I have just purchased an Aero Works 40-60 size Edge 540T with an OS .91 from another club member. This is my first hi performance plane, and the person from whom I got the plane is much more experienced than I am.

When I installed my receiver and started programming my tx (Futaba 6ex 2.4 GHz) I was amazed at the throws that resulted with the way the servos (JR ds811s) were setup. When I used the end point adjustments to set the throws to the book values they were in the range of 25 to 50% for hi rates (no 3d yet) depending on the surface. I talked to the old owner and he said to set the epas to 100% and use the hi and low rate settings to limit the throws. I haven't had a chance to do this yet, but I am assuming that the percentages will be similar - if not the same.

I was told, and read in instruction manuals, to set the mechanical linkages to get as close to the recommended throws, then use the computer radio to tweak them in to the final settings. Since his advice goes against what I am being told/read my question is why does he set his planes up this way? Having the servo limited to 25% of its maximum throw would seem to limit resolution which would not seem to be desirable IMHO. Anyone else set up their planes this way? If so, why?

Regards,
Jerry Jesion

Considering this is your first “high performance” plane I would suggest NOT setting it up with dual rates. IMHO you would be much better off just mechanically setting the throws for mild performance and maybe use some expo to take the sensitivity out around neutral stick.

You’re absolutely right about the limited resolution at 25%. Personally I would never use a rate that low for that very reason.

Dial the epa's up to the max available. Depending on the brand that could be 125%, 140%, or 150%. Then, using linkage positions on the servo arm and the surface, obtain the maximum travel desired at the highest rate. That will likely be at a little less that the amount of servo travel available. That's good because you won't be as quick to over drive the servo and damage the gears.

Maintain mechanical advantage to the servo and don't go overboard with the distance out from the servo output shaft. You probably won't need to go farher than 1", but 1-1/8" is also pretty common. The surface side of the linkage should be farther out from the hinge line center than the distance out from the servo output shaft. Never less. Then dial the low rates if ising dual rates.

Unless you're very good and use a tremendous amount of expo (not a bad thing by itself), you may discover the plane is quite a handful on a single rate. Dual rates is a good thing. "Conditions" and/or triple rates is even better.