Great Planes Revolver GP/EP ARF 59" - GPMA1018 - Manual (Page 30)

30
FLYING
The Revolver .46 ARF is a great-fl ying model that fl ies
smoothly and predictably. The Revolver 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.
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 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
on the ground by doing a few practice runs at low speeds
on the runway. Hold “up” elevator to keep the tail wheel on
the ground. If necessary, adjust the tail wheel so the model
will roll straight down the runway. If you need to calm your
nerves before the maiden fl ight, 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 to maintain tail
wheel steering, 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 fl ying 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 traffi c pattern.
Flight
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight 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 fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the Revolver 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. If you have powered
the airplane with a .40 engine, you will fi nd the plane fast, but
not so fast to get yourself in trouble. If you have powered it
with a .55 engine, the airplane becomes very fast so be sure
to get fully acquainted with how it performs before attempting
complex maneuvers that could get you into trouble. 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
the model climbs as well. Continue to fl y 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 fi ne tune the model so it fl ies the way you like.
Mind your fuel level, but use this fi rst fl ight to become familiar
with your model before landing.
Landing
The Revolver is a very clean airframe. Because of this, you
will fi nd that it takes longer to slow the plane for landing than
some other airplanes you have fl own. Be prepared for this
and don’t be surprised if you have to go around and set up for
your landing a second time. Practice your landing approach
at a higher altitude over the runway to familiarize yourself with
the low speed characteristics of the plane. 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 toward the runway (into the wind)
keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level
the attitude when the model reaches the runway threshold,
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.