CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If, while flying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such as a
Launch
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 EP 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 EP 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.
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 EP Zero ARF for the first few flights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain confidence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level flight. After flying around for a while, and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of battery power, practice slow flight 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 fly 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 fine tune the model so it flies
the way you like. Mind your battery power, but use this first flight to become familiar with your model before landing.
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 final turn toward the landing area (into the wind), keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the model reaches an altitude of about 10 feet, 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 and the model is a foot or so off the deck, cut your throttle and smoothly increase up elevator until it gently touches down on its belly. Make sure that you cut your power completely before touchdown, or gearbox damage may result.
One final note about flying your model: Have a goal or flight plan in mind for every flight. 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 finding 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, mind the wind direction (anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A flight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves. Have a ball! But always stay in control and fly in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!
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