Durafly Curtiss P-40N User manual

The Curtiss
Please read this manual carefully
before operating this plane.
Instruction Manual

Read this instruction manual fully so as to become completely familiar with the features of this
product before operating. Failure to operate this product correctly could result in damage to the
product, personal property and cause serious injury. This is a sophisticated hobby product and
is NOT a toy. It must always be operated with caution, common sense and some basic
mechanical ability. This manual provides instructions as the the assembly, safe operation and
maintainence of this hobby product. It is highly reccommneded that you follow and read fully the
instructions and warnings stated in this manual including safety, assembly, set-up and flying
guidelines in order to operate this product correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.
As the user of this product you and you alone are responsible for operating it in a manner that
does not endanger yourself and others around you or result in damage to the product orproperty
of others. This product is operated via a radio controlled system that in some cases can be
subject to interference from sources outside of your control. Interference may result in a
momentary loss of control so it is always recommended that this product be used in a suitably
open outdoors space.
- This is a radio controlled flying model and as such must always be flown with caution and
care. This is not a toy.
- The P-40 is designed for intermediate to advanced pilots.
- Alway exercise great caution when using the recommended battery to power this product.
For full safety notes and operating procedures, please see information provided by your
battery supplier.
- Take great care when connecting/disconnecting the battery. See battery supplier for full
safety procedures.
- Never power up the model in confined spaces and always keep the prop clear of
obstructions.
- This product is not a toy. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times if operating
this product.
- Only fly this model in an open area away from crowds, people, buildings, tree's, power lines
and obstructions.
- Always put safety first when operating this model and consider the warnings stated above.
- The supplier/manufacturer accepts no responsibility for damage or injury caused through the
use of the product. Not suitable for children under the age of 14. THIS IS NOT A TOY.

CONTENTS
Introduction
Specifications
Contents Of Box
Required To Complete Model
Assembly
Setting Up Your Model
CG and battery placement
1
1
2
2
3-9
10-12
12-13
Model Flying Precautions
Pre-flight Checks
14
14
Flying Your P-40N
P-40N General Tips
Spare Parts Listing
Decal Application Guidelines
Decal Tips
15
16
17
17-18
18
American USAAF Markings
British RAF Markings
Soviet Air Force Markings
Dutch NEIAF Markings
Australian RAAF Markings
Propeller Decals
19-21
22-24
25-27
28-30
31-33
34
Trouble Shooting 35

1
SPECIFICATION
Wingspan:1100mm (43.3”)
Flying weight:1300/1400g (45/49oz) 3/4 cell
Length:1000mm (39.3”)
Servos:7 x 9g type (2 aileron, 2 flap, elevator, rudder, bomb system)
Motor: Durafly 3536 900Kv brushless outrunner
ESC: Durafly 45amp
Battery: 2200mah 3S 60-65C or 2200mah 4S 25-30C
Channels: 6-7 required (7 if using included bomb system)
INTRODUCTION
The Curtiss P-40 was one of the most widely used fighters of WW2, seeing more combat in more
theaters globally than any other fighter from either side of the conflict. The later 'N' model was
considered by pilots to be the finest version of this versatile aircraft, and seeing as Durafly makes the
best EPO warbirds out there, what could be better than a P-40N from Durafly.
The Durafly P-40N captures beautifully not only the classic lines of this much loved (though often
over shadowed) fighter, but with the multiple national markings provided in the box, it pays homage
to the many airman of the many nations under which it served valiantly in WW2. This P-40N sets a
new standard for Durafly both in terms of finish close up on the ground and truly warbird like
performance in the air. Boasting a whole host of unique features that include: 100 degree metal
trunnion twist and turn retracts for rock solid ground handling, super smooth paint and surface finish
with fine scale panel lines, and for the first time with a Durafly 1100mm warbird, a power train suitable
for both 3 and 4S set-up’s with no modifications required.
Durafly is proud to bring you this P-40N and we're confident you'll share that pride both when on the
ground, and in the air.

