Hangar 9 Tango 40 ARF Assembly Manual

Tango 40 ARF

Assembly mAnuAl

Specifications

Wingspan .................................... 48.2 in (1225mm)

Wing Area ........................... 747 sq in (48.2 sq dm)

Length ......................................... 49.4 in (1255mm)

Weight ......................... 5.5–6.5 lb (2.5 kg–2.95 kg)

Engine ..................................... .56–.82 Four-Stroke

....................................... .40–.52 Two-Stroke

...........................................Power 46 Electric

Radio..............4-Channel w/5 Servos (4 for electric)

Table of Contents

Using the Manual ..................................................................3

Required Tools and Adhesives ........................................................3

UltraCote Covering Colors ...........................................................3

Before Starting Assembly ............................................................3

Radio and Power Systems Requirements ................................................4

Recommended JR, JR SPORT and Spektrum Systems ......................................4

Recommended Setup–Glow ..........................................................4

Recommended Setup–Electric ........................................................4

FS One ..........................................................................4

Field Equipment ...................................................................4

Warranty Period ...................................................................5

Limited Warranty...................................................................5

Damage Limits ....................................................................5

Safety Precautions .................................................................5

Questions, Assistance, and Repairs ....................................................6

Inspection or Repairs ...............................................................6

Warranty Inspection and Repairs.......................................................6

Non-Warranty Repairs...............................................................6

Safety, Precautions, and Warnings .....................................................7

Contents of Kit ....................................................................7

Section 1: Aileron Servo Installation....................................................8

Section 2: Landing Gear and Tail Installation ............................................11

Section 3A: Two-Stroke Engine Installation .............................................13

Section 3B: Electric Motor Installation .................................................17

Section 4: Final Assembly ..........................................................20

Control Throws ...................................................................22

Recommended Center of Gravity (CG) .................................................22

Pre-Flight .......................................................................23

Adjusting the Engine...............................................................23

Range Test Your Radio .............................................................23

Maintaining Your Tango 40 ARF ......................................................24

Glossary of Terms.................................................................25

2007 Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code ................................ 26–27

2

Using the Manual

This manual is divided into sections to help make assembly easier to understand, and to provide breaks between each
major section. In addition, check boxes have been placed next to each step to keep track of each step completed. Steps
with a single box (
repeating, such as for a right or left wing panel, two servos, etc. Remember to take your time and follow the directions.

) are performed once, while steps with two boxes ( ) indicate that the step will require

Required Tools and Adhesives

Tools

• Felt-tipped pen or pencil • Flat screwdriver

• Adustable wrench • Drill

• Hobby knife • Masking tape

• Phillips screwdriver (large) • Phillips screwdriver (small)

• Ruler • Sandpaper

• Soldering iron • Solder

• Hex wrench: 3/32-inch

• Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm), 9/64-inch (3.5mm)

Adhesives

• Formiula 560 Canopy Glue (PAAPT56) • Pacer Z-42 Threadlock (PAAPT42)

• Thin CA (cyanoacrylate) Glue (PAAPT07) • CA Remover/Debonder (PAAPT16)

UltraCote Covering Colors

• Orange HANU877 • White HANU870

• Deep Blue HANU873

Before Starting Assembly

Before beginning the assembly of the Tango™ 40, remove each part from its bag for inspection. Closely inspect
the fuselage, wing panels, rudder, and stabilizer for damage. If you find any damaged or missing parts, contact the
place of purchase.

If you find any wrinkles in the covering, use a heat gun or sealing iron to remove them. Use caution while working around
areas where the colors overlap to prevent separating the colors.

HAN101 – Sealing Iron

HAN100 – Heat Gun

HAN141 – Sealing Iron

Sock

HAN150 – Covering Glove

3

Radio and Power Systems Requirements

• 4-channel radio system (minimum) w/Receiver • Large Servo Arms (JSP98060) (3 pkgs)

• JR Standard Switch (JSP98010) • 700mAh Ni-Cd 4-cell (JSP91010)

• 18-inch Servo Lead Extension (JSP98120) (2)

• Y-harness (Ailerons) (JSP98020) (Required when using 4-channel radio)

or 6-inch Servo Lead Extension (JSP98110) (2) when mixing ailerons through the radio

• ST47 Standard Servo (JSP20050) (5) or equivalent (4 when building electric version)

Recommended JR, JR SPORT and Spektrum Systems

• XP9303

• XP7202

• DX7

• XP6102

• XS600

JR XP9303

JR XP7202

Recommended Setup–Glow

• Evolution® .52NX with Muffler (EVOE0520)

• Evolution Propeller 11 x 5 (EVO11050) to 11 x 6 (EVO11060)

Recommended Setup–Electric

• E-flite® Power 46 BL Outrunner Motor (EFLM4046A)

• Castle Creations 60A ESC (CSEPHX60)

• Thunder Power 4S 3850–4500mAh Li-Po Battery Pack

• APC Propeller 13x6.5-inch (APC13065E) to 14x7 (APC14070E)

FS One

With FS One® you get more than photorealistic fields, gorgeous
skies and realistic-looking aircraft. You get incredibly advanced
aerodynamic modeling that simulates every possible aspect
of real-world flight.

