Flight Model F0081 Katana 26-30CC

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Summary

Main Landing Gear Installation

CG Position and Control Throws

Control Surface Throws

Adjust control throws for elevator, rudder, and ailerons for optimal flight performance.

Center of Gravity (C.G.)

Set C.G. 140mm behind leading edge by adjusting weight or battery position.

Measurement and Flight Readiness

The provided document is an assembly manual for the Katana 26-30CC model aircraft, manufactured by Flight Model MFG CO. It details the assembly process, technical specifications, and important considerations for safe operation.

Function Description

The Katana 26-30CC is a radio-controlled (RC) model airplane designed for flight. It requires assembly from a kit, including the installation of a gasoline engine, radio control system (servos, receiver), and various structural components. The aircraft is intended for hobbyists and enthusiasts interested in building and flying large-scale RC planes. The manual emphasizes the importance of correct assembly for optimal performance and safe operation.

Important Technical Specifications

The manual provides the following key technical specifications for the Katana 26-30CC:

Wing Span: 70 inches / 1780 mm
Flying Weight: 3600 g
Wing Area: 61 sq. dm
Length: 62.9 inches / 1600 mm
Radio: Requires a 6-channel radio system with 5 servos.
Engine: Designed for a 26-30CC GAS engine. The manual specifically mentions compatibility with MLD and DLE 30CC engines.
Center of Gravity (C.G.) Position: The ideal C.G. is 140 mm (5.51 inches) behind the leading edge, measured where the wing meets the fuselage. Adjustments to weight or battery position may be needed to achieve this.
Control Throws:
- Elevator: 65 mm (up and down)
- Rudder: 110 mm (left and right)
- Ailerons (away from fuselage): 55 mm (up and down) These are recommended throws for general flying, with the option for personal adjustment.
Landing Gear Options: The manual notes that both CB (Carbon Fiber) and AL (Aluminum) landing gear options are available, with the assembly process being the same for both.

Usage Features

The manual outlines several usage features and considerations for the Katana 26-30CC:

Assembly Required: The device is a kit that requires complete assembly by the user. This involves attaching main wings, landing gear, tail components (stabilizer, rudder, tail wheel), and installing the engine and radio control system.
Engine Compatibility: The aircraft is designed for gasoline engines in the 26-30CC range. The manual provides specific instructions for installing both MLD and DLE 30CC engines, including drilling holes, fastening screws, and connecting the throttle servo linkage.
Radio Control System Integration: The assembly process includes installing servos for ailerons, elevator, and rudder, connecting them to control horns and pushrods, and routing extension wires. A 6-channel radio system with 5 servos is required for full functionality.
Fuel Tank Installation: Instructions are provided for assembling and installing the fuel tank, ensuring proper connections for fuel lines.
Cowling and Hatch Installation: The engine cowling and fuselage hatch are secured with screws, completing the aircraft's exterior.
Pre-Flight Checks: The manual emphasizes checking the C.G. before flying and ensuring all components are securely fastened.
Safety Precautions: A prominent warning states, "CAUTION: this plane is not a toy!" and advises taking enough safety precautions prior to operation. The user is responsible for the model's assembly and safe operation.
First-Time Builders: First-time builders are advised to seek advice from experienced individuals to ensure correct assembly and optimal performance.
Measurement for True Aircraft: A diagram is included to help users compare measurements and ensure the aircraft is "true, correct and flight ready."

Maintenance Features

While the manual primarily focuses on assembly, it implicitly suggests several maintenance-related practices:

Secure Fastenings: Throughout the assembly, the manual repeatedly instructs to "glue firmly," "securely glue up," "firmly fasten the screws," and "tighten" various components. This implies that regular checks of these fastenings are crucial for ongoing maintenance and safe operation.
"Thread Lock" Glue: For gasoline engine installation, the manual specifically advises using "thread lock" glue on the bolts, indicating a need for secure, vibration-resistant connections that should be periodically inspected.
Instruction Manual Retention: Users are instructed to "Always keep this instruction manual ready at hand for quick reference, even after completing the assembly." This highlights the manual's role as a long-term reference for troubleshooting, adjustments, and potentially re-assembly or repair.
C.G. and Control Throw Adjustments: The ability to adjust C.G. by adding weight or moving the battery, and to fine-tune control throws, suggests that these are ongoing adjustments that might be necessary for different flight conditions or pilot preferences, forming part of routine maintenance and setup.
Film Repair/Replacement: Instructions to "cut away covering film" for servo access or along edges for gluing imply that the covering film might need repair or replacement over time due to wear or damage.