Top Flite TOPA0140 - Manual (Page 3)

INTRODUCTION
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the
Top Flite
Gold Edition Spitfire. The model we have
chosen to replicate is the Mk IX—the second most
popular
Spit ever, reaching a total production of
5,665 units. Considered to be the finest Spitfire of all,
the Mk IX went into operational service in July, 1942.
Though all of the models in the Gold Edition line
feature standard construction techniques and basic
materials that most modelers are familiar with, we
feel that the Spitfire may be the easiest one to build.
Although the Spitfire
is a scale model with plenty of
detail, it is one of the cleanest subjects without any
tricky areas found on some scale birds. If you’re not
already in love with the Spitfire, you’re in for a
surprise! The
Spit doesn’t seem to have the
menacing looks of the husky P-47 or the speedy
P-51, but as you near completion you’ll grow to
appreciate the clean lines and round contour of your
Spitfire. And after the covering is done, you’ve added
all the scale details and put the wing on the fuse,
you’ll be transformed into a true Spitfire fan! With the
British roundels and invasion stripes, your Spitfire will
surely stand out from the rest of the models on the
flight line!
Another phenomenon with the Spitfire is its deceiving
size while under construction. At first, you may think
“Gee, these tail surfaces sure are small” or, “This
model doesn’t have a very big wingspan.” But don’t
worry. Once you join the tail surfaces to the fuse, add
the cowl and spinner, then glue the wing tips to the
wing and put it all together, your enthusiasm will soar
when you realize that this really is a good size model!
One last note before you get started: we highly
recommend you get some pictures or a book about
Spitfires, or send for your documentation package as
soon as possible. This way, you can study the
drawings and photos to get a feel for how your
Spitfire should look when you’re done. This will also
help you figure out what scale details to add and
decide on a trim scheme (you can also dream about
how cool your Spitfire is going to look.) One of the
books we recommend is the Squadron/Signal
Publications
Spitfire in Action book No. 39
(SQUZ1039). It features lots of historical and
technical information as well as detailed drawings,
photos and trim schemes.
Well, this should be enough to get your juices
flowing, so move your other projects off your
workbench, say goodbye to your significant other for
a while and read on!
Please inspect all parts carefully before starting
to build! If any parts are missing, broken or
defective, or if you have any questions about
building or flying this model, please call us at
(217) 398-8970 and we’ll be glad to help. If you
are calling for replacement parts, please look up
the part numbers and the kit identification
number (stamped on the end of the carton) and
have them ready when calling.
PRECAUTIONS
1. You must build the plane according to the plan
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 plan and
instructions may differ slightly from the photos.
In those instances you should assume the plan
and written instructions are correct.
2. You must take time to build straight, true
and strong.
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
components so that the model operates properly
on the ground and in the air.
5. You must test the operation of the model before
every flight to insure that all equipment is operating
and you must make certain that the model has
remained structurally sound.
6. If you are not already an experienced R/C pilot,
you must fly the model only with the help of a
competent, experienced R/C pilot.
ENGINE SELECTION
Recommended engine size:
.61 to .75 cu. in. [10.0 - 12.0cc] 2-stroke
.70 to .91 cu. in. [11.5 - 15.0cc] 4-stroke
Your Spitfire will fly well with any of the
recommended engines. The 4-stroke engines and
most .75 cu. in. [12.0cc] 2-stroke engines will turn a
DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE
NOTE: We, as the kit manufacturer, 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
are expressed or implied as to the performance
or safety of your completed model.
Your Top Flite Gold Edition Spitfire Mk IX is
intended for scale and general sport flying
including mild aerobatics such as loops, stall
turns, rolls, etc. Its structure is designed to
withstand such stresses. If you intend to use
your Spitfire for more abusive types of flying such
as racing, aggressive aerobatics, or flying from
rough fields, it is your responsibility to reinforce
areas of the model that will be subjected to the
resulting unusually high stresses.
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