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Messerschmitt Bf 109 – 120SUPER SCALE ARTF MODEL

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Introduction 1

Kit Contents and Descriptions 4

Additional items Required 5

Section 1: Hinging the Ailerons 6

Section 2: Installing the AileronServo and Linkages 6

Section 3: Installing the Wheelwells and Undercarriage 8

Section 4: Joining the Wings 9Section 5: Installing the Engine

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Section 6: Installing the Tail Plane 12Section 7: Hinging the Rudderand Elevator 13

Section 8: Installing the Radiogear 15

Section 9: Connecting the RudderPushrod 16

Section 10: Connecting theElevator Pushrod 17

Section 11: Connecting theThrottle Linkage 18

Section 12: Assembly andinstallation of Fuel tank 19

Section 13: Installation of RetractSystem 21

Section 14: Scale Details 22

Section 15: Balance and Final SetUp 23

Pre Flight Checks & SafetyPrecautions 24

Flying your Bf109 25

WARNINGThis is a high performancemodel aircraft and not a toy.

Construction of this modelrequires the use of sharp toolsand various chemicals thatmay be harmful to health. Thebuilder should assess the risksinvolved before startingassembly. The finished modelcan cause serious injury/bodilyharm and damage to property.

We recommend that the modelis flown at a recognised clubwith frequency controlmeasures and suitable thirdparty insurance. The owner –pilot of this model isresponsible for its conditionand safe operation and musttake note of regulations andlocal bylaws before flying thisaircraft.

CONTENTS

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INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on purchasingthe CML DistributionMesserschmitt Bf109 ARTF.

The Messerschmitt Bf109 wasthe archetypal fighter of theLuftwaffe in world war two andfollowing the first evaluationflights of the prototype in 1935served in active duty in its manyvariants from 1937 to1945. Earlymodels struggled to achieve300mph while the last modelsachieved speeds in excess of450mph. After the war Spain andCzechoslovakia continuedproduction of Bf109 derivativesand the final model flew out ofSeville in 1956. Productionfigures are imprecise but it isbelieved that around 35,000 wereproduced.

This is a sports scale model thathas been designed andmanufactured with great care to

provide the purchaser with aneasy building model with theunmistakable looks of theoriginal aircraft. The use of ahighly detailed moulded fuselageand strong but lightweight builtup flying surfaces ensures thatthe completed model is bothlightweight and an excellent flyerwith no vices.

It is assumed that the purchaserhas completed the build ofseveral ARTF models and gaineda working knowledge of theessential requirements for aflying radio controlled aeroplane.While this model is easy to fly, itis not a trainer and should not beflown by a novice. We wouldrecommend that the pilot beproficient on low wingaeroplanes before attempting tofly this model.

A very complete hardware packis supplied as standard and thisincludes all linkages, hardware

and a set of pneumaticallyactuated main gear retracts.These are of the air up springdown design giving a ‘fail safe’condition of wheels down in theevent of loss of air pressure.

It is important that you fully readthrough the instructions tounderstand the build sequenceand then re–read each sectionbefore commencing work. Tickboxes are provided next to eachstep; place a tick in the box ü oncompletion to record yourprogress. Two tick boxes üü areprovided where an operation isrequired to be completed twice(each wing half for instance)

If you encounter any difficultieswith the construction of thismodel or wish to offer feedbackplease feel free to contact us.

We trust that you will enjoybuilding and flying this model.

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CONTENTS OF KIT

MAIN AIRFRAME PARTS(1) Fuselage with canopy installed(1) Factory finished flush fitting cowl(1) Spinner with backplate and fixings(2) Wing halves, left and right hand with ailerons,

and aileron servo hatches installed(1) Tail plane and two elevator halves(1) Rudder

RETRACT ASSEMBLY PARTS(2) Air up spring down retract units with installed

wheels (8) Main undercarriage fixing screws(1) Air bottle(1) Air line tubing(1) Operating spool valve(1) Laser cut valve bracket(2) Y-connectors(1) Quick connect coupler(1) Filling valve assembly

OTHER MAJOR PARTS

(1) Turbocharger cover(2) Coolant radiator cowlings(1) Radio mast

(2) Vacuum formed wheel wells(2) Wheel well doors(2) Moulded cannon

MINOR PARTS AND HARDWARE LISTING

(2) Nylon T-bar engine mounts (4) Fixing screws, washers and captive nuts(4) Fixing screws, washers and Nyloc nuts(1) Tail wheel assembly with wheel (1) Fuel tank comprising of main tank, bung,

clunk weight, 2 short pipes, 1 long pipe,silicone tubing, large end cap, small end capand clamp screw.

(13) Coated Mylar hinges(1) Main wing joiner(1) Secondary wing joiner(2) M6 x 50mm wing fixing screws and large

washers.(5) Control horn assemblies each comprising;

control horn, back plate and (3) M2 x 30 mmfixing screws.

(7) M2 aileron pushrod wires(2) Straight pushrod dowels(4) Heat shrink tubing(1) Throttle snake with 2 clevis and threaded

adaptors.(6) Clevis connector(4) Swing keeper(4) Clamp connector

Due to continual and ongoing product developmentthe parts shown in the manual may differ fromthose supplied.

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ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

RADIO EQUIPMENTTop Gun Messerschmitt Bf109 ARTF requires a minimumof a 5 function radio control system if the ailerons areconnected with a Y lead.A 6 function radio will allow the ailerons to be driven offseparate channels allowing a flaperon mix to beincorporated.Four standard (3.0 kg/cm) servos and two heavy duty(4.0 kg/cm) servos are required although the retract andthrottle servos could be substituted for mini or microservos.

The instructions show a 35 MHz installation although2.4 GHz equipment is equally suitable for this model.Whatever equipment is used, it is essential that it istested before installation and that all servos areelectronically centered with the transmitter trims andsticks central before installation.

