GREAT PLANES P-40 Warhawk User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Wingspan: 39 in [985mm]
Wing Area: 242 in2[15.6dm2]
Weight: 38 – 46 oz [1080 – 1300g]
Wing Loading: 23 – 27 oz/ft2[69 – 84g/dm2]
Length: 34.5 in [875mm]
Radio: 4-channel with three to four micro servos and
standard size receiver
Engine / Motor: .25 cu in [4cc] two-stroke engine,
RimFire™35-30-1450kV brushless out-runner motor
WARRANTY
GreatPlanes®ModelManufacturingCo.guaranteesthiskittobefreefromdefects in both materialandworkmanshipatthedateofpurchase.
This warranty does not cover any component parts damaged by use or modification.In no case shall Great Planes’ liability exceed the
original cost of the purchased kit. Further, Great Planes reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without notice.
In that Great Planes has no control over the final assembly or material used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted
for any damage resulting from the use by the user of the final user-assembled product. By the act of using the user-assembled product,
the user accepts all resulting liability.
If the buyer is not prepared to accept the liability associated with the use of this product, the buyer is advised to return this kit
immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase.
To make a warranty claim send the defective part or item to Hobby Services at the address below:
Hobby Services
3002 N. Apollo Dr., Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822 USA
Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as much contact information as possible (daytime telephone number, fax
number, e-mail address), a detailed description of the problem and a photocopy of the purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the package
the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible.
READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE
STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS
IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS
CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF
THIS MODEL.
Champaign, Illinois
[phone], Ext 5
airsuppor[email protected]
Entire Contents © Copyright 2007 GPMZ1472 for GPMA1472 V1.0

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...............................................................2
AMA ..................................................................................2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .................................................3
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE........................................3
Radio Equipment..........................................................3
Power System Recommendations...............................3
Batteries & Charger......................................................4
Propeller.......................................................................4
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED ....................................4
Required Hardware & Accessories..............................4
Adhesives & Building Supplies.....................................4
Optional Supplies & Tools ............................................4
Building Stand..............................................................5
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES......................................5
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS..............................5
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS ...........................................6
METRIC CONVERSIONS.................................................6
KIT INSPECTION..............................................................7
KIT CONTENTS................................................................7
PREPARATIONS...............................................................8
BUILDTHEWING .............................................................8
Install the Ailerons........................................................8
Install the Aileron Servos & Pushrods........................10
BUILDTHE FUSE...........................................................11
Install the Stab, Elevator & Fin............................................11
Install the Elevator & Rudder Pushrods & Servos......13
Glow Engine, Fuel Tank & Radio Installation .............14
Out-runner Motor, Battery & Radio Installation..........18
FINISHTHE MODEL.......................................................21
Install the Cowl...........................................................21
Final Assembly...........................................................22
Optional Landing Gear...............................................23
Apply the Decals........................................................24
GETTHE MODEL READYTO FLY.................................25
Check the Control Directions .....................................25
Set the Control Throws...............................................25
Balance the Model (C.G.)...........................................25
Balance the Model Laterally.......................................26
PREFLIGHT....................................................................26
IdentifyYour Model.....................................................26
Charge the Batteries..................................................26
Balance the Propellers...............................................27
Ground Check............................................................27
Range Check .............................................................27
ENGINE / MOTOR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................27
LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING & USAGE ...................27
AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)....................................28
CHECK LIST...................................................................28
FLYING............................................................................29
Fuel Mixture Adjustments...........................................29
Takeoff........................................................................29
Flight ..........................................................................30
Landing ......................................................................30
INTRODUCTION
Congratulationson yourpurchase ofoneof theGreatPlanes
Combat Class #2610 Fighters! The P-40 Warhawk ARF is a
great flying model suitable for combat flying or sport flying.
Accommodations have been provided for both a glow engine
and a brushless out-runner motor, and optional landing gear
gives the sport flyer the comfort of paved runway landings.
For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
P-40 Warhawk ARF visit the Great Planes web site at www.
greatplanes.com.Open the “Airplanes” link, then select the
P-40 Warhawk ARF. If there is new technical information or
changes to this model a “tech notice” box will appear in the
upper left corner of the page.
AMA
We urge youto join the AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)
and a local R/C club.The AMA is the governing body of model
aviation and membership is required to fly at AMA clubs.
Though joining the AMA provides many benefits, one of the
primary reasons to join is liability protection. Coverage is not
limited to flying at contests or on the club field.It even applies
to flying at public demonstrations and air shows. Failure to
comply with the Safety Code (excerpts printed in the back of
the manual) may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally,
training programs and instructors are available at AMA club
sites to help you get started the right way. There are over
2,500 AMA chartered clubs across the country. Contact the
AMA at the address or toll-free phone number below.
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302-9252
Tele. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Or via the Internet at:
http://www.modelaircraft.org
IMPORTANT!!! Two of the most important things you can do
to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid
flying near full-scale aircraft and avoid flying near or over
groups of people.

