KAVAN PC-6 Porter 1500mm - Instruction manual

KAV02.8089

KAVAN PC-6 Porter - blue

KAV02.8090

KAVAN PC-6 Porter - red

Introduction

The Pilatus PC-6 Porter is a semi-scale model of a STOL (short take-off and landing) utility aircraft. Its carbon-reinforced EPO (expanded polyolefin) airframe has an installed brushless motor, ESC and six servos. It is intended for pilots who have mastered a trainer with aileron, elevator, rudder and throttle control.

Pilatus PC-6 Porter/Turbo-Porter

The single-engine Swiss STOL utility aircraft Pilatus PC-6 Porter, originally powered by the Lycoming flat six-cylinder engine, made its maiden flight in 1959. Soon an improved Turbo-Porter powered by a turboprop engine followed. Over the years Turbomeca Astazou II, Garrett AiResearch TPE 331 and ultimately Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A (about 70 % of all PC-6 ever produced) turboprops have been taking this beautiful plane to the sky.

Incredible, almost helicopter-like short takeoff and landing capabilities have quickly gained the attention of military as well as commercial operators. Fitted with wheeled undercarriages, skis or floats, Porters have been serving reliably and relentlessly all over the world - flying over deserts, jungles, lakes, mountains, snow and ice - simply everywhere. No wonder the PC-6 holds the world record for the highest landing by a fixed-wing aircraft, at 18 865 feet (5750 m), on the Dhaulagiri glacier in Nepal.

After 604 deliveries in 63 years, Pilatus ended production in 2022…

Full-size aircraft specifications (PC-6/B2-H4)

Wingspan	15.87 m
Length	10.90 m
Basic operating weight	1250 kg
Max. take-off weight	2800 kg
Max. cruise speed	232 km/h (125 KTAS)
Take-off distance over 50 ft (15 m) obstacle (STOL)	440 m
Landing distance over 50 ft (15 m) obstacle (STOL)	315 m
Engine	Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-27

For more info about the aircraft visit: Pilatus Aircraft

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.

Features

• Factory-built, partially assembled, officially licensed semi-scale model
• Aileron, elevator, rudder, flap and throttle control
• Sprung main undercarriage and a steerable tailwheel coupled to the rudder
• Functional navigation and landing LED lights
• Optional floats and water rudder, sold separately

Technical specifications

Wingspan	1500 mm
Length	1112 mm
Wing area	27.9 dm²
All-up weight	1650–1700 g
Motor	C3548-750
ESC	KAVAN R-40SB Plus SBEC
Propeller	10×6" 3-blade
Installed servos	6: two aileron, two flap, elevator and rudder
Flight battery (not included)	4S LiPo, 14.8 V, 2600–3300 mAh, at least 30C

Set contents

Almost-ready-to-fly EPO model with installed brushless motor, ESC, six servos and LED lights, propeller, spinner, undercarriage, assembly accessories and instruction manual. The transmitter, receiver, flight battery and optional float set are not included.

You will also need

• Transmitter and receiver with at least 6 channels for the standard wiring, 14.8 V 2600–3300 mAh 4S LiPo flight pack rated at least 30C.

• Regular modeller’s tools: precision knife (KAV66.770), screwdrivers, pliers, No. 10 spanner, 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm Allen keys or drivers, sandpaper etc.

• Glue: Medium or thick cyanoacrylate glue (e.g. KAV56.9952 or KAV56.9953), silicone or MS polymer glue.

• Blue threadlocker for the specified metal screw joints.

• For independent aileron/flap channels: a computer radio with at least 7 channels and a pair of suitable wing adapter leads, such as KAV02.8091.9S.

Main section

Model assembly

Danger

Keep the flight battery disconnected during assembly. Remove the propeller before powering the model for initial radio setup. Fit the propeller only after the radio settings and motor rotation have been checked.

