E-flite Super Timber 1.7m

Product Information

This manual provides detailed instructions for the E-flite Super Timber 1.7m radio-controlled aircraft. It covers assembly, setup, flight operations, and maintenance.

For the most up-to-date manual information, scan the QR code or visit the product page on the Horizon Hobby website.

Available Versions: BNF Basic (EFL02550), PNP (EFL02575)

Safety Precautions and Warnings

WARNING: Procedures that, if not followed correctly, can result in property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury, or a high probability of minor injury.

CAUTION: Procedures that, if not followed correctly, can result in property damage AND serious injury.

NOTE: Procedures that, if not followed correctly, can result in property damage AND potentially a low risk of injury.

• Always maintain a safe distance from your model to avoid collisions or injury.
• Operate your model in a clear area, away from cars, traffic, and people.
• Always follow the instructions and warnings for this product and any optional/complementary equipment.
• Keep chemicals, small parts, and electronic components out of reach of children.
• Avoid exposing equipment to water unless specifically designed and protected.
• Never lick or place any part of your model in your mouth.
• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
• Always keep the model in sight and maintain control.
• Always use fully charged batteries.
• Keep the transmitter powered on while the model is operating.
• Remove batteries before disassembly.
• Keep moving parts clean and dry.
• Allow parts to cool before touching.
• Remove batteries after use.
• Ensure failsafe is configured correctly before flying.
• Never fly a model with damaged wiring.
• Do not touch moving parts.

WARNING AGAINST COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS: Purchase replacement Spektrum receivers only from Horizon Hobby, LLC or authorized Horizon Hobby dealers to ensure genuine, high-quality products.

Specifications

• Wingspan: 1728 mm
• Length: 1143 mm
• Weight: 2641 g (without battery), 3149 g (with recommended 3200mAh 6S battery)

Included Equipment (BNF Basic)

• Spektrum AR637TA 6-Channel AS3X/SAFE Telemetry Receiver (SPMAR637T)
• Avian 85A Smart Lite Brushless ESC; 3S-6S IC5 (SPMXAE85A)
• 14-Pole 5055-500Kv Brushless Rotating Outrunner Motor (SPM-1003)
• 13 x 8, 3-Blade Propeller; Super Timber 1.7m (EFL-1321)
• (6) 9g Digital Metal Gear Servos (SPMSA347) (aileron, elevator, rudder, flap)

Recommended Equipment

• Transmitter: Spektrum NX8 8-Channel DSMX Transmitter (SPMR8200)
• Flight Battery: 3S-6S 3200mAh 22.2V Smart G2 30C Li-Po; IC5 (SPMX326S30)
• Battery Charger: Spektrum S1400 G2 Smart Charger, 1 x 400W (SPMXC2040)

Optional Batteries

• 4000mAh 6S 22.2V Smart G2 50C Li-Po (SPMX56S50)
• 5000mAh 6S 22.2V Smart G2 50C Li-Po (SPMX50004S30)
• 3200mAh 6S 22.2V Smart 30C Li-Po (SPMX32006S30)
• 4000mAh 6S 22.2V Smart 30C Li-Po (SPMX40006S30)
• 5000mAh 6S 22.2V Smart 30C Li-Po (SPMX50006S30)

Assembly Instructions

Landing Gear Installation

1. With the fuselage upside down, use the packaging foam as support. Remove the forward hatch.
2. Insert the landing gear struts into the fuselage mount.
3. Secure each side of the landing gear using two M2 x 12mm machine screws and M2 lock nuts, tightening with a 1.5mm hex driver. Use needle-nose pliers to hold the nut.
4. Connect the landing gear springs to the axles by inserting the open end of the spring hook through the axle. Secure the spring retainer clips to the ends of the springs.
5. Attach the spring retainer clips to the fuselage using two M3 x 12mm self-tapping screws and M3 washers with a 2mm hex wrench.
6. IMPORTANT: Use the air pump and needle to inflate tires to a diameter of 135mm. Wet the needle before inserting. Remove the rubber cap from the air valve. Insert the needle without the pump to purge air if tires are overinflated.