3
PROTECTYOUR MODEL,YOURSELF
& OTHERS....FOLLOWTHESE
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.Your P-40 Warhawk ARF should not be considered a toy,
but rather a sophisticated, working model that functions very
much like a full-size airplane. Because of its performance
capabilities, the P-40 Warhawk ARF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.
2.Youmustassemblethemodelaccordingtotheinstructions.
Do not alter or modify the model, as doing so may result in an
unsafe or unflyable model.In a few cases the instructions may
differ slightly from the photos. In those instances the written
instructions should be considered as correct.
3.You must take time to build straight, true and strong.
4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in first-class
condition, and a correctly sized engine and components
(fuel tank, wheels, etc.) throughout the building process.
5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.
6.You must check the operation of the model before every
flight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.
7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not flown
this type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for
your first flights. If you’re not a member of a club, your local
hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.
8.While this kit has been flight tested to exceed normal use,
if the plane will be used for extremely high-stress flying, such
asracing,orifanenginelargerthanoneintherecommended
range is used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to
reinforce the high-stress points and/or substituting hardware
more suitable for the increased stress.
9. WARNING: The cowl included in this kit is made of
fiberglass, the fibers of which may cause eye, skin and
respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part to remove
fiberglass dust, as the dust will blow back into your eyes.
Always wear safety goggles, a particle mask and rubber
gloves when grinding, drilling and sanding fiberglass parts.
Vacuumthepartsandthework areathoroughlyafterworking
with fiberglass parts.
We, as the kit manufacturer, provide you with a top quality,
thoroughly tested kit and instructions, but ultimately the
quality and flyability of your finished model depends
on how you build it; therefore, we cannot in any way
guarantee the performance of your completed model,
and no representations are expressed or implied as to the
performance or safety of your completed model.
Remember:Take your time and follow the instructions to
end up with a well-built model that is straight and true.
DECISIONSYOU MUST MAKE
This is a partial list of items required to finish the P-40
Warhawk ARF that may require planning or decision making
before starting to build. Order numbers are provided in
parentheses.
Radio Equipment
The P-40 Warhawk ARF requires a minimum 4-channel radio
systemwiththreemicroservoswithaminimumof35oz.-in.[2.5
kg-cm] torque.If you are installing a glow engine, an additional
micro servo is required for the throttle.
❏Futaba S3115 Micro Precision Servo (FUTM0415)
Power System Recommendations
The recommended engine/motor size for the P-40 Warhawk
ARF is a .25 two-stroke engine or a RimFire™ C35-30-1450kV
brushlessout-runnermotor.Engineandmotorordernumbers
are provided below:
❏O.S.®.25 FX Non-Ringed w/Muffler (OSMG0525)
❏Great Planes RimFire 35-30-1450kV brushless
out-runner motor (GPMG4600)
If using the recommended brushless motor, the Great
Planes SS-45 brushless ESC is required. Bullet connector
adapters are also required.The adapters can be purchased
pre-assembled, or the individual components can be
purchased to make your own.
❏Great Planes Silver Series 45A Brushless ESC 5V/2A
BEC (GPMM1840)
❏Great Planes 4mm Male to 3.5mm Female Bullet
Connector Adapters (GPMM3123)
If you wish to make your own adapters, the following part
numbers will be needed:
❏Great Planes Gold Plated Bullet Connectors Female
3.5mm (GPMM3113)

