E-flite UMX Pitts S-1S

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the E-flite UMX Pitts S-1S aircraft. For the most up-to-date manual information, scan the QR code and select the Manuals and Support quick links from the product page.

[QR code for Manuals and Support]

Important Safety Terms and Precautions

NOTE: All instructions, warranties, and other related documents are subject to change at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby, LLC. Visit www.horizonhobby.com or towerhobbies.com for the latest product documentation.

Meaning of Specific Terms

The following terms are used throughout the manual to indicate different levels of danger:

• WARNING: Procedures which, if not followed correctly, could result in property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury OR a high probability of superficial injury.
• CAUTION: Procedures which, if not followed correctly, could result in property damage AND serious injury.
• NOTE: Procedures which, if not followed correctly, could result in property damage AND a low probability of injury.

WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar with the features of the product before operating it. Failure to operate the product correctly can result in damage to the product and property and serious injury.

This is a sophisticated hobby product. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this product in a responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the product or property. This product is not intended for use by children without direct adult supervision. Do not attempt to disassemble the product, use incompatible components, or enhance the product without the approval of Horizon Hobby, LLC.

This manual contains instructions for safety, operation, and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual before assembly, setup, or use in order to operate correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.

Age Recommendation: 14+ years. This is not a toy.

General Safety Precautions

As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for operating it in a manner that does not endanger yourself or others or result in damage to the product or the property of others.

• Maintain a safe distance around your model to avoid collisions or injury. This model is controlled by a radio signal that may be subject to interference from many sources beyond your control. Interference can cause momentary loss of control.
• Always 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/upgrade equipment (chargers, rechargeable batteries, etc.) you use.
• Keep all chemicals, small parts, and electronic components out of the reach of children.
• Avoid exposing any equipment not specifically designed and protected for this purpose to water. Moisture damages electronic components.
• Never lick or place any part of your model in your mouth – serious injury or death could result.
• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.
• Always keep the model in sight and maintain control.
• Always use fully charged batteries.
• Always keep the transmitter powered on while the model is operating.
• Remove batteries before disassembly.
• Always ensure moving parts are clean.
• Always ensure all parts are dry.
• Always allow parts to cool before touching them.
• Always remove batteries after use.
• Always ensure failsafe is correctly configured before flying.
• Never fly a model with damaged wiring.
• Never touch moving parts.

WARNING REGARDING COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS: If you ever need to replace a Spektrum receiver in an Horizon Hobby product, purchase it only from Horizon Hobby, LLC or an authorized Horizon Hobby dealer to ensure you receive a genuine, high-quality Spektrum product. Horizon Hobby, LLC disclaims all service and warranty support for counterfeit products or products claiming compatibility with Spektrum or DSM technology.

Included and Recommended Equipment

Included:

• Motor: Brushless outrunner motor 1900Kv, 10-pole (SPMXAM1208)
• Servo: 4x Long-throw linear servos 2.3 grams (SPMSA2030L)
• Receiver: Spektrum AS3X/SAFE Receiver (SPMA3187)

Recommended Battery:

• Li-Po JST-RCY; 30C 11.1V 3S 300 mAh Spektrum (SPMX3003SJ30)

Recommended Charger:

• Spektrum Smart AC/DC Charger S150, 1 x 50 W (SPMXC1070) with adapter (SPMXCA310)

Recommended Transmitter:

• Full-range 2.4GHz transmitter with DSM2/DSMX Spektrum technology, programmable mixing, and adjustable dual rates.

Specifications:

• Weight without battery: 93g (0.21lbs)
• Weight with 3S 300mAh battery: 125g (0.26lbs)
• Dimensions: 434mm wingspan, 393mm length

Table of Contents

Flight and Repair Tips

• Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC)
• Transmitter Configuration
• Transmitter to Receiver Binding
• Binding Procedure
• Integrated Telemetry
• SAFE Select Technology
• Arming the Controller/Receiver, Battery Installation, and Center of Gravity
• Control Surface Test
• Control Surface Centering
• Control Linkage Default Positions

Additional Sections:

• Flight and Repair Tips
• Post-Flight Checks
• Motor Maintenance
• AS3X System Troubleshooting Guide
• Troubleshooting Guide
• Replacement Parts
• Optional Parts and Accessories
• Warranty and Repairs
• Contact Information for Warranty and Repair
• IC Information
• EU Conformity Information

Failsafe and General Binding Tips

The included receiver is specifically programmed for this aircraft. Refer to the receiver manual for proper configuration if replacing it.