Horizontal Stabilizer Installation

1. Slide the horizontal stabilizer tube (450mm x 5mm) into the rear fuselage opening.
2. Install the two-piece horizontal stabilizer (left and right).
3. Clip the stabilizers into place.
4. Connect the pushrod to the elevator control horn.

Wing Installation

1. Insert the wing spar (560mm x 15mm) into the fuselage.
2. IMPORTANT: The wing spar is stored inside the fuselage, clipped to the side under the battery hatch.
3. Ensure the wing locks are in the unlocked position.
4. Slide the wings onto the wing spar.
5. Place the wing locks in the locked position on both wing halves. If the lock pin does not engage, wiggle the wing half while moving the lock.
6. Slide the locks to the unlocked position to disengage and remove the wings.

Wing Fairing Installation (Optional)

Choose between vortex generators or leading edge slats.

1. To remove vortex generator clips, lift them from the trailing edge.
2. Insert the slat clips at a 45-degree angle to the leading edge.
3. Press firmly until the piece snaps around the wing mounting tab.
4. Leading edge slats maximize STOL performance. Adjust elevator trim as needed. Vortex generators are recommended for high-speed flights and aerobatics.

Propeller Installation

WARNING: Never install a cracked, chipped, or damaged cone or propeller.

NOTE: An unbalanced propeller can cause vibrations damaging the motor and/or mount, and affect the stabilization system.

1. Install the propeller adapter onto the motor using three M3 x 8mm screws and a 2.5mm hex driver.
2. Install the propeller and nut onto the propeller shaft. Hold the propeller and motor firmly while tightening the nut with a 15mm wrench or socket. Ensure the nut is tight enough so the propeller does not slip.
3. IMPORTANT: Do not overtighten the propeller nut, as it can damage the propeller or threads.
4. Install the cone and secure it with an M3 x 10mm cap head machine screw, a washer, and a lock washer using a 2mm hex driver.
5. IMPORTANT: Tighten the cone screw until it is secure, but do not overtighten, as it can deform the cone and prevent proper rotation.
6. WARNING: After installation, test the propeller carefully with the model facing away from you. An improperly installed propeller can fly off during motor operation, causing injury.

Battery and ESC Arming

It is recommended to use the Spektrum Li-Po 3200mAh 6S 22.2V Smart battery with an IC5 connector (SPMX326S30 or SPMX32006S30). A 4S-6S 3200-5000mAh Li-Po battery with an IC5 or EC5 connector is required.

NOTE: Four battery mounting positions allow for various battery sizes and flight styles. Always check for balance within the recommended CG range before flying.

1. Lower the throttle and throttle trim to the lowest settings. Power on the transmitter and wait 5 seconds.
2. Remove the battery hatch.
3. Pull up on the battery mount lock tab and slide the mount forward to release it.
4. For added security, apply the soft loop side of the hook-and-loop strap to the bottom of the battery and the hook side to the battery mount.
5. Secure with the hook-and-loop strap.
6. Install the fully charged battery and its mount in the desired location within the battery compartment. Slide the mount rearward to engage the four tabs at the bottom of the mount.
7. Push down the battery mount lock tab to secure the battery.
8. Connect the battery to the ESC (it is now armed).
9. CAUTION: Never place hands near the propeller. When armed, the motor will spin the propeller in response to throttle movements.
10. Hold the aircraft stationary and out of wind, or the system will not arm.
11. The motor will emit two similar alarms when the battery is connected and the ESC has a throttle signal.
12. The motor will then emit a series of slow unique alarms indicating the number of cells in the Li-Po battery pack connected to the ESC (four beeps indicate a four-cell Li-Po battery pack. Six alarms indicate a six-cell Li-Po battery pack).
13. Two ascending alarms indicate the ESC is armed.
14. An orange LED will illuminate on the receiver when it is initialized.
15. Reinstall the battery hatch.

Failsafe and Binding

The included receiver is pre-programmed for this aircraft. Refer to the receiver manual for proper setup if replacing it.

• Stay away from large metal objects during binding.
• Do not point the transmitter antenna directly at the receiver during binding.
• The orange LED on the receiver will flash rapidly when it enters bind mode.
• Once bound, the receiver will retain its bind settings until you re-bind.
• In case of loss of communication between the receiver and transmitter, failsafe is activated. Failsafe sets the throttle to low, and elevator and aileron move to stabilize the aircraft in a descending turn.
• Refer to the troubleshooting guide or contact Horizon Hobby support if problems arise.

