Great Planes P-47 Thunderbolt GP/EP ARF - GPMA1479 - Manual (Page 26)

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Takeoff
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 skid on the
ground. If you need to calm your nerves before the maiden
flight, shut the engine down and bring the model back into
the pits. Top off the fuel, then 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, 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 flying 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 engine
torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the model
to establish a
gentle climb to a safe altitude before turning
into the traffic pattern.
Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight line 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 fly more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Combat P-47 ARF for the first few
flights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain
confidence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level
flight. After flying around for a while, and while still at a safe
altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow flight 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 fly 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 fine tune the model so it flies the way you
like. Mind your flight time, but use this first flight to become
familiar with your model before landing.
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 final turn
toward the runway (into the wind) keeping the nose down to
maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the
o 14. Make sure the fuel lines are connected and are
not kinked.
o 15. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
o 16. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner.
o 17. Place your name, address, AMA number and
telephone number on or inside your model.
o 18. Cycle your receiver battery pack (if necessary) and
make sure it is fully charged.
o 19. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before
your first flight.
o 20. Range check your radio when you get to the
flying field.
FLYING
The Combat P-47 ARF is a great-flying model that flies
smoothly and predictably. The P-47 does not, however,
possess the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C
trainer and should be flown only by experienced R/C pilots.
Fuel Mixture Adjustments
A fully cowled engine may run at a higher temperature than
an un-cowled engine. For this reason, the fuel mixture should
be richened so the engine runs at about 200 rpm below
peak speed. By running the engine slightly rich, you will help
prevent dead-stick landings caused by overheating.
CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such
as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control surface
flutter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an
aileron or elevator) or a flying surface (such as a wing or
stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise).
In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, flutter can
actually cause the control surface to detach or the flying
surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by
an impending crash. The best thing to do when flutter is
detected is to slow the model
immediately by reducing
power, then land as soon as safely possible. Identify
which surface fluttered (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 fluttered once, under similar
circumstances it will probably flutter again unless the
problem is fixed. Some things which can cause flutter are;
Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control horns solidly;
Poor fit 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 flutter; Flying an over-powered model
at excessive speeds.