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P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF Specifications:
●Wing Span: 41.75 Inches (1060mm)
●Wing Area: 275 Square Inches (17.75dm2)
●Length: 38.5 Inches (978mm)
●Weight RTF: 27 - 30 Ounces (765 - 850gr)
●Wing Loading: 14 - 16 Ounces/Square Foot (43 - 48 gr/sqdm)
●Functions: Ailerons, Elevator, Rudder and Throttle
●Motor & Battery Required: 400 Brushless & Matching LiPO
●Radio Required: 4 Channel or More w/4 Micro Servos & Micro Rx
●ESC Required: 16-30 Amp Brushless to Suit Motor & Battery Choice
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FINAL ASSEMBLY
Kit Product Number 128449
Beautifully detailed and expertly built, the WattAge P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF will impress with its fully-rounded scale fuselage,
panel lines and detailed finish. The model is "Almost Ready-to-Fly", so the building, covering and painting have already been
done for you. The airplane features a scale molded fuselage with strategically placed light-plywood formers for strength and
weight savings. The wing and tail surfaces are built-up balsa and all parts are laser cut, resulting in superior fit and alignment.
Small touches that add to the scale realism of your new P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF include a molded dummy radial engine, landing
gear strut covers and radiator scoop. Also included is a generous hardware package - lightweight foam wheels, prebent tail wheel
assembly, pushrods, control horns and clevises, and more! Just finish the assembly, install your radio gear, motor, battery and
ESC, and you're ready to fly sorties over your favorite flying field!
The WattAge P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF is distributed
exclusively in North America by Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Circle, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
All contents copyright © 2005, Global Hobby Distributors
Version 1.0 November 2005
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
This R/C airplane is not a toy! If misused or abused, it can cause serious bodily injury and/or damage to property. Fly only in open
areas and preferably at a dedicated R/C flying site. We suggest having a qualified instructor carefully inspect your airplane before
its first flight. Please carefully read and follow all instructions included with this airplane, your radio control system and any other
components purchased separately.
OUR GUARANTEE
WattAge guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date of purchase. This does not cover any
component parts damaged by use, misuse or modification. In no case shall WattAge's liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit.
In that WattAge has no control over the final assembly or material used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed for any damage resulting
from the use by the user of the final user-assembled product. By the act of using the final user-assembled product, the user accepts all
resulting liability.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
To make your modeling experience totally enjoyable, we recommend that you get experienced, knowledgeable help with assembly and during
your first flights. Your local hobby shop has information about flying clubs in your area whose membership includes qualified instructors. If there
is no hobby shop in your area, we recommend that you contact the AMA at the address below. They will be able to help you locate a flying field
near you.
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie IN 47302-9252
(800) 435-9262
www.modelaircraft.org
SAFETY WARNING
Check out our website for more information on
this and other exciting WattAge products!
http://Watt-Age.Globalhobby.com
Safety Warning ...................................................................................... 2
Introduction ............................................................................................ 3
Customer Service Information .............................................................. 3
Section 1: Our Recommendations ....................................................... 4
Section 2: Lithium Polymer Battery Warnings - Please Read ............ 5
Section 3: Tools and Supplies Required ............................................. 6
Section 4: A Note About Covering ....................................................... 6
Section 5: Kit Contents ........................................................................ 7
Section 6: Wing Assembly ................................................................... 8
Section 7: Wing Mounting and Belly Pan Installation ....................... 10
Section 8: Stabilizer Installation ......................................................... 12
Section 9: Control Surface Hinging ................................................... 14
Section 10: Aileron Control System Installation ................................ 16
Section 11: Elevator and Rudder Control Systems Installation ......... 18
Section 12: Motor and Cowling Installation ....................................... 21
Section 13: Landing Gear Installation ............................................... 24
Section 14: Final Assembly ................................................................ 25
Section 15: Balancing the P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF ...................... 27
Section 16: Control Throws................................................................ 27
Section 17: Preflight Check and Safety ............................................. 28
Section 18: Replacement Parts ......................................................... 29
Product Evaluation Sheet ................................................................... 31
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Thank you for purchasing the WattAge P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF. We're confident that the quality of your new airplane
meets and even exceeds your expectations. Before completing the final assembly of your new airplane, please carefully
read through this instruction manual in its entirety. Doing so will ensure your success the first time around!
WATTAGE P-47 THUNDERBOLT EP ARF FEATURES
●Prebuilt, Detailed Scale Molded Fuselage with Light-Plywood Formers and Built-Up Wing and Tail Surfaces
●Detailed, Laser-Cut Parts to Maximize Weight Reduction
●Precovered with Real Iron-On, Heat-Shrink Covering Material and Hand-Drawn Panel Lines
●Durable Prebent Main Landing Gear Wires with Lightweight Wheels and Landing Gear Strut Covers
●Prepainted Molded Cowling and Clear Molded Canopy
●Dual Aileron Servos and Split-Elevator Pushrod for Solid Control Response
●Includes a High-Quality Hardware Package
●Fast and Easy Assembly - Over 70 High-Resolution Digital Photos and Drawings to Guide You
This instruction manual is designed to guide you through the entire assembly process of your new airplane in the least amount of
time possible. Along the way you'll learn how to properly assemble your new airplane and also learn tips that will help you in the
future. We have listed some of our recommendations below. Please read through them before beginning assembly.
●Please read through each step before beginning assembly.
You should find the layout very complete and straightforward.
Our goal is to guide you through assembly without any of the
headaches and hassles that you might expect.