In its ‘Plug n Fly’ format the Durafly P-40N requires some additional electronic components to get it
flight ready. Durafly recommends the products below for optimum performance and great value.
Available at hobbyking.com
REQUIRED TO COMPLETE MODEL
OrangeRx R720X 7ch 2.4Ghz
Receiver
Part No. R720X
2
1
3
456
7
8
9
2
CONTENTS OF BOX
10
1. Main Wing
2. Fuselage
3. Horizontal Tail Set
4. Plastic Scale Parts
5. Spinner
6. Bomb
7. Propeller Blades
8. Decal Sets
9. Accessories Set
10. Manual
Turnigy A-SPEC 2200mAh
3S 65C Lipo:
Part No. 9472000003-0
OrangeRx T-SIX 2.4GHz 6CH
Programmable Tx:
Part No. 9403000001 Mode 1
9403000001 Mode 2
Zippy Compact 2200mAh
4S 25C Lipo:
Part No. ZC.2200.4S.25

ASSEMBLY
1. Out of the box your P-40N comes with reinforced foam hinges. However before assembly can begin,
each hinge line must be flexed back and forth 5-6 times to reduce tension, and load on the servo.
Do this for all control surfaces before continuing.
NOTE: Your P-40N comes with a selection of scale decals/markings to choose from.
Application of these decals is highly recommended BEFORE you begin assembly of the
model. Please refer to ‘Decal application’on pages 17-18 of this manual for illustrated
guides on how to apply each set.
2A. Locate both aileron and flap control horns, plates and push rods. Screw each horn in place as
shown below using the screws provided. Aileron horn screws pass through the aileron and screw
into the receiving horn plate. The flaps screws screw directly into the plastic of the flap.
2B. Raise each servos horn until at 90 degree’s to the wing and attach the push rods to the outer holes
of both servo and control horn. Adjust the plastic clevis on the rods until the ailerons are neutral
and the flaps are closed. Further adjustments can be made later during the ‘set-up’ stage of the
manual.
2x6mm
1.7x10mm
3

1.7x15mm
3. Repeat this process for the rudder and elevator control horns, ensuring the screws tighten firmly
into the control horn plate on the opposite side of each control surface.
1.7x15mm
4

2.6x6mm
4. Insert that carbon tail spar into one half of the horizontal tail and slide into the opening at the rear of
the fuselage ensuring the plastic screw tabs key fully into the fuselage sides. Repeat with the second
half and once aligned, screw firmly in place with the 3x8mm screws as shown. A little glue may be
applied at this stage for added security if desired.
5. Into the hole of the elevator joint, screw the single 2.6x6mm screw as shown to ensure the elevator
halves remain connected.
3x8mm
5

2.7x30mm 2.7x25mm
6. Attach the wing to the fuselage and ensure the servo wires from the wing pass through only the 3rd
hole from the rear of the plywood tray into the fuselage. This will ensure the wing sits correctly on the
fuselage. Once in place, screw the wing firmly down using the screws provided as shown below.
7. Push each of the propeller blades fully into the slots of the spinner back plate. Note that the
numbered sides of the blade face outwards. Secure each blade to the back plate using the 2.6x8mm
screws as shown. Check that the distance between each blade tip is equally. If not, loosen adjust
and tighten again.
6
2.6x8mm

3x50mm bolt
8. Slide the assembled back plate and blades onto the motor shaft ensuring the back plate keys
properly onto the base of the shaft. Fit the supplied washer then nut onto the shaft and tighten the
nut firmly to the shaft.
9. Position the spinner in place over the back plate and insert the 3x50mm bolt into the tip and tighten.
A small amount of medium thread lock can be used if desired for extra security.
7

2x20mm
9. Using a small amount of the glue supplied, glue the longer aerial into the slot behind the canopy, the
short aerial into the slot of the battery hatch and the pitot tube onto the leading edge of the left wing
panel as illustrated below.
10. Position the radiator cowl into place on the bottom leading edge of the wing. Using the 2x20mm
screws supplied screw directly into the foam under the screw holes and into the internal plywood
inserts. It is recommended not to over tighten these screws so as to make wing removal easier
when required.
8

