HSD 105MM F-16 CG/Throws

[FiscalJackhammer]

I know a few guys here have one. I read through the older thread about having the CG around 178-180. Is that still correct? What control throws have you settled on? Any other tips on getting the jet set up for maiden:?Appreciate any and all advice!

[EDFjetpilot]

I settled on a CG of 170mm...feels a bit more locked in on landing, and helps keep your approach speed up. I wouldn't go further forward than 170 otherwise it'll "jump" in the air on takeoff and landing speed will be greater than necessary.. A CG near 180 will give it a nice high alpha on landing, but you really have to be on and off the throttle to control the descent.

Elevator neutral is having the top of the stabilator plastic mount trailing edge level with the top of the trailing edge of the fuselage plastic mount. (see photo).

I recommend don't use the throttle/elevator mix and bypass the stock gyro. It's a solid flyer and the pitch change with throttle is manageable.

If you're using the stock power system, use a high C battery. I recommend the Roaring Top 6S/5500/70C.

If you want the plane to fly well, upgrade the power system to the Jetfan 110 with 780kv motor.

See the attached for my recommended scale flying control throws and expo.

I used flapperons for takeoff only, not needed for landing.

Let me know if you have any other questions,

Sean

[FiscalJackhammer]

Thanks for the info. I'm still a few days out from receiving the jet but you've given me a great starting point.

I assume the 32mm is full flaps. Do you have preferred takeoff setting? This would be the first jet to mix flaperons for me, if you have any advice on that I'd gladly take it

[EDFjetpilot]

Thanks for the info. I'm still a few days out from receiving the jet but you've given me a great starting point.

I assume the 32mm is full flaps. Do you have preferred takeoff setting? This would be the first jet to mix flaperons for me, if you have any advice on that I'd gladly take it

Correct...the 32mm is my only setting, and again, only used for takeoff. Note there is 5mm of up elevator. An F-16 will pitch nose down with flaps...so the up elevator mix is necessary to compensate.

Since I'm flying off grass, I use that flapperon setting for takeoff only...somewhat as a soft field takeoff technique. If you're flying off pavement, flapperons may not be necessary depending on your runway length.

I've found, like most F-16s, they land better with some speed. That's why I don't recommend using flapperons. I do recommend land with about 20-25% throttle.

Sean