Transmitter Binding and SAFE Select Activation/Deactivation

The BNF Basic version features SAFE Select, allowing you to choose the level of flight protection. SAFE mode includes angle limiters and self-stabilization. AS3X mode provides direct control response. SAFE Select can be activated or deactivated during the binding process.

• With SAFE Select deactivated, the aircraft operates solely in AS3X mode.
• With SAFE Select activated, the aircraft is constantly in SAFE Select mode, or a switch can be assigned to toggle between SAFE Select and AS3X modes.
• This allows for continuous SAFE mode, continuous AS3X mode, or switchable mode selection.
• IMPORTANT: Before binding, read the transmitter setup section and complete the transmitter setup table.
• IMPORTANT: Set transmitter control positions (rudder, elevator, ailerons) and throttle trim to neutral. Set throttle to low before and during binding. This sets failsafe parameters.

Binding with the Bind Button

• SAFE Select Activated: Move throttle stick to low, connect power, hold bind button, release bind button, bind transmitter to receiver. Control surfaces will move in two cycles.
• SAFE Select Deactivated: Move throttle stick to low, connect power, press bind button, release bind button, bind transmitter to receiver. Control surfaces will move in one cycle.

Binding with the Bind Port

• SAFE Select Activated: Insert bind plug, move throttle stick to low, connect power, remove bind plug, bind transmitter to receiver. Control surfaces will move in two cycles.
• SAFE Select Deactivated: Insert bind plug, move throttle stick to low, connect power, remove bind plug, bind transmitter to receiver. Control surfaces will move in one cycle.

Control Surface Centering

After assembly and transmitter setup, check that control surfaces are centered. The model should be powered on, bound to the transmitter in AS3X mode, with throttle at zero. SAFE mode is active on power-up. AS3X mode activates when throttle exceeds 25% for the first time after power-up. It is normal for control surfaces to respond to aircraft movement in AS3X or SAFE modes.

1. Check transmitter trims and sub-trims are at zero.
2. Power on the model in AS3X mode with throttle at zero.
3. Observe the tip of each control surface to ensure it is mechanically centered.
4. If adjustment is needed, turn the ball link on the linkage to change the linkage length between the servo arm and the control horn.
5. After binding, set trims and sub-trims to 0, then adjust linkages to center the control surfaces.
6. NOTE: Be careful not to let the pushrod extend too far into the ball link, as it may damage the ball link and interfere with the control horn ball. Ball links can be screwed further into the ball joints for greater adjustments.

Center of Gravity (CG)

The CG is measured from the wing's leading edge. Battery changes will affect the CG. Always verify the CG is within the recommended range before flying.

• General Flying: CG at 105mm from the leading edge.
• Aerobatics: CG at 110mm from the leading edge.
• ATTENTION: Install the battery, but do not arm the ESC when checking the CG.

SAFE Select Switch Assignment

Once SAFE Select is activated, you can choose to fly continuously in SAFE mode or assign the function to a switch. Any switch on channels 5-9 can be used.

• If the aircraft is bound with SAFE Select deactivated, it operates only in AS3X mode.
• CAUTION: Keep body parts away from the propeller and secure the aircraft when throttle is accidentally activated.
• IMPORTANT: To assign a switch, verify:
• Aircraft is bound with SAFE Select activated.
• The chosen SAFE Select switch is assigned to a channel between 5-9 (Gear, Aux. 1-4), with 100% travel in each direction.
• Aileron, elevator, rudder, and throttle are set to normal, not reversed.
• Aileron, elevator, rudder, and throttle are set to 100% travel. If dual rates are used, switches must be at 100%.
• Consult your transmitter manual for switch assignment details.

Switch Assignment

1. Power on the transmitter.
2. Power on the aircraft.
3. Hold both transmitter sticks to the bottom inner corners and toggle the desired switch 5 times (one toggle = full up and down).
4. The aircraft's control surfaces will move, indicating the switch has been selected.
5. TIP: Use the channel monitor to verify channel movement.

