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1400mm J-3 V4

Piper J-3 Cub · Flight Manual

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Overview

This document is an instruction manual for the FMS 1400mm J-3 Cub V4, a radio-controlled model aircraft designed to replicate the classic Piper J-3 Cub. The manual provides detailed instructions for assembly, operation, and maintenance of the model, emphasizing safety precautions and proper handling of components such as the lithium polymer (Li-Po) battery. It is intended for hobbyists and pilots of all skill levels, offering insights into the model's specifications, assembly steps, and preflight checks to ensure safe and enjoyable flying experiences.

  • Wingspan: 1400 mm (55.1 in)
  • Flying weight: ~1320 g
  • Recommended battery: 11.1V 2200mAh 25C Li-Po
  • Center of gravity should be 55-65 mm from the leading edge of the main wing
  • Perform a range check before the first flight

Document

Source

Originally published by d3kia4uusq9en9.cloudfront.net. Sprinkle hosts a reference copy with an added summary, specifications and searchable full text.

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Document details

Type
Flight Manual
Pages
14
File size
13 MB
Publisher
d3kia4uusq9en9.cloudfront.net

Specifications & performance

Extracted from this document.

Specifications

Length (ft)
35.4
Propeller
G
Wingspan (ft)
55.1
Engine model
3536-KV850
How rare is it?
1Piper J-3 Cub registered worldwide · 0 active

Common. Rarer than 24% of the aircraft models we track.

Documentation completeness
4/7

Most owners only have the POH. Here's the essential set for the Piper J-3 Cub.

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In this document

Specifications

The J-3 Cub V4 has a wingspan of 1400 mm (55.1 in), an overall length of 900 mm (35.4 in), and a flying weight of approximately 1320 g. It features a 3536-KV850 motor, a 40A electronic speed controller (ESC), and a wing area of 28 dm² (434 sq in). The recommended battery is an 11.1V 2200mAh 25C Li-Po.

Model Assembly

The assembly process involves several steps, including installing the landing gear, wings, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, and optional float set. Each component is secured with screws, and care must be taken to ensure all parts are correctly aligned and fastened.

Battery Installation

The recommended battery is an 11.1V 2200mAh 25C Li-Po. The battery should be installed in the compartment with the cables facing aft. Adjusting the battery position can help achieve the correct center of gravity, which is crucial for stable flight.

Preflight Check

Before flying, perform a range check to ensure all controls are functioning correctly. Make sure the transmitter is on, and the battery is connected. Monitor flight time to avoid running low on battery during flight.

Troubleshooting

Common issues include the aircraft not responding to throttle, reduced flight time, or control surfaces not moving. Solutions involve checking connections, ensuring the ESC is armed, and verifying that the battery is charged.

Safety notes

  • Read the entire instruction manual before operating the model.
  • Avoid operating the model in populated areas.
  • Always keep a safe distance around the model to avoid collisions.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use and disposal of batteries.

