Members are requested to contribute by sending useful tips to the Chairman who will have it posted via the Webmaster. Share your experience with building shortcuts, set-up, and flying with newer members. Everyone can learn from others and experience has often been acquired the hard and/or expensive way!
Here are a few tips to start with:-
FUEL FILLING
Make sure the fuel storage bottle has a breather hole or opening when pumping fuel into your model fuel tank.
If there is no breather on the fuel storage container and the filler pipe to the pump (manual or electric) a vacuum can develop the storage container. When pumping is stopped the vacuum will draw fuel from the airplane tank resulting in reduced engine run-time which may result in a dead stick. An inline filter is always recommended on the filler tube.
SETTING UP SERVOS.
It is best to use the maximum stroke of the servo. This usually achieved by using the shortest servo arm possible with a longer control horn. This is particularly important for aerobatic and 3D airplanes. Using the maximum movement of the servo utilises more electronic steps which generates smoother more powerful control movements.
After setting up all the servo movements, it is essential to rebind the receiver with the throttle in the fully closed position. After doing this, it is essential to check that the throttle closes when the transmitter is switched off with the receiver on. This simulates a radio failure ensuring that a loss of signal between the transmitter and receiver cuts the engine or (electric motor).
BATTERIES
Both the transmitter and receiver batteries should be checked for sufficient charge by means of an appropriate battery checker on the day flying is contemplated. A range check is advisable before the first flight of the day.
WING LOADING WITH OR WITHOUT FLAPS.
Most ARF’s are designed to have the lowest reasonable wing loading. This gives the airplane the lowest flying and stall speeds which are particularly desirable for landing. On the other hand, the airplane will be more affected by wind and buffeting, tend to float more and, on landing, to bounce more easily.