Spektrum DX7

Evolution .52NX

EVOE0520

Power 46 Brushless

Outrunner Motor,670KV

EFLM4046A

HANS2000

Field Equipment

• Propeller • Fuel

• Glow Plug Wrench (HAN2510) • Glow Plug Igniter w/charger(HAN7101)

• Glow Plug (EVOGP1) • Manual Fuel Pump (HAN118)

4

Warranty Period

Exclusive Warranty- Horizon Hobby, Inc., (Horizon) warranties that the Products purchased (the "Product") will be free

from defects in materials and workmanship at the date of purchase by the Purchaser.

Limited Warranty

(a) This warranty is limited to the original Purchaser ("Purchaser") and is not transferable. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT
AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE PURCHASER. This warranty covers only
those Products purchased from an authorized Horizon dealer. Third party transactions are not covered by this warranty.
Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims. Further, Horizon reserves the right to change or modify this warranty

without notice and disclaims all other warranties, express or implied.

(b) Limitations- HORIZON MAKES NO WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ABOUT NON­INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OF THE PRODUCT. THE
PURCHASER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THEY ALONE HAVE DETERMINED THAT THE PRODUCT WILL SUITABLY MEET
THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE PURCHASER’S INTENDED USE.

(c) Purchaser Remedy- Horizon's sole obligation hereunder shall be that Horizon will, at its option, (i) repair or (ii)
replace, any Product determined by Horizon to be defective. In the event of a defect, these are the Purchaser's exclusive
remedies. Horizon reserves the right to inspect any and all equipment involved in a warranty claim. Repair or replacement
decisions are at the sole discretion of Horizon. This warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or damage due to acts of

God, accident, misuse, abuse, negligence, commercial use, or modification of or to any part of the Product. This warranty
does not cover damage due to improper installation, operation, maintenance, or attempted repair by anyone other than

Horizon. Return of any goods by Purchaser must be approved in writing by Horizon before shipment.

Damage Limits

HORIZON SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSS OF PROFITS OR
PRODUCTION OR COMMERCIAL LOSS IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH THE PRODUCT, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM

IS BASED IN CONTRACT, WARRANTY, NEGLIGENCE, OR STRICT LIABILITY. Further, in no event shall the liability of

Horizon exceed the individual price of the Product on which liability is asserted. As Horizon has no control over use,

setup, final assembly, modification or misuse, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted for any resulting damage or
injury. By the act of use, setup or assembly, the user accepts all resulting liability.

If you as the Purchaser or user are not prepared to accept the liability associated with the use of this Product, you are
advised to return this Product immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase.

Law: These Terms are governed by Illinois law (without regard to conflict of law principals).

Safety Precautions

This is a sophisticated hobby Product and not a toy. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires
some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this Product in a safe and responsible manner could result in injury
or damage to the Product or other property. This Product is not intended for use by children without direct adult
supervision. The Product manual contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is essential to read
and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate correctly
and avoid damage or injury.

5

Questions, Assistance, and Repairs

Your local hobby store and/or place of purchase cannot provide warranty support or repair. Once assembly, setup or

use of the Product has been started, you must contact Horizon directly. This will enable Horizon to better answer your

questions and service you in the event that you may need any assistance. For questions or assistance, please direct your
email to [e-mail], or call 877.504.0233 toll free to speak to a service technician.

Inspection or Repairs

If this Product needs to be inspected or repaired, please call for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Pack
the Product securely using a shipping carton. Please note that original boxes may be included, but are not designed
to withstand the rigors of shipping without additional protection. Ship via a carrier that provides tracking and insurance
for lost or damaged parcels, as Horizon is not responsible for merchandise until it arrives and is accepted
at our facility. A Service Repair Request is available at www.horizonhobby.com on the “Support” tab. If you do not
have internet access, please include a letter with your complete name, street address, email address and phone number
where you can be reached during business days, your RMA number, a list of the included items, method of payment
for any non-warranty expenses and a brief summary of the problem. Your original sales receipt must also be included
for warranty consideration. Be sure your name, address, and RMA number are clearly written on the outside of the
shipping carton.

