Great Planes Big Stik 60 ARF MonoKote - GPMA1221 - Manual (Page 2)

I NTRODUCTION ..........................................................................2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.............................................................2
DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE ...................................................3
Radio Equipment ..........................................................................3
Engine Recommendations............................................................3
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED................................................3
Covering Accessories ...................................................................3
Adhesives and Building Supplies .................................................3
Optional Supplies and Tools .........................................................3
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES .................................................3
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS .........................................4
METRIC CONVERSION RULER .................................................4
KIT CONTENTS ...........................................................................5
WING ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION....................................6
INSTALL THE TAIL COMPONENTS............................................8
TANK INSTALLATION ...............................................................10
ENGINE INSTALLATION ...........................................................10
MOUNT THE LANDING GEAR..................................................12
RADIO INSTALLATION .............................................................13
PROP, SPINNER AND FUEL LINE INSTALLATION.................16
GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ............................................16
Check Control Directions ............................................................16
Set the Control Throws ...............................................................17
Balance the Model ......................................................................17
Balance the Model Laterally .......................................................18
PREFLIGHT ...............................................................................18
Identify Your Model......................................................................18
Charge the Batteries...................................................................18
Balance the Propellers ...............................................................19
Ground Check.............................................................................19
Range Check ..............................................................................19
ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS............................................19
AMA SAFETY CODE .................................................................19
General .......................................................................................19
Radio Control..............................................................................20
CHECKLIST ...............................................................................20
FLYING .......................................................................................21
Takeoff ........................................................................................21
Flight ...........................................................................................21
Landing .......................................................................................21
The Great Planes Big Stik ARFs are aircraft that let you
progress from your trainer into a model that is not only a
good choice for improving your flying skills but is also great
for high performance aerobatics.
Either plane is a good choice for a second airplane or as an
aerobatic trainer. We are sure that you will enjoy building
and flying the Big Stik ARF.
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections for
the Big Stik ARFs, visit the web site listed below and select
the Great Planes Big Stik ARF. If there is new technical
information or changes to this kit, a “tech notice” box will
appear in the upper left corner of the page.
http://www.greatplanes.com/airplanes/index.html
1. Your Big Stik ARF should not be considered a toy, but
rather a sophisticated, working model that functions very
much like a full-size airplane. Because of its performance
capabilities, the Big Stik ARF, if not assembled and operated
correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.
2. 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 written instructions should be considered
as correct.
3. You must take time to build straight, true and strong.
4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in first-class
condition and a correctly sized engine and components (fuel
tank, wheels, etc.) throughout the building process.
5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components so
that the model operates correctly on the ground and in the air.
6. You must check the operation of the model before every
flight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.
7. If you are not already an experienced R/C pilot, you
should fly the model only with the help of a competent,
experienced R/C pilot.
8. While this kit has been flight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high stress flying, such
as racing, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to
reinforce the high stress points.
Remember: Take your time and follow the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.
If you have not flown this type of model before, we
recommend that you get the assistance of an experienced
pilot in your R/C club for your first flights. If you're not a
We, as the kit manufacturer, provide you with a top quality
kit and 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 are expressed or implied as to the
performance or safety of your completed model.
PROTECT YOUR MODEL, YOURSELF
& OTHERS...FOLLOW THESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
INTRODUCTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2