Forward Programming - SAFE Select Configuration

1. Start with the transmitter bound to the receiver.
2. Power on the transmitter.
3. Assign a SAFE Select switch that is not currently in use. Use any open channel between 5-9 (Gear, Aux. 1-4).
4. Configure the throttle cut switch (H) to prevent accidental motor operation.
5. Power on the aircraft. A signal bar will appear on the transmitter's main screen when telemetry information is received.
6. Access the FUNCTION LIST (model setup on iX series transmitters).
7. Select Forward Programming; Select Gyro Settings; Select SAFE Select.
8. Configure SAFE Select Ch: The channel you chose for SAFE Select.
9. Configure AS3X and SAFE Select to On or Off as desired for each switch position.
10. For more information on SAFE Select setup and forward programming, view the video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-46P066cik

AS3X BNF Response Test

WARNING: Do not perform this or any other test with the propeller installed. Accidentally starting the motor with the propeller attached can cause serious injury or damage.

This test verifies the AS3X system. Assemble the model and bind your transmitter to the receiver before performing this test.

1. To activate AS3X, move the throttle stick just above 25% of its travel, then return it to the low position.
2. CAUTION: Keep hair, loose clothing, hands, and other body parts away from the propeller.
3. Move the aircraft as shown in the illustrations and check that the control surfaces move in the indicated direction. If control surfaces do not respond as shown, do not fly the model. Refer to the receiver manual for more information.
4. Once AS3X is active, control surfaces may move rapidly. This is normal. AS3X remains active until the battery is disconnected.

Flight Trim Adjustment

Perform flight trim adjustments during the first flight. Fly the aircraft level at 3/4 throttle with the flaps retracted. Make small trim corrections for a perfectly straight flight path. After adjusting trims, do not touch the sticks for 3 seconds. The receiver will save the new settings to optimize AS3X performance. Flight characteristics will be affected if this procedure is not followed.

Flight Tips and Repairs

• Consult local laws and regulations before choosing a flying location.
• Flying Site: Always choose a clear area. Flying at a club field is recommended. Stay away from homes, trees, power lines, and buildings. Do not fly over public areas like parks, schoolyards, or sports fields.
• Radio Range Check: Check your radio range before flying. Refer to your transmitter's specific instructions.
• Understanding Oscillations: When AS3X is active, control surfaces should react to aircraft movements. If oscillations occur, reduce airspeed. If oscillations persist, consult the troubleshooting guide.
• Takeoff: Take off into the wind. Set transmitter to low rates. Gradually increase throttle to 3/4 while steering with the rudder. Once the aircraft reaches sufficient speed, gently pull back on the elevator. Climb to a comfortable altitude. Flaps can be used in the mid position to shorten takeoff distance.
• Flight: Trim the aircraft for a straight flight path at 3/4 throttle. After trim adjustments, do not touch sticks for 3 seconds for the receiver to save settings.
• Landing: It is recommended to remove landing gear covers when flying in tall grass. Always land into the wind. Reduce speed for the approach and deploy flaps mid-position. For strong winds, use mid-position flaps. For light winds, deploy flaps fully for the final approach. With flaps and gear down, maintain a slight throttle until the flare. Keep the wings level and the aircraft pointed into the wind during the flare. Reduce throttle while pulling back on the elevator to land on the wheels. Consult the dual rates and expo table for flap/elevator mixing to reduce the tendency to pitch up when flaps are deployed.

Post-Flight Maintenance

• Disconnect the flight battery from the ESC.
• Turn off the transmitter.
• Remove the aircraft battery.
• Recharge the battery.

NOTE: A mix to the elevator is required when using flaps on this model. Failure to do so may result in loss of control or a crash.

NOTE: In case of an imminent crash, reduce throttle and trim completely. Failure to do so may cause further damage and damage the ESC and motor.

NOTE: After a crash or replacement, ensure the receiver is securely mounted. If replacing the receiver, mount it in the same orientation as the original, or the aircraft may be damaged.

NOTE: Crash damage is not covered by warranty.

NOTE: Never leave the aircraft in direct sunlight after flying. Do not store the aircraft in a closed, hot space like a car, as this can damage the foam.

Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC)

When a Li-Po battery is discharged below 3V per cell, it will no longer hold a charge. The ESC protects the flight battery from over-discharge by implementing Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC). Before battery voltage drops too low, the LVC system disconnects motor power. Motor power is pulsed, indicating remaining battery power to maintain flight control and allow a safe landing.

Disconnect the Li-Po battery from the aircraft and remove it after use to prevent slow discharge. Store the Li-Po battery at approximately half charge before storage. During storage, ensure the battery voltage does not drop below 3V per cell.

NOTE: Repeatedly flying until LVC is triggered will damage the battery.

TIP: Check battery voltage before and after flight using a voltage checker (SPMXBC100, sold separately).

Repairs

Due to its Z-foam construction, this aircraft can be repaired with various glues (hot glue, CA glue, epoxy, etc.). For irreparable parts, refer to the parts list and order using the part numbers. A complete list of spare and optional parts is at the end of this manual.

NOTE: CA accelerator may damage the aircraft's paint. Do not handle the aircraft until the accelerator is completely dry.

Repair or replace damaged parts.

Store the battery outside the aircraft and regularly check its charge.

Note flight conditions and results for future flight planning.

Troubleshooting Guide

AS3X Troubleshooting

General Troubleshooting

Parts List

Replacement Parts

Optional Items

Float Installation (Optional)

Float set (EFLA550), float struts included with aircraft.

1. Remove the main landing gear assembly. The tail wheel assembly can remain on the aircraft or be removed to assemble the floats.
2. Mount the floats to the vertical and diagonal struts using the provided hardware, adding the forward spreader bar from the float set. Use the included screws to attach the floats to the landing gear assembly. The float with the hydraulic rudder should be on the left side of the aircraft.
3. Install the hydraulic rudder pushrod connecting to the hydraulic rudder horn using the quick-connect linkage pre-installed on the rudder horn. Connect it to the clip on the float, install a clip on the rear left vertical strut, and secure with an M2x8mm screw and M2 nut.
4. Locate the two mounting points for the float mounting struts on the bottom of the fuselage.
5. Insert the vertical and diagonal struts into the mounting points.
6. Secure the front struts using two plastic stoppers and four M2.5 x 10mm self-tapping screws with a 1.5mm hex driver.
7. Secure the rear landing strut using the plastic stopper and an M3x10mm self-tapping screw with a 2mm hex driver.
8. Secure the hydraulic rudder pushrod into the clips along the fuselage.
9. Center the hydraulic rudder with the air rudder and adjust the pushrod position using a 2mm hex driver. Disassemble in reverse order.

Water Rudders (Included)

Install the water rudders inside the two floats (see illustration) to prevent water from entering the propeller area. Align the double-sided tape on the back of the water rudder with the float edge. Water rudders should be installed 35mm behind the float nose, with their lower edge 10mm below the float edge.

Water Flying

Water flying presents increased risk due to potential pilot error or water conditions. Only fly over water once you have achieved a good level of confidence flying from the ground. Never fly near people fishing, swimming, or playing.