1. Push the main undercarriage into the slots underneath the fuselage until it clicks into place. Slide in the plastic inserts and lock them by rotating the latches. (Fig. 1)
2. Attach the upper ends of the sprung undercarriage struts to the fuselage with M2×12 mm screws, without tightening fully. Attach their lower ends to the main gear with M3×10 mm screws and a drop of blue threadlocker. Do not clamp these joints rigidly; the struts must remain able to move. (Fig. 2) (Fig. 3)
3. Slide both wing panels onto the tubular joiner and connect the wing multi-connectors to their matching sockets. Follow the wiring diagrams and connection notes below. (Fig. 4) (Fig. 5) (Fig. 6a) (Fig. 6b)
4. Connect the receiver, servos and ESC as shown. Secure the receiver at the rear of the cockpit with double-sided foam tape or hook-and-loop tape. If the receiver has diversity antennas, arrange their active parts at right angles according to the receiver instructions. (Fig. 6a) (Fig. 6b)
5. Fit the wing to the fuselage and secure it with the joining plate and two M6×40 mm plastic bolts. Fit each wing strut and secure it with two clips, one at each end. Check that no cables are trapped. (Fig. 7) (Fig. 8)
6. Trial fit the horizontal tailplane and fin without glue. Check close-fitting joints and a fin perpendicular to the stabilizer; sand the mating surfaces if necessary. Glue the fin to the fuselage with medium or thick CA, clear silicone or MS polymer glue. Insert the horizontal tailplane and secure it with the M6×40 mm plastic bolt. Recheck alignment before the adhesive sets. (Fig. 9) (Fig. 10)
7. Install the tailwheel and rudder/tailwheel linkage. Apply a drop of blue threadlocker to the retaining-collar and control-arm set screws as shown, keeping the steering free. (Fig. 11)
8. Glue the dummy antennas in place with medium CA. Keep adhesive out of moving parts. (Fig. 13)
9. Open the battery hatch in the nose, place the flight battery in its compartment and secure it. Leave it disconnected until the radio checks. Refit the hatch for the final balance check. (Fig. 14)

Receiver and connection board

The connection board links the wing servos and LEDs through the multi-connectors. Connect the rudder servo, elevator servo and ESC to the exact sockets shown. Connect the five RX-side function outputs to the matching receiver functions. Follow the signal, positive and negative markings: the two sides of the board have opposite pin orientation in the drawing. Sockets marked with a cross are unused in this installation. (Fig. 6a) (Fig. 6b)

Drawing label	Meaning
Aileron	Aileron control
Flaps / Flap	Flap control
Elevator	Elevator control
Rudder	Rudder control
ESC / Throttle	Motor speed controller / throttle control
RX / Receiver	Receiver connections
LED	Light power
Landing Gear	Unused retract channel in this installation
S / + / −	Signal / positive supply / negative supply

Note

The standard board wiring works with a basic 6-channel radio. For independent aileron and flap servo control, use at least 7 independent channels and bypass the paired wing-servo connections with suitable adapter leads. The LEDs receive power from the board and cannot be switched remotely through this arrangement.

Optional float installation

The float set is sold separately. Disconnect the battery before replacing the wheeled undercarriage and tailwheel with the float equipment.

1. Fit the struts to the floats and secure them with the plastic retaining plates and 2.0×10 mm self-tapping screws. (Fig. 15)
2. Push the float struts into the fuselage slots until they click into place. Fit the plastic inserts and lock the rotating latches. (Fig. 16)
3. Fit the water rudder in place of the tailwheel as shown, keeping its linkage coupled to the rudder. Apply a drop of blue threadlocker to the retaining-collar set screw and check free movement and correct steering direction. (Fig. 17)

Assembly drawings

Pre-flight preparation

Radio and control checks

1. With the propeller removed, switch on the transmitter with the throttle at minimum, centre the other controls and trims, and connect the flight battery. Check every control direction and adjust the linkages to neutral.
2. Centre the elevator and rudder, then tighten the retaining screws of their pushrod connectors on the servo arms. Check that the tailwheel is straight with the rudder neutral and that all controls move freely.
3. Calibrate the ESC throttle range using the instructions for the fitted controller. The calibration sequence differs from normal startup; follow it exactly with the propeller removed.
4. Set the recommended throws. Moving a linkage closer to the servo shaft or farther from the control-surface pivot reduces the throw; the reverse increases it. Check for free movement throughout the selected travel and secure every clevis pin and servo-arm screw.