●There are check boxes next to each procedure. After you
complete a procedure, check off the box. This will help prevent
you from losing your place.
●Cover your work table with brown paper or a soft cloth, both
to protect the table and to protect the parts.
●Keep a couple of small bowls or jars handy to put the small
parts in after you open the accessory bags.
●We're all excited to get a new airplane in the air, but take your
time. This will ensure you build a straight, strong and great
flying airplane.
●If you come across this symbol ☞, it means that this is an
important point or an assembly hint.
If you should find a part missing or damaged, or have any questions about assembly, please contact us at the address below:
To enable us to better serve your needs, please include your email address with any correspondence you send to us. Your email
address will be added to our Customer Service Database so you will automatically receive free updates and tech notices for your
particular product. You will also receive repair status updates (if applicable) and other important information about your product
as it becomes available.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
INTRODUCTION
CHECK IT OUT! We urge you to check out our website at http://globalservices.globalhobby.com. There you will find public message boards
frequented by other WattAge product owners and the WattAge technical support staff. This is a great place to learn about new products, get
help and suggestions for your current WattAge products or just simply hang out and chat with people that share your same interests.
Global Hobby Distributors will not disclose the information it collects to outside parties. Global Hobby Distributors does not sell,
trade, or rent your personal information to others . Your privacy is important to us.
In North America:
CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION
Global Services
18480 Bandilier Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Phone: (714) 963-0329
Fax: (714) 964-6236
Email: service@globalhobby.net
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This section describes our recommendations to help you in deciding which types of accessories to purchase for your new
P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF. Please read through this entire section very carefully. We have provided you with
recommendations that, if followed, will result in a great flying airplane. Failure to follow our recommendations may result
in a poor flying airplane.
SECTION 1: OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
What Motor, Speed Control and Battery Should I Use?
The P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF is designed to be flown with a brushless motor and matching LiPO flight battery. We recommend
using a 6T direct drive brushless motor, like the Multiplex BL-480/6D shown. An equivalent output brushless outrunner motor will
also work very well. If you use the recommended BL-480/6D brushless
motor, we suggest using a 7x4E propeller, 27 amp brushless ESC and a
3 Cell 2100mAH LiPO flight battery. This
combination is lightweight yet powerful and provides
great flight performance.
WHEN CHOOSING YOUR POWER SYSTEM, MAKE SURE TO CHOOSE AN ESC THAT IS RATED
FOR THE AMOUNT OF AMPERAGE YOUR MOTOR, PROPELLER AND FLIGHT BATTERY WILL DRAW.
TO CHARGE YOUR LIPO FLIGHT BATTERY, YOU MUST USE A LIPO-COMPATIBLE CHARGER. WE SUGGEST USING
THE PRO-PEAK QUATTRO LIPO CHARGER. NEVER ATTEMPT TO CHARGE A LIPO BATTERY WITH ANY OTHER TYPE
OF CHARGER.
YOU MUST USE AN ESC DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR BRUSHLESS MOTORS. ESC'S DESIGNED FOR USE WITH
BRUSHED MOTORS WILL NOT WORK WITH BRUSHLESS MOTORS.
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND USING HIGH-QUALITY CONNECTORS (SUCH AS DEAN'S CONNECTORS) BETWEEN THE
ESC AND FLIGHT BATTERY.
What Radio, Receiver and Servos Should I Use?
You will need to use a 4 or more channel transmitter with a 4 or more channel
micro receiver. The receiver should be as light as possible, preferably 1/2oz. or
less. We suggest using the Cirrus MRX-4II FM Micro receiver.
The servos you use should be the lightest available, yet still have an adequate
amount of torque. We suggest using servos that weigh no more than 9-10
grams and have a torque rating of no less than 11 ounces per square inch.
Cirrus CS301 or CS302BB Micro servos or Hitec HS-55 Micro servos would be a perfect choice.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ The MRX-4II receiver has a range of approximately 500 yards (~1/4 mile). Keep this in mind when flying the
airplane while using this receiver.
QTY. 1 Hitec Laser 4 FM Transmitter
QTY. 1 443534 Cirrus MRX-4II FM Micro Receiver
QTY. 1 446216 Cirrus Crystal for MRX-4II
QTY. 1 240033 Multiplex BL-480/6D Brushless Motor
QTY. 1 240045 Multiplex BL-27 27 Amp Brushless ESC
QTY. 4 440302 Cirrus CS302BB Micro Servos
QTY. 1 182253 Impulse 3C 11.1V 2100mAH LiPO Flight Battery
QTY. 2 444713 Cirrus 12" Servo Extensions
QTY. 1 444728 Cirrus Y-Harness
QTY. 1 245640 Windsor 7x4E Nylon Propeller
QTY. 1 158370 Pro-Peak Quattro LiPO Charger
QTY. 1 869020 Dubro Double-Sided Tape
QTY. 1 625085 Deans Ultra-Plug Connector Set
Here's a List of What We Recommend to Finish Your P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ The part number for the Cirrus servos is compatible with all name-brand radio control systems. These servos use a universal
connector. The Cirrus receiver is compatible with all connector types and is auto-shift capable. The part numbers for the Cirrus servo extensions
and Y-Harness are compatible with S/JR connectors.
5
Please read and understand the warnings listed in this section. Make sure to read any and all warnings
included in the packaging with your battery, too. If used improperly, lithium polymer batteries can be very
dangerous, so please follow these warnings and suggestions at all times.
WARNINGS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR ALL BRANDS OF LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERIES
●This product may explode or catch fire. Serious injury can result from misuse. Serious injury, loss of property, fire and death
can result from misuse of this product.
