GREAT PLANES Reactor ARF, Instruction Manual

34

FLYING

The Reactor .60 biplane is a great-fl ying model that fl ies 
smoothly and predictably. The Reactor is, however, a very 
“neutral” fl ying model that does not possess the same 
“self-correcting” tendencies that a trainer model possesses 
and should be fl own only by pilots who have at least been 
checked out on a 4-channel low-wing, sport plane.

CAUTION

 (THIS APPLIES TO 

ALL

 R/C AIRPLANES): 

If, while fl ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound 
such as a low-pitched “buzz,” this may indicate control 
surface 

fl utter.

 Flutter occurs when a control surface (such 

as an aileron or elevator) or a fl ying surface (such as a 
wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing 
the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, 
fl utter can actually cause the control surface to detach 
or the fl ying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control 
followed by an impending crash. The best thing to do 
when fl utter is detected is to slow the model 

immediately

by reducing power, then land as soon as safely possible. 
Identify which surface fl uttered (so the problem may 
be resolved) by checking all the servo grommets for 
deterioration or signs of vibration. Make certain all 
pushrod linkages are secure and free of play. If it fl uttered 
once, under similar circumstances it will probably fl utter 
again unless the problem is fi xed. Some things which 
can cause fl utter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting 
control horns solidly; Poor fi t of clevis pin in horn; Side-
play of wire pushrods caused by large bends; Excessive 
free play in servo gears; Insecure servo mounting; and 
one of the most prevalent causes of fl utter; Flying an 
over-powered model at excessive speeds.

Takeoff

If this is your fi rst biplane or 3D model, for reassurance and 
to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a good idea to have an 
assistant on the fl ight line with you. Tell him to remind you to 
throttle back once the plane gets to a comfortable altitude. 
While full throttle may be desirable for takeoff, most models 
fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds.

The Reactor .61 Bipe is an agile, lightweight model, so there 
won’t be much of a takeoff roll. But it does ground-handle 
extremely well—both on grass and on pavement—so takeoff 
should be pretty easy. Simply point the model into the wind 
and smoothly advance the throttle. If you are taking off from 
grass—especially rough grass—initially hold some “up” 
elevator to keep the tail on the ground until the model builds 
up speed (which will be in just a second or two). Stay “on top” 
of the rudder to keep the model pointing down the runway. 
Allow the model to “break ground” and establish a gentle 
climb. Be ready on the controls to get the model tracking 
straight. Then make your fi rst turn away from the fl ight line. 
If you are nervous or fi nd yourself overcorrecting, remember 
to throttle back.

CHECK LIST

During the last few moments of preparation your mind may 
be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the fi rst fl ight. 
Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain 
checks and procedures that should be performed before 
the model is fl own. To help avoid this, a check list is provided 
to make sure these important areas are not overlooked. 
Many are covered in the instruction manual, so where 
appropriate, refer to the manual for complete instructions. 
Be sure to check the items off as they are completed.

❏

 1.  Be certain you have checked and set the C.G. according 

to the measurements provided.

❏

 2.  Be certain the battery and receiver are securely 

mounted. Simply stuffi ng them into place with foam 
rubber is not suffi cient.

❏

 3.  If using a radio on 72 MHz, extend the receiver antenna 

down through the fuselage. If using a radio on 2.4GHz, 
make sure the antennas(s) are-mounted and oriented 
as suggested in the instructions that came with the 
radio system.

❏

 4.  Make sure the model has been balanced laterally as 

explained in the instructions.

❏

 5.  Use threadlocking compound to secure critical fasteners 

such as the screws that hold the wheel collars to the 
axles, screws in any screw-lock pushrod connectors 
and the screws that hold the wing struts to the mounting 
tabs on the wings. 

❏

 6.  Add a drop of oil to the axles so the wheels will turn freely.

❏

 7.  Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place by 

tugging on the control surfaces.

❏

 8.  Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA 

where appropriate (servo mounting screws, aileron 
control horns).

❏

 9.  Confi rm that all controls operate in the correct direction 

and the throws are set up according to the manual.

❏

 10.  Make sure there are silicone retainers on all the clevises 

and that all servo arms are secured to the servos with 
the screws included with your radio.

❏

 11.  Secure connections between servo wires and Y-connectors 

or servo extensions, and the connection between your 
battery pack and the on/off switch with vinyl tape, heat 
shrink tubing or special clips suitable for that purpose.

❏

 12.  Make sure the fuel lines are connected and are 

not kinked.

❏

 13.  Balance your propeller (and spare propellers).

❏

 14.  Tighten the propeller nut and spinner.

❏

 15.  Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone 

number on or inside your model.

❏

 16.  Make sure your receiver battery pack is fully charged.

❏

 17.  Range check your radio when you get to the fl ying fi eld.