Rob Schaffer
Nov 27, 2002, 12:00 AM
<div align="center">
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<td width="50%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/complete.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/complete_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
<td width="50%" align="left"><strong>Specifications</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Wingspan:</strong> 44"</li>
<li><strong>Wing Area:</strong> 262 sq.in.</li>
<li><strong>Length:</strong> 31 in.</li>
<li>Finished Weight: 7.5 oz Complete!</li>
<li><strong>Wing Loading:</strong> 4.1 oz / sq.ft.</li>
<li><strong>Assembly Time:</strong> Approx. 2 Hrs Total</li>
<li><strong>Radio:</strong> Hitec Focus III FM, (2) HS-55 Micro Servos, 4 cell 110mAh Rx battery</li>
<li><strong>Manufacturer:</strong> Gebhart</li>
<li><strong>Sponsor:</strong> <a href="http://www.hobby-lobby.com">Hobby-Lobby International Inc.</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<p><big>Background Info</p></big>
<blockquote>The Candy Mini Hand-launch glider is one of several gliders available from the Gebhart Modeling Company. The series range from the mini-HLG to larger aileron controlled ships, all of which can also be had as electric powered versions. When the model arrives at your door, you will be amazed to see the box is no bigger than that of a dress shirt gift box. Inside, however, you will discover a very well produced ARF plane with very well written directions.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/openbox.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/openbox_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>The directions step you though each version, so be careful as to which apply to your particular model. Each step includes photos, clearly showing the location and particular piece you are about to install. Also found in the box is a small plan view of the fuselage side, as well as other useful information in chart form. Here you will find the distance required from the leading edge of the wing to the CG point of the HLG, as well as the proper angle to set the V-tail. If you decide to change this model to an electric glider, the location of the motor, battery, and other details are also included.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/directions.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/directions_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<p><big>Tail Assembly</p></big>
<blockquote>The tail assembly is very straightforward and doesn't require much time to complete. I traced the diagram showing the angle between each fin from the plan, and then made a quick gauge to aid in the gluing process. Using a careful amount of 5-minute epoxy, the tail fins are glued together at the proper angle of 115 degrees and left to dry. Once dry, the pre-beveled rudders are easily attached with clear adhesive tape. The most difficult portion of the tail assembly is keeping the tail oriented properly with respect to the main wing when attaching to the carbon tail boom. The directions clearly show with diagrams and photos how to complete this process in a quick and easy manner.</blockquote>
<p><big>Wing Assembly</p></big>
<blockquote>The wing comes in three very well constructed panels, with the rib at the joining location set to the proper angle, and washout already built into the outboard panels. Small lite-ply joiners are glued into the carbon tube wing spar to provide a very strong joint between each wing panel. Be careful to use as little epoxy as possible when assembling the plane, as unwanted weight can add up quickly with excessive amounts. Once the three sections are glued together, a small hole is drilled in the trailing edge of the center panel to provide a location for the centering pin on the fuselage. Since the main bolt hole is already located and drilled out for you, this completes the construction of the wing.</blockquote>
<p><big>Fuselage Assembly</p></big>
<blockquote>The fuselage is the most time consuming portion of the construction, but very simple due to the quality and clarity of the instructions. First, since there are so many model variations with the Candy product line, you have to cut the carbon fiber tail boom to the proper length for the hand-launch glider. The recommended portion remaining in the fuselage pod is approximately 1", so make a mark at that location from the larger diameter end of the boom. There is a slight taper in the boom, and if you aren't careful, you may not notice this during assembly. From this line, you will measure the length to the point you have to cut the boom. This dimension can be found on the plan provided. Be sure to roughen the contact areas of the boom with some coarse sandpaper prior to installing in the fuselage pod or attaching the V-tail. Once the boom is glued in place, there are only two other steps to completing the fuselage. The canopy is held in place with a small section of music wire epoxied in the center of the canopy. This allows easy access to the inside of the fuselage at the field for any push rod adjustments that may be necessary. The second item is installing the pre-drilled plywood mount to accept the wing bolt when assembling the plane. Be sure to test fit the wing and properly mark the location of the plywood before using any glue.</blockquote>
<p><big>Radio & Electronics Installation</p></big>
<blockquote>As with most hand launch gliders, the main objective is to keep weight to a minimum. In the case of the Candy, no additional weight to balance the plane was required, as I was able to install all electronics as far forward as possible. The 110 mAh Rx battery can fit nicely into the very front of the nose, with the Hitec Feather receiver located directly overtop. Directly behind these two items, I installed the two HS-55 servos side by side with the push rods and guides flowing to the back of the fuselage pod and through the carbon boom.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Be careful to set up your V-tail movements correctly. This may take some flip-flopping of servo horns or crossing the push rods to obtain the correct orientation. Be sure to double check that you have the V-tail mixing function selected on your radio, and double check before the first flight. On the Hitec Focus III Singlestick, this is selected with a single switch on the back of the transmitter. For rise in pitch (up elevator), both elevator fins should move up, and the opposite for a decrease in pitch (down elevator). For a right turn, when looking forward from the rear of the plane the left elevator fin should be in the up position, and the right elevator fin in the down position. This pushes the tail of the plane leftward in flight, inducing the right-hand turn. For a left turn, the opposite happens (right fin up and Left fin down).</blockquote>
