Flamingo-Junior en

Building Instructions
Model glider / Electric glider for beginners
for dual-axis or triple-axis control
#0062442
Contents
Introduction
Kit contents
Specification
RC functions
Note: gluing with epoxy
Fuselage and tail
Fuselage openings
Installing the tow-hook
Installing the canopy latch
The tailplane clamp
Completing the fin and rudder
Installing the servo plate - glider version
Completing the control surface linkages in the fuselage
Electric version
Battery support
Installing the servo plate (electric)
Installing the receiving system - glider version
Installing the servos in the fuselage
Installing the On / Off switch
Installing the receiver
Installing the battery
Installing the receiving system - electric version
Installing the motor
Installing the speed controller
Installing the battery
Installing the receiver
Installing the servos in the fuselage
Wings
Fuselage / wing transition
Preparing the wings for triple-axis control (ailerons)
Installing working ailerons
Installing the aileron servos
Installing the aileron horns
Setting the wing dihedral
Electrical connections
The finish
Deploying the aerial(s)
For 35 MHz operation
For 2.4GHz operation
Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

www. Graupner. de www. TangentModelltechnik.com
Setting-up
Centre of Gravity and longitudinal dihedral
Control surface settings (normal flying, landing)
The first flight
Test-flying
Range-checking
For 35 MHz operation
For 2.4 GHz operation
The first flight
Flat-field flying
Flying at the slope
Safety, the fascination of it all
Appendix
Recommended RC equipment
Parts list, pictures, sketches

Beginners model, with or without electric power system

Flamingo Junior ARF glider
Flamingo Junior ARF electric
# 41545
# 41555
Introduction
Dear fellow-modeller,
We are delighted that you have decided to build our Flamingo Junior model glider, and we are confident that you will have many hours or pleasure and success with this small fun-model. TANGENT
model kits from the GRAUPNER stable are sophisticated designs, and are the result of many years of
practical experience. With these products you obtain far more than just a model: you benefit from consistent long-term product maintenance, standardised production techniques and carefully managed
quality, and this is your guarantee of a reliable product and the highest quality of service over a period
of many years.
Although we carry out conscientious quality control procedures, it is always possible that kit components will exhibit minor deviations or imperfections. We therefore ask you to check all components
before use, as we cannot exchange parts which you have already modified. If any component is not
satisfactory, we will gladly correct the fault or replace it after checking. Please send the component to
our Service department together with the completed complaints return form, and be sure to include a
brief description of the defect.
We are constantly working on the technical development of our models, and for this reason we must
reserve the right to alter the kit contents in terms of shape, dimensions, technology, materials and
features. Please understand that we cannot entertain claims based on statements and illustrations in
these instructions.
Important safety notes during construction
You have acquired a kit which can be assembled into a fully working RC model when fitted out with
suitable accessories. However, we as manufacturers have no control over the way you build and fly
your RC model aircraft, nor how you install, operate and maintain the associated components, and for
this reason we are obliged to deny all liability for loss, damage or costs which are incurred due to the
incompetent or incorrect use and operation of our products, or which are connected with such
operation in any way. Unless otherwise prescribed by binding law, the obligation of the GRAUPNER
company to pay compensation, regardless of the legal argument employed, is excluded. This includes
personal injury, death, damage to buildings, damage due to loss of business or turnover, interruption
of business or other direct or indirect consequent damage whose root cause was the operation of the
model. Our total liability in all cases is limited to the amount of money which you actually paid for this
model.
This model aeroplane is built and flown at the sole and express responsibility of the operator. The only
way to avoid injury to persons and damage to property is to handle and operate the model with the
greatest care and consideration at all times.
When handling adhesives and solvent-based materials it is important to observe the safety notes and
instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Many glues and solvents are capable of causing injury and
damage to materials if they are not used competently. Take waste glue and paint to your local model
shop or toxic waste collection centre.
Note that balsa knives, pins, etc. have sharp points and edges, and should be handled carefully to
avoid injury. Take care to keep tools, adhesives and paints out of the reach of children. A large, unobstructed working surface is a great advantage for all types of model-making. If you are a relative
beginner and are not sure of any process, it is always best to ask an experienced modeller for help.