Full document text

1400mm J-3 V4 FLOAT Optional float RIGID Strong durable EPO STABLE Smooth flying performance Manuel d’utilisation Instruction Manual Bedienungsanleitung 操作手册 WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate the product correctly can result in damage to the product,personal property and cause serious injury. This is a sophisticated hobby product and NOT a toy. It must be operated with caution and common sense and failure to do so could result in injury or damage to the product or other property. This product is not intended for use by children without direct adult supervision. This manual contains instructions for safety operation and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate and avoid damage or serious injury. WARNING As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for operating in a manner that does not endanger yourself and others or result in damage to the product or the property of others. This model is controlled by a radio signal subject to interference from many sources outside your control. This interference can cause momentary loss of control so it is advisable to always keep a safe distance in all directions around your model, as this margin will help avoid collisions or injury. Age Recommendation: Not for children under 14 years. This is not a toy. ·Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries. ·Always operate your model in an open area away from cars, traffic or people. ·Avoid operating your model in the street where injury or damage can occur. ·Never operate the model in populated areas for any reason. ·Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional support equipment you use (chargers,rechargeable battery packs, etc.) ·Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the reach of children. ·Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid water exposure to all equipment not specifically designed and protected for this purpose. ·Never lick or any place of any your model in your mouth as it could cause serious injury or even death. Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) Battery Warning CAUTION: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use and disposal of batteries. Fire, property damage, or serious injury can result from the mishandling of Li-Po batteries. By handling, charging or using a Li-Po Battery you assume all risks associated with lithium batteries. If at any time the batteries begin to swell or balloon, discontinue use immediately! Always store the batteries at room temperature in a dry area to extend the life of the battery. Always transport or temporarily store the battery in a temperature range of 40-120F. Do not store the battery or model in a car or in direct sunlight. If stored in a hot car, the battery can be damaged or even catch fire. Never use a Ni-Mh Charger to charge Li-Po Batteries. Failure to charge the battery with a Li-Po compatible charger may cause fire resulting in personal injury and property damage. Never discharge Li-Po Cells below 3V. Never leave charging batteries unattended. Never charge damaged batteries. Charging the Flight Battery Warning Use a battery charger that is designed to safely charge the Li-Po Battery. Read the charger instructions care fully before use. When charging the battery, make certain the battery is on a heat resistant surface. It is also highly recommended to place the Li-Po Battery inside a fire resistant charging bag readily available at hobby shops or online. EN p w 3 Before assembly, please inspect the contents of the kit. The photo below details the contents of the kit with labels. If any parts are missing or defective, please identify the name or part number (refer to the spare parts list near the end of the manual) then contact your local shop or email us: support Kit contents A: Fuselage B: Main wing set C: Horizontal stabilizer D: Vertical stabilizer E: Main landing gear set I: Pipe and Y cable J:Tail strut K:Float set F: Supporting bar G: Propeller set H: Linkage rods and screws Introduction Kit contents Model assembly Battery installation Receiver diagram Preflight check Clevis installation Control horn and servo arm settings Center of gravity(CG) Before flying the model Flying course Troubleshooting Spare parts list content Table of contents ····························································· ····· 3 ·························································3 ·······················································4 ············································· ·· ······ 9 ········································· ·· ·· ······ 9 ·································· ····· ····· ····· ····· 9 ····················································11 ·························· ················· 11 ···············································11 ··············································12 ···························································12 ······················································13 ············································13 Introduction Wingspan: 1400mm(55.1in) Overall length: 900mm(35.4in) Flying weight: ~ 1320g Motor size: 3536-KV850 Wing load: 47g/dm²(0.11oz/in²) Wing area: 28dm²(434sq.in) ESC: 40A Servo: 9g Servo x 4 Recommended battery: 11.1V 2200mAh 25C Specifications EN @fmsmodel.com A. B. D. I. J. K. F. G. H. C. E. The Piper J3 Cub is a lightweight general aviation aircraft pro- duced in large quantities by the Piper aircraft company from 1937-1947. Designed with excellent STOL capabilities, the J-3 Cub even flew as the L-4 Grasshopper for military supply,re- connaissance, evacuation and targeting missions. FMS is proud to announce the brand new 1400 mm J-3 Cub V4. Like its predecessors, FMS 1400 mm J-3 V4 retains the excellent slow speed and STOL performance of its full-scale counterpart.