ENGINE RECOMMENDATIONSWe recommend 90 to 120 sized four stroke engines forthe Bf109 to ensure adequate power and the correctbalance. A two stroke engine of similar or slightlysmaller capacity may be fitted; this will require acustom exhaust and may require additional nose weightin order to balance correctly. Small petrol engines suchas the SPE26 can be fitted, offering enhanced reliabilityand extremely low running costs.

The instructions and photographs show the installationof a 120 four stroke.

In all cases the engine must be fitted with a balancedpropellor sized to suit the engine.

• Engine 60 -120 two stroke or 90 -120 four stroke• Propellor to suit engine.• Minimum 5 function radio system (TX, RX, switch

and battery)• Four standard size (3.0 kg/cm) servos• Two heavy duty (4.0 kg/cm) servos • Two 300mm servo extension lead• One long y-lead (5ch) or two 100mm servo extension

lead (6ch)• Foam rubber padding• Fuel tubing• Engine fixing hardware• Tie wraps• Air pump• Pilot figure

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES REQUIREDThe items listed below are the minimum tool andadhesive supplies considered necessary to completethis model. Please read the manufacturers safetyinformation for all materials and tools to ensure safeuse and operation.

• 25 ml thin Cyano adhesive with applicator nozzles• 30 minute epoxy• Thread lock• 90 degree square• Epoxy brushes• Mixing sticks• Hobby knife• Masking tape• Drill • Pins• Clamps• 1.5mm Allen key• Drill bits 1.5mm, 2.0mm, 3.0 mm, 4.5mm, 6.0mm• Philips head screwdriver• Tape measure or rule• Acetone • Paper towels• Non permanent marker• Pliers• Wire cutter• Soldering iron• Silicone adhesive

FIELD EQUIPMENTIn addition to the supplies required to complete themodel, you will also need the items listed below to startand operate the glow fuel motor. Contact your localhobby shop, model flying club or an experiencedbuilder/flyer to assist with selection of suitableequipment.Always read the manufacturers safety information forall materials and equipment to ensure safe use andoperation.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENT• Glow fuel to suit engine.• Fuel bottle• Glow plug • 4 way glow-prop spanner• Chicken finger or finger spool• NiCad starter or glow clip and battery with charger• Optional items• 12V electric starter• 12v battery and charger• Fuel pump and lines• Power panel• Glow clip• Flight caddy

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SECTION 1: HINGINGTHE AILERONS

PARTS REQUIRED

• Right wing panel with aileron• Left wing panel with aileron• Cyano hinges (6)

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Thin Cyano with applicator tips• Cyano de-bonder / remover• Pins• Acetone • Paper towels• 1.5mm drill• Hobby knife• Non permanent marker

STEP 1 Locate a wing panel and make amark on the wing trailing edgeand aileron leading edge at thecenter of each hinge using a nonpermanent marker.

STEP 2 Remove the aileron and cyanohinges and drill 1.5mm holesapproximately 15mm deep at thepositions marked. Use a narrowbladed modelling knife to cleanout the slots after drilling.

Note: The hinges are coated witha porous material that helps thecyano ‘wick’ or penetratethroughout the hinge creating astrong join. A few drops of agood quality thin cyano will givea bond where the wood will failbefore the glue joint.

STEP 3 Refit cyano hinges in wingtrailing edge and insert pins inmidpoint of hinges to preventthem pushing in too far. Refitaileron surface ensuring that allhinges are slotted in place.

STEP 4 Remove the pins on the hingesand check that the aileron movesfreely. Ensure that the gap atboth ends of the aileron is equaland deflect the aileron to applythin cyano onto the hinges in theaileron and trailing edge.

STEP 5

Wipe up any excess or spills withcyano remover/de-bonder on apaper towel.

STEP 6 Allow the cyano to cure fully andtest the integrity of the join by

carefully pulling on the aileron ateach hinge point

STEP 7Repeat steps 1 to 6 for the otherwing panel.

SECTION 2: INSTALLINGTHE AILERON SERVOSAND LINKAGES

PARTS REQUIRED

• Wing Halves (2)• Aileron Servo (2)• Servo mounting hardware (2)• 300 mm servo extension (2)• Aileron pushrods (2)• Nylon clevis (2)• Swing keeper (2)• Control Horn (2)• Fuel tube

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• 1.5mm drill• Thin Cyano • Screwdriver• Pliers• Wire cutters• Tape or Heat shrink tubing• Modelling knife or solderingiron• Non permanent marker

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STEP 1

Remove the servo hatch and itsfour fixing screws.

STEP 2

Locate the aileron servo,electronically center and then fitthe grommets and brass eyelets.Note that the brass eyelets fitwith the flange to the bottom ofthe servo.

STEP 3 Test fit the servo in the mountson the servo hatch, trim ifnecessary and mark the positionof the fixing holes through thegrommets.

STEP 4 Remove the servo and drillthrough the marked positionswith a 1.5mm bit. To strengthenthe holes apply a drop of thincyano and allow to dry beforesecuring servo with four fixingscrews.

STEP 5 Locate the two holes in the topsurface of the wing sheeting,these are approximately 25mmfrom the wing root and 25 mmeach side of the wing joiner slot.Use a hot soldering iron to neatlycut the covering from the holes.

STEP 6 Connect a 300 mm servoextension the servo and lock inplace with a short length of heatshrink tubing or adhesive tape.

STEP 7 Insert a draw rod from the wingroot to the servo bay and pull theextension lead through to thewing root. Disconnect the drawrod, pass the servo lead throughthe hole and temporarily fix inplace.

STEP 8

Keeping the servo centred, test fita long X type servo arm until it is90 degrees to the servo hatch.

Trim off three unused horns andscrew servo arm in place.

STEP 9

Refit the servo hatch and securewith four fixing screws.

STEP 10 Locate a control horn with itsback plate and three 2 mm x 30mm fixing screws.

STEP 11 Position the control horn on theaileron surface so the horn is inline with the servo arm and theholes in the horn align with thehinge line. Mark the holepositions through the controlhorn.