Flying the model

Never fly your Flamingo Junior in a nature reserve or any other protected site. Please dont disturb the
animals and plants which live in the countryside. Trees and bushes are the natural habitat of many
birds, and also serve as nesting sites and general protection for them.
Before you fly the model for the first time it is essential to take out a special insurance policy designed
to cover modelling risks. These safety notes should be kept in a safe place. If you ever dispose of the
model, be sure to pass them on to the new owner.
Manufacturers declaration:
If material defects or manufacturing faults should arise in a product distributed by us in the Federal
Republic of Germany and purchased by a consumer ( 13 BGB), we, Graupner GmbH & Co. KG, D73230 Kirchheim/Teck, Germany, acknowledge the obligation to correct those defects within the
limitations described below. The consumer is not entitled to exploit this manufacturers declaration if
the failure in the usability of the product is due to natural wear, use under competition conditions,
incompetent or improper use (including incorrect installation) or external influences.
This manufacturers declaration does not affect the consumers legal or contractual rights regarding
defects arising from the purchase contract between the consumer and the vendor (dealer).
Extent of the guarantee:
If a claim is made under guarantee, we undertake at our discretion to repair or replace the defective
goods. We will not consider supplementary claims, especially for reimbursement of costs relating to
the defect (e.g. installation / removal costs) and compensation for consequent damages unless they
are allowed by statute. This does not affect claims based on legal regulations, especially according to
product liability law.
Guarantee requirements:
The purchaser is required to make the guarantee claim in writing, and must enclose original proof of
purchase (e.g. invoice, receipt, delivery note) and this guarantee card. He must send the defective
goods to us at his own cost, using the address stated above. The purchaser should state the material
defect or manufacturing fault, or the symptoms of the fault, in as accurate a manner as possible, so
that we can check if our guarantee obligation is applicable. The goods are transported from the
consumer to us and from us to the consumer at the risk of the consumer.
Duration of validity:
This declaration only applies to claims made to us during the claim period as stated in this declaration.
The claim period is 24 months from the date of purchase of the product by the consumer from a dealer
in the Federal Republic of Germany (date of purchase). If a defect arises after the end of the claim
period, or if the evidence or documents required according to this declaration in order to make the
claim valid are not presented until after this period, then the consumer forfeits any rights or claims from
this declaration.
Limitation by lapse of time:
If we do not acknowledge the validity of a claim based on this declaration within the claim period, all
claims based on this declaration are barred by the statute of limitations after six months from the time
of implementation; however, this cannot occur before the end of the claim period.
Applicable law:
This declaration, and the claims, rights and obligations arising from it, are based exclusively on the
pertinent German Law, without the norms of international private law, and excluding UN retail law.

The following points are important and must be observed at all times:
Before you fly the model check that the radio control system is working reliably, and that all
connections are secure.
The batteries must be charged and the range of the radio control system must be checked
before you operate the model. In particular, the radio control system batteries must be fully
charged before each session.
Ensure that the channel you intend to use is not already in use by other modellers. Never fly
the aeroplane if you are not certain that your channel is free.
Read and observe the instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of
your radio control system and accessory components.
Ensure that the servos are not mechanically obstructed at any point in their travel.
Dry cells and rechargeable batteries must never be short-circuited.
Remove all batteries from the model prior to transporting and storing it.
Do not subject the aircraft to dirty or cold conditions, or high levels of humidity or heat.
Secure the model and your RC equipment carefully when transporting them. They may be
seriously damaged if they are free to slide about.
Important: when the flight battery is exhausted, you must not dispose of it in the household
waste. Take the pack to your local battery reclamation centre.
Important: when the useful life of the model and the transmitter are over, do not discard them
in the domestic rubbish. The electric and electronic components in particular must be taken to
your nearest electrical recycling centre. Ask your local authority if you are not sure of its
location.
Kit contents
1 Pair of wings, film-covered, with window lightening technology and 3D wingtips, ailerons prepared for
triple-axis control, factory-fitted joiner system incorporated into full-depth spar, Multi-Wing wing
retainer system
1 GRP fuselage, pure white finish, with Multi-Wing wing retainer system, factory-fitted all-moving tailplane bellcrank, pre-fitted tail post, factory-installed control snake sleeves (electric version: motor bulkhead installed)
1 Set of tailplane panels with installed joiner tubes and 3D tips
1 Rudder
1 Set of laser-cut wooden parts for RC installation
1 Bag of high-quality CONTESTLINE accessories
Specification, RC functions
Specification:
Wingspan approx.
Fuselage length
Wing area
Weight
Wing section
Longitudinal dihedral approx.
Centre of Gravity approx.
2250 mm
990 mm
35 dm
min. 1250 g (glider)
min. 1450 g (electric)
CY 11 %
2
60 - 65 mm
RC functions, glider version