●All instructions, warnings and cautions must be followed at all times. Failure to do so can lead to serious injury or fire.
●Do NOT use this product before reading and understanding all directions and warnings.
●Do NOT overcharge. Maximum voltage for each pack must be followed.
●Do NOT over-discharge. NEVER discharge below minimum volts.
●Do NOT discharge at a rate greater than the maximum continuous discharge.
●Do NOT use or charge if the battery is hot.
●ONLY use a charger made for Lithium Polymer batteries.
●Do NOT charge at a rate higher than 1C. Example: if the battery’s rating is 340mAH, then the charger’s charge rate must be set
at 340mAH or less.
●Do NOT leave in direct sunlight or in a hot car or storage area.
●Do NOT get wet or expose to moisture.
●Do NOT short-circuit the battery.
●ONLY discharge and charge the battery outdoors or in a firesafe container.
●Do NOT charge with reverse polarity.
●Do NOT leave the battery connected when not in use.
●Do NOT operate or charge unattended.
●Do NOT solder to the battery directly and do not get the battery hot in any way.
SECTION 2: LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERY WARNINGS - PLEASE READ
CHARGING PRECAUTIONS FOR ALL BRANDS OF LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERIES
●Do NOT use the product if you do not understand the warnings and proper use of the product.
●Always let the battery cool and "rest" between uses and charging.
●To avoid over-discharging, only use a speed control that is made for LiPO batteries.
●We recommend the use of a firesafe container when charging or storing.
●Do NOT charge inside your car or inside your house.
● Inspect the battery before each use for swelling or other malformation. If the cell has ballooned, it MUST be discarded.
●Set the charger to 1C (charge at 1/2C or less for the first 5 cycles).
●Check polarity and then connect battery to charger.
●In use, do not over-discharge or exceed maximum discharge.
●When handling the battery, remember not to poke, bend or damage the cell. The cell outer casing is soft and can be damaged.
●Remember, the cells must never exceed 160 degrees Fahrenheit for any reason.
6
PRO TIP
✦✦
✦✦
✦WARNING✦✦
✦✦
✦ The airframe comes with panel lines drawn on it from the factory with permanent ink. Do not use any harsh
solvents to clean the airframe, such as Acetone. Harsh solvents will dissolve the ink and destroy the panel lines. It is okay to use
rubbing alcohol or mild cleaners, such as Windex® to clean the airframe when needed.
The covering material used on the P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF is real iron-on, heat-shrink covering material. It is possible with heat
and humidity changes that the covering on your airplane may wrinkle or sag. This trait is inherent in all types of heat-shrink material.
To remove any wrinkles that might be visible you will need to use a heat-sealing covering iron.
Follow this simple procedure to remove the wrinkles:
❑Plug in and turn on the sealing iron to the medium-high temperature setting. Allow the sealing iron to heat up for approximately
5 - 7 minutes.
❑After the sealing iron has reached temperature, lightly apply the sealing iron to the wrinkled section of the covering. Move the
sealing iron slowly over the wrinkled section until the covering tightens and the wrinkles disappear.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ You will notice that the color of the covering will darken when it is heated. When the covering cools back down,
it will return to its normal color.
☞If the color layer smears from any of the seams the temperature of the sealing iron is too hot. Turn the temperature dial down
and wait about 5 minutes for the sealing iron to adjust to the lower temperature. You can remove any excess color streaks using a
paper towel soaked with a small quantity of rubbing alcohol.
We do not suggest storing your airplane in an extremely hot environment (like the back of your car in direct sunlight)
for any length of time. The extreme heat could distort the molded plastic fuselage and/or cause the covering material to wrinkle
and possibly damage the fragile components of the radio system, ESC or flight battery.
❑Kwik Bond Thin C/A # 887500
❑Kwik Bond Thick C/A # 887510
❑Kwik Bond 5 Minute Epoxy # 887560
❑Kwik Bond C/A Debonder # 887545
❑Pacer Formula 560 Canopy Glue # 339176
❑Wilhold Silicon Sealant
❑#1 Phillips Head Screwdriver
❑1.5mm Hex Wrench
❑Wire Cutters
❑Needle Nose Pliers
❑Adjustable Wrench
❑Excel Modeling Knife # 692801
❑Scissors
❑Electric Drill
❑Assorted Drill Bits
❑Ernst Airplane Stand # 223977
❑Ruler
❑Pencil
❑Dubro T-Pins # 567677
❑Rotary Tool w/Cutting Disc & Sanding Drum
❑Builder's Triangle
❑220 Grit Sandpaper w/Sanding Block
❑Masking Tape
❑Paper Towels
❑Wax Paper
❑Rubbing Alcohol
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Sticks # 864204
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Cups # 864205
❑Global Heat Gun # 360920
❑Global Heat-Sealing Iron # 360900
❑K&S 30 Watt Soldering Iron # 598120*
❑Solder*
❑Heat-Shrink Tubing (Assorted Sizes)*
SECTION 3: TOOLS AND SUPPLIES REQUIRED
The tools and supplies listed below will be necessary to finish the assembly of your P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF. We suggest having
these items on hand before beginning assembly.
SECTION 4: A NOTE ABOUT COVERING
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We have organized the parts as they come out of the box for easier identification during assembly. Before you begin assembly,
group the parts as we list them below. This will ensure that you have all of the parts before you begin assembly and it will also help
you become familiar with each part.
If you find any parts missing or damaged, please contact us as soon as possible,
using the Customer Service Information on page # 3.
