KAVAN Falke 1800mm - Instruction manual

KAV02.8087

KAVAN Falke - blue

KAV02.8088

KAVAN Falke - red

Introduction

The Falke 1800mm is a high-performance thermal motor glider with an EPO (expanded polyolefin) foam airframe, carbon tail boom, brushless motor and LiPo power supply. It is intended for pilots who have already mastered a trainer with aileron, elevator, rudder and throttle control. Read this manual and the instructions for your radio, battery, charger and ESC before assembly or operation.

Features

• Factory-built, partially assembled model
• Aileron, elevator, rudder and throttle control; elevator and rudder functions are combined by V-tail mixing
• Optional airbrake function using both ailerons raised together, with suitable radio programming and separate aileron channels
• Two-piece wing with carbon spars and a steel joiner
• Removable V-tail and magnetically secured canopy
• Brushless power system and four installed micro servos

Technical specifications

Parameter	Value
Wingspan	1800 mm
Length	1150 mm
Wing area	27 dm²
All-up weight	660–710 g
Original motor specification	KAVAN C2814-1400 brushless outrunner
ESC	KAVAN R-20B BEC
Propeller	Folding 7×6" with spinner
Flight battery (not included)	3S LiPo, 11.1 V, 1200–1600 mAh, at least 20C

Before you start

1. If you are not an experienced RC pilot, plan to have a fully competent pilot check your completed model and help you with your first flights. Even though we have tried to provide you with a thorough instruction manual, RC models are rather complicated and an experienced modeller can quickly check over your model to make sure your first flights are successful.
2. Please assemble your model exactly according to these instructions. Do not attempt to modify or change your model in any way, as doing so may adversely change its flying characteristics.
3. Before you begin, please check the entire contents of this kit to make sure that no parts are missing or damaged. This will also help you to become familiar with each component of your plane. If you find that any of the parts are either missing or damaged, please contact your dealer immediately for replacement.
4. Trial fit each part before glueing it in place. Make sure you are using the correct part and that it fits well before assembling. No amount of glue can make up for a poorly-fitting part.
5. The manual contains a drawing showing the default position of the Centre of Gravity (CG) and recommended control surface throws. Please note it is essential to keep the recommended CG position for the first flight otherwise the model could be unstable, hard to control or even unable to fly at all! Start at the forward end of the specified range for greater stability. A rearward CG makes the model more responsive and less stable; adjust it only after becoming familiar with the model, keeping within the specified range.

Note

Your dealer cannot accept kits for return if construction has begun.

Safety precautions

This RC model is not a toy. Use it with care and strictly following the instructions in this manual.

Assemble this model following strictly these instructions. DO NOT modify or alter the model. Failure to do so, the warranty will lapse automatically. Follow the instructions to obtain a safe and solid model at the end of the assembly.

Children under the age of 14 must operate the model under the supervision of an adult.

Assure that the model is in perfect condition before every flight, taking care that all the equipment works correctly and that the model is undamaged in its structure.

Fly only on days with a light breeze and in a safe place away from any obstacles.

General warnings

• An RC aeroplane is not a toy! If misused, it can cause serious bodily harm and damage to property. Fly only in a safe place and follow all instructions and recommendations in this manual. Beware of the propeller! Keep loose items that can get entangled in the propeller away from the spinning propeller, including loose clothing, or other objects such as pencils and screwdrivers. Ensure that your and other people's hands and faces, and animals are kept away from the rotating propeller.
• As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for operating it 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 that is subject to interference from many sources outside your control. Interference, equipment failure or pilot error can cause loss of control, so it is advisable to always keep a safe distance in all directions around your model, as this margin will help to avoid collisions or injury.
• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
• Always operate your model in an open area away from power lines, cars, traffic or people. Avoid operating your model in populated areas where injury or damage can occur.
• Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable batteries, etc.) which you use.
• 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.
• The model is mostly made of plastics – it is not fireproof. Keep it away from heat sources, direct sunlight and hot enclosed cars; high temperatures can distort the foam airframe or cause other damage.
• Disconnect the flight battery whenever the model is not in use. Even at zero throttle, the ESC draws current; leaving the battery connected for hours or days can deeply discharge it, damage it and create a fire risk.

Set contents

EPO fuselage with carbon tail boom, installed brushless motor, R-20B ESC, folding propeller and two V-tail servos; two-piece EPO wing with two aileron servos; removable V-tail, assembly accessories and instruction manual. The transmitter, receiver and flight battery are not included in these ARF versions.

You will also need

• At least a 4-channel transmitter with V-tail mixing and a compatible receiver. A computer radio with at least 6 channels is recommended for independent aileron control, differential and airbrake mixing.
• A 3S LiPo flight battery rated 11.1 V, 1200–1600 mAh and at least 20C, plus a suitable charger.
• Regular modeller’s tools: precision knife (KAV66.770), screwdrivers, 1.5 and 2 mm Allen keys, and pliers.
• For separate aileron channels: two 25–30 cm servo extension cables to replace the supplied Y-cable.

