Hangar 9 Piper J-3 Cub 40 ARF - Manual (Page 32)

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An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight is
properly balancing the model. This is especially important
when various engines are mounted.
Caution: Do not inadvertently skip this step!
The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) range for the
Piper J-3 Cub is 3 1 /
4
" (82.5mm) behind the leading edge
of the wing against the fuselage. It is suggested to start at
the forward end of the range until comfortable with the
flight characteristics of your aircraft. If necessary, move
the battery pack or add weight to either the nose or the
tail until the correct balance is achieved. Stick-on
weights are available at your local hobby shop and work
well for this purpose.
Range Test Your Radio
 Step 1
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.
 Step 2
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 engine. 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
included loose clothing, or other objects such
as pencils and screwdrivers. Especially keep
your hands away from the propeller.
 Step 3
Double-check that all controls (aileron, elevator, rudder
and throttle) move in the correct direction.
 Step 4
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 engine and make sure it transitions smoothly
from idle to full throttle and back. Also ensure the engine
is tuned according to the manufacturer’s instructions,
and it will run consistently and constantly at full throttle
when adjusted.
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.
Recommended CG
Preflight