SECTION 5: KIT CONTENTS
Continued On Next Page
AIRFRAME ASSEMBLIES
❑(1) Fuselage
❑(1) Left Wing Panel w/Aileron
❑(1) Right Wing Panel w/Aileron
❑(1) Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevator Halves
❑(1) Vertical Stabilizer w/Rudder
LANDING GEAR ASSEMBLY
❑(2) Prebent Landing Gear Wires
❑(1) Prebent Tail Wheel Wire Assembly
❑(2) Main Gear Wheels
❑(2) Plastic Landing Gear Strut Covers
❑(2) Nylon Mounting Straps
❑(4) M2 x 8mm Wood Screws
❑(2) Wheel Collars w/Grub Screws
❑(2) U-Shaped Plastic Straps
AILERON CONTROL SYSTEM
❑(2) 2-3/4" Threaded Wires w/Z-Bends
❑(2) Nylon Control Horns
❑(2) Nylon Control Horn Backplates
❑(2) Nylon Clevises
❑(4) M2 x 14mm Machine Screws
❑(6) C/A-Style Hinges
ELEVATOR AND RUDDER CONTROL SYSTEMS
❑(1) Split Elevator Pushrod Assembly
❑(1) Rudder Pushrod Assembly
❑(3) Nylon Control Horns
❑(3) Nylon Control Horn Backplates
❑(3) Nylon Clevises
❑(1) Adjustable Pushrod Connector
❑(4) M2 x 14mm Machine Screws
❑(2) M2 x 25mm Machine Screws
❑(9) C/A-Style Hinges
❑(1) Belly Pan
❑(1) Composite-Reinforced Balsa Wing Joiner
❑(1) M3 x 20mm Self-Tapping Screw
MISCELLANEOUS WING PARTS
8
❑Kwik Bond 5 Minute Epoxy
❑Excel Modeling Knife
❑Ruler
❑Pencil
❑220 Grit Sandpaper w/Sanding Block
❑(1) Left Wing Panel w/Aileron
❑(1) Right Wing Panel w/Aileron
❑(1) Composite-Reinforced Balsa Wing Joiner
❑Masking Tape
❑Paper Towels
❑Rubbing Alcohol
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Sticks
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Cups
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
SECTION 6: WING ASSEMBLY
STEP 1: ALIGNING THE WING PANELS
MISCELLANEOUS FUSELAGE PARTS
❑(1) Cowling
❑(1) Clear Canopy
❑(1) Dummy Radial Engine
❑(1) Spinner Assembly w/Mounting Screws
❑(1) Radiator Scoop
❑(1) Plywood Motor Support (Optional)
❑(1) Propeller Adapter
❑(1) Velcro Strip
❑(3) M3 x 8mm Flange-Head Machine Screws
❑(7) M2 x 8mm Wood Screws
❑(1) Decal Set
KIT CONTENTS, CONTINUED....
❑Cut away the excess covering material that overlaps onto the root
ribs of each wing panel, leaving about 1/16" overlapped so it does not
pull away.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ It's very important to the integrity of the wing
center-section joint that you remove as much covering material from
the root ribs as possible. Do not omit this procedure or the wing
center-section joint may fail during flight.
❑Remove the aileron from each wing panel and set them aside.
❑Measure and draw a vertical centerline on one side of the wing joiner.
Continued On Next Page
9
☞If the wing joiner does not fit properly, use 220 grit sandpaper with a sanding block to lightly sand the wing joiner, until you are
satisfied with the fit.
❑Test-fit the wing joiner into each wing panel. It should slide easily
into each wing panel, up to the centerline you drew.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ When the wing joiner is installed, it should not fit
tightly into the wing panels. It should actually be slightly loose. This
will ensure that when you glue the wing joiner into place epoxy can
get into the joints between the wing joiner and the joiner box. This
will ensure the strongest joint possible.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ The wing joiner is cut in a shallow "V" shape. When you test-fit the wing joiner in the next procedure, make sure
that the "V" shape is toward the TOP of the wing panels.
❑Carefully slide both wing panels together with the wing joiner
temporarily installed (without using glue).
❑While holding the two wing panels together firmly, make sure that the wing panels are lined up at both the leading and trailing
edges, then look carefully at the center-section joint: the wing panels should fit together tightly with few or no gaps in the joint.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ If the wing panels do not fit together properly, remove the wing joiner and lightly sand the edges and tips
of the wing joiner, until you are satisfied with the fit. Remember, when the wing panels are pushed together, there should be few
or no gaps in the center-section joint.
STEP 2: JOINING THE WING PANELS
❑When satisfied with the fit and alignment, pull the wing panels apart
and remove the wing joiner.
❑Apply a strip of masking tape to the top and bottom edges of the root
rib on each wing panel.
☞The masking tape will prevent excess epoxy from getting onto the
wing panels when you join them.
❑Mix a generous amount of 5 minute epoxy. Working with only one
wing panel for now, apply a thin layer of epoxy inside the wing joiner box
and to only half of the wing joiner. Make sure to cover the top and
bottom, as well as the sides, and use enough epoxy to fill any gaps.
❑Slide the wing joiner into the wing panel up to the centerline mark. Quickly remove any excess epoxy, using a paper towel and
rubbing alcohol, and allow the epoxy to set up before proceeding.
❑After the epoxy has set up, test-fit both wing panels together again to double-check that they still fit together properly. Check the
leading and trailing edges, too. It's important that they be even with each other.
