Plane TX setup?

[James Recard]

I have a plane (Cheap foam Cessna) that I want to try to fly... total newb.
I'm confident I have everything working correctly and trimmed nicely...
but I have no idea what rates or expo, if any, is appropriate......
advice appreciated.

[Russell Harding]

It will be important to have the center of gravity set properly if you haven't done that yet.

It really depends on the plane (I'm not an expert either, really). I would probably set it up with high deflection and high expo for the first flight. Then you'll know you'll have enough control authority if you need it, and enough softness around center to control it. Planes can handle large amounts of expo (40%) without problems, in my experience.

Especially the elevator. Bad setup can lead to crashes if you don't have enough elevator authority (CG can contribute to this).

Generally you want CG in about the forward 1/3 of the wing chord, and for most mid-sized non acro planes you are probably looking for about 1/2 inch control surface deflection, but this will vary quite a bit.

If you can find a manual for your plane, control surface deflections are probably specified.

[James Recard]

Thanks CM... good call on cog... I guess the only way to correct that is to add dead weight?

[Russell Harding]

Usually planes are balanced with battery placement. Sometimes weight is added, usually in the nose.

[ElIntocable]

Originally Posted by K-rash

Thanks CM... good call on cog... I guess the only way to correct that is to add dead weight?

Try moving the battery to get your CoG before adding weight.