4
❏Great Planes Gold Plated Bullet Connectors Male
4mm (GPMM3114)
❏W.S. Deans®Racing Silver Solder 1 oz. (WSDC4030)
❏Hobbico®Soldering Iron 60 Watt (HCAR0776)
Batteries & Charger
For a brushless out-runner motor installation, a 3200mAh
11.1V Lithium-Polymer battery pack or a 2000mAh 9.6V
NiMHpackare recommended.Ordernumbers for thebattery
packs are provided below:
❏Great Planes LiPo 3200mAh 11.1V 20C Discharge
w/Balance (GPMP0623)
❏Great Planes 8-Cell 9.6V 4/5 SC 2000mAh NiMH
Custom (GPMP0352)
Note: A cell balancer is required for the LiPo battery pack
listed above.
❏Great Planes ElectriFly™Equinox LiPo 1 to 5 Cell
Balancer (GPMM3160)
A suitable charger is also required. The Great Planes
PolyCharge4™is designed for LiPo packs only, but is able
to charge four LiPo packs simultaneously.The Great Planes
Triton2™charger will only charge one pack at a time, but
is capable of charging NiCd, NiMH, LiPo, and lead acid
batteries. Order numbers for both are provided below:
❏Great Planes PolyCharge4 DC Only 4 Output LiPo
Charger (GPMM3015)
or
❏Great Planes ElectriFly Triton™2 DC Comp Peak
Charger (GPMM3153)
For an economical alternative to charge NiMH packs,
we suggest:
❏Great Planes ElectriFly Peak 400 DC 1-10C Peak
Charger (GPMM3001)
Propeller
If using the O.S. .25 FX glow engine or the Great Planes
35-30-1450kV RimFire out-runner motor, we suggest using
a 9" x 6" propeller.
❏APC 9" x 6" sport propeller (APCQ0906)
ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED
Required Hardware & Accessories
This is the list of hardware and accessories required to
finish the P-40 Warhawk ARF. Order numbers are provided
in parentheses:
❏R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] – HCAQ1000, or 1/2"
[13mm] – HCAQ1050)
❏3' [900mm] Standard silicone fuel tubing (GPMQ4131)
Adhesives & Building Supplies
This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are
required to finish the P-40 Warhawk ARF:
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro™CA (GPMR6001)
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007)
❏Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047)
❏Masking tape (TOPR8018)
❏Threadlocking compound (GPMR6060)
❏Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up)
❏Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 1/8" [3.2mm]
❏Great Planes 10-piece metric tap & drill set
(GPMR8118, Note: 3mm tap & drill is needed for glow
engine installation only)
❏Tap handle (GPMR8120)
❏R/C-56 canopy glue (JOZR5007)
❏Small metal file
❏220-grit Sandpaper
❏Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510)
❏#1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105)
❏#11 Blades (5-pack, HCAR0211)
❏Medium T-pins (100, HCAR5150)
❏Top Flite®MonoKote®sealing iron (TOPR2100)
❏Top Flite Hot Sock™iron cover (TOPR2175)
❏Liquid dish soap
Optional Supplies &Tools
Here is a list of optional tools that will help you build the P-40
Warhawk ARF:
❏1/2 oz. [15g] Thick Pro CA- (GPMR6013)
❏2 oz. [57g] Spray CA activator (GPMR6035)
❏4 oz. [113g] Aerosol CA activator (GPMR6034)
❏CA applicator tips (HCAR3780)
❏CA debonder (GPMR6039)
❏Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045)
❏Epoxy brushes 6, (GPMR8060)
❏Mixing sticks (GPMR8055)
❏Mixing cups (GPMR8056)
❏Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0630)

5
❏Switch & Charge Jack mounting set (GPMM1000)
❏Rotary tool such as Dremel®
❏Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8020)
❏Servo horn drill (HCAR0698)
❏Hobby Heat™micro torch (HCAR0750)
❏Dead Center™engine mount hole locator (GPMR8130)
❏Precision magnetic prop balancer (TOPQ5700)
❏AccuThrow™deflection gauge (GPMR2405)
❏C.G. Machine™(GPMR2400)
❏Hobbico flexible 18" ruler stainless steel (HCAR0460)
❏Top Flite MonoKote trim seal iron (TOPR2200)
❏Top Flite MonoKote heat gun (TOPR2000)
❏Hobbico pin vise 1/16" collet w/6 bits (HCAR0696)
❏Hobbico 7-piece ball tip hex L-wrench metric (HCAR0521)
❏Great Planes clevis installation tool (GPMR8030)
❏X-Acto®Extra Hands double clip (XACR4214)
Building Stand
A building stand or cradle comes in handy during the build.We
use the Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402) for all our projects
in R&D and it can be seen in pictures throughout this manual.
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES
• When you see the term test fit in the instructions, it
means that you should first position the part on the assembly
without using any glue, and then slightly modify or custom
fi t the part as necessary for the best fit.
• Whenever the term glue is written you should rely upon
your experience to decide what type of glue to use. When
a specific type of adhesive works best for that step, the
instructions will make a recommendation.
• Whenever just epoxy is specified you may use either
30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or 6-minute epoxy. When
30-minute epoxy is specified it is highly recommended that
you use only 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy, because you
will need the working time and/or the additional strength.
• Photos and sketches are placed before the step they
refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following steps
to get another view of the same parts.
• The stab and wing incidences and engine thrust angles
have been factory-built into this model. However, some
technically-minded modelers may wish to check these
measurements anyway.To view this information visit the web
site at www.greatplanes.com and click on“Technical Data.”
Due to manufacturing tolerances which will have little or no
effect on the way your model will fly, please expect slight
deviations between your model and the published values.
ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS
Replacement parts for the Great Planes P-40Warhawk ARF
are available using the order numbers in the Replacement
Parts List that follows. The fastest, most economical
service can be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order
company.
To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at
www.hobbico.com. Choose “Where to Buy” at the
bottom of the menu on the left side of the page. Follow the
instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian
or International dealer.
Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services by
calling [phone], or via facsimile at [phone],
but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will
apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged
sales tax. If ordering via fax, include aVisa®or MasterCard®
number and expiration date for payment.
Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:
Hobby Services
3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign IL 61822
Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed in
the Replacement Parts List. Payment by credit card or
personal check only;no C.O.D.
IfadditionalassistanceisrequiredforanyreasoncontactProduct
Support by e-mail at productsuppor[email protected],
or by telephone at [phone].
Replacement Parts List
GPMA3180 Wing Set
GPMA3181 Fuse Kit
GPMA3182 Tail Set
GPMA3183 Cowl
GPMA3184 Canopy
GPMA3185 Landing Gear
GPMA3186 Decal Sheet
GPMA2827 Engine Mount
GPMQ4516 2-1/4" Black Plastic Spinner