STEP 12 Drill three 2.5mm holes in thepositions marked. Take care toensure that the holes areperpendicular to the control

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surface centre line. Apply a fewdrops of cyano to each hole totoughen the wood.

STEP 13

Secure the control horn andbackplate in place with fixingscrews. Cut off the excess screwextending through the controlhorn backplate

STEP14 Screw the clevis connectors ontothe wire pushrod until the rodprojects past the clevis by 2-3mm and connect to the third holeof the aileron control horn. Slidea 5 mm length of fuel tube overthe clevis to lock the connectorin place.

STEP 15 Use masking tape to hold theailerons level with the wing tipsand position the aileron pushrodover the servo arm. Mark thebend point on the wire.

STEP 16 Remove the pushrod and make a90 degree bend at the positionmarked. Cut off the excess wire6mm from the bend.

STEP 17

Refit the pushrods to the aileronsand push the L-bend wiresthrough the holes in the servoarm. Clip a swing keeper ontothe pushrod and slide 5mmlength of fuel tube over the clevisto lock the connector in place.

STEP 18

Remove the masking tape at thewing tips and check that theailerons remain in line at the tips.If necessary adjust by unclippingclevis and winding in or out tosuit

STEP 19

Repeat steps 1 to 18 for the otherwing.

SECTION 3: INSTALLINGTHE WHEEL WELLS ANDMAIN RETRACT GEAR.

PARTS REQUIRED• Wing halves (2)• Retract assemblies (2)• Retract wells(2)• Retract mounting screws (8)• Retract air line

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES• 1.5mm drill• Thin cyano • Epoxy or Silicone Adhesive• Screwdriver• File and sandpaper

STEP 1

Locate the correct pre-assembledmain retract units. Note that theretract units are handed for eachside. The wheel axles are angledto place the wheels in line withthe wing root when down.

STEP 2 Test fit in the aperture in thewing and trim if necessary.Insert two screws into pre drilledholes and mark the remainingfixing hole positions.

STEP 3Remove retract assembly anddrill 1.5mm holes through themarked points. Strengthen theholes with thin cyano and leaveto dry.

STEP 4

Cut a 330 mm length of Retractair line and connect one end tothe nipple on pneumatic retractcylinder. Use a draw rod to pull

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the line through to the wing root.Pull the air line through the holein front of the wing joiner andtemporarily fix in place

STEP 5 Re-fit the retract assembly in theaperture in the wing and securewith four fixing screws.

STEP 6 Test fit the plastic wheel wells inthe wing, it may be necessary tochamfer the corners of the precut openings to allow the wheelwells to sit flush with the wingsurface.

STEP 7 Abrade the contact faces of theplastic wheel wells and the wingopenings to provide a key for theadhesive.

NOTE: The wheel wells may befixed in place with either 30minute epoxy or clear siliconeadhesive. Use of the latter allowseasier removal of ththe wells formaintenance purposes.

STEP 8

Apply adhesive to the wheelwells and Insert into the wingsurface. Wipe off any excesswith acetone and paper towels.

STEP 9 Use a combination of weights,tape and pins to hold the wells inposition until the epoxy sets.

STEP 10

Repeat steps 1 to 9 for the otherwing.

SECTION 4: JOININGTHE WINGS

PARTS REQUIRED

• Right wing panel • Left wing panel • Main wing joiner • Secondary wing joiner• Wing bags

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• 30 minute epoxy• Epoxy brush• Masking tape• Acetone • Paper towels• Hobby knife• Clamps and rubber bands

STEP 1 Locate the wing panels and dryfit the wing joiners in theirmating slots; the joiners shouldslide smoothly into each winghalf with a precise fit. If it istight lightly sand until a smoothfit is obtained. Test fit both winghalves on the joiner beforeapplying glue.

Note: The wing joiner and wingroot are angled to give thecorrect dihedral on assembly. Thesecondary wing joiner ensuresaccurate alignment.

EXPERT TIP

Use the bag that the wings/tailplane was delivered in to prevent‘epoxy prints’ on the covering.Slide the wings/tail plane into thebag and use masking tape tohold them in position. Apply tapewithin 2mm of the join line.

STEP 2With the joiners fully inserted inone wing half draw a line aroundthe joiners to indicate gluingdepth. When happy with the dry

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fit of parts mix up some epoxyand apply a generous amountinto the wing joiner slots of onewing panel

STEP 3Coat the mating half of the wingjoiners with epoxy to the linemarked earlier. Apply a thin coatonly to all sides of the joinersand then insert into the wing.Ensure that the joiners areinstalled with the high point tothe top of the wing. Sufficientepoxy has been applied whenexcess oozes out between theparts.

STEP 4

Apply a generous amount ofepoxy into the wing joiner slotsof the other wing panel.

STEP 5Apply a thin coat of epoxy to allsides of the joiners and the rootribs of both wing panels and thenfirmly press both halves together.Excess epoxy will squeeze out ofthe joints and should be wipedaway with acetone and papertowels. Ensure that the trailingedge is in line and there shouldbe no gaps at any point on thewing root.

EXPERT TIPTemporarily push the wing boltshalf way through the holes in thewing panels. Fit elastic bandsover bolts and also the leadingedge dowels to hold the wingpanels together.

STEP 6Examine the wing join and clearoff any excess epoxy withacetone and paper towels thenleave to dry.

SECTION 5: INSTALLINGTHE ENGINE

PARTS REQUIRED

• Fuselage.• Engine with muffler• Propellor and spinner• fixing screws, washers andcaptive nuts (4)• fixing screws, washers andNyloc nuts (4)TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• 4.5mm, 5.5mm and 6.0mm drillbits• Power drill• Epoxy• Thin Cyano • Thread lock• Screwdriver• Spanner• Card stock• Masking tape

STEP 1

Cut out and use the suppliedtemplate to mark the enginecenter line and fixing holepositions on the fire wall. Drillfour slotted holes 5.5 mmdiameter to receive the captivenuts.