Rudder, elevator, (optional) ailerons
RC functions, electric version
Rudder, elevator, throttle, (optional) ailerons
Notes on adhesives
It is essential to avoid using solvent-based glues for any joint in which the adhesive comes into contact
with the styrofoam wing core. This applies in particular to cyano-acrylates, as these materials immediately attack the foam and cause large-scale damage; in most cases the component is rendered
unusable. Use only solvent-free adhesives; we recommend UHU plus Endfest (slow-setting epoxy
resin) or epoxy laminating resin thickened with chopped cotton strands. Do not use 5-minute epoxy for
joints which are vital to airframe integrity, or for crucial control linkages!
Epoxy laminating resin is not an effective adhesive on its own. These resins only work well as glues
when thickened with various additives. You can adjust the qualities of your adhesive by choosing the
appropriate additive to suit your application:
1. Chopped cotton strands produce a tough, flexible joint - ideal for highly stressed areas.
2. Super-fine glass fibres produce a rock-solid joint which is easy to sand. An excellent
choice for joints which are not subject to severe mechanical stress.
3. Micro-balloons transform epoxy resin into a lightweight filler paste - ideal for areas
where the mechanical stress is low or non-existent.
Fuselage, tail and canopy

We will start by completing the fuselage, as it is the reference point for all the other components.
Fuselage openings
The first step is to open up all the prepared fuselage openings in the wing root fairings. This is the procedure:
Use a 3 mm twist drill to bore a series of holes in the wing joiner recess, then use a needle file or
round file to open up the hole to the correct size.
Tip: a good alternative is to use a milling bit in a small hand-held electric drill.
Installing the tow-hook (glider version)
Use a flexible ruler to measure a point on the underside of the fuselage 300 millimetres from the
extreme nose. Drill a central hole for the tow-hook at this point using a 2.5 mm bit. Temporarily
apply tape over the hole on the outside of the fuselage, then roughen the moulding on the inside
around the hole. Glue the hardwood support block centrally over the hole using plenty of UHU plus
Endfest 300.
Completing the canopy

Place the canopy on the fuselage and check that it fits well. If necessary, sand it lightly to obtain a
close fit. This is an area where five minutes of careful work will be rewarded with a perfectly fitting
canopy which looks really good.
Installing the canopy latch
Glue the ABS spring to the centre of the inside of the canopy using thickened epoxy; the spring should
be exactly central over the whole length of the canopy, as shown in the picture. When the glue has set
hard, laminate a few layers of glass cloth over the joint using more epoxy resin.
The rudder
Use a 6 mm round file to open up the recess in the rudder pushrod fairing.
Measure two points on the leading edge of the fin, working from the bottom: one 30 mm from the
bottom, the second 170 mm from the first; these are the point-hinge locations. Use a 3 mm bit to drill
the holes for the hinges. Temporarily insert the point-hinges in the holes, and mark matching points on
the tail post (trailing edge of fin). Drill the holes, then glue the point-hinges in place.
Allow the glue to set hard before gluing the horn in the rudder: bend the rear end of the rudder pushrod at right-angles, slip the horn on the angled end, and mark the horns position on the rudder. Drill a
small hole in the rudder, ensuring that the linkage hole lines up correctly with the hinge pivot axis.

The tailplane
The bellcrank for the all-moving tailplane is already installed and ready to use. The two tailplane
panels are attached to the fuselage using the 2 mm steel joiner rods supplied: pass the front rod
through the front hole in the fin, and the rear rod through the moving end of the bellcrank, accessed
through the curved slots. If the rear rod catches slightly in the machined slot at any point, gently use
a small file to clean up the slots edges. The two tailplane panels can now be pushed onto the steel
rods on both sides. When you are satisfied, remove the rear joiner rod and bend it to a very slight Sshape; this acts as a clamp, preventing the tailplane panels sliding outwards on the joiners.
Installing the servo plate for the glider version / Installing the receiving system - GLIDER
Before the RC plate is glued in place, the special internal lining material known as peel ply must first
be removed from both inside faces of the fuselage: removing the peel ply produces a rough surface
which provides a mechanical key for the adhesive, and ensures sound joints.
Cut down the servo output arms as shown in the photo, then set the servos to centre from the transmitter and fit the output arms on the servo shafts, at right-angles to the servo cases. Temporarily
mount the servos and the On / Off switch in the RC plate, and place this assembly in the fuselage. The
position of the plate is dictated by the size of the receiver battery: check that it is possible to fit the
pack into the fuselage nose between the front edge of the RC plate and the canopy recess.
You may need to shorten the rudder and elevator pushrods: when the linkages are set up correctly,
both control surfaces should be at neutral (centre) when the servos are also at neutral. Please refer to
the section entitled Control surface travels / pushrod connections at this point.
When you are satisfied, tack the servo plate to the fuselage with a few drops of cyano, then remove
the servos from the plate. The servo plate can now be glued securely to both sides of the fuselage
with a neat fillet of epoxy.
Installing the motor