6
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS
Fuse = Fuselage
Stab = Horizontal Stabilizer
Fin = Vertical Fin
LE = Leading Edge
TE = Trailing Edge
LG = Landing Gear
Ply = Plywood
" = Inches
mm = Millimeters
ESC = Electronic Speed Control
METRIC CONVERSIONS
1" = 25.4mm (conversion factor)
1/64" = .4mm
1/32" = .8mm
1/16" = 1.6mm
3/32" = 2.4mm
1/8" = 3.2mm
5/32" = 4.0mm
3/16" = 4.8mm
1/4" = 6.4mm
3/8" = 9.5mm
1/2" = 12.7mm
5/8" = 15.9mm
3/4" = 19.0mm
1" = 25.4mm
2" = 50.8mm
3" = 76.2mm
6" = 152.4mm
12" = 304.8mm
18" = 457.2mm
21" = 533.4mm
24" = 609.6mm
30" = 762.0mm
36" = 914.4mm
6

KIT INSPECTION
KIT INSPECTION
Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to make sure it is complete and inspect the parts to make sure they
are of acceptable quality.If any parts are missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if you need assistance with assembly,
contact Product Support. When reporting defective or missing parts, use the part names exactly as they are written in
the Kit Contents list.
Great Planes Product Support:
3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822
Telephone: [phone], ext. 5
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Kit Contents
1 Fuselage
2 Horizontal Stabilizer & Elevators
3 Canopy
4 Cowl
5 Vertical Fin & Rudder
6 Landing Gear (2 pcs.)
7 Wheels (2 pcs.)
8 Engine Mount Halves (2 pcs.)
9 Spinner
10 Right Wing Panel & Aileron
11 Left Wing Panel & Aileron
7
KIT CONTENTS
KIT CONTENTS
34
10
5
1
2
689
6
11
7

8
PREPARATIONS
❏ 1.If you have not done so already, remove the major parts
of the kit from the box and inspect for damage. If any parts
are damaged or missing, contact Product Support at the
address or telephone number listed in the “Kit Inspection”
section on page 7.
❏ 2. Remove the tape and separate all the control surfaces.
Use a covering iron with a covering sock on medium/high
heat to tighten the covering if necessary. Apply pressure over
sheeted areas to thoroughly bond the covering to the wood.
BUILDTHE WING
Install the Ailerons
❏1.TestfitaCAhingeintoeachofthehingeslotsinthewing
panels and ailerons. If necessary, enlarge the slots with a
hobby knife. When satisfied with the fit, insert a CA hinge
halfway into each hinge slot in the wing panels. Push a pin
through the middle of each hinge to keep them centered.
❏❏2. Roughen the portion of the aileron torque rod that
fits into the aileron using 220-grit sandpaper. Apply a thin
coating of epoxy to the torque rod and join the aileron to
the wing by fitting the torque rod into the hole in the LE of
the aileron and the CA hinges into the slots.Wipe away any
excess epoxy with a cloth dampened with denatured alcohol.
Continue on to the next step before the epoxy cures.
❏❏3. Remove the pins in the hinges. Adjust the ailerons
so there is a small gap between the LE of the aileron and
the wing. The gap should be small, just enough to see light
through the gap or to slip a piece of paper through. Apply
six drops of thin CA to the top and bottom of each hinge
without using accelerator. After the CA glue has hardened,
confirm that the ailerons are secure by pulling on them and
deflecting them up and down.
❏ 4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the other wing panel.
❏5. Locate the two plywood wing joiners. Mix up a small
amount of epoxy and laminate the two pieces together. Join
the pieces together, being sure the edges are as flush as
possible. Use alcohol to wipe away any excess epoxy. Make
note of the top side of the joiner.This should face the top of
the wing panels when installed.
8

