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PROTECT YOUR MODEL,
YOURSELF & OTHERS – FOLLOW
THIS IMPORTANT SAFETY
PRECAUTION
Your P-47 Thunderbolt is not a toy, but rather
a sophisticated, working model that functions very
much like an actual airplane.
Because of its performance, the Thunderbolt, if
not assembled and operated correctly, could
possibly cause injury to yourself or spectators and
damage property.
To make your R/C modeling experience
totally enjoyable, we recommend that you get
experienced, knowledgeable help with
assembly and during your first flights. You'll
learn faster and avoid risking your model before
you're truly ready to solo. Your local hobby shop
has information about flying clubs in your area
whose membership includes qualified instructors.
You can also contact the national Academy of
Model Aeronautics (AMA), which has more than
2,300 chartered clubs across the country. Through
any one of them, instructor training programs and
insured newcomer training are available.
Contact the AMA at the address or toll-free
phone number below:
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302-9252
Telephone: (800) 435-9262
Fax: (317) 741-0057
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Top Flite GOLD
EDITION P-47 Thunderbolt.
The P-47 has long been recognized as an
excellent modeling subject. The wing plan form,
long tail moment and generous tail areas give the
P-47 modeler an excellent starting point. Top Flite
builds on these features with custom airfoils, 2-1/2
degrees of washout in the wing and 2-1/2 degrees
of right thrust. Top Flite's advanced 3-D computer
engineering and interlocking construction
techniques combined with additional wing sheeting
jigs help you build a straight, lightweight model.
The result is a model warbird with exceptional
flight characteristics. The Top Flite P-47D is
smooth and forgiving both around the runway and
in high speed, high "G" flight.
Although this is a scale warbird with plenty of
detail, the builder can expect surprising results
because both the wing and fuse structure frame
up so fast. There is lots of sheeting to do over the
quickly framed structure but patterns are provided
with hints on how to prepare the sheets. When you
show up at the flying field with the Top Flite Gold
Edition P-47 your friends will see an "all out," scale
warbird but you'll recall a straightforward building
project with no complications (but you can keep
that a secret). Top Flite's CAD designed structure
with interlocking parts and traditional wood
construction make this possible.
ABOUT THE AIRFOILS
Top Flite Design Engineer, David J. Ribbe,
and Low Speed Airfoil Expert, Dr. Michael Selig,
sat down over pizza to discuss what areas of the
model aircraft market could benefit from better
airfoils. One area that was identified was model
warbirds as they tend to have more wing taper
and higher wing loading than most sport/aerobatic
models. A warbird would benefit from a set of
airfoils that had better lift for a slower stall speed
and smooth, gentle stall characteristics.
- 3 -
Dave set out to develop a list of parameters;
things such as... stall speed, root chord, tip chord
and thickness, while making sure there would be
adequate room for retracts, compatibility with flaps,
spars, etc. These restraints were sent to Mike, so
he could design an airfoil around them. Mike used
a computer, with the latest low speed airfoil design
code to fine tune each airfoil's shape.
The result is a root (S8036) and tip (S8037)
airfoil specifically designed for the needs of a
warbird like the P-47. We couldn't be happier with
the results.
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
plans 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 plans and
instructions may differ slightly from the
photos. In those instances you should assume
the plans 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.
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