Assembly of your Durafly P-40N is now complete.
Before you move onto the final set-up of the model, check all screws,
bolts and components ensuring all are secure and firmly in place.
11. The final stage of assembly is to test fit droppable bomb. Simply drop the bomb into the slot on
the underside of the wing center and you are done, the magnets will take care of the rest! The
bomb release system is covered on page 12 of this manual.
9

2. Check all control surfaces are moving in the correct direction with the applicable stick input (see below)
1. With your receiver installed and all servos plugged into their corresponding channels, connect the flight
battery to the ESC to power up the electronics. With the model now armed, ensure all servos are
centered and all control surfaces are level. If not, adjust by turning the control clevis’s by hand
accordingly until the control surfaces are level as shown.
Note: For safety reasons, it is advised that this is done with the prop removed from the model.
SETTING UP YOUR MODEL
AileronsElevator Rudder
10

3. The P-40N handles very well in flight but requires setting up beforehand. Please follow the
recommended settings below for good all round flight performance.
10-20mm
10-20mm
15-35mm
15-35mm
12-20mm
12-20mm
Rudder
25mm/1” 60mm/2.3”
55-65mm
4. Flaps on the P-40N will need to be set for 3 stages (up flap, mid flap and full flap). Either via your
radio or mechanically by turning the clevis’s on the flap control rod (or via both in most cases), set
mid flap with a distance of 25mm(1”) between the trailing edge of the wing and the flap (see below).
For full flaps a distance of 60mm(2.3”) is recommended. In the ‘up flap’ position ensure the flaps
close fully without straining the servos. Also check that both flap deploy equally.
* Elevator ‘low rates’ 10mm ‘high rates’ 20mm in either direction from neutral.
* Aileron ‘low rates’ 12mm ‘high rates’ 20mm in either direction from neutral.
* Rudder ‘low rates’ 15mm ‘high rates’ 35mm in either direction from neutral
* Bomb/AUX switch 100% up -100% down. If you can hear bomb servo straining,
adjust this percentage.
11

CG AND BATTERY PLACEMENT
Make sure the center gravity (CG) is as indicated in the following diagram. From the leading
edge of the wing CG is approximately 55-65mm.
Position 1 Position 2
55-65mm
CG
5. Your P-40’s scale bomb drop system operates via a 2 position aux switch on your radio. With the
bomb drop servo connected to the corresponding channel on your receiver, ensure that the bomb
holds firmly (but without any servo strain) in position 1 of the switch and drops freely in position 2.
If not, adjust the travel/end points on this aux channel until satisfied.
12
Your P-40N has two lipo options, either a 60-65C 2200mah 3S, or 25-30C 2200mah 4S, both options
weigh approximately the same. Your lipo's position to achieve the correct CG is the same for both, as
far forward as possible directly behind the motor mount. To get the lipo this far forward you will have
to install the lipo on its edge as shown in the following images. Its an unorthodox approach but its
better than adding dead weight to achieve the correct CG and the velcro strap ensures the lipo is held
firm and unable to move. See images on the next page for details.
NOTE:

With assembly and set-up now complete, your Durafly P-40N
should now be ready for flight. However we recommend you read and
follow the advice given in the following pages of this manual
before flying your model.
13
Battery and receiver location Battery angle required
for correct CG positioning
Battery