9
❏6. Trim the covering that overlaps onto the root ribs of
each wing panel.Test fit the joiner into both wing halves.The
joiner should fit slightly loose to allow room for epoxy. If the
joiner is too snug, sand the face, top or bottom as necessary
for the proper fit.
❏7. Mix approximately 1/2 oz [15cc] of 30-minute epoxy.
Apply a liberal amount of epoxy into the wing joiner pocket
of each wing, the root rib of each wing and the joiner. Insert
the wing joiner into the right wing panel and then slide the
left panel onto the joiner.Push the two halves together firmly,
making sure there are no gaps anywhere between the wing
panels. Clean any excess epoxy from the wing surface with
alcohol. Hold the wings together with masking tape and
clamps until the epoxy has completely cured.
❏8. Locate and remove the covering from the wing bolt
holes near the TE of the wing.
❏9. Align the wing bolt plate over the holes on the
underside of the wing.There is a shallow perforation on the
uncovered side of the wing bolt plate to allow you to bend
the plate to match the dihedral of the wing. Make note of
the orientation of the wing bolt plate on the wing as it is not
perfectly rectangular. The short sides of the wing bolt plate
should be parallel with the inside edges of the ailerons.With
the wing bolt plate centered over the holes, use a fine, felt-tip
pen to trace around the plate onto the wing.
❏10.Trim the covering just inside your lines.Wipe away the
lines with alcohol and glue the wing bolt plate to the wing.
Continue the wing bolt holes through the wing bolt plate with
a 1/8" [3.2mm] drill bit.A wood backer piece while drilling will
help ensure clean-edged holes in the wing bolt plate.
HOWTO CUT COVERING FROM BALSA
Use a soldering iron to cut the covering from the wing.The
tip of the soldering iron doesn’t have to be sharp, but a
fine-tip does work best. Allow the iron to heat fully.
Use a straightedge to guide the soldering iron at a rate that
will just melt the covering and not burn into the wood.The
hotter the soldering iron, the faster it must travel to melt a
fine cut. Peel off the covering.

10
Install the Aileron Servo & Pushrods
❏1. Install the rubber grommets and eyelets that were
included with the servo.Mount the servo in the aileron servo
bay and drill a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole through each mounting
hole location. Do not drill all the way through the wing!
The holes should be just deep enough to accommodate
the length of the servo mounting screws. Remove the servo
and install and remove a servo mounting screw (included
with your servo) into each hole. Apply a couple drops of thin
CA into the holes to harden the wood. When the CA has
hardened completely, install the servo into the aileron servo
bay using the servo mounting screws with the servo spline
facing forward.
❏2. Cut two arms from a four-armed servo arm as shown.
Enlarge the outer holes of the remaining arms using a 5/64”
[2mm] drill bit.
❏3. Use your radio system to center the servo. Install the
servo arm perpendicular to the servo case.
❏4. Screw the aileron torque rod horns onto the threaded
ends of the torque rods flush with the ends of the rods.
Position the horns to point forward.
❏5. Screw a nylon clevis with a silicone clevis retainer onto
each of the 4-3/4” [120mm] pushrods 20 complete turns.
Connect the clevises to the aileron torque rod horns.Position
the ailerons in the neutral position with tape or small clamps.
Mark on the pushrods where they cross the outer holes in
the aileron servo arm.
❏6. Bend the wires 90 degrees at the marks and cut the
excess wire 1/4" [6mm] beyond the bends. Reattach the

11
clevises to the torque rod horns and install the 90° bend in
the wires into the outer holes of the servo arms. Secure the
wires with two nylon FasLinks. Confirm that the ailerons are
both in the neutral position with the servo arm perpendicular
to the servo case.If not, make the necessary adjustments by
threadingtheclevisesupordown thepushrod.Whensatisfied,
slide the silicone clevis retainers to the ends of the clevises.
BUILDTHE FUSE
Install the Stab, Elevator & Fin
❏1.Locate and remove the covering away from the fuse for
the stab and fin.Carefully cut away the tail block so the stab
and fin slots continue all the way to the aft end of the fuse.
❏2.In order to properly align the stab in the fuse, the wing will
need tobe temporarily installed.Attach thewing usingtwo 3mm
x 25mm Phillips machine screws and two 3mm flat washers.
❏3. Insert the stab into the fuse. Position the stab so it is
centered left and right in the fuse and the tips of the stab are
an equal distance from the wing tips.Trace around the stab
where it meets the fuse with a felt-tip pen.
❏4. Cut the covering away 1/16" [1.6mm] inside the lines
you drew.