STEP 2Measure from the face of thecowl to the firewall. The face ofthe prop driver should beapproximately 140 mm from theface of the firewall to ensure thata gap between 2 & 3mm ismaintained between the rear faceof the spinner and front face ofthe cowl.

STEP 3Test fit the engine on the enginebearers and mark through theengine fixing holes. Drill 4.5mm

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STEP 7

Refit engine and cowl and fitspinner back plate and adjustengine position to place spinnerin line with cowling.

When happy with final locationcarefully remove cowl withoutdisturbing engine position.Remove mount fixing screws oneat a time, apply thread lock toscrews and tighten down fully toensure that they do not loosenwith vibration.Clear up the slots using a file orby careful use of a drill as amilling cutter.

holes to receive M4 fixing screwswith washers and nyloc nuts.Tighten securely.

STEP 4Position engine mount on firewalland mark location of throttlesnake. The position must be atleast 30mm from the verticalcenterline to clear the fuel tank.

STEP 5Fix engine mounts to firewallusing M4 screws with washerson the mount and captive nuts atthe rear of firewall. Tighten untilthe captive nuts begin to bite, donot screw down tight at thisstage.

STEP 6Use card templates or takemeasurements to record enginelocation, remove engine and fitcowl to transfer aperturepositions to the cowl. Use a highspeed tool to open out thecowling for the cylinder head,needle valve and muffler. Drill 6mm hole for throttle snake whileengine is removed.

Note: To obtain reliable runningthe engine must receive anadequate cooling air flow.Remember to cut an adequatelysized hot air outlet in the bottomof the cowl. A rule of thumb isthat the outlet area should befour times the inlet area.

FULL SIZE ENGINE MOUNTING TEMPLATE

Cut out and use the template below to mark out and drill theengine fixing holes. Drill slots by first drilling 1.5mm holesthrough before opening out to 5.5mm.

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SECTION 6: INSTALLINGTHE TAIL PLANE

PARTS REQUIRED• Fuselage• Tail plane

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Tape measure or rule.• 30 minute epoxy• Epoxy brushes• Masking tape• Pins• Hobby knife• Acetone• Paper towels

STEP 1Measure and mark the mid pointof the forward bulkhead at thewing opening. This will be usedas a datum for measurements.

STEP 2Use a file to remove paint fromthe tail plane aperture andprovide a key for the epoxy.Slide the tail plane into themating slot in the fin andcentralize. Push pins through therear of the tail plane into thefuselage to temporarily fix theposition.

STEP 3

Measure from the outer tips ofthe tail plane to the mark on thebulkhead and adjust the positionof the tail plane until bothdimensions are equal. Doublecheck that the stabiliser is stillcentral with the rear of thefuselage. (Dia. 6.3)

STEP 4Mark the position of the fuselageon the top and bottom surfacesof the tail plane using a nonpermanent marker. Remove pinsand tail plane from fuselage.

STEP 5Carefully cut off the covering2mm to 3mm inside the marksmade previously. If using a knifebe very careful not to cut into the

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wood as this will dangerouslyweaken the structure.

STEP 6

Use masking tape to protect thefin from epoxy runs. Using 30

minute epoxy coat top andbottom faces of the tail plane tothe edge of the film cuts andslide the tail plane into position.

STEP 7

Double check that tail plane iscentral and equally aligned withthe marks on the bulkhead. Clearoff any excess epoxy withacetone and paper towels thenleave to dry.Use pins or masking tape to holdin position and wait until epoxysets before proceeding further.

SECTION 7: HINGINGTHE RUDDER ANDELEVATOR

PARTS REQUIRED• Fuselage with tail plane fitted• Rudder• Elevator halves (2)• Cyano hinges (7)

Tools and adhesives• Thin Cyano with applicator tips• Cyano de-bonder / remover• 30 minute epoxy• Masking tape• Pins• Acetone • Paper towels• 1.5mm drill• Hobby knife• Non permanent marker

STEP 1 Locate rudder and make a markon the fin post and rudderleading edge at the center ofeach hinge using a nonpermanent marker.

STEP 2 Remove the rudder and cyanohinges and drill 1.5mm holesapproximately 15mm deep at thepositions marked. Use a narrowbladed modelling knife to cleanout the slots after drilling.

B B

A A

A = AB = B

Diagram 6.3

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Note: The hinges are coated witha porous material that helps thecyano ‘wick’ or penetratethroughout the hinge creating astrong join. A few drops of agood quality thin cyano will givea bond where the wood will failbefore the glue joint.

STEP 3 Refit cyano hinges in tail planewing trailing edge and insert pinsin midpoint of hinges to preventthem pushing in too far.

STEP 4Roughen the brass hinge pivot ofthe tail wheel assembly ready toreceive epoxy. Apply a thinsmear of petroleum jelly(Vaesline™) to the wire thatpasses through the hinge.

STEP 5Apply a thin smear of epoxy to

the slot and brass tail wheelhinge before pushing fully inplace.

Use a cocktail stick or similar toapply a drop of epoxy into thehole in the rudder.

STEP 6Refit the cyano hinges and rudderthen remove the pins on thehinges. Check that the rudder isaligned with the top of the finand deflect the rudder to applythin cyano onto the hinges. Wipeup any excess or spills withcyano remover/de-bonder on apaper towel.

STEP 7

Allow the cyano to cure fully andtest the integrity of the join bycarefully pulling on the rudder ateach hinge point.

STEP 8Locate the elevator and positionthe cyano hinges in the precutslots, insert a pin in the centre of

each hinge to ensure that they donot push in too far.

STEP 9Test fit the elevator, starting fromone end while aligning andinserting the hinges. The elevatorshould butt tight to the tail planetrailing edge with a minimal gap.Make a mark on the tail planetrailing edge and elevator leadingedge at the center of each hingeusing a non permanent marker.

STEP 10Remove the elevator and cyanohinges and drill 1.5mm holesapproximately 15mm deep at thepositions marked. Use a narrowbladed modelling knife to cleanout the slots after drilling.

