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An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight
is properly balancing the model. This is especially
important when various engines are mounted.
Caution: Do not inadvertently
skip this step!
The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) location for
the F6F Hellcat is 5
1
/
4
" (134mm) behind the leading
edge of the wing against the fuselage. Make sure the
gear is retracted when checking the CG, as the CG
will change depending on the gear position. Make
sure the aircraft is inverted when measuring the CG.
If necessary, move the battery pack or add weight to
either the nose or the tail until the correct balance
is achieved. Stick-on weights are available at your
local hobby store and work well for this purpose.
Charge both the transmitter and receiver pack for your
airplane. Use the recommended charger supplied with
your particular radio system, following the instructions
provided with the radio. In most cases, the radio
should be charged the night before going out flying.
Check the radio installation and make sure all the control
surfaces are moving correctly (i.e. the correct direction and
with the recommended throws). Test run the engine and
make sure it transitions smoothly from idle to full throttle
and back. Also ensure the engine is tuned according
to the manufacturer's instructions, and it will run
consistently and constantly at full throttle when adjusted.
Check all the control horns, servo horns and
clevises to make sure they are secure and in good
condition. Replace any items that would be considered
questionable. Failure of any of these components
in flight would mean the loss of your aircraft.
Before each flying session, range check your radio. This
is accomplished by turning on your transmitter with the
antenna collapsed. Turn on the radio in your airplane. With
your airplane on the ground, you should be able to walk
30 paces away from your airplane and still have complete
control of all functions. If not, don’t attempt to fly! Have
your radio equipment checked out by the manufacturer.
Recommended CG
Preflight
Range Testing the Radio
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