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As with the J-3 V2, the 1400mm J-3 V4 is easy to assemble, lightweight and filled with scale details. Simple screw-together design allow the pilot to store the aircraft with ease, while the realistic landing gear and engine guarantees the maximum wow-factor at the field! Like the V3, an attractive red and white livery along with option- al floats make the aircraft as versatile as the real thing. The V4 introduces a highly-realistic CNC metal landing gear that is extremely robust- guaranteed to put up with the harshest of landings. A traditional 4 channel aircraft, the J-3 Cub V4 is an excellent trainer and scale aircraft all in one package- suitable for pilots of all skill levels! Features • High output power system- 3536 850KV motor paired with a 40A Predator ESC • Excellent scale features- engine components, landing gear set etc • Upgraded CNC metal shock-absorbing landing gear • Simple screw-together assembly • Preinstalled ball-link pushrods increases control surface throw • Robust and lightweight EPO material • Optional floats Landing gear set installation Main wing set installation 4 Model assembly 1.With the fuselage bottom facing up, carefully Install the landing gear set to the fuselage with the included screws as shown. 2.Attach the springs to the landing gear assembly as shown. 1.Have the screws go through the supporting bar and then secure on the base. 2.Lock up the fasteners of supporting bar on fuselage as shown. EN HKM3*10 HKM3*16 M3 screw nut 5 Model assembly EN 3.Slide the tube into the fuselage then install both wings over the wing tube and into the wing slot of the fuselage. Notice: The connectors on both side should be attached precisely and firmly. 4.Secure the wings on the fuselage using the included screws as shown. 5.Lock up the fasteners of supporting bar on main wing as shown. HKM3.0*10 KA2.0*8 6 EN Model assembly Horizontal stabilizer installation 1.Secure the horizontal stabilizer using included screws as shown. 1.Make sure the servos are in the neutral position. Install the linkage rod to elevator control horn as shown. Secure the linkage rod in place using the included screw as shown. Linkage rod installation 1.Slide vertical stabilizer in the rear of the fuselage. 2.Secure the vertical stabilizer using included screws as shown. Vertical stabilizer installation KA2.0*8 KA2.0*12 7 EN Model assembly 2.Make sure the servos are in the neutral position. Install the l inkage rod to rudder control horn as shown. Note: Please refer to the control horn and servo arm settings in page 11. 1.Hook the tail struts to horizontal stabilizer and vertical stabilizer as shown. Tail strut installation Antenna installation 1.Insert the antenna as shown. 8 EN Model assembly 1.Assemble the float struts to the plastic holder as shown and secure the struts with screws. Float set installation Propeller installation 1.Assemble the propeller as shown. 2.Secure the float set onto the bottom of fuselage using the included plastic parts and screws as shown. Notice: The connectors on both side should be attached precisely and firmly. Screws 3*4 HKM3.0*10 Important ESC and model information The ESC included with the model has a safe start. If the motor battery is connected to the ESC and the throttle stick is not in the low throttle or off position, the motor will not start until the throttle stick is moved to the low throttle or off position. Once the throttle stick is moved to the low throttle or off position, the motor will emit a series of beeps. Several beeps with the same tune means the ESC has detected the cells of the battery. The count of the beeps equals the cells of the battery. The motor is now armed and will start when the throttle is moved. The motor and ESC come pre-connected and the motor rotation should be correct. If for any reason the motor is rotating in the wrong direction, simply reverse two of the three motor wires to change the direction of rotation. The motor has an optional brake setting. The ESC comes with brake switched off and we recommend that the model be flown with the brake off. However, the brake could be accidentally switched on if the motor battery is connected to the ESC while the throttle stick is set at full throttle. To switch the brake off, move the throttle stick to full throttle and plug in the motor battery. The motor will beep one time. Move the throttle stick to low throttle or the off position. The motor is ready to run and the brake will be switched off. Battery Selection and Installation. We recommend the 11.1V 2200mAh 25C Li-Po battery. If using another battery, the battery must be at least a 11.1V 2200mAh 25C battery. Your battery should be approximately the same capacity, dimension and weight as the 11.1V 2200mAh 25C Li-Po battery to fit the fuselage without changing the center of gravity significantly. 1. 2. 3. 4. 9 1.Pull back on the latch, releasing the canopy. 2.Remove the canopy, revealing the battery compartment. 