Warranty Inspection and Repairs

To receive warranty service, you must include your original sales receipt verifying the proof-of-purchase
date. Provided warranty conditions have been met, your Product will be repaired or replaced free of charge. Repair or

replacement decisions are at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby.

Non-Warranty Repairs

Should your repair not be covered by warranty the repair will be completed and payment will be
required without notification or estimate of the expense unless the expense exceeds 50% of the retail
purchase cost. By submitting the item for repair you are agreeing to payment of the repair without notification. Repair

estimates are available upon request. You must include this request with your repair. Non-warranty repair estimates will
be billed a minimum of ½ hour of labor. In addition you will be billed for return freight. Please advise us of your preferred

method of payment. Horizon accepts money orders and cashiers checks, as well as Visa, MasterCard, American Express,

and Discover cards. If you choose to pay by credit card, please include your credit card number and expiration date. Any
repair left unpaid or unclaimed after 90 days will be considered abandoned and will be disposed of accordingly. Please
note: non-warranty repair is only available on electronics and model engines.

Electronics and engines requiring inspection or repair should be shipped to the following address:

Horizon Service Center

4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

All other Products requiring warranty inspection or repair should be shipped to the following address:

Horizon Product Support

4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

Please call 877-504-0233 with any questions or concerns regarding this product or warranty.

6

Safety, Precautions, and Warnings

This model is controlled by a radio signal that is subject to interference from many sources outside your control. This
interference can cause momentary loss of control so it is advisable to always keep a safe distance in all directions around
your model, as this margin will help to avoid collisions or injury.

• Always operate your model in an open area away from cars, traffic, or people.

• Avoid operating your model in the street where injury or damage can occur.

• Never operate the model into the street or populated areas for any reason.

• Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.

• Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable

battery packs, etc.) that you use.

• Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the reach of children.

• Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid water exposure to all equipment not specifically designed and protected

for this purpose.

Contents of Kit

Replacement Parts

A. HAN4601 Wing Set
B. HAN4602 Fuselage
C. HAN4603 Tail Set
D. HAN4604 Landing Gear w/o Wheels
E. HAN4607 Windshield

E

A

Items Not Shown

HAN4605 Decal Sheet
HAN4606 Pushrod Set

B

D

C

7

Section 1: Aileron Servo Installation

Required Parts

• Wing panel w/ailerons

• Servo w/hardware (2)

• Pre-assembled 3

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Drill • Thin CA

• Phillips screwdriver • Long servo arm

• Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)

1

/2-inch (89mm) aileron linkage (2)

  Step 1

Check to make sure the hinges have been securely glued
into place. Gently pull on each aileron to make sure the
hinges are secure. Avoid too much pressure which could
cause damage to the wing and aileron. Saturate each
hinge if you find any that are loose.

  Step 2

Flex each aileron up and down a number of times to
break in the hinges.

  Step 3

Prepare an aileron servo by installing the grommets and
brass eyelets provided with the servo.

8

Section 1: Aileron Servo Installation

  Step 4

Tie the string that exits the servo opening to the servo
extension. Use the string to pull the servo lead through
the wing.

  Step 5

Place the servo into the opening with the servo output arm
towards the leading edge of the wing. Use a felt-tipped
pen to mark the locations for the four servo mounting
screws.

  Step 6

Remove the servo and drill the locations for the servo
mounting screws using a 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit.

  Step 7

Apply a couple drops of thin CA to each hole to harden
the wood, which will help in preventing the screws from
damaging the wood.

9

Section 1: Aileron Servo Installation

  Step 8

Secure the servo using the screws provided with the
servo. Remove the stock servo horn and install a long
servo arm in its place. Remove the side of the arm that
does not align with the control horn.

  Step 9

  Step 10

Attach the clevis to the control horn. With the radio system
on and the aileron trim and stick centered, check that the
aileron is centered when viewed from the wing tip. Adjust
the length of the linkage if necessary.

  Step 11

Enlarge the outer hole of the servo arm using a
5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit. Remove the pushrod keeper
from the linkage and slide the bend through the servo
arm. Secure the pushrod to the servo arm by replacing
the pushrod keeper.

Use tape on the servo lead to prevent it from falling back
into the wing.

 Step 12

Repeat Steps 1 through 11 for the remaining aileron servo.

10

Section 2: Landing Gear and Tail Installation

Required Parts

• Landing gear w/wheels • Fuselage

• 1-inch (25mm) tail wheel • Rudder assembly

• Stabilizer assembly • 4-40 locknut (2)

•#4 washer (large) (2) •#6 washer (3)

• 5/64-inch wheel collar • 4-40 setscrew

• 6-32 x 3/4-inch machine screw (3)

• Pre-assembled 4

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Servo w/hardware (2) • Long servo arm (2)

• Adjustable wrench

• Threadlock

• 18-inch (458mm) servo extension (2)

1

/2-inch (114mm) linkage (2)

 Step 1

Attach the landing gear to the bottom of the fuselage

using three 6-32 x 3/4-inch machine screws and three #6

washers.

