Great Planes G-44 Widgeon Seaplane EP ARF - GPMA1151 - Manual (Page 24)

24
FLYING
The Great Planes G-44 Widgeon EP is a great-fl ying model
that fl ies smoothly and predictably. The G-44 Widgeon EP 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.
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
Before you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles
in the water. Hold “up” elevator to keep the water rudder in the
water. It is important that you take off directly into the wind and
that you keep the wings level so that you do not accidentally
catch a sponson in the water. When you’re ready, point the
model directly into the wind, hold a bit of up elevator to keep
the tail in the water then gradually advance the throttle. As
the model gains speed decrease up elevator, allowing the
tail to come off the water. Be ready to apply
right rudder to
counteract engine torque. Gain as much speed as is practical
before gently applying up elevator, lifting the model into the
air. 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 with you. Tell him to remind you
to throttle back once the plane gets to a comfortable altitude.
While full throttle is usually desirable for takeoff, most models
fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Widgeon for the fi rst few fl ights, 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 fuel,
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. Though not scale
maneuvers, the Widgeon is capable of loops, rolls, inverted
fl ight, etc. Pay attention to your batteries and be sure that you
have enough power to land and taxi back to the shoreline.
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 into the wind keeping
the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level the
attitude when the model is a couple of feet off of the water,
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 when the model is a foot
or so off the water and smoothly increase up elevator until it
gently touches down. Once the model is in the water, hold up
elevator and taxi back to shore.
Remember to think.
Have a ball! But always stay in control
and fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
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