Decathlon 20CC GP/EP RC Plane Instruction Manual

Quick guide from the manual

The Decathlon 20CC is a 1:4 scale Almost Ready to Fly (ARF) RC plane. This manual provides instructions for assembling the airframe, installing the engine or electric motor, setting up the radio system, and balancing the aircraft for flight. Important: Always verify the Center of Gravity (CG) at 86mm back from the leading edge of the wing before flight.

Specifications

• Wingspan: 2300mm (90.5 in)
• Length: 1534mm (60.3 in)
• Flying weight: 5.5-6.5 kg
• Engine requirements: 1.20/2-stroke or 1.40/4-stroke glow or 20cc gas engine
• Electric motor requirements: 1600-2200W, 450 KV

Assembly and Installation

The assembly process requires basic modeling tools, including CA glue, epoxy, and a hobby knife. Key assembly steps include:

• Ailerons and Servos: Install hinges, control horns, and servos into the wing. Ensure hinges are securely glued.
• Wing and Landing Gear: Secure the main wing to the fuselage and assemble the main landing gear, including wheel pants.
• Tail Section: Install the horizontal and vertical stabilizers, ensuring they are perfectly aligned with the fuselage.
• Engine/Motor: The model supports both glow/gas engines and electric motors. Follow the specific section for your chosen power plant to mount the engine/motor and cowl.
• Fuel Tank (GP version): Assemble the fuel tank with proper tubing and install it in the fuselage.

Radio and Electronics

Install the receiver and battery pack in the fuselage, ensuring they are protected from vibration using foam padding. Connect all servos (aileron, rudder, elevator, throttle) to the receiver and perform a range check before flight.

Balancing and Setup

Proper balance is critical for flight stability:

• Center of Gravity (CG): 86mm back from the leading edge of the wing at the fuselage. Balance the plane upside down with an empty fuel tank.
• Lateral Balance: Ensure the plane is laterally balanced so it tracks straight.
• Control Throws: Set control throws according to the manual's recommendations for Low and High rates to ensure safe handling.

Flight Preparation

Before every flight, perform a pre-flight check: charge all batteries, verify all bolts and glue joints are tight, check control surface movement directions, and ensure the receiver antenna is fully extended.