12
❏5. Before putting the elevator joiner wire into the stab
slot, trim the covering from the grooves and elevator joiner
wire holes at the LE of the elevator halves. Fit the elevator
joiner wire into the elevators and lay them down on a flat
work surface. Both elevators should lay flat. If not, gently
twist the joiner wire until they do (remove the elevator joiner
wire from the elevator halves before bending).
❏6. Insert the elevator joiner wire into the back of the stab
slot along with the stab.Stand back several feet and view the
model from the back.Confirm that the stab is aligned parallel
withthe wing.If necessary,lightly sandthe stabpocketor add
weight to one side of the stab to correct it. When satisfied,
glue the stab in place with epoxy. For a strong joint, apply
epoxy to the inside of the stab pocket and onto the stab itself.
Wipe away any excess epoxy with alcohol and let the epoxy
cure undisturbed. Be sure that the epoxy does not contact
the joiner wire.
❏7. Fit the vertical fin into the fuse and trace around it onto
the fin. Remove the fin and cut the covering away slightly
beneath the lines you drew (leave the covering on the TE of
the fin in place). Use epoxy to glue the fin in position.
❏8. Insert a hinge half way into each hinge slot in the stab
and keep them centered with a pin. Coat the ends of the
elevator joiner wire with epoxy. Working quickly, join the
elevator halves to the stab by first fitting the joiner wire
ends into the mating holes in the elevators, then fitting the
CA hinges into place. Before wicking thin CA glue into the
hinges, position the elevator halves so that the elevator tips
are even with the stab tips.
❏9. Join the rudder to the fuse and fin with CA hinges.

13
Install the Elevator & Rudder
Pushrods & Servos
❏1. Locate and remove the covering from the pushrod
exits on both sides of the fuse beneath the stab.
❏2. Insert one of the 19-3/4" [502mm] pushrod wires
through the left pushrod exit slot into the fuse. Hook a nylon
control horn onto the Z-bend in the pushrod wire. Align the
control horn onto the underside of the left elevator half and
position the holes over the hinge line at a slight inward angle
matching the angle of the pushrod. When satisfied, mark
the locations for the control horn mounting screws. Drill the
holes using a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit and install the control horn
with two 2mm x 15mm machine screws and a control horn
backplate. The screw ends can be cut flush with the top of
the control horn backplate.
❏3.Withthe other19-3/4"[502mm]pushrod,installacontrol
horn on the right side of the rudder in the same manner.
❏4.Using the hardware supplied with the servos, install the
elevator and rudder servo into the fuse with the servo splines
facing forward.Be suretoreinforcethe servomounting screw
holes with thin CA.

14
❏5.Cutthreearmsfromthefour-armedservoarmsincluded
with the elevator and rudder servos. Enlarge the outer hole
of each servo arm with a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit.Install a screw-
lock pushrod connector into the outer hole of each servo
arm.Tighten them to the servo arms with a 2mm flat washer,
knurled nut, and threadlocking compound.The nut should be
snug against the washer but still allow the pushrod connector
to rotate freely in the servo arm hole.Slide the pushrod wires
through the screw-lock pushrod connectors and attach the
servo arms to the servos (perpendicular to the servo case
pointing out) using the servo arm screws included with the
servos. With the elevators and rudder centered, thread a
3mm set screw with threadlocking compound into the tops
of the pushrod connectors and tighten it against the pushrod
wires.Cut awaythe excesspushrodwires 1/4"[6mm] beyond
the pushrod connectors.
Glow Engine, FuelTank & Radio Installation
The P-40 Warhawk ARF is designed to be flown with a .25
glow engine or an out-runner brushless motor. If you plan to
install a brushless motor, skip this section as it only contains
information relevant to installing a glow engine.
❏1. Remove the stopper from the fuel tank and shake out
the contents.
❏2. The fuel tank can be assembled as a two line system
consisting of a vent (pressure) line to the muffler and a
carb line. Filling and emptying of the tank would need to be
done through the carb line, or an optional fuel fill valve (not
included). The tank can also be assembled as a three line
system having a vent line, carb line, and fill line. If installing
a fill line, puncture the third hole in the top of the stopper
above the sealed off fuel tube hole. The fill and carb lines
should extend out 1/2" [13mm] beyond the stopper and the
vent line should be bent upwards and left uncut. With the
tubes installed in the stopper, fit the stopper plates loosely
in place with the 3mm x 25mm Phillips screw to hold the
assembly together.
❏3.Fit the stopper assembly into the tank with the vent line
pointing toward the top of the tank, but not touching.The fuel
tubing and clunk (fuel pickup) on the carb line should almost

