Great Planes Factor 3D ARF - GPMA1552 - Manual (Page 18)

18
FLYING
The Factor 3D EP ARF is a great-fl ying model that fl ies smoothly
and predictably. Factor 3D EP ARF does not, however, possess
the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer
and should be fl own only by experienced R/C pilots. As you
can see the airplane is a very lightly built structure. This
is big reason for the terrifi c performance of the model.
Because of the structure it is important that landings
are performed at slow speeds. We recommend the Factor
3D ARF be fl own from hard surfaces or very short grass
fi elds to avoid damage.
CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while fl ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
fl utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a fl ying surface (such as a wing or
stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise).
In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, fl utter can
actually cause the control surface to detach or the fl ying
surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by an
impending crash. The best thing to do when fl utter is detected
is to slow the model immediately by reducing power, then
land as soon as safely possible. Identify which surface
fl uttered (so the problem may be resolved) by checking all
the servo grommets for deterioration or signs of vibration.
Make certain all pushrod linkages are secure and free of
play. If it fl uttered once, under similar circumstances it will
probably fl utter again unless the problem is fi xed. Some
things which can cause fl utter are; Excessive hinge gap;
Not mounting control horns solidly; Poor fi t of clevis pin in
horn; Side-play of wire pushrods caused by large bends;
Excessive free play in servo gears; Insecure servo mounting;
and one of the most prevalent causes of fl utter; Flying an
over-powered model at excessive speeds.
Takeoff
Only attempt takeoffs and landings from a hard surface or
very short grass. Before you get ready to takeoff, see how
the model handles on the ground by doing a few practice runs
at low speeds on the runway. Hold “up” elevator to keep the
tail wheel on the ground. If necessary, adjust the tail wheel
so the model will roll straight down the runway. If you need
to calm your nerves before the maiden fl ight bring the model
back into the pits, peak the battery and check all fasteners
and control linkages for peace of mind.
Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you’re ready, point
the model straight down the runway, hold a bit of up elevator
to keep the tail on the ground to maintain tail wheel steering,
and then gradually advance the throttle. As the model gains
speed decrease up elevator allowing the tail to come off the
ground. One of the most important things to remember with
a tail dragger is to always be ready to apply right rudder to
counteract engine torque. Gain as much speed as your runway
and fl ying site will practically allow before gently applying up
elevator, lifting the model into the air. At this moment it is likely
that you will need to apply more right rudder to counteract
motor torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the
model to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before
turning into the traffi c pattern.
Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight line with you. The
Factor 3D EP ARF with the recommended power system will
only require full throttle in short burst. Most aerobatic fl ight can
be performed at around 1/3 to 1/2 throttle. If you observe the
fl ight of some of the best aerobatic pilots, they very seldom
use full throttle.
Take it easy with the Factor 3D EP ARF for the fi rst fl ight,
gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain confi dence.
Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level fl ight. After fl ying
around for a while, and while still at a safe altitude with plenty
of battery, practice slow fl ight and execute practice landing
approaches by reducing the throttle to see how the model
handles at slower speeds. Add power to see how she climbs
as well. Continue to fl y around, executing various maneuvers
and making mental notes (or having your assistant write them
down) of what trim or C.G. changes may be required to fi ne
tune the model so it fl ies the way you like. Mind your battery
power level, but use this fi rst fl ight to become familiar with your
model before landing. With most electric planes it is best to
have a timer set on your transmitter or a separate timer with
an alarm to alert you when the battery may be getting low.
This will require a few fl ights before determining the maximum
fl ight time you can achieve with the batteries. This will prevent
the downwind auto motor cutoff over the end of the fl ying fi eld.
With the plane properly trimmed you will want to get started
with some aerobatics. This plane is capable of just about every
aerobatic maneuver you can do. Become familiar with the high
and low rate settings before using the 3D rates. If you have
not fl own an airplane with 3D rates you should work your way
into these higher 3D rates cautiously. The extreme throws can
stall the airplane if you are not careful. Over controlling could
also result in unwanted snaps. If you have not fl own 3D you
might want to consider getting help from an experienced 3D
pilot. When executing down line maneuvers it is important to
use good throttle management. Full power down lines could
result in over stressing of the aircraft.
Landing
To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the
downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch downward
to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose altitude, but
maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn onto
the crosswind leg. Make your fi nal turn toward the runway
(into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed
and control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the
runway threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary to
maintain your glide path and airspeed. If you are going to
overshoot, smoothly advance the throttle (always ready on
the right rudder to counteract torque) and climb out to make
another attempt. When you’re ready to make your landing fl are