Check List; Flying; Launch; Flight - GREAT PLANES Zero Instruction Manual

3) At all flying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be
established in front of which all flying takes place with the
other side for spectators. Only personnel involved with flying
the aircraft are allowed at or in the front of the flight line.
Intentional flying behind the flight line is prohibited.
4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.
5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three miles
of any pre-existing flying site except in accordance with the
frequency sharing agreement listed [in the complete AMA
Safety Code].
9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch
a powered model in flight; nor should any part of the
model other than the landing gear, intentionally touch
the ground, except while landing.

CHECK LIST

During the last few moments of preparation your mind may
be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the first flight.
Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain
checks and procedures that should be performed before the
model is flown. To help avoid this, a check list is provided to
make sure these important areas are not overlooked. Many
are covered in the instruction manual, so where appropriate,
refer to the manual for complete instructions. Be sure to
check the items off as they are completed.
❏
1. Check the C.G. according to the measurements
provided in the manual.
❏
2. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely
mounted to the fuse.
❏
3. Confirm that all controls operate in the correct direction
and the throws are set up according to the manual.
❏
4. Check the operation of the motor and gearbox prior to
each flight.
❏
5. Make sure that all servo arms are secured to the
servos with the screws included with your radio.
❏
6. Place your name, address, AMA number and
telephone number on or inside your model.
❏
7. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before
your first flight.
❏
8. Range check your radio when you get to the flying field.
❏
9. Confirm that the hinge tape is properly secured.
The FlatOuts Zero ARF is a great-flying model that flies
smoothly and predictably. The FlatOuts Zero ARF does not,
however, possess the self-recovery characteristics of a
primary R/C trainer and should be flown only by experienced
R/C pilots.
CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If,
while flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound
such as a low-pitched "buzz," this may indicate control
surface flutter . Flutter occurs when a control surface (such
as an aileron or elevator) or a flying surface (such as a
wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing
the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately,
flutter can actually cause the control surface to detach or
the flying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control
followed by an impending crash. The best thing to do
when flutter is detected is to slow the model immediately
by reducing power, then land as soon as safely possible.
Identify which surface fluttered (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 fluttered
once, under similar circumstances it will probably flutter
again unless the problem is fixed. Some things which can
cause flutter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting
control horns solidly; Poor fit 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 flutter; Flying an over-
powered model at excessive speeds.
For the first flight, it is a good idea to have a friend launch
the airplane for you. This allows you to keep your hands on
the radio sticks and correct any trim problems that are
present. Have your friend hold the FlatOuts Zero ARF by the
canopy. Throttle up to full power, and have your friend give
the plane a gentle underhanded toss at about a 30° angle
upward. Since the FlatOuts Zero ARF has a very high thrust
to weight ratio, the plane will accelerate to flying speed
almost instantly. Climb to a comfortable altitude and throttle
back to a lower power setting. This plane flies great at about
half-throttle when in standard forward flight.
For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffic, it is a
good idea to have an assistant on the flight 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 fly more smoothly at reduced speeds.
Take it easy with the FlatOuts Zero ARF for the first few
13

FLYING

Launch

Flight