 Step 2

Slide the threaded rods from the rudder assembly into the
holes in the stabilizer. The two forward rods go through
the stabilizer as shown.

 Step 3

Slide the rudder/stabilizer onto the fuselage. Guide the
threaded rods through the stabilizer saddle then through
the holes in the bottom of the fuselage.

Note: Use threadlock on the screws to
prevent them from vibrating loose in flight.

11

Section 2: Landing Gear and Tail Installation

 Step 4

Secure the tail assembly to the fuselage using two larger

#4 washers and two 4-40 locknuts. Do not over-tighten

the nuts and crush the fuselage.

 Step 5

Secure the tail wheel into position using the 5/64-inch
wheel collar and the 4-40 setscrew.

  Step 6

Attach an 18-inch (458mm) servo extension to the
rudder servo. Secure the extension using a commercially
available connector, heat shrink tubing or string so it will
not unplug inside the fuselage.

  Step 7

Note: Use threadlock on the setscrew to

prevent it from vibrating loose in flight.

Center the servo using the radio and install a long servo
arm onto the servo. Use the photo to determine which
arm to trim off, as it will hit the elevator if left in place.
Mount the rudder servo into the fuselage using the same
procedure as the aileron servo.

12

Section 2: Landing Gear and Tail Installation

  Step 8

Install the pre-assembled 4
linkage. With the radio on, adjust the length of the linkage
so the rudder is centered.

1

/2-inch (114mm) rudder

 Step 9

Repeat Steps 6 through 8 to install the elevator servo
and linkage.

Section 3A: Two-Stroke Engine Installation

Required Parts

• Fuselage • Engine mount (2)

•#6 washer (4) • Pushrod connector

• 6-32 locknut (4) • #4 washer

• 4-40 x 1/2-inch socket head screw

• 6-32 x 1-inch machine screw (8)

• 15-inch (380mm) throttle pushrod

1

• 2

/2-inch (64mm) spinner w/hardware

• Pushrod connector backplate

• 3mm x 5mm machine screw

• Plywood radio tray (glow)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Servo w/hardware • Ruler

• Drill • Phillips screwdriver

• Hex wrench: 3/32-inch • Hobby knife

• Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm),

9/64-inch (4mm)

 Step 1

Mount the engine mount onto the firewall using four
6-32 x 1-inch screws.

Note: Use the vertical holes for
mounting the engine mount.

Note: Use threadlock on the screws to
prevent them from vibrating loose in flight.

13

Section 3A: Two-Stroke Engine Installation

 Step 2

Position the engine on the engine mount so the drive
washer is 4 inches (102mm) ahead of the firewall. Mark
the location of the engine mounting bolts using a felt­tipped pen. Use a 9/64-inch (4mm) drill bit to drill the
holes in the engine mount.

 Step 4

Slide the 15-inch (380mm) throttle pushrod into the
pushrod tube and attach the clevis to the carburetor arm.

Hint: Use a drill press to get the holes in
the mount perpendicular to the mount.

 Step 3

Mount the engine to the mount using four 6-32 x 1-inch

machine screws, four #6 washers and four 6-32 locknuts.

 Step 5

Install the muffler onto your engine using the instructions
provided with the engine as a guide.

14

Section 3A: Two-Stroke Engine Installation

 Step 6

Install the propeller and spinner onto the engine.
Consult the instructions provided with your engine
for further details.

 Step 7

Remove the access hatch from the bottom of the fuselage.

 Step 8

Install the throttle servo into the fuselage. Turn on the
radio system and center the throttle stick and trim. Slide
the pushrod into the brass connector. Position the servo
horn onto the servo so the horn is perpendicular to the
servo centerline.

 Step 9

Remove the servo horn and attach the pushrod connector
to the throttle servo arm using the connector backplate.
You will need to enlarge the hole in the servo arm using a
5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit.

15

Section 3A: Two-Stroke Engine Installation

 Step 10

Use the radio to move the throttle to the low setting
using the stick and trim. Move the pushrod so the
carburetor is closed. Secure the pushrod wire using a
3mm x 5mm machine screw.

 Step 11

Check that the throttle operates from the radio without
binding at low and high throttle. Use the ATV setting
of the radio or change the position of the clevis at the
carburetor or the pushrod connector at the servo to
eliminate any binding.