Continued On Next Page
10
❑Mix a generous amount of 5 minute epoxy and apply a thin layer to the exposed half of the wing joiner, the inside of the wing
joiner box in the second wing panel, and the entire surface of BOTH root ribs. Make sure to use enough epoxy to fill any gaps.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ It is of the utmost importance to the integrity of the wing center-section joint that you apply a generous amount
of epoxy to both root ribs and the wing joiner. Not using enough epoxy can result in wing failure during flight.
❑Slide the two wing panels together and realign them. Quickly wipe
away any excess epoxy, using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol, and
use pieces of masking tape to hold the two wing panels aligned until the
epoxy fully cures.
STEP 3: CHECKING THE WING CENTER-SECTION JOINT
❑Once the epoxy has fully cured, remove the masking tape and double-check the center-section joint. If any gaps are present,
carefully fill them using 5 minute epoxy.
❑Kwik Bond Thick C/A
❑Wilhold Silicon Sealant
❑# 2 Phillips Head Screwdriver
❑Excel Modeling Knife
❑Ernst Airplane Stand
❑(1) Fuselage
❑(1) Belly Pan
❑(1) M3 x 20mm Self-Tapping Screw
❑Pencil
❑220 Grit Sandpaper w/Sanding Block
❑Masking Tape
❑Paper Towels
❑Wax Paper
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
SECTION 7: WING MOUNTING AND BELLY PAN INSTALLATION
STEP 1: MOUNTING THE WING
❑Apply a couple of drops of thin C/A into the threaded wing hold-down
hole in the fuselage.
☞The C/A will harden the threads in the plywood, preventing them
from stripping out over time.
❑After the C/A has fully cured, set the wing into the wing saddle and
secure it into place, using one M3 x 20mm self-tapping screw.
☞Don't overtighten the screw or you'll crush the wing. It only needs
to be tightened snugly.
Continued On Next Page
11
STEP 2: ALIGNING THE BELLY PAN
❑Cut a hole in the bottom of the belly pan to access the wing hold-
down screw. Position the hole on the centerline of the belly pan, 5/8" in
front of the back edge.
❑With the wing installed onto the fuselage, position the belly pan onto
the wing. When lined up properly, the sides and bottom of the belly
pan should be even with the sides and bottom of the fuselage, and
there should be few or no gaps between the base of the belly pan and
the wing.
☞Some small gaps between the belly pan and the wing are normal.
They will be filled with silicon when the belly pan is glued into place.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ So that the wing can be installed and removed, there should be a small gap between the fuselage and the front
and back of the belly pan.
STEP 3: INSTALLING THE BELLY PAN
❑Remove the wing, lay a long piece of wax paper over the wing saddle,
then reinstall the wing, making sure that the ends of the wax paper are
covering the joints between the fuselage and the leading and trailing
edges of the wing.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ It's important to use wax paper or plastic wrap when you glue the belly pan to the wing. The wax paper will
ensure that you don't accidentally glue the wing to the fuselage when you glue the belly pan into place.
❑Apply a generous bead of silicon sealant to the base of the belly
pan, making sure that you cover all of the gluing surfaces.
☞Make sure to use enough silicon sealant to fill any small gaps or
irregularities in the glue joint.
❑Set the belly pan back into place and realign it. When satisfied with the alignment, push the belly pan down firmly and remove
any excess silicon sealant, using a paper towel and water. Hold the belly pan securely in place, using pieces of masking tape, until
the silicon sealant completely cures.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ It will take the silicon sealant about 24 hours to fully cure. We suggest not moving the assembly during this
time. You must allow sufficient time for the silicon sealant to dry.
❑After the silicon sealant has fully cured, look carefully at the glue joint between the belly pan and the wing. If there are any gaps
in the glue joint, carefully fill them using extra silicon sealant. Make sure to remove any excess before it cures, using a paper towel
and water. This will ensure the strongest possible bond.
12
❑Kwik Bond 5 Minute Epoxy
❑Excel Modeling Knife
❑Ruler
❑Pencil
❑Builder's Triangle
❑220 Grit Sandpaper w/Sanding Block
❑(1) Horizontal Stabilizer w/Elevator Halves ❑(1) Vertical Stabilizer w/Rudder
❑Masking Tape
❑Paper Towels
❑Rubbing Alcohol
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Sticks
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Cups
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
SECTION 8: STABILIZER INSTALLATION
STEP 1: ALIGNING THE HORIZONTAL STABILIZER
❑Remove the elevator halves from the horizontal stabilizer and set them aside.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Don't skip ahead and hinge the elevator halves before installing the stabilizer. If you hinge the elevator halves
now, it will be impossible to install the stabilizer.
❑Carefully measure and draw a vertical centerline across the top of
the horizontal stabilizer.
❑Slide the stabilizer into the mounting slot and temporarily align it.
The stabilizer should be pushed forward as far as possible and, when
viewed from above through the vertical stabilizer mounting slot, the
centerline you drew on the stabilizer should be centered within the
vertical stabilizer mounting slot.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Be careful not to distort the back of the fuselage.
❑When satisfied with the alignment, hold only the trailing edge of the stabilizer in position, using a couple of small pieces of
masking tape.
☞The front of the stabilizer should be able to pivot from side to side and the back should stay firmly in place and aligned.
❑Use a ruler to carefully measure the distance between the tips of the
stabilizer and the tips of the wing. Pivot the front of the stabilizer until
both of these measurements are equal. When both measurements are
equal, the stabilizer is square to the wing.
Continued On Next Page
13
❑When you are satisfied that the stabilizer is square to the wing, draw
a couple of marks on each side of the front of the stabilizer where it and
the fuselage sides meet, then use a couple of small pieces of masking
tape to hold the stabilizer firmly in place and aligned.
