The device is a radio-controlled model aircraft, specifically the MULTIPLEX FunCub XL. It is presented as a kit or a "Ready to Run" (RR) version, with different part numbers for each: #21 4331 for the kit and #26 4331 for the RR version.
Function Description:
The FunCub XL is a large, high-wing, single-engine model aircraft designed for recreational flying within the modelling hobby. It is controlled via a radio control system, allowing for various maneuvers and flight styles. The model features a rudder, elevator, ailerons, and landing flaps, providing comprehensive control for diverse flight operations. Optional functionalities include an aero-tow release, a load bay, navigation lights, and a landing light, expanding its utility for tasks like glider towing or dropping small payloads. The "Ready to Run" (RR) version comes with pre-installed components like servos, motor, and speed controller, simplifying the assembly process for users.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Wingspan: 1700 mm
- Overall length: 1200 mm
- All-up weight: 2850 g
- Total surface area: 51 dm²
- Wing loading: 56 g/dm²
- Channels: 7-10 (depending on optional features)
- RC Functions: Rudder, elevator, ailerons, landing flaps, throttle (standard); optional aero-tow release, optional load bay, optional navigation lights and landing light.
- Flight time: Approximately 6 minutes with a 6S ~3300Ah battery.
- Recommended Power System (KIT): FunCub XL power set (#332610), 2x Li-BATT FX 3/1-3200 (M6) batteries (#3157371).
- Recommended Power System (RR): Motor Permax BL-O 4235-0480 (#150), Speed controller MULTIcont BL-60 SD (#151).
- Recommended Servos (KIT): 6x HS 225 BB servo (#112225).
- Recommended Servos (RR): 6x Servo HS-225BB (+ HD-IS-arm) (#149).
- Receiver (KIT+RR): RX-7-DR light M-LINK 2.4 GHz receiver (#55810).
- Material: Primarily ELAPOR® foam for fuselage, wings, and tailplane. Other materials include wood for the M-Frame, plastic for various fittings and covers, aluminum for undercarriage and struts, and carbon fiber for spars and struts.
- Adhesive: Exclusively medium-viscosity cyano-acrylate glue, preferably Zacki ELAPOR® (#59 2727), optimized for ELAPOR® particle foam. Hot-melt adhesive can also be used for certain joints.
Usage Features:
- Assembly: The model is available as a kit, requiring assembly, or as an RR version with pre-installed electronics. The instructions emphasize careful checking of all parts before construction. Specific tools are required for building, including screwdrivers, balsa knife, pliers, Allen key, and open-ended spanners.
- Control Surface Travels: Recommended control surface travels are provided: Rudder: right/left 30 mm (~35°, approx. 40% Expo); Elevator: up 25 mm, down 12 mm (approx. 50% Expo); Aileron: up 13 mm, down 12 mm (approx. 50% Expo); Landing flaps: down 90° (down-elevator compensation approx. 4 mm, approx. 0.8 sec. delay).
- Balancing (CG): The model's Centre of Gravity (CG) should be at 85 mm back from the wing leading edge, adjusted by positioning the flight battery and battery tray. It is crucial to re-check the CG if a heavy payload is installed in the cargo bay.
- Lighting System (Optional): The FunCub XL is designed to accommodate the POWER-MULTIlight system (#73030), which includes landing lights, anti-collision lights, and flashing lights. The RR version comes with pre-installed cables for this system.
- Cargo Bay (Optional): The model can be equipped with a cargo bay, allowing for the transport and release of small payloads.
- Aero-tow Release (Optional): An optional aero-tow mechanism can be installed for towing gliders.
- Floats (Optional): A FunCub XL floats set (#733098) is available for water operations.
- Safety: The manual stresses that the model is NOT a toy and requires a certain level of technical competence and manual skill. It highlights the importance of third-party liability insurance, flying in safe environments (approved model flying sites), and avoiding operation under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication. Users must always maintain a wide margin of safety, cease operation at the slightest sign of radio interference, and perform thorough pre-flight checks.
Maintenance Features:
- Adhesive Use: Only specific cyano-acrylate glue (Zacki ELAPOR®) is recommended for ELAPOR® foam parts. Activators should be used sparingly for temporary joints, and surfaces should be lightly sanded for maximum strength.
- Painting: If painting the model, MPX Primer #60 2700 should be applied thinly and evenly to prevent warping. Matt-finish paints are recommended for the best visual effect.
- Straightening Bent Parts: ELAPOR® foam parts can be straightened by bending them slightly beyond the correct position, and they will spring back to shape.
- Pre-flight Checks: Before every flight, it is essential to check that the battery, wings, and tailplane are firmly seated and that each control surface is operating correctly.
- Battery Care: Store batteries safely and observe all safety notes for airborne electronic components, batteries, and chargers. Ensure adequate cooling for the speed controller and battery.
- Protection from Damp: All electronic equipment must be protected from damp.
- Material Integrity: Avoid excessively violent flying, which can weaken the airframe and lead to material failure. Regularly check for unnoticed damage from transit or workshop handling.