 Step 13

Attach the lines from the fuel tank to the engine. The
green line will attach to the fuel inlet, and the red to
the muffler pressure.

 Step 14

Use a 4-40 x 1/2-inch socket head screw to secure the
radio tray in the fuselage. Two trays have been supplied
with your Tango 40, so use the one with the notch at the
front that will hold the fuel tank in position.

 Step 12

Place the tank inside the fuselage with the vent towards
the top of the fuselage. Use the rubber bands to hold the
fuel tank in position inside the fuselage.

16

Section 3B: Electric Motor Installation

Required Parts

• Fuselage • #4 washer

• Hook and loop strap

•Plywood battery tray (electric)

• 6-32 x 2

1

/2-inch machine screw (4)

• 4-40 x 1/2-inch socket head screw

• 1-inch (25mm) aluminum motor spacer (4)

1

• 2

/2-inch (64mm) spinner w/hardware

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Phillips screwdriver • Threadlock

• Hobby knife • Soldering iron

• Solder • Drill

• Hex wrench: 3/32-inch

• Female Deans connector w/wire

• Male Deans connector

 Step 1

Attach the X-mount to the back of the motor using the

hardware provided with the motor. Remember to put a
drop of threadlock on each of the screws to prevent them
from vibrating loose.

 Step 2

Attach the motor to the firewall using the four
1-inch (25mm) aluminum motor spacers and four
6-32 x 1

1

/2-inch machine screws.

Note: Use threadlock on the screws to
prevent them from vibrating loose in flight.

17

Section 3B: Electric Motor Installation

 Step 4

Solder the appropriate connectors onto the speed control.

 Step 5

Secure the speed control to the plywood battery tray
as shown. Make sure it will not move when installed
in the fuselage.

 Step 6

Slide the plywood battery tray into the fuselage. Secure
the tray using a 4-40 x 1/2-inch socket head screw and

#4 washer.

 Step 7

Connect the leads from the motor to the speed control.
Secure the wires so they will not interfere with the
operation of the motor.

18

Section 3B: Electric Motor Installation

 Step 8

Remove the covering from the bottom of the fuselage to
allow for cooling air through the fuselage.

 Step 9

Plug the motor into the speed control. Secure the
batteries using the hook and loop strap. Plug the speed
control into the receiver. Mount the speed control inside
the fuselage so it will not interfere with the installation
and removal of the batteries.

 Step 10

Turn on the radio system. Plug the batteries and speed
control together. Use the throttle on the transmitter to
check that everything is working correctly. Check that
the motor is rotating counterclockwise. If not, follow the
directions included with the speed control to correct the
situation.

Note: Always check that the motor will not
interfere with anything on your workbench.
Never operate the motor at full throttle without
a load. Simply use this to check the rotation
of the motor before installing the propeller.

 Step 11

Install the propeller and spinner using the instructions
included with your particular motor.

Note: Apply a piece of hook and loop (not
included) on the batteries and battery tray if
you find the batteries slide forward or aft.

19

Section 4: Final Assembly

Required Parts

• Fuselage • Wing

• Canopy • Hook and loop strap

• 1/4-20 x 2-inch nylon bolt (2)

Required Tools and Adhesives

• Canopy glue • Flat screwdriver

• Masking tape • 1/4-inch foam

• Hobby knife • Receiver

• Receiver battery • Switch harness

 Step 1

Wrap the receiver and receiver battery in 1/4-inch foam to
protect them from vibration.

 Step 3

Place the receiver (both electric and glow) into the
fuselage on the top of the plywood tray. Use a hook and
loop strap to secure the battery to the tray as shown.

Note: When using an electric motor
and a receiver pack, place the pack
underneath the receiver to provide
more room for the motor batteries.

 Step 2

Plug the throttle, elevator and rudder servo leads, as well
as the switch harness, into the receiver. Route the receiver
antenna to the rear of the fuselage. A tube has been pre­installed for routing the receiver antenna wire.

Note: In glow applications, the receiver
battery is placed on the bottom side of the
plywood tray, and the strap will go around
both the receiver and receiver battery.

 Step 4

Mount the switch harness in the side of the fuselage. The
switch should be on the opposite side of the muffler when
using a glow engine.

20

Section 4: Final Assembly

 Step 5 (Glow)

Place the hatch back into position on the bottom of the

fuselage. Use a 4-40 x 1/2-inch socket head screw and #4

washer to secure the hatch in position.

Note: Use a small 1/4-inch (4mm)
piece of fuel tubing slide onto the
screw before installation to keep it
from vibrating loose in flight.

 Step 6

Use canopy glue to secure the canopy to the fuselage.
Use masking tape to hold the canopy in position until
the glue fully cures.

