Manual

13
FLYING
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. 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; 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
The Silhouette 3D ARF can take off from a smooth surface or
can be easily hand launched. If for the fi rst fl ight the plane is to
be hand launched, have an assistant hand launch it. This will
allow you, the pilot, to have both hands on the control sticks
to make any fl ight corrections if the plane is out of trim. Once
the Silhouette 3D ARF has been fl own and trimmed out, you
will be able to hand launch the plane easily by yourself. If you
are fl ying outdoors, always take off into the wind.
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. While
full throttle is usually desirable for takeoff, the Silhouette 3D
ARF will fl y great at ½ to ¼ throttle indoors.
Take it easy with the Silhouette 3D ARF 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. After
fl ying around for a while, and while still at a safe altitude with
plenty of battery power left, 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 she 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 battery power. It is best to have a timer set to alert
you when it is time to land.
Landing
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 landing
area, keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and
control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the edge
of the landing area, 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. When you’re ready to make your landing
fl are and the model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly
increase up elevator until it gently touches down.
One fi nal note about fl ying your model. Have a goal or fl ight
plan in mind for every fl ight. This can be learning a new
maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know,
or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions
(such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to
improve your skills (though it is never a bad idea!), but more
importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively
attempting a maneuver and suddenly fi nding that you’ve run
out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be
deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you’re going to do
a loop, check your altitude, remember to throttle back at the
top, and make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low
rates). A fl ight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing
your model just because of poor planning and impulsive
moves. Remember to think.
Have a ball!
But always stay in control and fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!