Assembling The Model; Preparation, Explanatory Notes; Skid Landing Gear - GRAUPNER Ecureuil AS 350 Montage- Und Betriebsanleitung

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Ecureuil AS 350

1. Assembling the model

1.1 Preparation, explanatory notes

The numbers in (brackets) refer to the numbers in the Parts List at the end of these instructions.
These fuselages are hand-moulded and are likely to exhibit minor variations and irregularities
on the inside, especially along the central joint seam. Before finally installing any part check ca-
refully that it fits, trim where necessary and carry out a "dry run" (without glue). Take your time
and work steadily and patiently. All screwed joints except those involving plastic and those with
self-locking nuts must be secured with thread-lock fluid; this is a basic rule, and is not men-
tioned at every stage in the instructions.
Where extra items and accessory components are used they should be prepared and installed
as described in the instructions supplied with them.
1.1.1 Mechanics
In these instructions we assume that the main mechanical system for the model is already com-
pletely assembled. It is a good idea temporarily to remove the rotor head from the mast, as this
makes it easier to trial-fit and install the system in the fuselage. We recommend the use of the
optional silencer console (4450.149) which supports the silencer against the mechanics.
In contrast to the usual configuration with these mechanical systems, the Ecureuil's receiver
battery should be installed in the fuselage nose, as this makes it much easier to balance the
model correctly. The cable from the battery to the switch harness must be of adequate conduc-
tor cross-section; we recommend the Power switch harness, Order No. 3050.
If you intend to use a Piezo gyro system please note that the gyro platform behind the main ro-
tor shaft should not be used; in fact it should be removed together with the gyro platform sup-
port. Instead the gyro system should be re-positioned under the cabin floor at the front. In this
position it is subject to much less severe temperature fluctuations than on the original gyro
platform above the silencer.
1.1.2 Fuselage
Glued joints: the inside of the GRP mouldings must be roughened thoroughly at the joint posi-
tions using coarse abrasive paper, otherwise there is no chance of a durable, permanent bond.
The openings for windows, cooling air etc. are machined out as standard. Various holes have to
be drilled in the course of assembly to accept further screwed joints, and these are described in
the instructions. Where parts have to be glued inside the fuselage, it is best to apply the adhe-
sive on a long wooden stick or similar. All wooden parts to be installed must be sealed to pre-
vent fuel absorption; applying thin cyano to the surfaces works well.
The upper fuselage fairing and vertical stabiliser have to be trimmed carefully to fit on the fuse-
lage. The machined openings in the fuselage will need to be cleaned up using fine abrasive pa-
per, and trimmed where necessary.

1.2 Skid landing gear

Carefully de-burr (!) the skid tubes, then glue three hardwood dowels in each tube in the posi-
tions shown in the drawing using plenty of UHU plus endfest 300; if the dowels are too tight, re-
duce their diameter with glasspaper. Allow the epoxy to cure fully, then sand back the front
dowels flush with the angled end of the skid tubes.
Slip the skid connectors 4442.7 onto the skid tubes and align them as shown in the drawing.
Don't glue them at this stage.
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