 Step 7

Attach the wing to the fuselage using two
1/4-20 x 2-inch nylon bolts.

 Step 5 (Electric)

Use a hobby knife to remove the covering from the small
hole near the magnets in the hatch. This is so you can
easily remove the hatch. Place the hatch into position on
the bottom of the fuselage.

21

Control Throws

The amount of control throw should be adjusted as closely
as possible using mechanical means, rather than making
large changes electronically at the radio. By moving
the position of the clevis at the control horn toward the
outermost hole, you will decrease the amount of control
throw of the control surface. Moving it toward the control
surface will increase the amount of throw. Moving the
pushrod wire at the servo arm will have the opposite
effect: Moving it closer to center will decrease throw,
and away from center will increase throw. Work with a
combination of the two to achieve the closest or exact
control throws listed.

Aileron Low Rate 1

Aileron High Rate 2

1

/2-inch (38mm) up/down

1

/2-inch (63mm) up/down

Note: Aileron throw is measured at the
inboard trailing edge of the aileron.

Elevator Low Rate 1

Elevator High Rate 2

1

/4-inch (32mm) up/down

1

/2-inch (63mm) up/down

Rudder Low Rate 2-inch (51mm) right/left

Rudder High Rate 2

3

/4-inch (70mm) right/left

Note: Rudder throw is measured
at the bottom of the rudder.

Once the control throws have been set, slide the clevis
retainers over the clevis to prevent them from opening
during flight.

Note: Elevator throw is measured at the
inboard trailing edge of the elevator.

Recommended Center of Gravity (CG)

An important part of preparing the aircraft for flight is
properly balancing the model. This is especially important
when various engines are mounted.

Caution: Do not inadvertently skip this step!

The recommended Center of Gravity (CG) location
for the Tango 40 is 4- to 5-inches (102–127mm) behind
the leading edge of the wing against the fuselage. Mark
the location of the CG on the bottom of the wing
as shown. Turn the airframe upright to balance. The
Tango 40 must be upright when measuring the CG or it
will not balance correctly. If necessary, move the battery
pack or add weight to either the nose or the tail until the
correct balance is achieved. Stick-on weights are available
at your local hobby store and work well for this purpose.

22

Pre-Flight

Charge both the transmitter and receiver pack for your
airplane. Use the recommended charger supplied with
your particular radio system, following the instructions
provided with the radio. In most cases, the radio should
be charged the night before going out flying.

Check the radio installation and make sure all the
control surfaces are moving correctly (i.e. the correct
direction and with the recommended throws). Test run
the engine and make sure it transitions smoothly from
idle to full throttle and back. Also ensure the engine is
tuned according to the manufacturer’s instructions,
and it will run consistently and constantly at full throttle
when adjusted.

Adjusting the Engine

 Step 1

Check all the control horns, servo horns and clevises to
make sure they are secure and in good condition. Replace
any items that would be considered questionable. Failure
of any of these components in flight would mean the loss
of your aircraft.

 Step 3

Completely read the instructions included with your
engine and follow the recommended break in procedure.

 Step 2

At the field, adjust the engine to a slightly rich setting at
full throttle and adjust the idle and low-speed needle so
that a consistent idle is achieved.

Range Test Your Radio

Range check your radio system before each flying
session. This is accomplished by turning on your
transmitter with the antenna collapsed. Turn on the radio
in your airplane. With your airplane on the ground, you
should be able to walk 30 paces away from your airplane
and still have complete control of all functions. If not,

don’t attempt to fly! Have your radio equipment checked

out by the manufacturer.

Before you fly, be sure that your engine idles reliably,
transitions and runs at all throttle settings. Only when this
is achieved should any plane be considered ready
for flight.

23

Maintaining Your Tango 40 ARF

The following is a check list that you should follow
every time you have completed a flying session with
your Tango 40. Doing so will keep your aircraft
in the best flying condition.

Clean Up

If you are flying with a glow engine you will want to clean
your Tango 40 before loading it into your vehicle to head
home. Use a cleaner such as Windex or 409 and a paper
towel to wipe down the exterior of your plane, removing
the fuel residue. Remember a clean plane will last longer

since the fuel won’t be allowed to soak into any exposed

wood. Even an electic plane may need a little cleaning to
remove any grass or bugs from the airframe.

Checking the Propeller

Check to make sure the propeller is tightly secured to
the engine. If not, remove the spinner and use a crescent
wrench to tighten it back down. If you have had any not­so-great landings, you will want to inspect the propeller
for any damage. Small nicks and scratches can quickly
become fractures, causing the propeller to be unsafe for
flight. Always carry a few spare propellers so a damaged
propeller can be replaced at the field, increasing your
flying time per trip to the field.