Main section

Model assembly

Danger

Remove the propeller before the initial radio, ESC and motor setup, including throttle calibration. Refit it only after confirming correct operation, with the flight battery disconnected. Keep the throttle at minimum during control-surface checks; centre only the aileron, elevator and rudder controls and their trims.

1. Locate the steel wire wing joiner. Its „V“ shape sets the wing dihedral. Slide both wing halves onto it. (Fig. 1)

2. Connect the aileron servo leads to the corresponding extension leads in the fuselage wing opening. (Fig. 2)

   Note

   The supplied Y-cable allows both aileron servos to share one channel with a basic 4-channel radio. To use independent aileron control, replace it with two 25–30 cm extension cables and connect the servos to separate receiver channels. Program the radio accordingly.

3. Fit the plastic wing retaining plate and secure the wing to the fuselage with two M5×20 mm nylon bolts. (Fig. 3)

4. Fit both V-tail panels to their seat and secure them with the plastic retaining piece and M3 socket-head screw. (Fig. 4)

5. Connect the plastic clevises to the ruddervator horns. (Fig. 5)

6. Secure the flight battery in the central cockpit compartment with the hook-and-loop strap. Secure the receiver behind it with hook-and-loop tape or double-sided foam tape. Connect the servos and ESC according to the radio instructions. With a diversity receiver, arrange the active antenna sections perpendicular to each other. Switch on the transmitter with the throttle at minimum before connecting the flight battery. Calibrate the throttle range according to the KAVAN ESC instructions, with the propeller removed. Then keep the throttle at minimum, centre the other controls and trims, and adjust the clevises until all control surfaces are neutral. (Fig. 6)

7. Fit the canopy.

Pre-flight preparation

Radio and control surfaces

Follow your radio instructions for installation and programming. With the propeller removed, switch on the transmitter at minimum throttle and then connect the flight battery. Check the neutral position, direction and travel of every control surface. To reduce travel mechanically, move the linkage closer to the servo-arm centre or farther from the control-surface hinge on its horn; reverse these changes to increase travel.

Check the V-tail mix carefully. Directions below are viewed from behind the model:

• Pulling the elevator stick back must raise both ruddervators. (Fig. 8)
• Pushing the elevator stick forward must lower both ruddervators. (Fig. 9)
• Right rudder must raise the left ruddervator and lower the right. (Fig. 10)
• Left rudder must lower the left ruddervator and raise the right. (Fig. 11)

Control throws

Control function	Low rate	High rate
Ailerons	10 mm up / 5 mm down	13 mm up / 7 mm down
Ailerons as airbrakes	Both 10 mm up	Both 10 mm up
Elevator	±7 mm	±10 mm
Elevator compensation with airbrakes	Both 2 mm up	Both 2 mm up
Rudder	±10 mm	±13 mm

Use low rates for less experienced pilots and normal soaring. High rates allow experienced pilots to use the model’s full capabilities. The recommended aileron differential, with downward travel about 50 % of upward travel, requires a computer radio and separate aileron channels. The airbrake function also requires independent channels: raise both ailerons together and apply the elevator compensation shown in the table.

Motor rotation

Check rotation during the initial propeller-free test: the motor must turn clockwise when viewed from the cockpit towards the nose. If it turns the wrong way, return the throttle to minimum, disconnect the flight battery and swap any two of the three wires between the motor and ESC. Test again before fitting the propeller.

Centre of gravity

The CG must be 56–63 mm behind the wing leading edge, measured at the wing root as shown. Check with the model complete and its flight battery installed. Adjust the battery position first; if necessary, secure suitable ballast in the nose or tail. (Fig. 7)

Caution

Do not fly with the CG outside the specified range. Start at the forward end for the first flight; a rearward CG reduces stability. A small amount of securely fitted ballast is preferable to an incorrectly balanced model.

Range and final checks

Fully charge the flight and transmitter batteries. Check the complete radio installation and perform the range test specified by the radio manufacturer, both with the motor off and at full throttle. Restrain the model securely and keep everyone clear of the propeller and its rotation plane. The range at full throttle must not decrease by more than 10 % compared with the motor-off test. Do not fly unless both tests pass completely.

Flying

The Falke is intended for an intermediate pilot. If you lack experience with this type of model, have an experienced pilot make the first flight, check the trim and help with the initial flights. Choose light wind and a clear, safe flying site. Test flying and fine adjustment follow normal practice for a thermal motor glider of this size and layout.

Appendix

KAVAN R-20SB Plus instructions

Use the KAVAN Plus ESC instruction manual for throttle calibration, normal startup, programming, protection functions and troubleshooting. Select LiPo battery mode for the specified flight battery and enable the motor brake for the folding propeller.