STEP 11Refit the cyano hinges andelevator then remove the pins onthe hinges. Check that theelevator is aligned with the ends

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of the tail plane and deflect theelevator to apply thin cyano ontothe hinges. Wipe up any excessor spills with cyano remover/de-bonder on a paper towel.

STEP 12Allow the cyano to cure fully andtest the integrity of the join bycarefully pulling on the elevatorat each hinge point.

SECTION 8: INSTALLINGTHE SERVOS ANDRADIO GEAR

PARTS REQUIRED• Fuselage.• Servo (4)• Servo mounting hardware

(4 sets)• Receiver• Receiver battery

(600mah 4.8v minimum)• 3 lead switch • Y lead or 2 off extension lead• Foam packing• Tie-wraps or Velcro™ straps• Pushrod wire offcut

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• 1.5mm 2.0mm 3.0 mm drill• Thin Cyano • Screwdriver• Hobby knife• Tape or heat shrink tubing

STEP 1

Fit the grommets and brasseyelets to all four servos. Notethat the brass eyelets fit with the

flange to the bottom of the servo.Test fit the servos in themounting tray and trim theopenings if necessary to ensure agood fit.

STEP 2Mark the position of the fixingholes through the grommets, thenremove the servos and drillthrough the marked positionswith a 1.5mm bit. To strengthenthe holes apply a drop of thincyano and allow to dry.

STEP 3Refit the servos with four fixingscrews each and route the servoleads to the hole in the fuselageradio tray. Standard or miniservos will suffice for the throttleand retract functions. Werecommend more accurate andpowerful servos for the rudderand elevator.

STEP 4Locate the 3 lead switch harnessin its mating aperture on theradio tray. Form a wire pushrodthrough the fuselage side toactuate the switch and keep itclean and free of oily exhaustresidue.

STEP 5

Connect the battery to theswitch, use tape or heat shrinktube to lock the connectorstogether.

STEP 6

Wrap the battery in thick foamand locate in the fuel tank bay.Add foam packing to hold inplace.

STEP 7

Plug the rudder, elevator throttleand retract servo leads into thereceiver. Also fit the battery leadfrom the switch.

STEP 8

Plug the Y – Lead (5 functionreceiver) or two quantityextension leads (6 Functionreceiver) in to the receiver for theaileron servos.

STEP 9

Wrap the receiver in protectivefoam and position on the slotted

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radio tray. Hold in place with tie-wraps or Velcro™ straps.

STEP 10Drill a 3mm hole in the top reardeck of the fuselage and epoxyan off cut of throttle snake innerin place. This will be used inSection 14 to route the receiveraerial through the moulded aerialmast to the top of the fin.

Note: The receiver aerial must befully extended to ensureadequate range. It must not befolded back or cut down. Do notpull the aerial tight so as tostrain the wire or pull on thecircuit board.

SECTION 9:CONNECTING THERUDDER PUSHROD

PARTS REQUIRED

• Fuselage with servos and tail plane installed.

• Servo arm• Control horn with backplate

and fixing screws • Rudder push rod dowel• Rudder push rod wires (2)• Heat shrink tube (2)• Nylon clevis

• Swing Keeper• Fuel tube

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• 2.5 mm drill• Straight edge• Masking tape• Thin Cyano • Heat gun• Screwdriver• Pliers• Wire cutters• Marker pen

STEP 1

Connect the rudder servo to theradio gear and switch on withstick and trims central. Select a‘X’ type servo arm and positionon the servo so that it is straightacross the servo. Remove androtate the servo arm until this isachieved.

STEP 2

Trim the rudder servo arm tohave one output arm positionedacross the servo towards thecenter of the fuselage.

STEP 3Locate the rudder pushrod dowel;this has a single hole and slot cutinto both ends. Locate twostraight wire pushrods, cut 50mmoff the plain end of one wire andform an L bend 5mm long in theplain ends of both wires. Locatein the holes and slots with a fewdrops of cyano and use heatshrink tube to lock in position.

STEP 4Install the pushrod from the wingseating aperture with the longwire towards the tail and passthe end of the pushrod throughthe lower outlet slot on the leftside of the fuselage. Screw clevisconnector onto the wire pushroduntil the rod projects past theclevis by 2mm-3mm

STEP 5

Use tape or a clip across the topof the fin and rudder to hold themin line. Place the clevis pin in linewith the fin-rudder hinge line.

STEP 6

Locate a control horn with itsbackplate and fixing screws.Position clevis in outer hole ofthe rudder horn and mark fixingholes on rudder. Ensure that the

centerline of the horn holespasses through the fin-rudderhinge line. (Dia. 9.6)

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STEP 7Remove control horn and drill 2.5mm holes through the rudder atthe marked positions. Apply adrop of thin cyano to strengthenholes and allow to dry.

STEP 8

Refit horn and secure usingbackplate and fixing screws.Trim off excess length of screws.

STEP 9Reconnect the clevis on therudder horn and position the wirepushrod over the servo arm.Mark where the wire crosses thehorn and form a 90 degree Lbend. trim off excess wire 6mmfrom the bend

STEP 10Push the wire through a holeapproximately 15mm out on theservo arm and fix in place withswing keeper. Slide a 5mmlength of fuel tubing over thekeeper to lock in place.

STEP 11Remove the masking tape andstraight edge and Check that therudder remains in line with thefin. If necessary adjust byunclipping clevis and winding inor out to suit. Slide a 5mm lengthof fuel tubing over the clevis tolock in place.

SECTION 10:CONNECTING THEELEVATOR LINKAGE

PARTS REQUIRED

• Fuselage with servos and tail plane installed.

• Servo arm• Control horn with backplate

and fixing screws (2)• Elevator push rod dowel• Elevator push rod wires (3)• Heat shrink tube (2)• Nylon clevis (2)• Swing Keeper• Fuel tube

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• 2.5 mm drill• Straight edge• Masking tape• Thin Cyano • Heat gun• Screwdriver• Pliers• Wire cutters• Marker pen

STEP 1

Connect the elevator servo to theradio gear and switch on with

stick and trims central. Select a‘X’ type servo arm and positionon the servo so that it is straightacross the servo. Remove androtate the servo arm until this isachieved. Trim the elevator servoarm to have one output armpositioned across the servofacing the side of the fuselage.