Checking the Clevises

Inspect the aileron, elevator and rudder clevises to make
sure they are connected and in good working order. If
you find a clevis that is showing signs of wear or is
broken, replace it with a new clevis. Also check the nylon
connectors at the servo for any wear or damage. If they
look worn or in bad shape, replace them as well.

Checking the Control Horns

Inspect the control horns to make sure they have not
crushed the wood of the control surface. If so, remove the
control horn screws to remove the control horn. Place 2–3
drops of thin CA into each of the screw holes. In addition,
use a T-pin to poke small holes in the covering in the area
where the control horn mounts, then saturate the area with
thin CA. This will harden the wood and give the control
horns a solid surface to be mounted to.

Checking the Wheel Collars

Check the setscrews on the main and tail wheel wheel
collars to make sure they are not loose. Use a 1.5mm
hex wrench to tighten the setscrews. It is suggested if
they loosen frequently to remove them, apply threadlock
to the setscrews, then secure the wheel collars back
into position.

Check the Muffler Bolts

If you are flying with a glow engine, use a 2.5mm hex
wrench to make sure the bolts holding the muffler onto the
engine are tight and have not vibrated loose during flight.

Check the Engine or Motor Mount Bolts

Remove the spinner and propeller from the engine (or
motor) and then remove the cowling from the fuselage.
Remove the muffler from the engine (if using a glow
engine). Use a Phillips screwdriver and adjustable
wrench to make sure the four bolts securing the engine
to the mount are tight. Use a Phillips screwdriver to
check that the bolts holding the mount to the firewall
are tight as well.

24

Glossary of Terms

• Ailerons: Each side of this airplane has a hinged
control surface (aileron), located on the trailing edge of
the wing. Move the aileron stick on the transmitter left;
the left aileron moves up and the right aileron moves
down. Moving the left aileron up causes more drag and
less lift, causing the left wing to drop down. When the
right aileron moves down, more lift is created, causing
the right wing to rise. This interaction causes the
airplane to turn or roll to the left. Perform the opposite
actions, and the airplane will roll to the right.

• Clevis: The clevis connects the wire end of the pushrod
to the control horn of the control surface. A small clip,
the clevis has fine threads so that you can adjust the
length of the pushrod.

• Control Horn: This arm connects the control surface
to the clevis and pushrod.

• Dihedral: The degree of angle (V-shaped bend)

at which the wings intersect the fuselage is called
dihedral. More dihedral gives an airplane more
aerodynamic stability. Some sailplanes and trainer
planes with large dihedral dispense with ailerons and
use only the rudder to control the roll and yaw.

• Elevator: The hinged control surface on the back of the
stabilizer that moves to control the airplane’s pitch axis.
Pulling the transmitter’s control stick toward the bottom

of the transmitter moves the elevator upward, and the
airplane begins to climb. Push the control stick forward,
and the airplane begins to dive.

• Fuselage: The main body of an airplane.

• Pitch Axis: The horizontal plane on which the
airplane’s nose is raised or lowered. By moving the
elevator, you can raise the airplane’s nose above the

pitch axis (climb) or lower it below the pitch axis (dive).

• Pushrod: The rigid mechanism that transfers
movement from the servo to the control surface.

• Roll Axis: The horizontal plane on which the airplane’s

wings are raised or lowered. By adjusting the ailerons,
you can drop a wing tip below the roll axis and cause
the airplane to bank or roll.

• Rudder: The hinged control surface on the vertical
stabilizer that controls the airplane’s yaw. Moving the

rudder to the left causes the airplane to yaw left; moving
the rudder to the right causes it to yaw right.

• Servo: The servo transforms your transmitter
commands into physical adjustments of the airplane.

• Servo Output Arm: A removable arm or wheel
that connects the servo to the pushrod (also called
servo horn).

• Spinner: Term describing the nose cone that covers
the propeller hub.

• Threadlock: A liquid that solidifies; used to prevent
screws from loosening due to vibration.

• Torque Rods: Inserted into the ailerons, these rigid
wire rods run along the wing’s trailing edge, then bend

downward and connect to the pushrod.

• Vertical Stabilizer: The vertical flying surface of the
tail gives an airplane stability while in flight.

• Hinge: Flexible pieces used to connect the control
surface to the flying surface. All hinges must be
glued properly and securely to prevent the airplane
from crashing.

• Horizontal Stabilizer: The horizontal flying surface of
the tail gives the airplane stability while in flight.

• Leading Edge: The front of a flying surface.

• Main Landing Gear: The wheel and gear assembly

the airplane uses to land. It is attached to the bottom of
the fuselage.

