19
Balance the Propeller & Mount the Spinner
❏
1. For optimum performance and motor effi ciency balance
the propeller using a Top Flite
®
Precision Magnetic Prop
Balancer (TOPQ5700) or other suitable balancer. Use a
hobby knife or sandpaper to sand the heavy blade until you
can get the prop to balance.
❏
2. Mount the propeller with the propeller washer and
propeller nut. Tighten the nut with an 8mm or 5/16" wrench.
Install the aluminum propeller cone and tighten with a piece
of wire through the hole in the front.
Balance the Model (C.G.)
More than any other factor, the C.G. (balance point) can
have the greatest effect on how a model fl ies, and may
determine whether or not your fi rst fl ight will be successful.
If you value this model and wish to enjoy it for many fl ights,
DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE.
A model that is not properly balanced will be unstable and
possibly unfl yable.
At this stage the model should be completely ready-to-fl y
with all of the systems in place including the motor, propeller,
motor battery, ESC, and the complete radio system.
❏
1. If using a Great Planes C.G. Machine to balance your
EP Sopwith Camel ARF, set the rulers to 2-7/8" [73mm]. If
not using a C.G. Machine, use a fi ne-point felt-tip pen to draw
short lines marking the balance point on the bottom of the
top wing 2-7/8" [73mm] from the LE as shown. Place 1/16"
[1.5mm] strips of tape over the marks so you will be able to
feel the balance point with your fi ngers when you turn the
model upside-down.
This is where your model should balance for the fi rst fl ights.
Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the C.G. up to
1/4" [6mm] forward or 1/4" [6mm] back to change the fl ying
characteristics. Moving the C.G. forward may improve the
smoothness and stability, but the model may then require
more speed for takeoff and make it more diffi cult to slow
for landing. Moving the C.G. aft makes the model more
maneuverable, but could also cause it to become too
diffi cult to control. In any case, start at the recommended
balance point and do not at any time balance the model
outside the specifi ed range.
❏
2. Place the model on your C.G. Machine or lift it with your
fi nger tips at the balance point you marked on the bottom