3.Apply hook and loop tape to the battery. 4.Install a fully charged battery into the battery compartment, with the battery cables facing aft. Note: The center of gravity can be adjusted by moving the battery forward or aft.Having the correct center of gravity is critical to achieving proper flight characteristics. EN Battery installation Receiver diagram Preflight check The cables from the servo connector board should be connected to your receiver in the order shown. Note that the LEDs can be powered by any spare channel on the receiver. Tuck the wire leads into the recessed cavity towards the rear of the battery hatch. Spare Gear Rudder Throttle EIevator Aileron Channel-1 Aile Channel-2 Elev Channel-3 Thro Channel-4 Rudd Channel-5 Gear Channel-6 Spare 6 5 4 3 2 1 Transmitter and model setup Before getting started, bind your receiver with your transmitter. Please refer to your transmitter manual for proper operation. CAUTION: To prevent personal injury, DO NOT install the propel- ler assembly onto the motor shaft while testing the control surfac- es. DO NOT arm the ESC and do not turn on the transmitter until the Transmitter Manual instructs you to do so. Tips: Make sure all control sticks on your radio are in the neutral position (rudder, elevator, ailerons) and the throttle is in the OFF position. Make sure both ailerons move up and down (travel) the same amount. This model tracks well when the left and right ailerons travel the same amount in response to the control stick. Move the controls on the transmitter to make sure the aircraft control surface moves correctly. See diagrams right. 10 Control throws The suggested control throw setting for the Piper J-3 Cub V3 are as follows (dual rate setting): Tips: On the first flight, fly the model in low rate. The first time you use high rates,be sure to fly at low to medium speeds. High rate, as listed, is only for EXTREME maneuvering. EN Aileron Bank left Bank right Elevator Climb Descend Steering Rudder Steer left Steer right 16 12 12 14 16 18 11 More control throw Less control throw Horns Arms a. b. c. d. e. f. EN Clevis installation 1.Pull the tube from the clevis to the linkage. 2.Carefully spread the clevis, then insert the clevis pin into the desired hole in the control horn. 3.Move the tube to hold the clevis on the control horn. Control horn and servo arm settings The table shows the factory settings for the control horns and servo arms. Fly the aircraft at the factory settings before making changes. After flying,you may choose to adjust the linkage positions for the desired control response. Elevator Rudder Ailerons Check the C.G. (Center of gravity) When balancing your model, adjust the battery as necessary so the model is level or slightly nose down. This is the correct balance point for your model. After the first flights, the CG position can be adjusted for your personal preference. 1. The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) location for your model is(55-65mm) from the leading edge of the main wing (as shown) with the battery pack installed. Mark the location of the CG on top of the wing. 2. When balancing your model, support the plane at the marks made on the bottom of the main wing with your fingers or a commercially available balancing stand. This is the correct balance point for your model. Make surethe model is assembled and ready for flight before balancing. 55mm-65mm Take off Maintenance Landing Find a suitable flying site Perform the range check for your plane Monitor your flight time Find a flying site clear of buildings, trees, power lines and other obstructions. Until you know how much area will be required and have mastered flying your plane in confined spaces, choose a site which is at least the size of two to three football fields - a flying field specifically for R/C planes is best. Never fly near people - especially children, who can wander unpredictably. As a precaution, an operational ground range test should be performed before the first flight each time you go out. Performing a range test is a good way to detect problems that could cause loss of control such as low batteries, defective or damaged radio components, or radio interference. This usually requires an assistant and should be done at the actual flying site you will be using. First turn on the transmitter, then install a fully-charged battery into the fuselage. Connect the battery and install the hatch. Remember, use care not to bump the throttle stick. Otherwise, the propeller/fan will turn and possibly cause damage or injury. Note: Please refer to your Transmitter Manual that came with your radio control system to perform a ground range check. If the controls are not working correctly or if anything seems wrong, do not fly the model until you correct the problem. Make certain all the servo wires are securely connected to the receiver and the transmitter batteries have a good connection. Monitor and limit your flight time using a