• Wheel Collar: The round retaining piece that anchors
wheels in place on the wheel axle.

• Wing: The lifting surface of an airplane.

• Yaw Axis: The vertical plane through which the
airplane’s nose rotates as it yaws to the left or to the

right. The rudder controls the yaw axis.

25

2007 Official AMA

National Model Aircraft Safety Code

GENERAL

1. A model aircraft shall be defined as a non-human­carrying device capable of sustained flight in the
atmosphere. It shall not exceed limitations established
in this code and is intended to be used exclusively for
recreational or competition activity.

2. The maximum takeoff weight of a model aircraft,
including fuel, is 55 pounds, except for those flown
under the AMA Experimental Aircraft Rules.

3. I will abide by this Safety Code and all rules
established for the flying site I use. I will not willfully
fly my model aircraft in a reckless and/or dangerous
manner.

4. I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events,
air shows, or model demonstrations until it has been
proven airworthy.

5. I will not fly my model aircraft higher than
approximately 400 feet above ground level, when
within three (3) miles of an airport without notifying the
airport operator. I will yield the right-of-way and avoid
flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft, utilizing a
spotter when appropriate.

6. I will not fly my model aircraft unless it is identified
with my name and address, or AMA number, inside or
affixed to the outside of the model aircraft. This does
not apply to model aircraft flown indoors.

7. I will not operate model aircraft with metal-blade
propellers or with gaseous boosts (other than air),
nor will I operate model aircraft with fuels containing
tetranitromethane or hydrazine.

8. I will not operate model aircraft carrying pyrotechnic
devices which explode burn, or propel a projectile
of any kind. Exceptions include Free Flight fuses or
devices that burn producing smoke and are securely
attached to the model aircraft during flight. Rocket
motors up to a G-series size may be used, provided
they remain firmly attached to the model aircraft during
flight. Model rockets may be flown in accordance with
the National Model Rocketry Safety Code; however,
they may not be launched from model aircraft. Officially
designated AMAAir Show Teams (AST) are authorized
to use devices and practices as defined within the Air
Show Advisory Committee Document.

9. I will not operate my model aircraft while under the
influence of alcohol or within eight (8) hours of having
consumed alcohol.

10. I will not operate my model aircraft while using any
drug which could adversely affect my ability to safely
control my model aircraft.

11. Children under six (6) years old are only allowed on
a flightline or in a flight area as a pilot or while under
flight instruction.

12. When and where required by rule, helmets must be

properly worn and fastened. They must be OSHA, DOT,

ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE approved or comply with
comparable standards.

26

2007 Official AMA

National Model Aircraft Safety Code

Radio Control

1. All model flying shall be conducted in a manner to
avoid over flight of unprotected people.

2. I will have completed a successful radio equipment
ground-range check before the first flight of a new or
repaired model aircraft.

3. I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of
spectators until I become a proficient flier, unless I am
assisted by an experienced pilot.

4. At all flying sites a line must be established, in front of
which all flying takes place. Only personnel associated
with flying the model aircraft are allowed at or in front
of the line. In the case of airshows demonstrations
straight line must be established. An area away from
the line must be maintained for spectators. Intentional
flying behind the line is prohibited.

5. I will operate my model aircraft using only radio­control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC). Only individuals
properly licensed by the FCC are authorized to operate
equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.

6. I will not knowingly operate my model aircraft within
three (3) miles of any preexisting flying site without
a frequency-management agreement. A frequency­management agreement may be an allocation of
frequencies for each site, a day-use agreement between
sites, or testing which determines that no interference
exists. A frequency-management agreement may exist
between two or more AMA chartered clubs, AMA
clubs and individual AMA members, or individual
AMA members. Frequency-management agreements,
including an interference test report if the agreement
indicates no interference exists, will be signed by all

parties and copies provided to AMA Headquarters.

7. With the exception of events flown under official AMA
rules, no powered model may be flown outdoors closer
than 25 feet to any individual, except for the pilot and
located at the flight line.

8. Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person
touch a model aircraft in flight while it is still under
power, except to divert it from striking an individual.

9. Radio-controlled night flying is limited to low­performance model aircraft (less than 100 mph).
The model aircraft must be equipped with a lighting

system which clearly defines the aircraft's attitude and

direction at all times.

10. The operator of a radio-controlled model aircraft shall
control it during the entire flight, maintaining visual
contact without enhancement other than by corrective
lenses that are prescribed for the pilot. No model
aircraft shall be equipped with devices which allow it
to be flown to a selected location which is beyond the
visual range of the pilot.

27

10842

© 2007 Horizon Hobby, Inc.

4105 Fieldstone Road

Champaign, Illinois 61822

[phone]

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