The motor bulkhead is fitted in the fuselage at the factory, and the mounting holes for the specified
motor are already drilled. All you need to do is screw the Inline 475 / 14.8 V motor (Order No. 6607) in
place. Ensure that all the screws are tight; we recommend that you apply a drop of thread-lock fluid to
each screw.
Installing the servo plate for the electric version / Installing the receiving system - ELECTRIC
The speed controller should be installed directly below the RC plate. Please note that the controller
must not be packed in foam or a heat-shrink sleeve, otherwise it could overheat. It is simply held in
place with a little Velcro (hook-and-loop) tape, which should be glued to the bottom of the fuselage.
Glue the battery support plate to the fuselage cradle immediately aft of the speed controller using UHU
Plus Endfest 300. The flight pack itself is fixed to the battery plate using Velcro tape.

10
Before the RC plate is glued in place, the special internal lining material known as peel ply must first
be removed from both inside faces of the fuselage. Removing the peel ply produces a rough surface
which provides a mechanical key for the adhesive, and ensures sound joints.
Cut down the servo output arms as shown in the photo, then set the servos to centre from the transmitter and fit the output arms on the servo shafts, at right-angles to the servo cases. The receiver can
also be attached to the RC plate aft of the servos using Velcro tape. Temporarily mount the servos in
the RC plate, and place this assembly in the fuselage.
You may need to shorten the rudder and elevator pushrods: when the linkages are set up correctly,
both control surfaces should be at neutral (centre) when the servos are at neutral. Please refer to the
section entitled Control surface travels / pushrod connections at this point.
When you are satisfied, tack the servo plate to the fuselage with a few drops of cyano, then remove
the servos from the plate. The servo plate can now be glued securely to both sides of the fuselage
with a neat fillet of epoxy.
Wings
The fuselage / wing transition
The Flamingo Junior features a floating wing joiner system, i.e. the joiner rod itself does not touch the
fuselage. The hole for the wing joiner should therefore be 1 mm larger all round than the diameter of
the joiner rod (open up the holes with a file if necessary).
The joiner takes the form of an 8 mm GRP rod. The fuselage is suspended between the wings on
two steel dowels, or incidence pegs, and it is therefore necessary work accurately when drilling the
holes for the dowels - take care to drill exactly at 90.

11
Pilot-holes for the incidence pegs and the Multilock pin are already present in the wing root ribs. Open
up the pilot-holes, push the steel dowels and the Multilock pin in the openings, and check that the
wings are a snug fit against the fuselage.
Fit the tailplane panels again, and check that the wings line up correctly with the tailplane when
viewed from the nose or tail. When you are confident that all is well, the incidence pegs and the Multilock can be glued in place. Press the Multilock pins into the Multilock sockets in the fuselage, and
mask out the area around the wing retainer with adhesive tape, to prevent glue residues penetrating
into the clamp section. Now fill the holes in the wing roots for the incidence pegs and the Multilock pins
with thickened epoxy, and push the pegs and the wing retainers in the holes. Fit the wings on the
fuselage with the help of the wing joiner, and tape the parts together while the glue sets hard.
Tip: use a disposable syringe to fill the holes with resin.
Preparing the wings for triple-axis control (ailerons)
1. Installing working ailerons / completing the aileron hinges
Use a setsquare or an engineers square to mark the line of a 90 cut at each end of the
machined aileron slot. Using a hacksaw blade, cut along the marked lines as far as the
machined slot.
Now slit the film covering along the centre of the V-shaped channel using a balsa knife. You
will find a few locating lugs in the channel, which have to be removed using a balsa knife.
Please take care not to damage the film on the top surface of the wing airfoil when you do this.

12
Now fold the aileron up as far as it will go, and press the excess film into the machined
channel using the back of a knife. The film strips supplied in the kit can now be applied inside
the open V-shaped channel to act as a hinge doubler.
2. Installing the aileron servos and horns

Mark a point 155 mm from the inboard end of one aileron for the aileron horn, and drill a 3 mm
hole in the underside of the control surface - around half-way across the ailerons chord
(width). Take care not to damage the top wing skin (dont drill too deep!).
Glue the horn in the aileron using two-pack adhesive, taking care to produce a strong joint.
Repeat the procedure with the second aileron.
The servo recesses in the wings are machine-cut, but you may need to make them deeper to
accommodate your servos; this is accomplished by removing more foam within the recess.