timer (such as on a wristwatch or in your transmitter if available). When the batteries are getting low you will usually notice a performance drop before the ESC cuts off motor power, so when the plane starts flying slower you should land. Often (but not always) power can be briefly restored after the motor cuts off by holding the throttle stick all the way down for a few seconds. To avoid an unexpected dead-stick landing on your first flight, set your timer to a conservative 4 minutes. When your alarm sounds you should land right away. 12 EN Before flying the model Flying course While applying power, slowly steer to keep the model straight. The model should accelerate quickly. As the model gains flight speed you will want to climb at a steady and even rate. It will climb out at a nice angle of attack (AOA). Flying Always choose a wide-open space for flying your plane. It is ideal for you to fly at a sanctioned flying field. If you are not flying at an approved site always avoid flying near houses, trees, wires and buildings. You should also be careful to avoid flying in areas where there are many people, such as busy parks, schoolyards, or soccer fields. Consult laws and ordinances before choosing a location to fly your aircraft. After takeoff, gain some altitude. Climb to a safe height before trying technical manoeuvres, including high speed passes, inverted flight, loops, and point rolls. Land the model when you hear the motor pulsing (LVC) or if you notice a reduction in power. If using a transmitter with a timer, set the timer so you have enough flight time to make several landing approaches. The model’s three point landing gear allows the model to land on hard surfaces. Align model directly into the wind and fly down to the ground. Fly the airplane down to the ground using 1/4-1/3 throttle to keep enough energy for proper flare. Before the model touches down, always fully decrease the throttle to avoid damaging the propeller or other components. The key to a great landing is to manage the power and elevator all the way to the ground and set down lightly on the main landing gear. After a few flights you will find the model can be set down lightlyon the mains and you can hold the nose wheel off balancing themodel on the mains until it slows and gently settles the nose. Repairs to the foam should be made with foam safe adhesives such as hot glue, foam safe CA, and 5min epoxy. When parts are not repairable, see the Spare Parts List for ordering by item number. Always check to make sure all screws on the aircraft are tightened. Pay special attention to make sure the spinner is firmly in place before every flight. 13 EN Trouble shooting Problem Possible Cause Solution Aircraft will not respond to the throttlebut responds to other controls. -ESC is not armed. -Throttle channel is reversed. -Lower throttle stick and throttle trim to lowest settings. -Reverse throttle channel on transmitter. Extra propeller noise or extra vibration. -Damaged spinner, propeller, motor or motor mount. -Loose propeller and spinner parts. -Propellor installed backwards. -Replace damaged parts. -Tighten parts for propeller adapter, propeller and spinner. -Remove and install propeller correctly. Reduced flight time or aircraft underpowered. -Flight battery charge is low. -propeller installed backward. -Flight battery damaged. -Completely recharge flight battery. -Replace flight battery and follow flight battery instructions. Control surface does not move, or is slow to respond to control inputs. -Control surface, control horn, linkage or servo damage. -Wire damaged or connections loose. -Replace or repair damaged parts and adjust controls. -Do a check of connections for loose wiring. Controls reversed. Channels are reversed in the transmitter. Do the control direction test and adjust controls for aircraft and transmitter. -Motor loses power -Motor power pulses then motor loses power. -Damage to motor, or battery. -Loss of power to aircraft. -ESC uses default soft Low Voltage Cutoff(LVC). -Do a check of batteries, transmitter, receiver, ESC, motor and wiring for damage(replace as needed). -Land aircraft immediately and recharge flight battery. LED on receiver flashes slowly. Power loss to receiver. -Check connection from ESC to receiver. -Check servos for damage. -Check linkages for binding. Spare parts list content FMSRK101-1 FMSRK102 FMSRK103 FMSRK104 FMSRK105 FMSRK106 FMSRK107 FMSRK108-1 FMSRK109 FMSRK110 FMSRK111 FMSRK112-1 FMSPROP021 FMSDZ007 FMSDJ007 Fuselage Main wing set Horizontal stabilizer Vertical stabilizer Cowl Linkage rod Supporting bar set Front landing gear set Sticker Propeller plate Pipe Screw set Propeller Motor shaft Motor mount FMSBM009 PRKV850 PRESC001 FMSSER9GPW FMSCHR01 FMSFLT004 Motor board Brushless motor 40A ESC 9g Servowith waterproof function) Charger Float Set Visit our website: www.fmsmodel.com to see photo of this product. Enter the key word "ESC" in the search bar for the stock ESC instruction manual.