STEP 2

Locate the elevator pushroddowel; this has a single hole andslot cut at one end and two holeswith slots at the other end.Locate straight wire pushrods,select two wires for the forked(Y) end and cut 50mm off theplain ends.

STEP 3

Form L bends, 5mm long in theplain ends of all three wires. Notethat one of the forked (Y) pushrod wires needs to be shorterthan the other to keep the endsin line. Fix in the holes and slotswith a few drops of cyano anduse heat shrink tube to lock inposition.

Holes on hornmust alignwith hinge pivot line

Diagram 9.6

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STEP 4Gently bend the twin wirepushrods to form a Y as shownbelow.

STEP 5Install the pushrod from the wingseating aperture and pass both ofthe of the pushrod ends throughthe outlet slots on both sides ofthe fuselage. Screw clevisconnectors onto the wire pushroduntil the rod projects past theclevis by 2mm-3mm

STEP 6

Tape a steel rule along the tailplane and elevator to hold themin line. Adjust the clevis to placethe pin in line with the hinge line.

STEP 7 Locate a control horn with itsbackplate and fixing screws.Position clevis in holeapproximately 20mm from theelevator and mark fixing holes onunderside of elevator. Ensurethat the centerline of the hornholes passes through the

elevator- tail plane hinge line.(Dia. 10.7).

STEP 8 Remove control horn and drill 2.5mm holes through the elevator.Apply a drop of thin cyano tostrengthen holes and allow todry.

STEP 9 Refit horn and secure usingbackplate and fixing screws.Trim off excess length of screws.

STEP 10 Reconnect the clevis on theelevator horn and Slide a 5mmlength of fuel tubing over theclevis.

Repeat steps 7 to 10 for the otherelevator half.

STEP 11

Position the wire pushrod overthe servo arm. Mark where thewire crosses the horn and form a90 degree L bend. trim off excesswire 6mm from the bend

STEP 12Push the wire through a holeapproximately 15mm out on theservo arm and fix in place withswing keeper. Slide a 5mmlength of fuel tubing over thekeeper.

STEP 13

Remove the masking tape andstraight edge. Check that theelevator halves remains in linewith the tail plane. If necessaryadjust by unclipping clevis andwinding in or out to suit.

SECTION 11:CONNECTING THETHROTTLE LINKAGE

PARTS REQUIRED• Fuselage with servos and

engine installed• Throttle snake with 2 clevis and

threaded adaptors

Holes on hornmust alignwith hinge pivot line

Diagram 10.7

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• Off cut from rudder or elevator pushrod wire.

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Epoxy• Cyano• Screwdriver• Pliers• Wire cutters• Hobby knife

Note:Throttle connection will varyaccording to the make size andtype of engine fitted. The 120four stroke used in theinstructions has a throttle armclose to the firewall. A two strokecan use the two threadedadaptors and clevises suppliedwith the throttle snake.

STEP 1

Connect the throttle servo to theradio gear and switch on withthrottle stick and trims central.Select a servo arm and positionon the servo so that it ispositioned straight down theservo.

STEP 2

Using an off cut from the rudderor elevator push rod wire cut a40mm length from the screwedend. Form a Z bend in the plainend and screw the threaded endinto the snake inner.

STEP 3

Cut the throttle snake outer tolength and Epoxy between thehole drilled previously in thefirewall and the hole local to thethrottle servo. Use glass paper toabrade the outer surfaces tocreate a key for the epoxy.

STEP 4

Pass the snake inner and throttlepushrod through the outer andcut to length. Screw a clevis onto the M2 thread adaptor andthen screw into the throttlesnake.

STEP 5

Connect to throttle and servo armthen adjust position of clevis andservo arm to ensure thatoperation complies with thefollowing check points:

a) With the throttle trim and stickfully down on the transmitter thecarburetor should be fully closed.b) With the throttle trim fully upand throttle stick fully down onthe transmitter the carburetorshould be just open by perhaps 1or 1.5mm.c) With the throttle trim andthrottle stick fully up on thetransmitter the carburetor shouldbe fully open

Radios with ATV or similar traveladjustment features may beadjusted electronically limit servo

movement to give correct throttleoperation. It is always betterhowever to adjust mechanicallyto keep 100% movement with itsgreater accuracy.

SECTION 12: ASSEMBLY& INSTALLATION OFTHE FUEL TANK

PARTS REQUIRED• Fuel tank.• Rubber bung• Metal tubing (3 pieces)• Outer cap • Inner cap• Fixing screw• Clunk weight• Clunk Fuel tube• Fuel tube• Fuel tube plug• Foam packing

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Hobby knife• Screwdriver

STEP 1

Locate the tank bung. The bungprovided has three incompleteholes moulded in. Due to theconcealed engine and fuel pipeson this model, the builder caninstall either a two or three linesystem. A two line system willrequire an in line fuelling valve,

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while the three line system usesa dedicated fill line, pluggedwhen not in use. Theinstructions show a 3 linesystem.

STEP 2Take the longest of the metalpipes and form a gentle curve atone end. This is the vent pipe andwhen assembled must be at thetop of the fuel tank to functioncorrectly. Take one of the shortmetal pipes and form a gentlecurve at one end. This is thefill/drain pipe and whenassembled will point to thebottom of the fuel tank.

STEP 3Take the vent pipe plus two shortstraight pipes, slide over thesmall inner cap and push half

way through the bung startingfrom the small end.

STEP 4Slide on the outer cap and pushthe fixing screw through thecentral hole. Screw into the innercap but leave loose fitting at thisstage and identify the lines V=Vent, F=Fill, C=Carburetor.