• Keep clear of 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 binding mode.
• Once bound, the receiver will retain its binding settings for that transmitter until you re-bind.

In case of loss of communication between the receiver and transmitter, the failsafe mode is activated. Failsafe sets the throttle channel to low throttle position. Pitch and roll channels move to stabilize the aircraft in a descending turn.

If you encounter problems, consult the troubleshooting guide or contact the appropriate Horizon after-sales service.

Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC)

A Li-Po battery discharged below 3V per cell cannot be recharged. The aircraft's ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) protects the flight battery from deep discharge using the Low Voltage Cutoff (LVC) system. When the battery is discharged to 3V per cell, LVC reduces motor power to allow the receiver and servos to land the aircraft.

When motor power decreases, land the aircraft immediately and replace or recharge the flight battery.

NOTE: Repeated activation of LVC can damage the battery.

Always disconnect and remove the Li-Po battery from the aircraft after each flight. Charge the battery to approximately half capacity before storing. Check that each cell's voltage does not drop below 3V. If the battery is not disconnected, it will self-discharge too deeply.

For initial flights, set your timer on your transmitter to 5 minutes. Adjust flight duration after you have flown the model.

Transmitter Configuration

IMPORTANT: After configuring your model, always re-bind the transmitter and receiver to set the desired failsafe positions. If your transmitter has the function, activate Throttle Cut. Always activate Throttle Cut before approaching the aircraft.

Dual Rates

Low rates are recommended for initial flights. NOTE: To ensure AS3X technology functions correctly, do not reduce rate values below 50%. NOTE: If you experience high-speed oscillation, consult the troubleshooting guide.

Expo

After initial flights, you can adjust the expo value to better match your flying style.

Computerized Transmitter Configuration (DX Series, NX Series, iX Series)

Start all transmitter programming with a blank ACRO model (perform a model reset), then name the model.

Transmitter Binding Procedure

Binding is the process of programming the receiver to recognize the GUID (Globally Unique Identifier) of a specific transmitter. You must "bind" your chosen Spektrum DSM2/DSMX aircraft transmitter to the receiver to ensure proper operation. All Spektrum DSM2/DSMX transmitters are compatible with the receiver.

Procedure

1. Refer to your transmitter's instructions for binding to a receiver. (Access the bind function).
2. Ensure the flight battery is disconnected from the aircraft.
3. Turn off the transmitter.
4. Place the aircraft on a flat surface, out of the wind.
5. Connect the battery to the aircraft. The receiver's LED will begin to flash (typically after 5 seconds).
6. Verify that the transmitter controls are in their neutral positions and the throttle is at its lowest setting.
7. Turn your transmitter to bind mode. Refer to your transmitter's manual for this process.
8. After 5 to 10 seconds, the transmitter's status light will remain solid, indicating the receiver is bound to the transmitter. If the LED does not illuminate, refer to the Troubleshooting Guide at the end of this manual.

For subsequent flights, turn on the transmitter for 5 seconds before connecting the flight battery.

Integrated Telemetry

This aircraft features telemetry between the ESC and receiver, providing information such as: RPM, voltage, motor current, throttle percentage, FET temperature (speed controller), and BEC temperature (servo power).

To Display Telemetry:

1. Start with the transmitter bound to the receiver.
2. Turn on the transmitter.
3. Power on the aircraft.
4. A signal bar will appear in the upper left corner of the screen when telemetry information is received.
5. Scroll past the servo monitor to display the telemetry screens.

For more information on compatible transmitters, firmware updates, and using telemetry on your transmitter, visit www.SpektrumRC.com.

SAFE Select Technology

When SAFE Select is active, pitch and bank limits prevent you from over-controlling the aircraft. Additionally, when you release the sticks if you become disoriented, SAFE Select will level the aircraft.

To activate SAFE Select, flip the Gear channel switch to position 0. Flip the Gear switch back to position 1 to disable SAFE Select and fly with AS3X technology assistance only.

If you become disoriented or the aircraft is in an unusual attitude, flip the Gear switch to position 0 and release the sticks. With the aileron, elevator, and rudder sticks in their neutral positions, SAFE Select will automatically maintain the aircraft in a level, upright attitude.