15
reach the back of the tank but not touch.The clunk must be
able to move freely inside the tank when assembled. Adjust
the length of the fuel tubing accordingly. If you wish to use
the fill line to drain the tank, attach a length of fuel tubing and
an additional fuel clunk (not included) to the fill line inside the
tank. When satisfied, tighten the 3mm x 25mm screw in the
stopper to secure it in place (do not overtighten). Mark the
side of the tank that must face up when installed in the plane,
and we also suggest marking the tubes in the stopper.
❏4.Insert the tank into the fuse with the correct side facing
up. The neck of the tank should pass through the hole in
the firewall.
❏5. Cut a piece from the included 6mm x 6mm stick to fit
between the stringers behind the fuel tank in order to secure
the tank in place as shown. When satisfied with the fit, use
CA to glue the stick in place.
❏6. Attach a 6" [150mm] piece of fuel line to each of the
metal tubes in the fuel tank.
❏7. Using four 3mm x 16mm machine screws, four 3mm
lock washers and four 3mm flat washers, attach the engine
mount halves inverted to the firewall. The short end of the
engine mount halves should face up.
❏8.Position the front of the engine drive washer 3-3/4" [95mm]
from the firewall. Mark the location of the engine mount holes
onto the engine mount halves using a Dead Center™Hole
Locator (GPMR8130). Remove the engine from the mount and

16
usea3mmtapanddrillsettocreatethreadsinthefourmounting
holes. Attach the engine to the mount using four 3mm x 20mm
SHCS, four 3mm lock washers, and four 3mm flat washers.
❏9. Install the throttle servo into the throttle servo bay with
the servo splines facing the same side of the plane as the
throttle arm on the engine.
❏10. Cut two 1-1/2" [38mm] pieces from the included 6mm
x 6mm stick. Glue them to the fuse stringers flush with the
bottoms approximately 1" [25mm] behind the stick holding
the fuel tank in place.
❏11. Prepare the radio installation by locating the glow
engine receiver tray, two rubber bands, receiver, and
receiver battery.You will also need some 1/4" [6mm] or 1/2"
[13mm] foam rubber (not included). Cut a piece of foam
rubber that fits your receiver battery pack and sandwich
it between the pack and the receiver tray. With the pack
centered on the top of the receiver tray (receiver tray shown
upside-down), use a rubber band looped onto the tray tabs
to strap the pack in place as shown.
❏12. Fit the receiver tray onto the 6mm x 6mm sticks you
glued in step 10. Drill a 5/64" [2mm] hole at each end of the
receiver tray into the sticks.Attach the tray to the sticks using
two 2.5mm x 10mm self-tapping screws. Cut another piece
of foam rubber to fit your receiver. Secure the receiver to
the tray with the foam rubber between them using the other
rubber band.

17
❏13. Drill a 1/8" [3.2mm] hole through the firewall inline
with the throttle arm on the engine. Important!! Do not drill
into the fuel tank! The bottom of the tank is 7/8" [22mm]
above the top of the brushless motor cooling hole cutout.To
allow for some error, be sure that your hole is 5/8" [16mm]
or closer to the cooling hole cutout. If in doubt, remove the
tank before drilling your hole.Drill a hole through the second
fuse former inline with the first (a long drill bit is helpful here).
Insert the 1/8" x 9-5/8" [3mm x 245mm] nylon pushrod tube
through the holes.Use CA to glue the tube to the firewall.
❏14. Cut off the excess pushrod tube 1/2" [13mm] behind
the third fuse former.
❏15. Install the .039" x 13-3/4" [1mm x 350mm] throttle
pushrod with Z-bend into the outer pushrod tube and
connect the Z-bend to your engine throttle arm (you may
need to remove the arm from the carburetor to do this).
Install a screw-lock pushrod connector into the outer hole of
the throttle servo arm and test fit it onto the servo.A pushrod
support is provided and can be glued to the third former.You
may need to sand or cut this part to length depending on
the pushrod position.When satisfied, slide the support onto
the pushrod tube and glue it in place.Tighten the aft end of
the throttle pushrod in the screw-lock pushrod connector (do
not cut off the excess length of pushrod until you have used
your radio system to center the servo and have made your
adjustments to the pushrod position).
❏16. Run a bead of medium or thick CA glue along the
brushless motor cooling hole cutout lines.Trim the fuel tubing