STEP 5

Cut the silicone fuel tubing to 95mm long and push the clunkweight onto one end and thenattach the other end of the tubingonto the straight pipe inside thefuel tank. Push the remainingtube onto the curved end of thefill/drain pipe.

STEP 6 Test fit the tank bung assemblyensuring that the vent is to thetop of the tank and that the clunkweight moves freely from top tobottom of the tank. The fill/drainpipe should point to the bottomof the fuel tank.Image shows clunk 5mm short oftank end with vent to top of tank.

STEP 7

When satisfied, tighten thecentral screw carefully Thiscompresses the bung inside the

tank neck and onto the fuelpipes, thus sealing the fuel tank.

TANK INSTALLATION.

Note:While the tank may be fitted atthis stage it may need to beremoved to position the receiverbattery. You can install the tankprior to final check of thebalance point.

STEP 8Feed tank into nose of aircraft sotank bung enters hole in firewall.

STEP 9 Fit foam packing to sides and topof tank to hold in position.

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STEP 10Using silicone fuel tubing.connect vent pipe to exhaustpressure nipple and feed pipe tocarburetor supply nipple. The fill– drain pipe should be located inan accessible position on theunderside of the cowl andplugged

SECTION 13: RETRACTSYSTEM INSTALLATION

PARTS REQUIRED

• Fuselage• Air bottle• Air line tubing.• Operating spool valve• Laser cut valve bracket• Y-connectors (2)• Quick connect coupler• Filling valve assembly• Foam packing• Wire off cut

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Hobby knife• Screwdriver• 8.0 mm drill• Cyano• Silicone adhesive

Pneumatically actuated maingear retracts are included asstandard. These are of the airup spring down design giving a‘fail safe’ condition of wheelsdown in the event of loss of airpressure. Please study theschematic below beforecommencing installation.

STEP 1Locate a Y-connector and pushonto the two air lines in the wing.

Install air cylinder beneath theradio tray and secure in positionby packing with soft foam. Aspot of silicon adhesive will stopthe cylinder from moving butallow future removal if required.

STEP 2

Cut a 100mm length of air lineand push one end onto the quickconnect coupler. Push the otherend onto the remaining barb onthe Y-connector.

STEP 3 Fabricate the servo spool valvebracket from the laser cut partsas shown below using cyano.When dry test fit the spool valvein the bracket.

STEP 4Position the fill valve in yourpreferred position and drill an8mm hole before clamping inplace.

Fill Point

Air Cylinder

RetractRetract

QuickConnector

Spool Valve

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SECTION 13: RETRACTSYSTEM INSTALLATION

STEP 5

Form a short pushrod andconnect between the retractservo and spool valve. Only 7 mmof travel is required from fullyopen to fully closed. Fix the servospool bracket onto the radio trayin the fuselage. Adjust travelusing servo arm position or ATVsif available on your radio,

STEP 6

Connect air line between thespool valve, fill connection andthe air tank using a Y-connector.Note that pipe connects to barbon spool valve nearest to theservo.

Expert Tip:Wrap a short piece of maskingtape around the air lines andapply a drop of cyano to thefuselage. Press line wrapped intape onto the cyano to secure inplace.

STEP 7Connect air line between thespool valve and the quickconnect coupler.

STEP 8Use remaining air line tubing toconnect between removable fillconnector and air pump

STEP 9

Connect air pump to fill point andpressurize to 7 Barg (100psig).Operate retract servo severaltimes to prove operation andcheck for leaks.

Note:A full air cylinder charge of 7Barg (100psig) should provideenough power to lift the mainwheels about twenty times. Themain gear will not retract fully ifthe pressure is too low.

Expert tip:Sliding a wheel collet lined withthrottle snake outer over the air

line between the spool valve andair cylinder provides a simplethrottling point to slow the liftingspeed. The hard plastic snakemust be fitted to prevent theallen key from cutting throughthe soft air line.

SECTION 14: SCALEDETAILS

PARTS REQUIRED

• Fuselage• Aerial Mast• Wing• Coolant radiators (2)• Supercharger intake cover • Wing Guns (2)

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Hobby knife• Rule or tape measure• Screwdriver• 3.0 mm drill• Epoxy• Silicone adhesive

STEP 1

Locate and bore out the resinAerial mast 3mm diameter andepoxy in position over the snakeinstalled previously.

STEP 2

Feed the receiver wire through

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the mast and to the top of the fin.Use a rubber band to hold inplace with gentle tension.

STEP 3 Mark the location of the coolantradiators on the wing bottom.They are fitted 80mm out fromthe wing join with their rear face45 mm ahead of the wing trailingedge.

STEP 4 Use a knife or hot soldering ironto cut the covering 2 – 3 mminside the marks madepreviously. Remove covering forepoxy to bond onto wood.

STEP 5 Fix in place with epoxy, It may benecessary to lightly sand thelower faces to achieve a close fit.Clean off any excess epoxy withacetone and paper towels. Holdin place with tape and weightsuntil set.

STEP 6Locate the supercharger/airintake cover and position on theport fuselage side. A shallowpanel line is moulded into thefuselage to locate the cover.

STEP 7

Fix in place with epoxy and Cleanoff any excess epoxy withacetone and paper towels. Holdin place with tape and weightsuntil set.

STEP 9 Resin wing guns are supplied;these are a tight push fit inprecut holes in the wing leadingedges. They can be left aspushed in for future removal orfixed in place with epoxy.

STEP 10

Connect the retracts and placewheels in the up position. Usesilicon adhesive to locate wheel

well doors directly ontoundercarriage legs.

Note: The model is supplied in a clean,matt painted finish ideal forreceiving additional detailingsuch as scale cockpit, pilotfigure, panel lines andweathering. Please ensure thatall detailing is added with dueconsideration to the weight,balance and structural integrityof the model.

SECTION 15: BALANCEAND FINAL SET UP

PARTS REQUIRED

• Fuselage• Wing• Wing bolts

TOOLS AND ADHESIVES

• Screwdriver• Lead balance weights• tie-wraps or Velcro™ straps

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IMPORTANTAchieving the correct balancepoint and control surfacedeflections is essential for safeand controllable flight. To checkthe balance the model must befully assembled with all itemsinstalled and the main gear in theup position.