Disabling and Enabling SAFE Select

By default, your UMX aircraft's SAFE Select function is enabled and assigned to the Gear channel switch (Channel 5). If you do not wish to use SAFE Select during flight, you can choose to disable the SAFE Select functionality. AS3X will still be active when SAFE Select is disabled.

IMPORTANT: Before attempting to disable or enable SAFE Select, ensure that the aileron, elevator, rudder, and throttle channels are all at full rates with travel set to 100%. Disable Throttle Hold if it is programmed into your transmitter.

Transmitters DX4e, DX5e, DXe, and DXS

The GEAR switch is the FMODE switch on these transmitters, and the switch must be toggled between positions 0 and 2 to disable/enable SAFE Select.

Transmitters Mode 1 and 2:

[Diagram showing transmitter stick positions and switch toggling for SAFE Select activation/deactivation]

Activation/Deactivation Procedure:

1. Turn on the transmitter.
2. Turn on the aircraft.
3. Hold both transmitter sticks towards the bottom inside corners and flip the Gear switch 5 times (1 flip = fully up and down). The aircraft's control surfaces will move, indicating SAFE Select has been activated or deactivated.

Repeat the process to re-activate or deactivate SAFE Select.

CAUTION: Keep all body parts away from the rotor, intake and exhaust pipes, and keep the aircraft securely immobilized in case of accidental throttle activation.

Arming the Controller/Receiver, Battery Installation, and Center of Gravity (CG)

CAUTION: Always keep your hands away from the propeller. Once armed, the motor will spin the propeller with the slightest movement of the throttle stick.

Controller arming occurs after the binding process described previously. For subsequent battery connections, follow these steps:

AS3X System

The AS3X system will only activate after the first throttle input or throttle trim adjustment. Once the system is active, the control surfaces will move rapidly and audibly in response to aircraft movements. The AS3X technology will remain active until the battery is disconnected.

1. Remove the canopy by pulling the tab.
2. Place the battery onto the hook-and-loop strap, ensuring the battery is snug against the motor mount.

Model Centering

Measure the CG location 32mm aft of the leading edge of the upper wing at the center section.

1. Lower the throttle stick and trim to their lowest settings. Power on the transmitter and wait 5 seconds.
2. Connect the battery to the aircraft, observing correct polarity. Keep the aircraft still and out of the wind for 5 seconds to allow the AS3X system to initialize. A series of tones and a solid LED indicate a successful connection.

NOTE: 2S Spektrum or E-flite batteries with a PH connector require an adapter cord (SPMXCA327).

CAUTION: Always disconnect the battery from the controller when not flying to cut motor power. The controller has no arming switch; it will respond to any stick movement when a signal is present.

CAUTION: Always disconnect the Li-Po battery when not using the model. You risk damaging the battery due to excessive discharge.

[Diagram showing battery installation and CG measurement]

Control Surface Test

Basic Control Test

You must bind the aircraft to your transmitter before performing this test. Move the transmitter sticks to verify that the control surfaces pivot in the correct directions. Ensure that the linkages move freely and that decals or paint do not interfere with their movement.

AS3X Response Test

This test verifies the proper operation of the AS3X system.

1. Activate AS3X by placing the throttle stick above 25%.
2. Place the throttle stick in the low position.
3. Move the aircraft as shown in the illustrations and check that the control surfaces move in the direction indicated. If the control surfaces do not respond as shown, do not fly the model. Refer to the receiver manual for additional information.

Once the AS3X system is active, the control surfaces may move rapidly. This is normal operation. AS3X will remain active until the battery is disconnected.

[Diagrams illustrating aircraft movement (aileron, elevator, rudder) and corresponding AS3X control surface reactions]

Control Surface Centering

Before your first flights or after an accident, check control surface centering. If control surfaces are not centered, adjust the linkages mechanically. Transmitter sub-trims may not be sufficient to center control surfaces due to the limitations of linear servos.

1. Transmitter trims may not be sufficient to properly center the aircraft's control surfaces due to the mechanical limits of linear servos.
2. If necessary, use pliers to carefully adjust the metal "U" bend on the linkage (see illustration).
3. Shorten the "U" bend to shorten the linkage. Lengthen the "U" bend to extend the linkage.

Control Surface Centering After First Flights

For optimal AS3X system performance, it is important not to use trims excessively. If the aircraft requires significant trim correction (4 clicks or more per channel), reset the trims to zero and mechanically adjust the linkages to compensate for the trims.