18
to length and connect the vent line to the muffler and the carb
line to the fuel inlet on the needle valve.A plastic fill line plug
has been provided to plug the fill line if you installed one.
Out-runner Motor, Battery
& Radio Installation
If you have installed a glow engine, skip this section as it only
contains information relevant to installing a brushless motor.
❏1.Cuttheperforationsalongthe cooling hole andremove
the cutout.
❏2. Locate the six brushless motor mount box pieces.
Glue the back piece and the four side pieces together as
shown.The tabs on the pieces will all interlock together.
❏3. Install four 3mm blind nuts into the brushless motor
mount box front piece. Use a 3mm x 10mm screw and a
3mm flat washer to draw them tight into the holes.
❏4. Attach the brushless motor mount box to the firewall
using four 3mm x 16mm machine screws, four 3mm flat
washers and threadlocking compound.
❏5.Installthebrushlessmotorontothealuminummotormount
(included with the motor) using four 3mm x 8mm machine
screws (included with the motor) and threadlocking compound.
If you haven’tdone soalready, installthe propadapter using the
hardware included with the motor. Glue the front adapter piece
to the brushless motor mount box as shown.
❏6. Attach the aluminum motor mount to the brushless
motor mount box using four 3mm x 10mm machine screws,
four 3mm lock washers, and four 3mm flat washers.

19
❏7.Cut a 1-1/2" [38mm] piece from the included 1/4" [6mm]
tri-stock. Glue the piece flush with the top edge of the fuel
tank opening as shown. This will provide a larger mounting
surface for the battery tray.
❏8. Make a battery strap by cutting the hook and loop
material 7-1/4" [184mm] long, overlapping the ends 1-1/2"
[38mm]. The strap can be glued to the underside of the
battery tray with medium or thick CA as shown.
❏9. Glue the battery tray into the fuse by keying the tab into
the third former and resting the forward end on the fuel tank
opening and the tri-stock you glued in step 7. Apply a liberal
amount of medium or thick CA glue to the mating surfaces to
ensureaverysecurebatterytray.Cutanotherpieceoftri-stock
and glue it against the aft end of the tray and the former.
❏10. Glue the brushless radio tray to the stringers in the
location shown.
❏11.Cut a piece of 1/4" [6mm] or 1/2" [13mm] foam rubber
(not included) to fit your receiver. Hook one of the included
rubber bands onto the tab on the brushless radio tray and
feed the other end above the tray and out of the throttle servo
bay.Place your receiver and foam rubber onto the brushless
radio tray and loop the rubber band over the receiver and
hook it onto the tab.
❏12.Trim the covering from the cooling hole cutout on the
front underside of the fuse.

20
❏13.Locate the three ESC tray pieces.Glue the small pieces
together and then glue them into the slot in the large piece.
❏14.Apply a coating of epoxy to the flat side of the ESC tray
and let it cure undisturbed.The epoxy will provide a smooth
surface for the double-sided tape to adhere to. When the
epoxy is dry, glue the tray onto the top edge of the cooling
hole cutout as shown.
❏15. Feed the receiver and battery leads on the ESC
through the left hole in the second former. Connect the ESC
to the receiver and to the motor. If using the recommended
ESC and brushless out-runner motor, three 4mm male to
3.5mm female bullet connector adapters will be needed.
Great Planes offers these adapters for purchase using part
number (GPMM3123).Secure the ESC to the ESC tray with
a piece of the included double-sided foam servo tape.
MAKE BATTERY CONNECTOR ADAPTERS
If the Great Planes 4mm male to 3.5mm female bullet
connector adapters are not available, or you would like
to make your own, the assembly procedure and order
numbers for the individual parts are provided below.
A.Inordertomakethreeadaptersforonecompletebrushless
motor system, you will need Great Planes Gold Plated Bullet
Connectors Female 3.5mm (GPMM3113), Great Planes
Gold Plated Bullet Connectors Male 4mm (GPMM3114),
electrical solder with flux, and a soldering iron.
B. Insert the 3.5mm female bullet connector (the end
with the cutout on the side) into the open end of the 4mm
male bullet connector. Shown in the photo above is the
X-Acto®Extra Hands Double Clip (XACR4214).This tool is
extremely useful for small soldering tasks.