Great Planes Super Decathlon 40 Kit - GPMA0185 - Manual (Page 3)

INTRODUCTION
Congratulations! Thank you for purchasing the Great
Planes Super Decathlon 40!
The Super Decathlon 40 is a 1/6-scale model of a full-
size Bellanca Super Decathlon, owned by Pete Myers, lo-
cated at Howell Airport in New Lenox, IL. The airplane was
built by Champion Aircraft in 1979. Pete calls his Super
Decathlon "experimental" because he has made a few
changes to enhance its acrobatic capabilities, the most notice-
able of which are the squared-off "clipped" wing tips. The
normal wingspan would be 32'; but, due to the special tips,
Pete's Decathlon spans only 30.5'. You will notice that the
model's wingspan has been increased by 5% to enhance the
flying qualities.
If you are interested in sport scale competition, you'll be
happy to know that color photos of Pete's full-size Super
Decathlon are available from Scale Model Research, 2334
Ticonderoga Way, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
The Super Decathlon 40 is easy to build and fly, predict-
able, highly acrobatic, and has no "bad habits," making it a
great sport-scale airplane (as long as you don't get carried
away with the glue bottle and make it a "lead sled")!
Although the model is sufficiently close to scale that it can
place well in sport-scale competition, traditional Great
Planes quality and ruggedness is evident throughout, making
this an airplane you'll want to take along every time you go
to the flying field.
This is not a beginner's airplane! While the Super
Decathlon 40 is easy to build and flies great, we must
discourage you from selecting this kit as your first R/C
airplane. It is fast, highly maneuverable, and lacks the self-
recovery characteristics of a good basic trainer such as the
Great Planes PT Series airplanes. On the other hand, if you
have already learned the basics of R/C flying and you are able
to safely handle an "aileron trainer" airplane such as the
Great Planes Trainer Series or Big Stick Series airplanes,
the Super Decathlon 40 is an excellent choice.
3. You must use a proper R/C radio that is in first class
condition, the correct sized engine and correct components
(fuel tank, wheels, etc.) throughout your building process.
4. You must properly install all R/C and other compo-
nents so that the model operates properly on the ground and
in the air.
5. You must test the operation of the model before the
first and each successive flight to insure that all equipment is
operating, and you must make certain that the model has
remained structurally sound. Be sure to check the nylon
clevises often, and replace if they show signs of wear.
6. You must fly the model only with the competent
help of a well experienced R/C pilot if you are not already an
experienced and knowledgeable R/C pilot at this lime.
Note: We, as the kit manufacturer, can provide you with
a top quality kit and great instructions, but ultimately the
quality and flyability 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 arc 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.
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS USED IN
THIS BOOK AND ON THE PLANS:
Elev = Elevator
Fuse = Fuselage
LE = Leading Edge (front)
LG = Landing Gear
Lt = Left
Ply = Plywood
Rt = Right
Stab = Stabilizer
TE = Trailing Edge (rear)
" = Inches
PRECAUTIONS
1. You must build the plane according to the plans
and instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing
so may result in an unsafe or unflyable-model. In a few cases
the plans and instructions may differ slightly from the photos.
In those instances you should assume the plans and written
instructions are correct
2. You must take time to build straight, true and strong.
INSTRUCTIONS IN BOXES LIKE THIS
ARE VERY IMPORTANT AND SHOULD
BE FOLLOWED CAREFULLY
3