Control Linkage Default Positions

The illustration shows the linkage positions on the control horns for the most acrobatic behavior. Linkage position directly affects the aircraft's response.

WARNING: If the position does not match the pilot's skill level, the aircraft may exhibit unexpected reactions. The aircraft could be damaged, and serious injury could occur.

[Diagram showing default linkage positions for aileron, elevator, and rudder]

Flying and Repair Tips

We recommend flying your aircraft outdoors in calm weather. Always fly away from houses, trees, power lines, and other structures. Also avoid flying in crowded areas such as public parks, schoolyards, or sports fields.

Takeoff

Place the aircraft in the takeoff position (facing into the wind if flying outdoors). Gradually increase throttle to 3/4, then full, and steer the aircraft with the rudder. Gently pull back on the elevator to climb and trim. Once trimmed, you can begin to explore your aircraft's capabilities.

Landing

Land facing into the wind. This is very important for this model. Descend the aircraft to about 15 cm (6 inches) above the ground, maintaining a little throttle throughout the descent. Keep throttle applied until the wheels touch the ground, always steering the aircraft into the wind. Gradually reduce throttle while gently pulling back on the elevator to land on all three wheels.

If you do not lower the throttle stick and trim to the lowest possible position in case of a crash, you risk damaging the receiver's ESC, which will require replacement.

This aircraft is equipped with overload protection. This system protects the controller from overloads. The system cuts the motor if you are at full throttle and the propeller is blocked. This system only activates from mid-throttle. When the system cuts the motor, lower the throttle stick completely to reset the controller.

NOTE: Crash damage is not covered by the warranty.

Repairs

Repair your aircraft using foam-compatible cyanoacrylate glue or clear adhesive tape. Use only foam-safe CA glue, as other types of glue can damage the foam. For non-repairable parts, refer to the parts list and order using the item numbers. A complete list of replacement and optional parts is found on the last pages of this manual.

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

NOTE: After your flight is complete, do not leave the aircraft in direct sunlight or in a closed, hot environment such as a car. This could damage the foam.

WARNING: Always cut the throttle before a crash.

Post-Flight Checks

• Disconnect the battery (for safety and battery longevity).
• Turn off the transmitter.
• Remove the battery from the model.
• Recharge the battery.
• Store the battery safely away from the aircraft.
• Note the flight conditions and plan your next flights.

Motor Maintenance

Disassembly

CAUTION: NEVER handle the propeller when the battery is connected to the controller. Bodily injury may result.

Propeller

1. Remove the propeller cone (A). The cone and propeller are glued together; clean off any glue residue if reusing these parts.
2. Carefully unscrew the screw (B) and remove the propeller (C) from the motor shaft.

Motor

1. Remove the battery access hatch by lifting from the front and then disengaging upwards.
2. Disconnect the cables connecting the motor to the controller.
3. Remove screw (D) and motor (E) from the motor mount.
4. Remove the 3 screws (F) and the propeller adapter (G) from the motor. Note that the motor magnets may attract the screws inside the motor.

Assembly

Assembly is in reverse order.

• Connect the motor to the controller.
• The propeller size numbers (5.3 x 3.5) must face forward for correct propeller operation.
• Ensure the propeller adapter is securely attached to the motor and that the motor is also securely attached to its mount.

[Diagrams showing propeller and motor disassembly/assembly steps]

AS3X System Troubleshooting

General Troubleshooting

Replacement Parts

Optional Parts and Accessories

Warranty and Repairs

Warranty Period: Exclusive Warranty - Horizon Hobby, LLC (Horizon) warrants that the purchased Product ("Product") shall be free from material and workmanship defects at the date of purchase by the Buyer. The warranty period corresponds to the legal provisions of the country in which the product was purchased. The warranty period is 6 months, with an 18-month warranty obligation period after the warranty period expires.

Warranty Limitations: (a) The warranty is granted to the original Buyer ("Buyer") and is non-transferable. The Buyer's recourse shall be limited to repair or replacement under this warranty. The warranty applies only to products purchased from an authorized Horizon dealer. Sales to third parties are not covered by this warranty. Warranty claims will only be accepted upon provision of valid proof of purchase. Horizon reserves the right to modify the provisions of this warranty without prior notice and revokes existing warranty provisions.

(b) Horizon makes no warranty regarding the product's merchantability or the user's fitness and capability for a particular use. It is the Buyer's sole responsibility to determine if the product meets their capabilities and intended use.