MODEL FLYING PRECAUTIONS
PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS
1. Always range check your model before any flight (especially when flying a new model for the first
time). Follow your radio manufacturers guidelines for performing this check.
2. Check all screw/bolts and mounting points are firmly secured, including control horns and clevises.
3. Only fly with fully charged batteries (both in your radio and model). Failure to do so could result in
loss of control, damage to the model and/or persons/property around you. Check your batteries are
fully charged.
4. With the model powered up (Transmitter on first, then receiver/model) check that all surface are free
from damage/obstructions, moving in the correct directions and freely with stick input.
5. Inspect the model and prop for any damage that may have occurred during transit and listen for any
unusual sounds from the electronics when powered up. If in doubt, do not fly.
6. With the model held securely and the prop free of obstructions, increase the throttle just slightly to
confirm the rotations of the prop is correct. The model should want to pull straight forward with
throttle.
7. If this is your first flight with the model double check the C/G is at the correct position. If not adjust
battery position inside model accordingly.
8. If you are an inexperienced model pilot seek the help and assistance of an experienced pilot to
perform these final checks and to test fly the model for you.
● Select your flight area carefully. Always choose an open space that is unobstructed from trees and
buildings and away from crowed areas. Avoid flying in area’s with roads, electric/telephone
poles/wires and water near by or within close proximity to full size air traffic.
● Do not fly this model in poor weather. High winds, low visibility, inclement temperatures, rain and
storms are to be avoided.
● Never attempt to catch this model whilst in flight. Even a slow moving model can cause harm to
yourself and/other and risks damage to the model.
● This model is recommended for children no younger than 14 year old. All children, no matter what
age, should always be supervised by a capable and responsible adult when operating this model.
● Always unplug your model battery when not in use. Never leave the battery installed in the model.
● Remember to keep clear of the propeller at all times when your flight battery is connected.
● Before flying, always turn on your transmitter first then plug your flight battery into the model.
● After flying, always unplug your flight battery first then turn off your radio transmitter.
● Exercise caution when charging your batteries and follow in full your battery manufactures safety
guideline when doing so.
14

FLYING YOUR P-40N
Before flying make sure you have followed closely the set-up guidelines on pages 10 through 13. Start
by taxying on the ground a little to get use to the handling. Be sure to always taxi with full up elevator
held in, flaps retracted and gentle use of throttle. This will keep the model tracking steady and true plus
has the added bonus of looking far more scale. For take off you'll want to hold in some right rudder to
counter the rotational torque on the initial roll out. Slowly advance the throttle whilst holding in just a
little up to keep the tail down as you begin to build up speed, correcting direction with rudder as
needed. As speed builds, ease off the amount of up elevator you have held in, then as soon as you
reach 3/4 throttle you'll start to see the P-40N lift of the ground.
Once in the air retract to the landing gear as soon as you are comfortable and start exploring. If on 3S
you will find you can cruise around happily on 75-85% throttle. On 4S however 50-60% is sufficient for
scale paced flying. Of course opening up to full throttle is very exciting, but generally only need as
desired. A full 'airshow' routine can be performed on either the 3 or 4S set-up including loops, rolls, low
banked passes, Slipt-S's etc, all vertical maneuvers being as large as you wish with the 4S set-up.
Flight times vary according to set-up and throttle use. An average flight of mixed throttle flying will give
you approximately 5-6 minutes on the 3S set-up. However flight times upwards of 7 minutes can be
achieved on 4S (as less throttle is needed). The P-40N will drop a wing when it stalls, that said it is quite
benign and easily recovered from at height by centering all sticks and application of power thereafter.
Landing the P-40 is a pleasure and a real treat for those who like to practice 'scale' type approaches
as the P-40 will need to be 'flown' onto the deck through a powered decent. Bringing the retracts down
shows no noticeable effect on the model nor do mid flaps. Once you have the P-40 fully lined up to the
runway and no more than 8ft from the runway full flaps can be deploy if desired (be sure to maintain
good throttle management). As soon as the P-40 settles onto the ground hold in full up elevator to
prevent the P-40 from nosing over. Flaps should be retracted before taxying back to the pits.
15

