Done at home before going to the field)
This check list applies to fixed wing aircraft but much of this is also relevant to those flying helicopters and multi-rotors.
- Wings and tail are properly aligned.
- Wing panels are not warped.
- Hinges are properly secured and of sufficient quantity. Pull on hinged surfaces gently to check for loose hinges.
- Servos are securely mounted to plywood or servo tray and servo tray is securely mounted (servo tray is not made out of balsa or other soft material).
- All necessary screws are in place and tight (servos, engine mount, landing gear, wheel collars).
- Push rods do not bind and allow no slop. Should not be able to move control surfaces more than 1/16″ before servo moves.
- CG (center of gravity) is correct. For glow or gasoline powered models if the CG is located behind the fuel tank, check the CG with the fuel tank empty. If the CG is located in front of fuel tank, check the CG with the fuel tank full.
- Fuel tank on glow or gasoline powered models is secure and plumbed correctly. The centre line of the tank should be located on the same line as the carburettor.
- Covering on ‘built-up’ models is tight and properly applied and no bare wood is showing. Bare wood will absorb fuel, weaken airframe, and add weight.
- Wheels turn easily. Use a couple drops of oil or fuel to loosen.
- Battery and receiver are wrapped in foam and secure in glow and gasoline powered models.
- Receiver antennas are routed properly (at 90 degrees to each other more maximum signal diversity).
- All electrical servos and battery connections are tight.
- Control surfaces and throttle move in correlation with sticks on transmitter.
Aileron stick moves right – right aileron moves up.
Rudder stick moves right – rudder moves right.
Elevator stick moves down – elevator moves up
Throttle stick moves up – carburettor opens, or motor spins on electric models. - All control surfaces have proper control throws.
- Propellers are balanced.
- Receiver, flight battery and transmitter battery packs are fully charged.