❑With the stabilizer held firmly in place, look from the front of the
airplane at both the wing and the stabilizer. When aligned properly, the
stabilizer should be parallel to the wing.
☞If the stabilizer is out of alignment, use thin shims cut from scrap
plastic, slid between the stabilizer and the fuselage, to make the stabilizer
parallel to the wing.
❑When satisfied with the alignment, draw a line on each side of the
stabilizer where it meets the fuselage sides. Do this on both the top and
the bottom.
STEP 2: MOUNTING THE HORIZONTAL STABILIZER
❑Remove the stabilizer from the fuselage and carefully cut away the
covering material from between the lines you drew. Do this on both the
top and the bottom.
✦✦
✦✦
✦WARNING✦✦
✦✦
✦ When cutting through the covering to remove it, cut
with only enough pressure to cut through only the covering itself.
Cutting down into the balsa structure could weaken the stabilizer and
cause it to fail during flight.
❑To make it less messy during installation, apply masking tape to the
fuselage around the side of the mounting slot that the stabilizer will slide
into. Apply masking tape to the top and bottom of the corresponding
side of the stabilizer, too.
❑Partially slide the stabilizer into the mounting slot.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Because the stabilizer has to slide into place through the fuselage, apply epoxy only to the stabilizer. This will
prevent the epoxy from spreading over the entire length of one half of the stabilizer when you slide it into place.
❑Mix and apply a generous amount of 5 minute epoxy to ONLY the top and bottom gluing surfaces of the stabilizer.
❑Push the stabilizer into place and realign it, double-checking all of your measurements once more before the epoxy sets up.
Quickly remove any excess epoxy, using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol, and hold the stabilizer in place until the epoxy sets up.
❑After the epoxy has sets up, look closely at the glue joint. If there are any gaps between the stabilizer and the fuselage, fill them
with 5 minute epoxy for added strength.
Continued On Next Page
14
STEP 3: ALIGNING AND MOUNTING THE VERTICAL STABILIZER
❑Remove the rudder from the vertical stabilizer and set it aside.
❑Push the vertical stabilizer down into the mounting slot. To align it
properly, the trailing edge of the stabilizer should be even with the back
edge of the fuselage and the stabilizer should be pushed down firmly.
❑While holding the vertical stabilizer firmly in place, draw a line on
each side of the stabilizer where it meets the top of the fuselage.
❑Remove the vertical stabilizer and carefully cut away the covering
material from below the lines you drew. Cut away the covering material
from the base of the vertical stabilizer, too.
☞Don't cut away the covering material from the back edge of the
vertical stabilizer.
❑Glue the vertical stabilizer into place, using a generous amount of 5 minute epoxy, making sure to quickly remove any excess
epoxy before it sets up, using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Make sure that the vertical stabilizer is lined up perpendicular (90º) to the horizontal stabilizer.
❑Kwik Bond Thin C/A
❑Kwik Bond 5 Minute Epoxy
❑Kwik Bond C/A Debonder
❑Excel Modeling Knife
❑Electric Drill
❑1/16" Drill Bit
❑Ernst Airplane Stand
❑Ruler
❑Pencil
❑220 Grit Sandpaper w/Sanding Block
❑Paper Towels
❑Rubbing Alcohol
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Sticks
❑NHP Epoxy Mixing Cups
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
SECTION 9: CONTROL SURFACE HINGING
❑(15) C/A-Style Hinges ❑(1) Prebent Tail Wheel Wire Assembly
✦✦
✦✦
✦Important Information About the C/A-Style Hinges Included with Your P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF✦✦
✦✦
✦
The control surfaces are temporarily held in place for packing purposes using a couple of pieces of hinge material. These should
be discarded. Use the hinges supplied in the hardware bag to hinge the control surfaces.
The P-47 Thunderbolt EP ARF uses C/A-style hinges to hinge the control surfaces. These hinges are designed to be glued into
place using thin C/A. Do not glue these hinges into place using any other type of glue, such as thick C/A or epoxy. Use of any
adhesive other than thin C/A could result in failure of the hinges during flight.
If the hinge(s) can't be pushed in far enough to achieve the proper hinge gap, you'll need to use a modeling knife with a # 11 blade
to cut the hinge slot(s) deeper.
STEP 1: HINGING THE AILERONS
Continued On Next Page
15
❑Push one T-Pin through the center of three C/A-style aileron hinges,
as shown.
☞The T-Pin will keep the hinges centered while you are hinging
the aileron.
❑Slide one hinge into each hinge slot in one aileron, making sure that
you push each hinge in up to the T-Pin.
☞Don't glue the hinges into the aileron yet.
❑Push the aileron and its hinges into the hinge slots in the trailing
edge of the wing.
❑Remove the T-Pins and push the aileron firmly up against the trailing
edge, so that there is a minimal hinge gap (no more than 1/32" wide).
Double-check that the tips of the aileron do not rub against the wing.
❑While holding the aileron tight against the wing, pivot the aileron
down about 45º and apply 5-6 drops of thin C/A to the exposed area of
each hinge. Turn the wing over and repeat for the other side of the hinges.
PRO TIP
❑Allow the C/A to dry for about 15 minutes, then pivot the aileron up and down several times to free up the hinges.
After the C/A has fully cured, gently grasp the aileron and wing and pull on the aileron like you are trying to pull out
the hinges. The hinges should hold securely. If one or more hinges feels loose, apply more C/A to the hinge(s) and allow it to
completely cure.