13
Cut down the aileron servo output arms as shown in the photo, and drill out the outermost hole
in each one using a 1.6 mm bit to suit the thickness of the pushrod.
Switch the RC system on and set the aileron servos to centre. Press the prepared output arms
on the servo shafts and fit the retaining screws. Before the servos are glued to the well covers
the connecting leads must be soldered to the extension leads, which are already in place in
the wings; the servo mounting lugs also have to be removed. When soldering the servo leads,
remember to join like-coloured wires. Insulate each soldered joint individually with a piece of
heat-shrink sleeve; remember to fit the sleeves on the wires before soldering the joints.
The servos can now be glued to the well covers, with the output arms positioned in the centre
of the pushrod fairings, after thoroughly sanding the well cover and the servo case using abrasive paper. We recommend cyano, Order No. 5821, for these joints, but in this case it is
essential to position the servo accurately, as it is not possible to make subsequent adjustments when using cyano.
CAUTION! If you are using medium-viscosity cyano you must take particular care to avoid the
adhesive running into the servo gearbox and jamming the gears.
The aileron pushrods are made from the pre-formed 1.6 mm rods supplied in the kit. The
plain end of the aileron pushrods must be bent at right-angles in such a way that the distance
between the linkage hole at the servo and the horn hole is about 65 mm. Check that both
servos and ailerons are at neutral.
Now connect the pushrods to the aileron horns, and push the plastic keepers (pushrod
retainers) into place. Fix the servo well covers to the wings using the countersunk screws supplied, after drilling pilot-holes for the screws.
Tip: for improved aerodynamic efficiency we recommend countersinking the holes.

14
3. Setting the wing dihedral / joining the wing panels

The machined slot for the wing dihedral is already present in the wing under the film covering.
Slit the film accurately along both sides of the machined slot, and remove the small amount of
film between the cuts.
The inboard wing panels should now be fixed temporarily to the workbench, e.g. by weighting
them down with a few books (caution: dont dent the wings!). Now carefully and slowly raise
the outboard wing panels until the extreme tip is around 90 mm above the bench surface.
Pack up the wingtip at this level, using a stack of books or similar, then remove the books
again and lay the tip panel flat. Use a disposable syringe to fill the machined slot with UHU
Plus 300 endfest, then raise the tip panel again, place the books under the tip, and make sure
nothing can shift while the glue is curing. Any excess resin on the surface of the film must be
wiped away IMMEDIATELY, because it cannot be removed once the epoxy has cured !!!
Tip: it is a good idea to apply paper masking tape along both edges of the joint, so that the
excess glue is squeezed out onto the tape. Remove the tape again while the epoxy is still soft.
When the glue has set hard, apply the strips of adhesive film over the joints to improve the
appearance of the transition.

15
Electrical connections
Before the servos can be connected to the receiver, the extension leads in the wings have to be
soldered to servo extension leads with plug, Order No.: 3935.11. The servo connectors can now be
passed through the hole in the wing root fairing and routed to the receiver.
The finish
Cut out the decals from the decal sheet supplied in the kit, and apply them to the model as follows:
Moisten the wing surface with a little soapy water, then carefully slide the decal into place. You can
now adjust its position to a small extent, as it slides on the layer of water. Allow the decal to dry out
thoroughly, then press it down lightly once more using a soft, dry cloth.
Deploying the aerial(s)

1. 35 MHz operation: run the aerial loosely along the inside of the tail boom; on no account
place it under tension!
2. 2.4 GHz operation: the two aerials of the 2.4 GHz receiver should be deployed in the two
plastic sleeves which run parallel on either side of the receiver (see picture of battery plate).
Setting-up / Centre of Gravity and longitudinal dihedral

The Centre of Gravity for the Flamingo Junior is located around 60 mm to 65 mm aft of the wing root
leading edge. This is the procedure for checking and fine-tuning this basic position:
Assemble the model completely, ready to fly, and support it on two fingers under the wing roots on
both sides of the fuselage, at the point indicated above: the model should now balance level, ideally
with the nose angled down slightly. If necessary, add lead ballast to the nose until the CG is correct.
Any ballast must be fixed really securely, so that it cannot possibly shift in flight.
Before the first flight all the control surfaces must be adjusted to centre (neutral), with the transmitter
trims also central.
The longitudinal dihedral of the Flamingo Junior is 2 (when the rear tailplane joiner rod is in the centre
of the machined slot). If you adjust the elevator linkage until the rear rod (2 mm ) is in the centre of
the machined slot when passed through the rear hole in the bellcrank, then the longitudinal dihedral of
your Flamingo will be correct.
Control surface travels / normal flying
Ailerons
+15 mm up
Rudder
+30 mm left
Elevator
+10 mm up
-8 mm down
+30 mm right
-10 mm down
Control surface travels / landing (triple-axis version only)