Caution

• Do not install the propeller on the motor when you test the ESC and motor for the first time to verify the correct settings on your radio. Only install your propeller after you have confirmed that the settings on your radio is correct.
• Never use ruptured or punctured battery cells.
• Never use battery packs that are known to overheat.
• Never short circuit battery or motor terminals.
• Always use proper insulation material for cable insulation.
• Always use proper cable connectors.
• Do not exceed the number of cells or servos specified for the ESC.
• Wrong battery polarity will damage the ESC and void the warranty.
• Install the ESC in a suitable location with adequate ventilation for cooling.
• Use only batteries that are supported by the ESC and ensure the correct polarity before connecting.
• Switch your transmitter ON first and ensure the throttle stick is in the minimum position before connecting the battery pack.
• Never switch your transmitter OFF while the battery is connected to your ESC.
• Only connect your battery pack just before flying and do not leave your battery pack connected after flying.
• Handle your model with extreme care once the battery pack is connected and keep away from the propeller at all times. Never stand in-line or directly in front of any rotating parts.
• Do not immerse the ESC under water, do not allow it to get wet while powered up.
• Always fly at a designated flying site and follow the rules and guidelines set by your modeller’s club.

Repairs and maintenance

• Please perform the range check in the beginning of each flying session.
• Before every take off please check the correct control surface movement.
• After every landing check the plane for any damage, loose clevises or push rods, damaged propeller etc. Do not fly again until the damage is repaired.

Although the Falke 1800 model is manufactured of the extra tough and virtually unbreakable expanded polyolefin (EPO) foam, damage or broken parts may occur. A minor damage can be repaired simply gluing the parts together with a cyanoacrylate (CA) glue or with a clear sticky tape. In a case of a major damage it is always better to purchase a brand new spare part. A wide range of genuine spare parts and accessories is available through the KAVAN Europe s.r.o. dealers.

In the unfortunate event of a crash or heavy landing, no matter how minor or major, you must lower the throttle stick to its lowest position as quickly as possible to prevent damage to the electronic speed controller.

Failure to lower the throttle stick and trim to the lowest possible positions in the event of a crash could result in damage to the ESC, which may require replacement of the ESC.

Note

Crash damage is not covered under warranty.

Guarantee

The supplied guarantee follows the applicable legal requirements in the country of purchase. For a claim, contact the retailer from whom you purchased the model. KAVAN Europe s.r.o. guarantees that this model kit is free from defects in both materials and workmanship at the time of sale. This warranty does not cover any parts damaged through use or as a result of modification; subject to applicable law, the liability of the manufacturer and importer is limited to the original purchase price of the model kit. This limitation does not apply where a court imposes unlimited liability for proven intent or gross negligence. KAVAN Europe s.r.o. also reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without prior notice. The model kit is subject to ongoing improvement and refinement, and the manufacturer reserves the right to change the design without prior notice.

Since KAVAN Europe s.r.o. has no control over potential damage during shipping, the method of assembly, or the materials used by the modeller to complete the model, no liability can be assumed or accepted for damages associated with the use of the model assembled by the user. The moment the user decides to use the model they have assembled, they assume full responsibility. If the purchaser is not prepared to accept this responsibility, they should immediately return the kit in its complete and unused condition to the place of purchase.

If your RC model requires service, please follow the guidelines below. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in the warranty being voided.

1. If possible, use the original packaging to pack the model. Do not use the original cardboard box as the final packaging.
2. Include a detailed description of how you have used the model and RC kit, as well as the problem you have encountered. Attach a numbered list of the included accessories and provide any additional information that may assist the service department. Date the note and double-check that it includes your full address and phone number.
3. Provide your name, address, and phone number where you can be reached during business hours. Include a copy of the model’s proof of purchase.

This warranty card entitles you to a free warranty repair of a product supplied by KAVAN Europe s.r.o. within 24 months. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear resulting from regular use, as this is a product intended for sports and model-making use, in which individual parts operate under much higher loads than those to which ordinary toys are subjected. The model’s moving parts (motor, servos, and their gears, etc.) are subject to natural wear and tear, and replacement may be necessary over time.

The warranty also does not cover any part of the model or RC kit that was improperly installed, handled roughly or incorrectly, or damaged in a crash, nor does it cover any part of the model or RC kit that was repaired or modified by an unauthorised person. As with other delicate electronic products, do not expose your RC system to high temperatures, low temperatures, humidity, or dusty environments. Do not leave it in direct sunlight for extended periods.

The guarantee also excludes faults caused by incorrect wiring or reversed polarity, late or omitted maintenance, operation outside the specified limits, and accessories or repairs not approved by KAVAN Europe s.r.o. Avoid strong mechanical shocks and user-applied waterproof coatings on the RC electronics.

Recycling and waste disposal note (European Union)

Electrical equipment marked with the crossed-out waste bin symbol must not be discarded in the domestic waste; it should be disposed of via the appropriate specialised disposal system. In the countries of the EU (European Union) electrical devices must not be discarded via the normal domestic waste system (WEEE - Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Directive 2012/19/EU). You can take your unwanted equipment to your nearest public collection point or recycling centre, where it will be disposed of in the proper manner at no charge to you. By disposing of your old equipment in a responsible manner you make an important contribution to the safeguarding of the environment!

EU declaration of conformity

Hereby, KAVAN Europe s.r.o. declares that the model Falke 1800 and the included electronic and electric devices are in compliance with the requirements of relevant European directives and harmonized norms. The full text of the Declaration of Conformity is available at kavanrc.com/doc.