Great Planes F4 Phantom - GPMA0440 - Manual (Page 3)

The Great Planes F-4 Phantom is a high performance
propeller-driven sport airplane that closely resembles the
full size F-4 Phantom. In the air, the prop is invisible, adding
to the realism. The smoothness and speed of this airplane
allow you to experience the thrills of flying a jet-like airplane
without the complexity and high cost of a ducted fan model.
The F-4 Phantom is very stable and forgiving, allowing
even intermediate skill level pilots to enjoy it.
This is not a beginner's airplane! While the F-4 is easy to
build and flies great, we must discourage you from
selecting this kit as your first R/C airplane. It lacks the
self-recovery characteristics of good basic trainers such as
the Great Planes PT" Series. On the other hand, if you
have already learned the basics of R/C flying, and you are
able to safely handle a .60-size low wing airplane, the F-4
Phantom is an excellent choice to try your skills at flying
a jet.
1. You must assemble the model according to the
instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing so
may result in an unsafe or unflyable model. In a few cases
the instructions may differ slightly from the photos. In those
instances the plans and written instructions should be
considered as correct.
2. Take time to build straight, true and strong.
3. Use an R/C radio system that is in first-class condition,
and a correctly-sized engine and components (fuel tank,
wheels, etc.) throughout your building process.
4. You must properly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates properly on the ground and in
the air.
5. You must test the operation of the model before every
flight to insure that all equipment is operating, and you must
make certain that the model has remained structurally
sound. Be sure to check clevises or other connectors often
and replace them if they show signs of wear or fatigue.
Please inspect all parts carefully before starting to build!
If any parts are missing, broken or defective, or if you
have any questions about building or flying this
airplane, please call us at (217) 398-8970. If you are
calling for replacement parts, please reference the part
numbers and the kit identification number (stamped on
the end of the carton) and have them ready when calling.
Engine Selection
There are several engines that will work well in your F-4
Phantom, but for unlimited performance we recommend
a hot 2-stroke such as an O.S. .61FX or SuperTigre""
G61. The engine you select will determine how you build
the fuselage nose section, so it is important that you
have the engine close at hand while building. Because of
the size limitations and the nature of this model, 4-stroke
engines are more difficult to install and balance and
therefore are not recommended.
Wheel Selection
Large wheels look unrealistic on a model of this type, so
try to keep the wheels as small as possible. If you will be
flying from a concrete or asphalt runway, we recommend
2-1/2" main wheels and a 1-3/4" nose wheel. For grass
fields, larger wheels will be required, such as 2-3/4" main
wheels and a 2" to 2-1/4" nose wheel.
PREPARATIONS
Required Accessories
Items in parentheses (GPMQ4243) are suggested part
numbers recognized by distributors and hobby shops and
are listed for your ordering convenience. GPM is the Great
Planes brand, TOP is the Top Flite brand and HCA is the
Hobbico' brand.
NOTE: We, as the kit manufacturer, can provide you
with a top quality kit and great instructions, but ultimately
the quality of your finished model depends on how you
build it; therefore, we cannot in any way guarantee
the performance of your completed model, and no
representations are expressed or implied as to the
performance or safety of your completed model.
Remember: Take your time and follow directions to end
up with a well-built model that is straight and true.
Four-channel radio with five servos (seven if
mechanical retracts are used)
Engine - See Engine Selection above
Propeller (Top Flite Power Point™); Refer to your
engine's instructions for proper size
Fuel tank 10oz.- 12oz. (GPMQ4104 and GPMQ 4105)
Medium fuel tubing (GPMQ4131)
2-1/2" Main wheels (GPMQ4223)
2" Nose wheel (GPMQ4221)
Top Flite MonoKote' (Approximately 3 rolls)
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