Ailerons
+15 mm up
16
Important:
When installing and setting up the control surface linkages it is vital to ensure that they work smoothly,
are able to carry out their full movement - including trim travel - without being impeded, and are not
mechanically obstructed at any point.
When you move the rudder stick to the right, the rudder should also deflect to the right (left stick: left
rudder). If you pull the elevator stick back towards you, the trailing edge of both tailplane panels
should deflect up (stick forward: elevator down). Move the aileron stick to the right, and the right-hand
aileron should deflect up, the left-hand aileron down.
The first flight

Test-flying
Every flying machine, from the humble chuck glider to the full-size aircraft, has to be test-flown and
trimmed after completion; your Flamingo Junior is no exception. The slightest inaccuracy in construction can lead to a minor variation in the models flight characteristics and control response. Testflying is the process of optimising the CG, and of fine-tuning the models control response.
Repeated hand-glides at a flat-field site should be avoided at all costs. The most dangerous time for
any model is when it is close to the ground, and hand-launches are therefore by their nature extremely
hazardous. There is hardly any time to correct the controls.
Range-checking, 35 MHz operation
Ensure that your transmitter and receiver batteries are freshly charged according to the battery
manufacturers recommendations. If you have not yet switched to 2.4 GHz equipment, make certain
that your channel is vacant before switching your transmitter on. Before the first flight you should carry
out a range-check, and we strongly recommend that you repeat the test before the start of every days
flying. Hold the model in such a way that your body cannot influence the receiver aerial, i.e. grasp it by
the fuselage nose. Your assistant should collapse the transmitter aerial fully (but leave it attached),
then walk away from you carrying the transmitter.
As the range increases your assistant should operate one transmitter function constantly while you
watch the models control surfaces. The servos not being moved should remain motionless up to a
range of about 80 m, and the moving servo should follow the stick deflections immediately and
smoothly. If this is not the case, check the whole model thoroughly. If you can find no fault, pack up
your entire RC system (complete with batteries, switch harness, servos etc.) and send it back to the
equipment manufacturer for checking.
Range-checking, 2.4 GHz operation
In this case it is important to follow the instructions provided by your RC system manufacturer. For
example, if you are using our HoTT system, the transmitter provides a user-friendly menu for this.
The first flight
The first flight can be carried out in any of several ways - at the slope from a hand-launch, at a flat field
or by aero-tow.
Aero-tow: this represents the best method of getting your Flamingo Junior up to a good gliding height.
Dont forget to stay in constant contact with your tug pilot during the tow.
At the slope: wait for a period of reliable lift, and launch the model with the wings level and the nose
down. Dont worry if the model dives at first - speed is half the battle!
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If necessary adjust the trims to achieve straight flight and a reasonable cruising speed. The next step
is to fly turns alternately to left and right to check the models turning characteristics, the harmonisation
(balance) between ailerons, elevator and rudder, and the aileron differential.
If you still have plenty of height you should check the Centre of Gravity right at this early stage. The
procedure for CG testing described here is a method of fine-tuning the models balance. It can only
work when air movements are slight, and when the initial CG position is exactly correct. It is bound to
fail if the model is a long way out of balance and / or there is a strong wind. In breezy conditions it is
difficult to set up the model for normal cruise speed, as it is hard to judge its speed relative to the
surrounding air.
Trim the model carefully for normal cruising speed, which should be comfortably above stalling speed.
The model should show no tendency to hunt up and down, or mush along close to the stall. Now assuming that you have plenty of height in hand - apply full down-elevator briefly to place the model in
a vertical dive. Immediately centre the stick and watch the aeroplane carefully.
The CG is correct if it recovers to normal flight in a broad, gentle curving arc (100 m) by itself.
The CG is too far forward if the model bounces up again immediately and climbs strongly.
Remedy: remove lead ballast from the fuselage nose; apply slight down-elevator trim.
The CG is too far aft if the model shows no tendency to recover by itself - the dive may even become
steeper.
Remedy: immediately recover the model with gentle up-elevator. Add a little lead ballast to the fuselage nose, fix it securely, and apply a little up-trim.
Flat-field flying
Flat-field flying is relatively non-hazardous since there is no risk of the model landing out at the foot
of the hill, as with slope soaring.
Nevertheless, making the best use of flat field thermals is not particularly easy, and calls for
considerable skill and experience. Areas of rising air are harder to detect and recognise at a flat field,
because they tend to occur at higher altitude than at the hillside, where it is often possible to find lift
while the model is cruising along the edge of the slope and then circle away in it. A thermal at a flat
field which occurs directly overhead is very hard to recognise, and exploiting it to the full requires a
highly skilled pilot. For this reason it is always best to go thermal seeking off to one side of where you
are standing. You will recognise thermal contact by the models behaviour. Good thermals are obvious
because the model will climb strongly, but it takes a practised eye to detect weak thermals, and you
will need a lot of skill to make use of them. With a little practice you will be able to recognise likely
trigger points for thermals in the local landscape. The ground warms up in the suns heat, but heat
absorption varies according to the type of terrain and the angle of the suns rays. The air over the
warmer ground becomes warmer in turn, and the mass of warm air flows along close to the ground,
driven by any breeze. Any obstruction - a shrub or tree, a fence, the edge of a wood, a hill, a passing
car, even your own model on the landing approach - may cause this warm air to leave the ground and
rise. Imagine a drop of water on the ceiling, wandering around aim-lessly, and initially remaining stuck
to the ceiling. If it strikes an obstruction it will fall on your head. A triggered thermal can be imagined as
the opposite of the drop of water.
The most obvious thermal triggers include sharply defined snow fields on mountain slopes. The air
above the snow field is cooled, and flows downhill; at the edge of the snow field, part-way down the
valley, the cool air meets warm air flowing gently uphill, and pushes it up and away as if cut off by a
knife. The result is an extremely powerful but bumpy thermal bubble. The pilots task is to locate the
rising warm air and centre your model in it. You will need to control the glider constantly to keep it
centred, as you can expect the most rapid climb rate in the core of the thermal. Once again, this
technique does demand some skill.
To avoid losing sight of the model be sure to leave the thermal in good time. Bear in mind that the
aircraft is always easier to see under a cloud than against a clear blue sky. If you have to lose height
in a hurry, do bear the following in mind: the Flamingo Junior is a robust beginners model, but not a
high-performance aircraft. The airframe strength is finite, i.e. a steep dive followed by an abrupt pullout may result in the loss of the model.
18
Flying at the slope