❑Repeat the previous procedures to hinge the second aileron to the wing, making sure to check the integrity of the hinges
after the C/A has fully cured.
STEP 2: HINGING THE ELEVATOR HALVES
❑Hinge the elevator halves to the stabilizer, using the same techniques
that you used to hinge the ailerons to the wing. Each elevator half is
hinged using three hinges. When hinging the elevator halves, the tips
of the elevator halves should not rub against the ends of the stabilizer
and there should not be more than a 1/32" wide hinge gap.
☞Don't forget to check the integrity of the hinges after the C/A cures.
Continued On Next Page
16
STEP 3: INSTALLING THE TAIL WHEEL ASSEMBLY
❑Measure 3/4" up from the bottom of the rudder (at the leading edge)
and drill a 1/16" diameter hole for the tail wheel wire.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Make sure to drill the hole perpendicular to the
leading edge and be careful not to drill out through the sides of the
rudder.
❑Cut a shallow groove in the leading edge from the base of the hole
down to the bottom of the rudder. This will allow the front of the tail
wheel wire to be flush with the leading edge of the rudder when it's
glued into place.
❑Test-fit the tail wheel wire. When properly aligned, the tail wheel
wire should rest within the groove and the front edge of the tail wheel
wire should be flush with the leading edge of the rudder.
❑When satisfied with the fit and alignment, remove the tail wheel wire
and lightly sand the gluing surfaces to roughen the metal.
❑Glue the tail wheel wire into the rudder, using 5 minute epoxy.
STEP 4: HINGING THE RUDDER
❑Hinge the rudder, using the same techniques that you used to hinge
the elevator halves. The rudder is hinged using three hinges. When
hinging the rudder, the top of the rudder should be even with the top of
the stabilizer and there should not be more than a 1/32" wide hinge gap.
☞Don't forget to check the integrity of the hinges after the C/A cures.
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
SECTION 10: AILERON CONTROL SYSTEM INSTALLATION
❑(2) 2-3/4" Threaded Wires w/Z-Bends
❑(2) Nylon Control Horns
❑(2) Nylon Control Horn Backplates
❑(2) Nylon Clevises
❑(4) M2 x 14mm Machine Screws
❑Kwik Bond Thin C/A
❑# 1 Phillips Head Screwdriver
❑Needle Nose Pliers
❑Excel Modeling Knife
❑Electric Drill
❑1/16" & 5/64" Drill Bits
❑Ruler
❑Pencil
❑Masking Tape
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
Continued On Next Page
17
PRO TIP
❑Install the rubber grommets and brass collets onto one aileron servo, making sure to install the collets with the flanges toward the
bottom of the servo, then plug a 12" servo extension lead to the servo lead.
STEP 1: INSTALLING THE AILERON SERVOS
❑Pull the servo lead through the wing and out the hole in the top of the
wing, using the piece of string that's installed in the wing.
❑Set the servo into place, making sure that the servo output shaft is
toward the leading edge of the wing.
❑Install the servo, making sure to drill 1/16" diameter pilot holes for
the mounting screws.
❑Repeat the previous procedures to install the second aileron servo into the wing.
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE PUSHRODS, CONTROL HORNS AND CLEVISES
❑Enlarge the hole in a servo arm that is 1/2" out from the center of the
servo arm, using a 5/64" diameter drill bit.
❑Install the Z-Bend in one threaded pushrod wire into the hole that
you enlarged.
❑Connect your radio system and plug one aileron servo into the receiver. Center the servo by double-checking that the aileron
trim lever on your transmitter is centered, then use a couple of pieces of masking tape, taped between the aileron and the wing, to
hold the aileron centered.
❑Install the servo horn onto the servo, making sure that the servo
horn is centered and points toward the wing tip.
❑Install the servo horn retaining screw to secure the servo horn to
the servo.
❑Position one nylon control horn onto the bottom of the aileron, then
mark the locations of the mounting holes. When aligned properly, the
centerline of the control horn should be approximately 1-1/2" out from
the inside edge of the aileron (at the hinge line) and the clevis attachment
holes should be lined up over the hinge line. The base of the control
horn should be angled slightly, too, so that the control horn will line up
with the pushrod wire.
❑Drill 5/64" diameter pilot holes through the aileron for the control
horn mounting screws.
Before installing the control horn in the next procedure,
drip several drops of thin C/A into the pilot holes and allow the C/A to
fully cure. The C/A will harden the surrounding balsa, making the
mounting area stronger.
Continued On Next Page
18
❑Install the control horn and backplate, using two M2 x 14mm machine
screws, being careful not to overtighten them.
❑Thread one nylon clevis onto the pushrod wire and snap the clevis
into the outermost hole in the control horn.
☞Hold the pushrod wire with a pair of pliers to prevent it from turning
or twisting when installing the clevis.
❑Remove the masking tape from the aileron and double-check that the servo horn and the aileron are still centered. If the aileron
is not centered, adjust the clevis until it is. Move the aileron up and down several times to ensure that the linkage assembly does
not bind. It should operate smoothly in both directions.
❑Repeat the previous procedures to install the second aileron pushrod assembly onto the other half of the wing.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ You will need to plug a Y-Harness into the two aileron servo extension leads at this time. This will allow both
aileron servos to be plugged into the aileron channel in your receiver.
