Hello All,
I am about to start installing the radio components in my first plane. The builders manual gives me the recommended control throws, but it doesn't tell me where to measure from. So, when you are setting your control throws, do you measure from the top, center, or bottom of the trailing edge? I would also like to thank all of the people here at RCU, because of you I have a good knowledge of RC planes and I haven't even been in the air yet! This is a great place to learn! Safe landings to all!

Hello Wingnut when setting throws, u take all measurments from the neutral centre, ie, if the rudder is straight the throws go each way from the centre, also always take your measurments from the widest point of the control surface, good luck
John P

While it should not matter, I would recommend that you measure throws as close to the control horn as possible.

And don't try to get them too perfect. Close enough is close enough.

Speaking of control throws how bad would it hurt for something like an Avistar rudder to have 1/8 inche more throw one way than the other?

MinnFlyer is right on in this, you don't need to be "perfect", having a bit of extra throw isn't a big deal. Specifically, 1/8" rudder throw either way, you simply will not notice, that's easily close enough.

If you're doing an Avistar, and it's your first plane, I'll pass along what my instructor made me do. We reduced the alieron throw by moving the pushrods one hole IN on the servo horn, and maximized rudder travel. I have just a bit more than 1/2 inch rudder travel, and about 1/2" TOTAL (up and down) alieron travel. He thought the roll response was a bit snappy for a re-beginner. With it setup like this it's very docile in roll, but still has enough authority to fly some mild aerobatics. You do want lots of rudder throw, you're gonna use it on approach. (Or maybee not, not everybody has problems lining up like me!).
Oh yeah, one other thing, move the pushrod for the nosewheel in a couple of holes, its' WAY too sensetive stock.

You might want to also search Avistar in the forums, there's a few other things you'll want to do before too long.... it's a GREAT plane right out of the box, but has some typical ARF weakenesses...

Have FUN!

Wingnut here is how I do it. I use a Robart throw guage. Its like an arm that you tape to the plane (stab, wing,fin ect). I then take a pin and stick it in the center of the moveable surface. It gives me a simple to see pointer. You could use a ruler or tape measure if you had to. And I try to measure as I believe it was Geist said, as close to the control horn as possible. And everyone is correct, close counts here.

Mark Shuman

I purchased the Top Flite throw meter. It does a good job for 10.00. I think what I am going to do is dial the throws down with my radio, that way if I need large throws just flip the switch.