We are going to assume that you’ve just completed your latest project in the form of an ARF, kit or plans built airplane. We will also assume that the designers and manufacturer have tested the design to make sure that you, the intrepid R/C modeler, will be able to successfully fly your plane. The most important assumption is: did you build your plane with care and the utmost attention to detail? Are the hinges secure? Is the motor mounted solidly? How about the servos. Are they mounted securely, with minimal slop and pushrod binding? They are? So far, so good. In order for an airplane to fly well, it must be both aerodynamically balanced and dynamically balanced. The first relates to the positioning of the wing and tail surfaces in relation to the fuselage. The designer/manufacturer has already taken care of this little detail by locking these positions (moments) into the design. If you are flying a Slow Stick, a whole different set of rules must be implemented for a proper setup.

Keeping it simple, your plane is aerodynamically balanced but the dynamic balance point or Center of Gravity (CG) has yet to be determined. The manufacturer will give you a predetermined position on the plans that matches the best flight characteristics after many test flights. It is highly recommended that you follow the manufacturer suggestions. TIP: try to balance the airplane by placing the battery and electronics in their optimum positions BEFORE mounting them into the plane. This will reduce the requirement of lead and other types of passive mass in the final balancing process. Use your favorite method for final balancing. A Great Planes ‘CG Machine’ is a very handy tool.

      OK, your plane is now properly balanced, the radio is mounted and the controls move without binding. Lets make sure your radio is in proper working order. Transmitter and receiver batteries should be properly cycled and charged. There is no worse feeling than watching your new airplane fly away from you with zero control input from you ending with a reverse Immelman into the dirt. I’ve had this happen to me twice in a row before I wised up. Now I top off my batteries at the field after every couple of flights.

      Now that you plane is balanced and properly set up you are ready to fly. Lets sum this up with the following points.

      Like I said, this isn’t Rocket Science. Don’t rush through the steps described above just to get up in the air. Your airplane will last longer and your wife will be less inclined to think you are just blowing the rent money on expensive toys.

• ARF's -- The Dusk of Creation (March 2008)