder and throttle) move in the correct direction.
 3. Be sure that your transmitter batteries are
fully charged, per the instructions included with
your radio.