Ridge soaring is an extremely attractive form of model flying. Flying for hours on end in slope lift,
without needing any outside aid for launching, must be one of the finest of modelling experiences. But
to milk a thermal to the limits of vision, bring it down again in a continuous series of aerobatic
manoeuvres, and then to repeat the whole show - that must surely be the last word in model flying.
But take care - there are dangers for your model lurking at the slope. Firstly, in most cases landing is
much more difficult than at a flat field site. It is usually necessary to land in the lee of the hill where the
air is turbulent; this calls for concentration and a high-speed approach with last-minute airbrake
extension. A landing on the slope face, i.e. right in the slope lift, is even more difficult. Here the trick is
to approach slightly downwind, up the slope, and flare at the right moment, just before touch-down.
A further danger is failure of the slope lift or thermal when the model is in a difficult position, resulting
in a risky landing in the valley, but there are ways of reducing that risk. Study the valley floor before
you launch, and seek out a possible landing site there. Walk down and study the site so that you know
where any landing approach obstructions are, and whether the local wind is as you would expect it. If
an out-landing is unavoidable it is best to land just as at a flat field site with a standard approach and a
short, straight final leg with brakes deployed. Keep the model in your line of sight at all times over the
planned landing site, as this avoids the danger of an uncontrolled landing. Follow these hints and you
will safely reach the site. If the sun is shining you will be able to judge the models height by the
distance between the model and its own shadow, and this will allow you to land with considerable
accuracy way down there.
Never give up; thermals can be found very low down. However, once you have initiated the landing
approach do continue and make a landing, as you are unlikely to find real lift that low. With luck you
will manage a soft landing. Now take your time to note the landing position and the best route to it.
Look around for landmarks in the countryside which will help you locate the model when searching.
However, the main point to remember when scratching for a thermal below launch height is - don't
panic: remember that in almost every case it is the pilot that is the problem, rather than the model. If
you have a flying colleague who tries to help by giving a continuous commentary and giving what he
thinks is useful advice all the time, tell him to shut up. A colleague who wishes to help you will restrict
himself to very short and really helpful comments, e.g. by pointing out other models whose pilots have
found a thermal, a circling bird of prey or a safe approach to the planned landing site. A really good
friend will even launch his own model, fly down into the valley and help you find a thermal. With two
models the chances of success are much higher.
Safety
Safety is the First Commandment when flying any model aircraft. Third party insurance should be
considered a basic essential. If you join a model club suitable cover will usually be available through
the organisation. It is your personal responsibility to ensure that your insurance is adequate. Make it
your job to keep your models and your radio control system in perfect order at all times. Check the
correct charging procedure for the NC batteries used in your RC set. Make use of all sensible safety
systems and precautions which are advised for your system. Gather as much information as you can
from various product catalogues, and from your local model shop proprietor.
Always fly with a responsible attitude. You may think that flying low over other peoples heads is proof
of your piloting skill, but others know better: the real expert does not need to prove himself in such
childish ways. Let other pilots know that this is what you think too. Always fly in such a way that you
avoid endangering yourself or others. Bear in mind that even the best RC system in the world is
subject to outside interference. No matter how many years of accident-free flying you have under your
belt, you have no idea what will happen in the next minute.
The fascination of it all
Take your time to get to know your new Flamingo Junior really well. You will soon learn to appreciate
the models docile handling, and its ability to open up the world of Contestline models to you.
You can join us in savouring one of the few types of sport which combine high technology, manual
dexterity, and sophisticated personal skills. You can fly alone or with friends, and at the same time you
can enjoy the pleasures of nature - treats which have become rare in today's world.
19
Recommended RC equipment
Rudder and elevator
Ailerons
RC system
DES 586 BB
DES 586 BB
Four-channel system
Order No.: 7931

