Worries about first build...
 

I just completed an LT-40 and although everything "seems" to function properly on the ground, I have my doubts about it's flying ability. This is my first plane and obviously the first kit I've ever built. Things I'm beginning to notice after looking at magazines and such are 1). Where the control surfaces are...I have a little more than a 1/16 gap between the control surfaces and the trailing edges of the ailerons, elevator and rudder. Is that supposed to be that way, or should they be touching. If they are supposed to be touching, how are you supposed to glue the ca hinge if you can't see it? Will this affect the flight of the plane? 2). I noticed that their is a slight buzz in the servos when I move the controls, then it stops about 2-3 seconds later after I let go of the controls... I know this could be servo binding, but I'm not sure if there should be some kind of buzz for a short period of time or none at all. 3) My rudder, when in neutral, caused my front wheel to not face straight forward. Can this be adjusted via trim? I am anxiously awaiting spring and want to get out to fly with an instructor. I can't see how anyone can spend that much time and energy on something only to go out and crash it on the first flight by trying to fly alone for the first time (guess thats why they have ARF). The thing is, I enjoyed building this kit very much, but I don't know if this is normal with a first kit, or do most people get it right the first time. Thanks

Worries about first build...
 

gaps are not that big a deal,if the hinge line is sealed it helps flight,do a search in this section as MinnFlyer has drawings,the buzz is normal,the wheel needs to be adjusted to the rudder,if it's out a tad it's no big deal.Sounds like you have done a very good job not to have any help,congrats.Join a club with an instructor ,they will check the plane and give you lessons.Now you need to start the next plane.

Worries about first build...
 

I agree with John about the hinges and the nose wheel. Try your best to seal the gap with some monokote, or sometimes clear packing tape works great too. Also try to adjust the nose wheel mechanically. Work on getting the rudder trimmed during flight first, then center the nose wheel to that trim setting. But neither are very mandatory. I fly for 3 or 4 years before anyone told me to seal the hinges.
As for the servo buzzing, I would definitely try to free up connections or control surfaces. If it is buzzing when it is trying to hold it's position, it is draining your battery rather quickly. The buzzing is however normal when the servo is in motion.
Good luck in the spring.

Ty

Worries about first build...
 

Get her in the air! All those worries will be a thing of the past!

Let us know how it goes .... and now that the plane is completed - whatya gonna build next? Better start now, it is the building season!

Jerry

I agree with tailskid
 

It's easier to get out there and fly it, than to sit around waiting for that to happen. Just have fun! Happy Holidays_bob

Worries about first build...
 

When I was first starting out... I built some REAL ugly planes... seriously... you'd be surprised how great a poorly built plane will fly. As long as the wing and horizontal stab are square and at the right angle of attack... and the vertical fin is pretty much straight up... and the plane was glued properly... it will fly fine. (Provided it was built from an already tested kit... not a personal design) As for the hinge gap... on a trainer... it wont be going fast enough to really worry abou tthat. Maybe 50 mph? No problem.. as long as you glued the hinges in properly. Your plane will be just fine! Dont be so worried hehe

Worries about first build...
 

I was the same way after building my first trainer. It got the better of me and I took it over to one of the older gentleman in our club. He's been flying and building for more than thirty years. I asked him to check it out and give me his opinion. We fixed a couple of things and then took it flying.

Worries about first build...
 

Just ask a experienced modeler to have a look on some strategics points like CG, controls surfaces moving correct way, radio control and engines properly fix.
Let the experimented modeler make the test flight and enjoy your flight lessons. I am sure the work you involved in the building of your lt40 will give you many hours of fun in return.
Kadett lt40 design forgive many errors in building and flying.

my only advise is DON'T START ALONE OR YOU WILL LOOSE YOUR PLANE

good luck and welcome in the hobby !!!

thanks
 

thanks to everyone for their support...I guess this is normal.

What ?!?!?
 

OK, lets think this through...I agree with the previous posts, but here's some additional tips.

The gap is just fine (1/16" of an inch? What’s wrong with that on a trainer?!), as for the rudder and nose wheel, fly it with some counter rudder on take off, and when in the air trim so it tracks straight.

1) When you land, go to the/a parking lot/basement/flat smooth area, and push/roll that sucker. Watch it for any side movement and adjust the nose wheel mech's, not the trim or the rudder. Make sure you don't yank to offset the rudder servo, just use a light touch and small adjustments. Roll it on the pavement again, and watch how she tracks. Adjust accordingly. You should normally look for a 15’ roll. A few degrees (less than 5 at 0’ to 10’ out) off base is NOTHING to worry about.
2) The buzz could be caused be servo binding at either extremes, or access pressure through the control rods. Usually, if you here them buzz, move the sticks back and forth and then release to center. If they buzz, then you’re more likely getting some binding in the control rods. Check for clearance, burrs on the inner tubes, or tight bends/corners.

My .50 cents.....

Worries about first build...
 

When I finished my trainer and was ready to fly (lol) I took it to the field on trainer night and had the club trainers give it the once over. I did have several things wrong with it. I took it home and made the adjustments. Next time out the club trainer starts it up checks the engine, tunes it, checks the radio, range test.
Looks good so he took it up. Then he got me on the buddy box and it flew great.
It will be fine.

Good Luck
Bill