STEP 1

Use the nylon screws and largewashers to fix the wing inposition ensuring that all wiresand the air lines are clear of thewing seating area.

STEP 2The flight ready model mustbalance (with an empty tank)when supported off a pointbetween 105 mm and 115 mmbehind the wing leading edge.The model should hang level orslightly nose down. Under nocircumstances should the modelbe flown in a tail heavy condition.

The receiver and battery packcan be repositioned to adjust thebalance point. They should be

fixed in place with foam packing,tie-wraps or Velcro™ straps. Ifthe model cannot be balanced byrepositioning the radio gearweight must be added to thenose or tail. Always fit balanceweights securely and locate themas far forward or aft as ispossible.

Note:The model shown balanced levelat 110mm from the wing leadingwith no additional ballast for anall up weight of 4540g (10lbs).Use of a smaller or lighter enginewill require the addition ofballast.

STEP 3

The following control throwshave been selected with thestated balance position to givesmooth performance.Measurements are taken at thewidest point of thee controlsurface.After initial flights theowner/pilot may wish to make

adjustments to suit personalflying style.

Control throws can be increasedby moving the clevis connectoron the control horn nearer to thesurface by one hole at a time.Alternatively the linkageconnections on the servo armscan be moved out.

Always set controls to neutralafter any adjustments by windingthe clevis connector in or out onthe pushrod to suit.

IMPORTANT

• On completion of your modeltake time to re-read theinstructions to confirm that allsections and stages have beencompleted satisfactorily.

• Double check all fixings,fasteners and connections arein place.

• We recommend that you getanother experiencedbuilder/flyer to examine themodel before you attempt tofly.

BEFORE THE TEST FLIGHT

• On completion of the modeltake time to test rig the modelin the workshop several times.

• Connect radio gear and doublecheck that all surfacesoperate in the correct manner

RECOMMENDED CONTROL SURFACE DEFLECTIONS

Low Rate SettingAileron: 12 mm up 12 mm downElevator: 18 mm up 18 mm downRudder: 25 mm left 25 mm right

High Rate SettingAileron: 20 mm up 20 mm downElevator: 25 mm up 25 mm downRudder: 32 mm left 32 mm right

C of G

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without stalled servos.• Check operation of retracts.• Check for adequate range with

and without motor running.• If everything is okay, take it to

the flying field and rig it upagain.

• Always follow the frequencycontrol procedures of yourlocal flying site and ensurethat you have adequate thirdparty insurance cover.

• Conduct the full pre flightinspection before flying.

PRE FLIGHT CHECKS ATTHE FIELD• Ensure that the batteries in

the transmitter and receiverpacks are fully charged as perthe manufacturer’sinstructions.

• Check the air frame, propellorand spinner for damage.

• Check all linkages andsurfaces are secure.

• Check all fasteners and fixingsare in place and tight.

• Follow the frequency controlprocedures of your flying sitebefore switching on.

• Check all surfaces andcontrols operate in the correctsense without stalling orbinding.

• Test air retracts operation andrecharge air cylinder ifnecessary.

• Range test the radio beforeflight.�

FLYING YOUR MESSERSCHMITT BF 109The Bf 109 is a scale model of a high performancewar plane; It is not a difficult model to fly butshould be flown with an element of respect by acompetent pilot proficient on a range of low wingaeroplane types. This is not a 3D or lightweightsports model and is definitely not a trainer. If youhave any concerns about your abilities or the testflight, please enlist the assistance of a modellerexperienced with this type of model who can ‘shakeit out’ before giving you the sticks.

In flight the Me109 is both smooth ands stablelooking every inch like the thoroughbred design onwhich it is based.

Before attempting to fly, the engine should be runup and its reliability proven. Adjust the high speedneedle and mid range needle to ensure a steadytick over, fast pick up and adequate top end. Do notrun the engine too lean as this can lead tounplanned engine cuts that always seem to occur atthe most inopportune moments!

Take off should not be rushed and it may be prudentto conduct some taxi trials to test the groundhandling. The retractable undercarriage and smallwheels requires a smooth mown grass or hardrunway. To take off, advance the throttle slowlyusing the rudder to keep on track until flyingairspeed is reached. A touch of up elevator will berequired at low speed to keep the tail down andprevent nosing over. As the model acceleratesreduce pressure on the elevator to lift the tail andallow the model to continue accelerating on themain wheels until it reaches take off speed when it

will lift off with the gentlest touch of up elevator.The model should not be pulled into a steep climbimmediately, allow it to climb out gently for a fewmoments while it continues to speed up. Retractthe undercarriage and continue climbing to circuitheight to trim the model for straight and level flight.

With the model trimmed out and at a safe heightyou can continue to explore the Bf109s excellentflight characteristics. The model is fully aerobaticand can perform all the classic combatmanoeuvers. Practice slow speed and wheels downlanding approaches at height, also test the stall andrecovery while at height by lowering throttle andgently applying progressively more up elevator. Fullrecovery can be attained after a short dive but it ispreferable to apply some throttle and a touch ofdown elevator.

With experience of the stall and slow speedperformance you should continue to practicelanding approaches at height, controlling thedescent with throttle and letting the trimmed modeldescend at its own rate. The final landing approachshould not be rushed with a standard circuit liningup the runway into wind, with a gentle flare on theelevator just before touch down. Allow the model torunn on the main wheels for a few seconds to bleedoff airspeed before applying up elevator to bring thetail wheel down.

Enjoy flying your Bf 109 and havefun but always remember to

FLY SAFE!

Saxon House, Saxon Business Park, Hanbury Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. B60 4AD. EnglandTel: +44 (0) 1527 575349 Fax: +44 (0) 1527 570536

E-mail: cml@cmldistribution.co.ukWeb site: www.cmldistribution.co.uk

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