• Pre-flight: Ensure optional floats are securely attached to the fuselage and the hydraulic rudder is properly connected and functions with the main rudder before placing the aircraft in water. Select a flying area free of currents, saltwater, or debris. Carefully observe the flying area and watch for trees, docks, buoys, and other obstacles. Always fly with a spotter and avoid swimmers, boaters, fishermen, and people on the beach.
• Taxiing: Use low throttle settings and the rudders to steer. Keep the elevator up to keep the rudder in the water and the nose of the floats above the water. Taxi into the wind when turning and crosswind if a crosswind taxi is required. When turning or moving into the wind, apply aileron against the wind to keep the upwind wing side down and prevent the aircraft from tipping. Do not hold the elevator down when taxiing or taking off.
• Planing: As throttle is increased and speed accelerates, the floats will lift out of the water and begin to plane on the water surface, reaching the planing level. The floats are at the planing level at a speed lower than flying speed; this is a transition phase where the aircraft has not yet reached flying speed. This is referred to as high-speed taxiing. Do not attempt to take off as soon as the aircraft reaches this level. Use low to medium throttle and maintain up elevator to manage speed on the water during high-speed taxiing.
• Takeoff: To take off from water, set the flaps to the takeoff position, maintain up elevator, and accelerate the aircraft to reach the planing level. Release up elevator when the aircraft reaches this level and accelerate to flying speed at full throttle. When the aircraft reaches sufficient speed, gently pull back on the elevator to pivot for lift-off.
• Landing: To land on water, set the flaps to the landing position and make a headwind approach. Reduce throttle to low, but maintain power during the approach. As the aircraft nears the ground, reduce throttle completely and maintain up elevator for the flare. Maintain up elevator as the aircraft touches down and decelerates on the water.
• WARNING: Never attempt to recover a crashed aircraft by swimming unless you have sufficient training and/or another person is available to assist in an emergency.
• CAUTION: We recommend having a recovery plan in case the aircraft crashes. Never attempt to recover a crashed model alone in the water.
• CAUTION: In case of water spray on the fuselage during a water landing, bring the aircraft to shore, open the battery hatch, and immediately remove any water that may have entered the fuselage. Leave the battery hatch open overnight to allow the interior to dry and prevent moisture from damaging electrical components. Failure to do so may cause component failure and aircraft loss.
• TIP: Use a fishing rod with a heavy line as a recovery tool. Attach a tennis ball to the line and cast the ball behind a crashed aircraft to retrieve it.

Warranty and Repairs

Warranty Period: Horizon Hobby, LLC warrants the Product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship at the date of purchase by the Purchaser. The warranty period is 6 months, with an 18-month obligation period after the warranty expires.

Warranty Limitations: The warranty is non-transferable. Purchaser's recourse is repair or exchange. Warranty applies only to products purchased from an authorized Horizon dealer. Claims must be accompanied by proof of purchase. Horizon reserves the right to modify warranty terms without notice.

Limitation of Damages: Horizon is not liable for consequential damages, loss of revenue, or loss of business, regardless of whether a claim is made under contract, warranty, or liability. Horizon will not accept claims exceeding the product's unit value. Horizon is not responsible for injuries or damages resulting from improper assembly, use, or maintenance.

By using and assembling the product, the purchaser accepts all warranty provisions herein without restriction or reservation. If you are not prepared to accept these provisions, return the complete, unused product in its original packaging to the seller.

Safety Indications: This is a sophisticated hobby product, not a toy. It requires careful handling, common sense, and basic mechanical and mental aptitude. Failure to use the product safely and responsibly can result in injury and property damage. This product is not intended for use by children without direct adult supervision. The instruction manual contains safety and maintenance information. Read and understand these instructions before first use to avoid improper handling, injury, and damage.

Questions, Assistance, and Repairs: Contact your local hobby dealer or Horizon Hobby for warranty eligibility and repair information.

Contact Information for Warranty and Repair:

• European Union: Horizon Hobby, Horizon Technischer Service, service@horizonhobby.eu, +49 (0) 4121 2655 100, Hanskampring 9, D 22885 Barsbüttel, Germany

IC Information

Contains IC: 6157A-SPMAR637T. This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

EU Declaration of Conformity

Super Timber 1.7m BNF (EFL02550): Horizon Hobby, LLC declares this equipment complies with Directive 2014/53/EU (Radio Equipment), Directive RoHS 2 2011/65/U, and Directive RoHS 3 - Amendment 2011/65/UE Annex II 2015/863.

Super Timber 1.7m PNP (EFL02575): Horizon Hobby, LLC declares this equipment complies with Directive EMC 2014/30/UE, Directive RoHS 2 2011/65/U, and Directive RoHS 3 - Amendment 2011/65/UE Annex II 2015/863.

Full EU Declaration of Conformity text available at: https://www.horizonhobby.com/content/support-render-compliance.

Wireless Frequency Range / Output Power: 2404-2476MHz / 19.42dBm

Official EU Manufacturer: Horizon Hobby, LLC, 2904 Research Road, Champaign, IL 61822 USA

Official EU Importer: Horizon Hobby, GmbH, Hanskampring 9, 22885 Barsbüttel Germany

WEEE Directive: The WEEE symbol indicates this product must not be disposed of with household waste. It should be deposited at an appropriate facility for recovery and recycling.