P-40N GENERAL TIPS
● For optimum flight performance and model longevity, it is highly recommend that you always fly with
a balanced prop. The supplied prop should be balanced, but it is always good to check first.
● Keep all leads within the fuselage area as tidy as possible. Tidy wires look better, allow for easier
access to all internal components, better battery installation, increased airflow around electronics
and a reduction in potential electronic signal interference (noise).
● Inspect the propeller frequently, especially if you have suffered a hard landing or the prop has been
knocked. If the prop is in any way damaged it must be replaced and any loose fixings must be
tightened.
● It is very important that your flight battery be as far forward as possible to prevent the P-40 from flying
tail heavy. Ensure you follow exactly the guidelines for CG set-up on page 12/13 before flying your
P-40N.
● It it recommended NOT to maiden the P-40N with the bomb attached. Test fly and trim the model
first, then have fun with the bomb drop after a successful test flight.
● A 4S 2200mah 25-30C is the preferred pack to use on the P-40N. If running a 3S 2200mah set-up it
is recommended that a pack with a discharge rating of 60C or higher be used. For this reason a 4S
2200mah 25-30C pack would be ideal as it will have the same approximate weight of the 60-65C 3S
pack, but give you much more power to play with and generally longer flight times (as you'll not need
to fly at full throttle as much).
● Do not use full flaps on a windy day. Full flaps should generally only be used on calmer days and
only then with considered use of throttle to prevent the model from stalling.
● To further avoid any change of your P-40N tipping over onto its nose on landing, switch to 'high' rates
on the elevator as soon as the model settles onto the ground after landing and hold full up elevator.
● Do not leave your model in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. This will have an adverse
effect on the foam surface of the model.
Thank you again for purchasing the Durafly P-40N. We hope you’ll
have many happy days of flying and look forward to bringing you
more Durafly models in the future.
Don’t forget, spare parts are available for this model,
please see the next page for details.
16

SPARE PARTS LISTING
Prop shaft
Part No.: 9306000203-0
Decal sets
Part No.: 9306000201-0
Fuselage
Part No.: 9306000190-0
Horizontal tail
Part No.: 9306000192-0
Spinner set
Part No.: 9306000196-0
Propeller set
Part No.: 9306000193-0
Scale plastic parts
Part No.: 9306000194-0
Bomb
Part No.: 9306000195-0
Control/mounting
accessories
Part No.: 9306000200-0
Main wing inc bomb servo
Part No.: 9306000191-0
Motor inc shaft & X mount
Part No.: 9306000202-0
Tail wheel assembly
Part No.: 9306000198-0
Retracts/main gear
Part No.: 9306000199-0
Battery hatch
Part No.: 9306000197-0
Applying the supplied decals will take you longer than assembling the model. This is because great
care must be taken when doing so. The decals are vinyl type and so need to be applied in a certain
way. Please follow carefully the guidelines below to achieve the best possible finish on your P-40N.
1.
Study the scheme reference sheet carefully and understand fully where each decal should be applied.
2. DO NOT cut to the edge of each decal. Instead leave a 10mm edge around it. These decal use a
clear front cover/film that is used to remove the decal from the paper backing.
3. Once you have cut out your decal rub the surface of the clear protective film to ensure the decal
sticks it. This will ensure all of the decal is lifted off the backing paper
17
4. Position the decals carefully on the model according to the decal reference sheet then gently rub
(using a dry cloth) the decal in place rubbing from the center of the decal out to avoid wrinkles and
air bubbles.
5. If you do have some air bubbles under the decal, use the tip of a sharp blade to make a small hole
in the bubble then rub over it again to push the air out.
6. Once the decal is firmly rubbed down and any air bubbles removed, you can slowly remove the front
clear protective film. DO NOT pull this clear film upwards to remove it, instead pull the film slowly off
to the side. This will ensure the decal doesn’t lift up from the surface of the model when you remove
the clear film.
7. Very gently rub the decal again with a cloth now that the clear film is removed to ensure all edges
are firmly stuck down.
8. Finally the use of a covering iron is STRONGLY recommended to seal the decals to the painted
foam surface and prevent them from lift at the edges over time. Set the iron to a low temperature
and gently run the iron lightly over the surface of the decal as illustrated below. Use of a cloth to
cover the head of the iron is recommended to help prevent damage to the foam and the decal. A
house hold iron can be used if no covering iron is available.
DECAL APPLICATION GUIDELINES