Do I have to build anything? Return to Top
All you have to do to get flying is set the dihedral wing (on the Firebird XL only) strap the wings on
the fuselage, and charge the battery. (You'll probably want to watch the instructional video and
read the manual while the battery is charging.)
When is a good day to fly? Return to Top
Aerobird/Fighterbird/Firebird XL: Beginners should fly with winds of 7 mph or less, but experienced
pilots should be able to fly with confidence in 12-15 mph winds. See your manual for more
information. Firebird II: Beginners should fly in winds of 7 mph or less. More experienced pilots can fly
safely in winds of 10-12 mph.See your manual for more information.
Where can I find some flying tips? Return to Top
You can find some great flying tips both in the manual and in the included instructional video.
The engine keeps coming on, even though the transmitter is off! Return to Top
You should always disconnect the battery when you're through flying. This will prevent the engine
from automatically coming on upon turning off the transmitter, and prevent outside signals from
interfering with the plane.
What if I crash my Firebird? Return to Top
The Firebirds are pretty tough, but if you do crash, you can identify what parts are broken and get
replacements from your local hobby shop. There is also a parts list included the instruction manual.
How should I store my plane when not in use? Return to Top
It's a good idea to take the wings off after flying. This reduces the space the plane takes up and will
save stress on the rubber bands.
Should I let the battery run down completely? Return to Top
No. Run your battery until there isn't enough power to fly your Firebird and then recharge it for no
more than 3 hours.
Can I switch the channels on the transmitter? Return to Top
No. It's illegal to change the settings in a transmitter in the US outside the factory.
Will a standard 4-5 channel transmitter work on my Firebird? Return to Top
No. You must use the included transmitter, or a replacement transmitter on the same channel.
Can I use Firebird II or Fighterbird wings on the Firebird XL? Return to Top
While the Firebird II wings are too small and designed specifically for that kit, the Fighterbird wings
will work perfectly fine on the Firebird XL.
My Firebird won't turn right (left). What's causing this and how do I fix it? Return to Top
On all Firebirds, be sure that the tail is straight with the wing, even angles with the wing, and the
tail is not damaged. Also be sure that the tail control surfaces are moving properly. If there is much
damage on one side of the plane that you have made repairs to, the weight of the repair may cause
the plane to fly incorrectly. If this is the case, you may need to purchase a new wing. On the
Firebird XL, also be sure that the dihedral of the wing is correct. Consult the manual for
instructions.
My Firebird crashes on takeoff. What am I doing wrong? Return to Top
Make sure you are not giving the aircraft too much rudder input, as this causes the plane to lose
altitude and can cause you to crash upon takeoff. Also if you are hand-launching, make sure to not
toss the aircraft into a climb. See the manual for tips on hand-launching.
What is the best glue to repair the foam parts? Return to Top
Normally, any epoxy will work properly, as well as odorless CA glue. It is best if you use a
combination of epoxy and packing tape, but make sure to use sparingly as any extra weight can
detract from flight performance.
What is the best glue to repair the plastic parts? Return to Top
A combination of CA glue or epoxy and packing tape.
How do I get the plane to recover from a dive? Return to Top
The easiest way to get the plane to recover from a dive is to let go of the control sticks on your
transmitter, and then slowly increase throttle to pull out.
The motor fell into the fuselage of the Firebird. How can I fix this? Return to Top
Though an experienced modeller may be able to reinstall the motor and brace the back of the
plane with a small piece of plywood or thin piece of metal, you will likely need to purchase a new
fuselage.
What's the best way to launch the Firebird? Return to Top
Hand launching is the easiest way to launch the Firebird. See the manual for tips on hand-launching.
What's the best way to land the Firebird? Return to Top
Slowly release the throttle and let the Firebird drift down slowly and increase the throttle slightly if
it is coming down too fast.
What should I do if my Firebird gets wet? Return to Top
For small amounts of water, remove the battery pack carefully, and let the plane dry completely.
Retry using the plane after it is completely dry, and if it does not work, you will likely need to send
your plane in for service. For large amounts of water, let the plane completely dry out, being very
careful not to touch anything hot if the battery or plane has any shorts. You will likely need a new
battery and fuselage if any direct shorts occur due to the water.
What effect does moving the control lines on the control horns have? Return to Top
Moving the control lines closer to the control surface makes them move further, which increases
control response. This will make the plane more sensitive to control inputs. Moving them out
desensitizes the control inputs and is recommended for beginners.
What can be done to prevent the prop from damaging the wing on a bad landing? Return to Top
You can put some packing tape to the back of the wing to strengthen it slightly. Also be sure that
the motor mount has not been bent or damaged, as this will increase the chance of the prop
contacting the wing.
How do you change the prop? Return to Top
The prop is pressed onto the motor, to change it, simply pull on the prop and it will come off. To
re-install a prop, just press the prop onto the motor shaft (holding the fuse around the motor to be
sure you do not push the motor out of its mount.)