Hinges
All VMA kits now come with ready fitted high quality hinges. Normally this provides high strength hinge solution, but you should still give
ALL control surfaces a good pull test to make sure that the controls are firmly
affixed. If there is ANY give in the hinge joints then the entire control surface must be
removed and re-hinged.
DO NOT attempt to fly any model with loose hinges!
It is also worthwhile checking the hinge line for any build up of glue that may
prevent the hinges from giving full movement to the controls. Any excess glue should be carefully removed and the controls thoroughly checked
for full and free movement before EVERY flight.
Balance Point (CHIPMUNK & TEXAN ONLY)
For initial flights, we recommend that the balance point for both these aircraft
is set immediately in front of the main spar. This can be easily measured BEFORE assembly of the wing panels, using the
leading edge of the dihedral brace box as indicating the REARMOST CG position. Inexperienced pilots are advised to place the CG position 1/2" in front of the
dihedral box to give an extra safety margin.
Control Deflections (CHIPMUNK & TEXAN ONLY)
The initial control surface movements for the rudder and ailerons appear to have
been transposed in the instructions. We suggest that the ailerons be set equally between 3/8" and 5/16", with 1" or
greater throw on the rudder.
Apache 2 Wing Joining System
This kit features a two piece bolt together wing. The instructions state that it is not necessary to glue the wing panels together
UNLESS you intend to fly high stress manoevres, i.e. acrobatics. However, since most Apaches will at some time be subjected to some form of
acrobatics ( probably by an instructor! ) we strongly recommend that ALL Apache
2 wings are glues together at the root and joiner using 30 minute epoxy. The wing attachment bolts should also be fitted as not only will they provide
additional strength, but they will help with alignment and can be used to pull
the two wing panels together while the epoxy sets.