Control throws

Recommended Throws	Low Rate		High Rate
	Rate	Expo	Rate	Expo
Ailerons	±11 mm	30 %	±15 mm	30 %
Elevator	±11 mm	30 %	±15 mm	30 %
Rudder	±16 mm	20 %	±25 mm	20 %
Flaps	Take-off: −10 mm down / Landing: −22 mm down

Use low rates for less experienced pilots and normal scale flying. High rates allow experienced pilots to use the model’s full capabilities. Set the expo direction according to the transmitter instructions so the response is softer around neutral.

Recommended mixes

These optional mixes can make the Porter easier to handle. The values below apply with the high-rate throws; aileron differential requires independent aileron channels.

• Aileron → Rudder: 12 mm left rudder at full left aileron command and 12 mm right rudder at full right aileron command.
• Aileron differential: 15 mm up and 8 mm down.
• Flap → Elevator: 1 mm down elevator with take-off flaps and 2 mm down with landing flaps.

Motor rotation and propeller

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.

With the battery disconnected, fit the propeller onto the propeller driver and secure it with the washer and nut, using the No. 10 spanner. Fit the spinner and secure it with the M2.5×20 mm bolt. Refit the battery hatch. (Fig. 12)

Centre of gravity

The CG must be 56–60 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. 18)

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 PC-6 Porter 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. Begin with low rates and become familiar with the model before exploring its aerobatic capabilities.

Flying from water

1. Fly the model on wheels first. Learn its safe take-off and landing speeds and practise using the flaps. After fitting the floats, recheck the CG and adjust the battery or ballast as necessary.
2. Choose open, calm water and a day with a gentle breeze. Avoid tall trees around the water: they cause turbulence and may force a steep climb or landing approach. Small ripples make take-off easier than a glass-smooth surface.
3. Check the radio and power system as usual. Place the model on the water, hold up elevator and gently increase throttle to taxi away from the bank. Steer with the water rudder. Once clear of the bank, stop the motor and let the fin’s weathercock effect turn the model into wind.
4. Increase throttle and let the floats rise onto the step. Keep the elevator neutral until the model reaches a safe take-off speed, slightly higher than on wheels, then apply up elevator gently. Avoid steep climbs and sharp turns. The floats increase drag, slow the response and require more power in level flight. Climb to a safe height, approximately 50 m, and practise landing approaches at height before trying them close to the water.
5. Reserve enough battery energy for landing and taxiing back to the bank. Make a steady approach with slightly more throttle than on wheels and touch down gently and smoothly.
6. Back at the bank, disconnect the battery and check for water inside the model. Dry it with a sponge or cloth and inspect the floats and water rudder for damage from floating objects.
7. At the end of the session, clean and dry the model and floats thoroughly inside and outside. Take fresh water, a sponge and a soft dry cloth to the flying site. Protect exposed metal fittings with a little WD-40 or the lubricant specified for those fittings, keeping it off foam, adhesives and electronics.

Appendix

KAVAN R-40SB Plus instructions

Use the KAVAN Plus ESC instruction manual for the throttle calibration, normal startup, programming, protection functions and troubleshooting. Select LiPo battery mode for the specified flight battery and leave the brake off for the supplied fixed 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, bent or damaged undercarriage, damaged propeller etc. Do not fly again until the damage is repaired.

Although the PC-6 Porter 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 PC-6 Porter 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.