Flying; Takeoff; Flight - GREAT PLANES Eagle 580 Instruction Manual

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11. Secure connections between servo wires and
Y-connectors or servo extensions with vinyl tape, heat
shrink tubing or special clips suitable for that purpose.
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12. Make sure any servo extension cords you may have
used do not interfere with other systems (servo arms,
pushrods, etc.).
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13. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).
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14. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner.
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15. Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone
number on or inside your model.
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16. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before
your fi rst fl ight.
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17. Range check your radio when you get to the fl ying fi eld.

FLYING

The Eagle 580 EP is a great-fl ying model that fl ies smoothly
and predictably. The Eagle 580 EP 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.
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, bring the model back into the pits,
peak the battery and 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, and 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 motor 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.
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. The Eagle 580 EP with the
recommended power system will only require full throttle
in short bursts. Most aerobatic fl ight can be performed at
around 1/2 throttle. If you observe the fl ight of some of the
best aerobatic pilots, they very seldom use full throttle.
Take it easy with the Eagle 580 EP for the fi rst fl ight, 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, 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 level, but use this fi rst fl ight to become familiar
with your model before landing. With most electric planes it
is best to have a timer set on your transmitter or a separate
timer with an alarm to alert you when the battery may be
getting low. This will require a few fl ights before determining
the maximum fl ight time you can achieve with the batteries.
This will prevent the downwind auto motor cutoff over the
end of the fl ying fi eld. With the plane properly trimmed you
will want to get started with some aerobatics. This plane is
capable of just about every aerobatic maneuver you can do.
Become familiar with the high and low rate settings before
using the 3D rates. If you have not fl own an airplane with
3D rates you should work your way into these higher 3D
rates cautiously. The extreme throws can stall the airplane
if you are not careful. Over controlling could also result in
unwanted snaps. If you have not fl own 3D you might want
to consider getting help from an experienced 3D pilot. When
executing down line maneuvers it is important to use good
throttle management. Full power down lines could result in
over stressing of the aircraft.
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