<blockquote>Once the radio batteries are charged, we are now ready to head to the field!</blockquote>
<p><big>Flight Performance</p></big>
<blockquote>I made the first flights of the day by warming up my launching arm with my other glider, the Eric HLG that is also available from Hobby-Lobby. I noticed that the warm air activity was pretty good for the conditions, so I felt ready to get out the Candy.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Initially, a straightforward glide was done. I watched in amazement how far the Candy wanted to float away. A slight trim adjustment was made to keep the wings level, and then I tossed it lightly again. Each throw was straight ahead and a little harder so that I could begin to get comfortable with the response of the V-tail control and to become acquainted with the overall handling of the plane. After about a dozen light tosses, I felt ready to give a hard launch and to see how tightly the Candy can circle. The launch should be a smooth forward motion, so your hand doesn't slip on the fuselage. I found that two small circles of fine sandpaper, one glued on each side of the pod just ahead of the CG point, provide a good grip for your fingers without compromising the aerodynamics or strength of the fuselage pod.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/launching.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/launching_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>I quickly noticed that any amount of lift available was easily detected by observing the glider's movements during flight. Thermalling circles can be accomplished in about a ten to twelve foot diameter for a period of time. Just make sure you don't try to hold the circle too tight. This may cause a stall, for which there is little warning.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/flyby.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/flyby_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>The average flight time for the first thirty launches was 37.6 seconds. As I became more familiar with the plane, there were better and better flights. To date, the best flight so far is 1 minute 31 seconds from launch to catch.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/thermalling.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/thermalling_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>Overall, the Candy hand-launch glider combines concise, clear instructions with great quality construction, providing the sport flyer with a very fun and competitive aircraft. The low total weight, wide wing cord, Selig airfoil, and V-tail control make this plane a very nice floater for a wide range of conditions. With the increasing popularity of side-arm launch gliders, the Candy from Hobby-Lobby proves that a traditionally launched plane can indeed charge after the competition.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Happy Thermal Hunting!</blockquote>
<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#D5EAFF">
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/complete.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/complete_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
<td width="50%" align="left"><strong>Specifications</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Wingspan:</strong> 44"</li>
<li><strong>Wing Area:</strong> 262 sq.in.</li>
<li><strong>Length:</strong> 31 in.</li>
<li>Finished Weight: 7.5 oz Complete!</li>
<li><strong>Wing Loading:</strong> 4.1 oz / sq.ft.</li>
<li><strong>Assembly Time:</strong> Approx. 2 Hrs Total</li>
<li><strong>Radio:</strong> Hitec Focus III FM, (2) HS-55 Micro Servos, 4 cell 110mAh Rx battery</li>
<li><strong>Manufacturer:</strong> Gebhart</li>
<li><strong>Sponsor:</strong> <a href="http://www.hobby-lobby.com">Hobby-Lobby International Inc.</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<p><big>Background Info</p></big>
<blockquote>The Candy Mini Hand-launch glider is one of several gliders available from the Gebhart Modeling Company. The series range from the mini-HLG to larger aileron controlled ships, all of which can also be had as electric powered versions. When the model arrives at your door, you will be amazed to see the box is no bigger than that of a dress shirt gift box. Inside, however, you will discover a very well produced ARF plane with very well written directions.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/openbox.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/openbox_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>The directions step you though each version, so be careful as to which apply to your particular model. Each step includes photos, clearly showing the location and particular piece you are about to install. Also found in the box is a small plan view of the fuselage side, as well as other useful information in chart form. Here you will find the distance required from the leading edge of the wing to the CG point of the HLG, as well as the proper angle to set the V-tail. If you decide to change this model to an electric glider, the location of the motor, battery, and other details are also included.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/directions.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/directions_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<p><big>Tail Assembly</p></big>
<blockquote>The tail assembly is very straightforward and doesn't require much time to complete. I traced the diagram showing the angle between each fin from the plan, and then made a quick gauge to aid in the gluing process. Using a careful amount of 5-minute epoxy, the tail fins are glued together at the proper angle of 115 degrees and left to dry. Once dry, the pre-beveled rudders are easily attached with clear adhesive tape. The most difficult portion of the tail assembly is keeping the tail oriented properly with respect to the main wing when attaching to the carbon tail boom. The directions clearly show with diagrams and photos how to complete this process in a quick and easy manner.</blockquote>
<p><big>Wing Assembly</p></big>