(c) Buyer's Recourse - It is at Horizon's sole discretion to determine whether a product with a warranty claim will be repaired or replaced. These are the Buyer's exclusive remedies when a defect is found. Horizon reserves the right to inspect all components used and potentially integrated into the warranty case. The decision to repair or replace the product is solely Horizon's. The warranty excludes cosmetic defects or defects caused by force majeure, incorrect product handling, misuse or commercial use of the product, or modifications of any kind.

The warranty does not cover damage resulting from incorrect assembly or handling, accidents, or operation, nor attempts at maintenance or repair not performed by Horizon. Returns made by the Buyer directly to Horizon or one of its national representatives require written confirmation.

Limitation of Damages: Horizon shall not be liable for direct or indirect consequential damages, loss of revenue, or commercial losses, in any way related to the product, regardless of whether a claim is made in contract, warranty, or warranty obligation. Furthermore, Horizon will not accept claims arising from a warranty case where these claims exceed the unit value of the product. Horizon exercises no influence over the assembly, use, or maintenance of the product, or over potential product combinations chosen by the Buyer. Horizon assumes no warranty and accepts no recourse for injuries or damages that may result. Horizon Hobby shall not be held responsible for use that does not comply with applicable laws, rules, or regulations.

By using and assembling the product, the Buyer accepts all provisions of this warranty without restriction or reservation. If, as the Buyer, you are not prepared to accept these provisions in relation to the product's use, we ask you to return the complete, unused product in its original packaging to the seller.

Safety Indications: This is a sophisticated hobby product, not a toy. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires some mechanical and mental aptitude. Failure to operate the product safely and reasonably can result in serious injury and consequential property damage. This product is not intended for use by children without adult supervision. The instruction manual contains safety information and instructions regarding product maintenance and operation. It is absolutely essential to read and understand these instructions before initial use. Only then will it be possible to avoid incorrect handling and accidents leading to injury and damage. Horizon Hobby shall not be held responsible for use that does not comply with applicable laws, rules, or regulations.

Questions, Assistance, and Repairs: Your local specialist dealer and point of sale cannot provide an estimate of warranty eligibility without consulting Horizon. This also applies to warranty repairs. In such cases, please contact the dealer who will agree on an appropriate decision with Horizon to assist you as quickly as possible.

Maintenance and Repair: If your product requires maintenance or repair, contact either your specialist dealer or Horizon directly. Pack the product carefully. Please note that the original packaging carton is generally not sufficient to protect the product from damage during transport. Use a shipping service that offers tracking and insurance, as Horizon assumes no responsibility for the shipment of the product until its accepted receipt. Please include proof of purchase, a detailed description of the defects, and a list of all shipped components. We also require a complete address, a phone number (for inquiries), and an email address.

Warranty and Repairs: Warranty claims will only be processed with original proof of purchase from an authorized specialist dealer, showing the buyer's name and date of purchase. If the warranty case is confirmed, the product will be repaired. This decision rests solely with Horizon Hobby.

Paid Repairs: For paid repairs, we will provide a quote that we will forward to your dealer. The repair will only be carried out after we receive confirmation from the dealer. The repair cost must be paid to the dealer. For paid repairs, we charge a minimum of 30 minutes of workshop labor plus shipping costs. If no agreement for repair is reached within 90 days, we reserve the right to destroy or otherwise use the product.

ATTENTION: We only perform paid repairs on electronic components and motors. Mechanical repairs, especially for helicopters and radio-controlled cars, are extremely costly and must therefore be carried out by the buyer themselves.

Contact Information for Warranty and Repair

IC Information

IC: 6157A-WACO1T
CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's CNR(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interference. (2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

EU Conformity Information

EU Declaration of Conformity: EFL UMX Pitts BNF Basic (EFLU15250): Horizon Hobby, LLC hereby declares that this device complies with the following directives: Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment, Directive RoHS 2 2011/65/EU, Directive RoHS 3 - Amending Directive 2011/65/EU Annex II 2015/863.

The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the following Internet address: https://www.horizonhobby.com/content/support-render-compliance.

Wireless Frequency Range and Wireless Output Power:
Receiver: 2404-2476MHz, 1.43dBm

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

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

WEEE Symbol: [WEEE Symbol] The label on this device complies with European Directive 2012/19/EU on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). This label indicates that this product must not be disposed of with household waste, but must be deposited in an appropriate facility to allow for its recovery and recycling.