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING PARTS FROM THE KIT:
SECTION 11: ELEVATOR AND RUDDER CONTROL SYSTEMS INSTALLATION
❑(1) Split Elevator Pushrod Assembly
❑(1) Rudder Pushrod Assembly
❑(3) Nylon Control Horns
❑(3) Nylon Control Horn Backplates
❑(3) Nylon Clevises
❑(1) Adjustable Pushrod Connector
❑(4) M2 x 14mm Machine Screws
❑(2) M2 x 25mm Machine Screws
❑Kwik Bond Thin C/A
❑# 1 Phillips Head Screwdriver
❑Needle Nose Pliers
❑Adjustable Wrench
❑Excel Modeling Knife
❑Electric Drill
❑1/16" & 5/64" Drill Bits
❑Ernst Airplane Stand
❑Ruler
❑Pencil
❑Masking Tape
YOU'LL NEED THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:
❑Install the rubber grommets and brass collets onto the elevator and rudder servos, making sure to install the collets with the flanges
toward the bottom of the servos.
STEP 1: INSTALLING THE ELEVATOR AND RUDDER SERVOS
❑Install the servos into the servo tray, making sure to drill 1/16"
diameter pilot holes for the mounting screws.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ When installed, the servo output shafts should be
toward the front of the fuselage. Each servo should be pushed up
against the outer edge of the servo tray, too.
STEP 2: INSTALLING THE ELEVATOR CONTROL HORNS AND CLEVISES
❑Slide the elevator pushrod assembly into the fuselage and guide the two threaded wires out through the pushrod exit slots.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ To make guiding the threaded wires through the exit slots easier, gently spread the two pushrod wires into
a shallow "Y" shape.
Continued On Next Page
19
❑Position one nylon control horn onto the bottom of one elevator half,
then mark the locations of the mounting holes. When aligned properly,
the centerline of the control horn should be 7/8" out from the inside
edge of the elevator half (at the hinge line) and the clevis attachment
holes should be lined up over the hinge line. The base of the control
horn should be angled slightly toward the fuselage side, too, so that it
lines up better with the pushrod wire.
❑Drill 5/64" diameter pilot holes through the elevator half for the control horn mounting screws.
❑Before installing the control horn in the next procedure, drip several
drops of thin C/A into the pilot holes and allow the C/A to fully cure. The
C/A will harden the surrounding balsa, making the mounting area stronger.
❑Install the control horn and backplate, using two M2 x 14mm machine screws, being careful not to overtighten them.
❑Use a piece of masking tape, taped between the elevator half and the stabilizer, to hold the elevator half centered.
❑Thread one nylon clevis onto the pushrod wire and snap the clevis
into the outermost hole in the control horn.
☞Hold the pushrod wire with a pair of pliers to prevent it from turning
or twisting when installing the clevis.
❑Repeat the previous procedures to align and install the second nylon
control horn and clevis assembly onto the other elevator half.
STEP 3: INSTALLING THE ADJUSTABLE PUSHROD CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY
❑Enlarge the hole in a servo arm that is 3/8" out from the center of the
servo arm, using a 5/64" diameter drill bit. Install the adjustable servo
connector into the enlarged hole, using the two flat washers and hex nut
to hold it in place.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Don't tighten the hex nut completely. You don't want
the nut loose, but you do want the connector to rotate without binding.
❑Apply a drop of thin C/A to the hex nut to prevent it from loosening during flight. Do not omit this procedure.
❑Connect your radio system and plug the elevator servo (right-side servo) into the receiver. Center the servo by double-checking
that the elevator trim lever on your transmitter is centered.
Continued On Next Page
20
❑Slide the adjustable servo connector/servo horn assembly over the
plain end of the pushrod wire, then attach the servo horn to the servo,
making sure that the servo horn is centered and points toward the middle
of the fuselage.
❑Double-check that both elevator halves are centered, then carefully
install and tighten the machine screw in the top of the adjustable servo
connector to secure the elevator pushrod wire into place.
❑Cut away the excess pushrod wire, then install and tighten the servo horn retaining screw to hold the servo horn securely to
the servo.
❑Remove the masking tape from the elevator halves and double-check that the servo horn and both elevator halves are still
centered. If the elevator halves are not centered, adjust the clevises and/or adjustable pushrod connector until they are. Move the
elevator up and down several times to ensure that the linkage assembly does not bind. It should operate smoothly in both directions.
STEP 4: INSTALLING THE RUDDER PUSHROD ASSEMBLY
❑Enlarge the hole in a servo arm that is 3/8" out from the center of the
servo arm, using a 5/64" diameter drill bit.
❑Install the Z-Bend in the rudder pushrod wire into the hole that you
enlarged.
❑Connect your radio system and plug the rudder servo into the receiver. Center the servo by double-checking that the rudder trim
lever on your transmitter is centered, then use a couple of pieces of masking tape, taped between the rudder and the stabilizer, to
hold the rudder centered.
❑Slide the rudder pushrod into the fuselage and guide the threaded
end out through the pushrod exit slot.
❑Install the servo horn onto the servo, making sure that the servo
horn is centered and points toward the fuselage side.
❑Install the servo horn retaining screw to secure the servo horn to
the servo.
❑Install one nylon control horn and backplate onto the left side of the
rudder, using two M2 x 25mm machine screws. When aligned properly,
the centerline of the control horn should be lined up with the rudder
pushrod wire and the clevis attachment holes should be lined up over
the hinge line.
✦✦
✦✦
✦IMPORTANT✦✦
✦✦
✦ Don't forget to apply thin C/A into the mounting
holes to make the mounting area stronger.
❑Thread one nylon clevis onto the pushrod wire and snap the clevis
into the outermost hole in the control horn.
☞Hold the pushrod wire with a pair of pliers to prevent it from turning
or twisting when installing the clevis.
Continued On Next Page
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