<blockquote>The wing comes in three very well constructed panels, with the rib at the joining location set to the proper angle, and washout already built into the outboard panels. Small lite-ply joiners are glued into the carbon tube wing spar to provide a very strong joint between each wing panel. Be careful to use as little epoxy as possible when assembling the plane, as unwanted weight can add up quickly with excessive amounts. Once the three sections are glued together, a small hole is drilled in the trailing edge of the center panel to provide a location for the centering pin on the fuselage. Since the main bolt hole is already located and drilled out for you, this completes the construction of the wing.</blockquote>
<p><big>Fuselage Assembly</p></big>
<blockquote>The fuselage is the most time consuming portion of the construction, but very simple due to the quality and clarity of the instructions. First, since there are so many model variations with the Candy product line, you have to cut the carbon fiber tail boom to the proper length for the hand-launch glider. The recommended portion remaining in the fuselage pod is approximately 1", so make a mark at that location from the larger diameter end of the boom. There is a slight taper in the boom, and if you aren't careful, you may not notice this during assembly. From this line, you will measure the length to the point you have to cut the boom. This dimension can be found on the plan provided. Be sure to roughen the contact areas of the boom with some coarse sandpaper prior to installing in the fuselage pod or attaching the V-tail. Once the boom is glued in place, there are only two other steps to completing the fuselage. The canopy is held in place with a small section of music wire epoxied in the center of the canopy. This allows easy access to the inside of the fuselage at the field for any push rod adjustments that may be necessary. The second item is installing the pre-drilled plywood mount to accept the wing bolt when assembling the plane. Be sure to test fit the wing and properly mark the location of the plywood before using any glue.</blockquote>
<p><big>Radio & Electronics Installation</p></big>
<blockquote>As with most hand launch gliders, the main objective is to keep weight to a minimum. In the case of the Candy, no additional weight to balance the plane was required, as I was able to install all electronics as far forward as possible. The 110 mAh Rx battery can fit nicely into the very front of the nose, with the Hitec Feather receiver located directly overtop. Directly behind these two items, I installed the two HS-55 servos side by side with the push rods and guides flowing to the back of the fuselage pod and through the carbon boom.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Be careful to set up your V-tail movements correctly. This may take some flip-flopping of servo horns or crossing the push rods to obtain the correct orientation. Be sure to double check that you have the V-tail mixing function selected on your radio, and double check before the first flight. On the Hitec Focus III Singlestick, this is selected with a single switch on the back of the transmitter. For rise in pitch (up elevator), both elevator fins should move up, and the opposite for a decrease in pitch (down elevator). For a right turn, when looking forward from the rear of the plane the left elevator fin should be in the up position, and the right elevator fin in the down position. This pushes the tail of the plane leftward in flight, inducing the right-hand turn. For a left turn, the opposite happens (right fin up and Left fin down).</blockquote>
<blockquote>Once the radio batteries are charged, we are now ready to head to the field!</blockquote>
<p><big>Flight Performance</p></big>
<blockquote>I made the first flights of the day by warming up my launching arm with my other glider, the Eric HLG that is also available from Hobby-Lobby. I noticed that the warm air activity was pretty good for the conditions, so I felt ready to get out the Candy.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Initially, a straightforward glide was done. I watched in amazement how far the Candy wanted to float away. A slight trim adjustment was made to keep the wings level, and then I tossed it lightly again. Each throw was straight ahead and a little harder so that I could begin to get comfortable with the response of the V-tail control and to become acquainted with the overall handling of the plane. After about a dozen light tosses, I felt ready to give a hard launch and to see how tightly the Candy can circle. The launch should be a smooth forward motion, so your hand doesn't slip on the fuselage. I found that two small circles of fine sandpaper, one glued on each side of the pod just ahead of the CG point, provide a good grip for your fingers without compromising the aerodynamics or strength of the fuselage pod.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/launching.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/launching_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>I quickly noticed that any amount of lift available was easily detected by observing the glider's movements during flight. Thermalling circles can be accomplished in about a ten to twelve foot diameter for a period of time. Just make sure you don't try to hold the circle too tight. This may cause a stall, for which there is little warning.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/flyby.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/flyby_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>The average flight time for the first thirty launches was 37.6 seconds. As I became more familiar with the plane, there were better and better flights. To date, the best flight so far is 1 minute 31 seconds from launch to catch.</blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/thermalling.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/nov/candy/thermalling_t.jpg" border="2"></a></p>
<blockquote>Overall, the Candy hand-launch glider combines concise, clear instructions with great quality construction, providing the sport flyer with a very fun and competitive aircraft. The low total weight, wide wing cord, Selig airfoil, and V-tail control make this plane a very nice floater for a wide range of conditions. With the increasing popularity of side-arm launch gliders, the Candy from Hobby-Lobby proves that a traditionally launched plane can indeed charge after the competition.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Happy Thermal Hunting!</blockquote>