"Aircraft setup is a constant process really. Every time something is changed, there is the chance it will affect something else. Take your time, and work through it, you'll find yourself fighting the airplane less during a sequence, and that makes it much easier to score well."

Sitting at a recent IMAC contest, Mike Caglia (well known FAI Pattern and 2000 Tournament of Champions Invitational competitor) and I were discussing aircraft setup and both of us came to the conclusion that few people were really setting up their airplanes well. I think much of this is simply due to not knowing how. Much of this article deals with setup before flying the airplane. After basic setup, it will take anywhere from 30 - 50 flights to really dial in an airplane. This seems like a lot but read on, and you'll see why. While this article is based upon the JR PCM-10X radio and it's programming references, the information really is applicable to any modern computer radio. The setup described here is for a precision setup (not 3D or freestyle) but again the same theory can be applied.

Start With the Right Tools:

Probably the most critical item needed to setup an airplane properly is a control surface throw gauge. I use CRC Throw Meters. You need to accurately determine how much your surface moves. While it's possible to use a ruler or protractor, throw meters make the job much easier.

Throughout this process, you'll be making several flights, and then changing and adjusting. It's important that you change only one thing at a time and then completely retest the airplane each time.

Step 1 - Setup the Airplane First:

The setup of the airplane really starts during the building process. The following is a minimal checklist to start with. You may think of other things you want to add.

• Hinges: Hinge lines should be straight and centered on the surface.
• Pivot Point of Control Horns: Control horns should be setup such that the pivot point of the horn is exactly on the hinge line to avoid building in a differential.
• Servo Arms: The arm on the servo should be exactly perpendicular to the hinge line. Servo arms should be switched around until you get the spline alignment correct. Always try to avoid using the radio to center the servos whenever possible.
• Seal Hinge Lines: Hinge lines should be sealed so no air can pass through. It doesn't matter how tight you think it is, seal it on the bottom with some covering. You want to minimize pushrod slop as much as possible.
• Ball Link Attachments: Use high quality ball link attachments and machined aluminum servo arms for the best setup.

Proper Weight and Balance: The model should also be balanced properly before any of the flight trimming starts. Try to find out about other people's experience with your airplane to get the best balance point. The aircraft should also be balanced laterally if possible. Add small amounts of weight to a light wingtip to correct it.

Step 1: Set Up for Success Step 2: The Radio

Step 3: Ground Trim Step 4: Differential Setup