Order No: 7931
Cam Folding Prop, 23 x 12

Inline 475 14.8 V
Compact Fly 25 BEC
3/2500 20C
Order No.: 1335.23.12

Order No.: 6607
Order No.: 7221
Order No.: 7633.3
Recommended power system

Propeller
Motor
Speed controller
LiPo flight pack
We - the GRAUPNER / TANGENT Modellsport team - wish you as many hours of pleasure in building
and flying your new model as we have had.
GRAUPNER / TANGENT Modellsport
Dieter Br Model Development

20
Appendix
Parts List
Kit contents
Quantity
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Description
Canopy
Pair of wing panels
Pair of tailplane panels
Rudder
Contest fittings bag
Wing joiner
Laser-cut wooden parts set
GRP fuselage
Building instructions
Decal sheet
Servolock set
Note
Vac. moulded
Ready made, ARF
Ready made, ARF
Ready made, ARF
Parts List
Ready made / GRP
Parts List
Ready made
Monochrome printed
Screen-printed
ABS / Parts List
Contest small parts bag

Qu.
2
1
2
2
4
2
3
2
2
1
1
1
Description
Aerial sleeve
Velcro tape
Multilock wing retainer
Incidence peg
Pushrod keeper
Point-hinge
Horn
Tailplane joiner rod
Control surface pushrod
Wing joiner
Canopy retaining spring
Tow-hook
Application
2.4 GHz aerial guide
Receiver mounting
Wing retention
Wing joiner part
Horn retainer
Rudder hinge
Aileron / rudder linkages
Tailplane joiner
Aileron linkage
Wing joiner
Canopy retainer
Glider launch aid
Material
ABS tube
Hook / loop tape
Plastic
Spring steel
Plastic
Plastic
Plastic
Spring steel
Spring steel
GRP rod
ABS strip
Steel
Dimensions
3/2 x approx. 70 mm
approx. 25 x 70 mm
Ready made
3 x 40 mm
Ready made
Ready made
Ready made
2 x 80 mm
1.6 x 100 mm
8 x 235 mm
Ready made
Ready made
Laser-cut wooden parts

Qu. Description
1
Servo plate
1 ** Battery plate
1 ** Motor bulkhead (installed)
2
Film panel, short
1
Tow-hook support block
2
Film panel, long
** electric version only
Application
RC installation
Battery mounting
Motor mounting
Dihedral joint cover
Tow-hook support
Aileron gap cover
Material
Plywood
Plywood
Plywood
Covering film
Hardwood
Covering film
Dimensions
Ready made
Ready made
Ready made
Oversize
Ready made
Oversize
Application
Servo well cover
Servo well cover
Well cover attachment
Material
ABS
ABS
Steel
Dimensions
Ready made
Ready made
2 x 10mm
Servolock set
Qu.
1
1
8
Description
L.H. servo fairing
R.H. servo fairing
Countersunk screw
Modifications in form and composition reserved.

21

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Building Instructions

Model glider / Electric glider for beginners

for dual-axis or triple-axis control

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Beginners model, with or without electric power system

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Flying the model

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

RC functions, glider version

Fuselage, tail and canopy

Completing the canopy

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Installing the motor

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

2. Installing the aileron servos and horns

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

3. Setting the wing dihedral / joining the wing panels

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Deploying the aerial(s)

Setting-up / Centre of Gravity and longitudinal dihedral

Control surface travels / landing (triple-axis version only)

The first flight

Flying at the slope

Order No.: 7931

Cam Folding Prop, 23 x 12

Order No.: 1335.23.12

Recommended power system

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Contest small parts bag

Laser-cut wooden parts

Modifications in form and composition reserved.

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

Graupner GmbH & Co. KG * Henriettenstrae 94-96 * 73230 Kirchheim *

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