Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF User manual

Sundowner 36 ARF
Assembly Manual

2 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to
become familiar with the features of the product before
operating. Failure to operate the product correctly can result
in damage to the product, personal property and cause
serious injury.
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.
Do not attempt disassembly, use with incompatible
components or augment product in any way without the
approval of Horizon Hobby, Inc. This 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 serious injury.
Intro
The Sundowner 36 is a speedy sport-scale perfect for
high-speed aerobatics and club racing. Based on the
Sundowner Formula 1, this speedy performer has a scaled-
down aggressive racer body design at home equally as a
sport flyer or as a serious racer. Designed to be powered
by EP or GP power systems, this plane delivers racer
styling at a lower cost to you. This spirited speedster is
constructed of lightweight balsa and plywood with carbon
fiber reinforcements for added strength and durability.
The low parts count makes this ARF exceptionally easy to
assemble, and with a two piece wing, easy to disassemble
for transport. The one-piece fiberglass cowl has hidden cowl
screws, adding to its great looks. The internals are easily
accessed through the removable canopy, which is held
securely in place with tabs and magnets. The Sundowner
can be powered for sport utilizing the E-flite Power 32
motor or the Evolution .40NX glow engine. Because of its
smooth flight characteristics and precise, sport handling,
even intermediate pilots will feel comfortable behind the
sticks. Unlike other racers that may be difficult to fly, the
Sundowner 36’s streamlined design makes this racer
smooth, precise and ready-to-roll.
Product Support
For technical assistance with this product, please contact the
appropriate Horizon Product Support office. This information
is located in the back of this manual.
Specications
Wingspan 51.5 in (131cm)
Length 44.0 in (114cm)
Wing Area 400 sq in (25.8 sq dm)
Weight 4.00–4.50 lb (1.8–2.0 kg)
Engine .32–.36 2-stroke glow
Motor Size Power 25 or Power 32 brushless
Radio 4-channel minimum
Servos 5 mini servos (4 with EP setup)
Notice
All instructions, warranties and other collateral
documents are subject to change at the sole discretion
of Horizon Hobby, Inc. For up-to-date product
literature, visit http://www.horizonhobby.com and click
on the support tab for this product.
Meaning of Special Language
The following terms are used throughout the product
literature to indicate various levels of potential harm
when operating this product:
NOTICE: Procedures, which if not properly followed,
create a possibility of physical property damage AND a
little or no possibility of injury.
CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed,
create the probability of physical property damage AND a
possibility of serious injury.
WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed,
create the probability of property damage, collateral
damage, and serious injury OR create a high probability
of superficial injury.
Table of Contents
Intro..................................................................................2
Product Support ...............................................................2
Specifications....................................................................2
Included Parts Listing.......................................................3
Contents of Kit and Parts Listing ......................................4
Safety Precautions and Warnings.....................................4
Important Information Regarding Warranty......................5
Using the Manual..............................................................5
UltraCote® Covering Colors .............................................5
Recommended Power Setups...........................................5
Transmitter Requirements.................................................5
Radio Equipment Requirements .......................................5
Optional Accessories ........................................................5
Field Equipment Required.................................................5
Optional Field Equipment..................................................5
Required Tools..................................................................6
Required Adhesives ..........................................................6
Before Starting Assembly .................................................6
Elevator and Stabilizer Installation ....................................6
Rudder, Fin and Tail Wheel Installation...........................10
Rudder and Elevator Linkage Installation........................14
Main Landing Gear Installation .......................................18
Hinging the Aileron .........................................................20
Aileron Servo Installation................................................21
Aileron Linkage Installation.............................................25
Engine Installation ..........................................................27
Throttle Servo and Linkage Installation ..........................29
Fuel Tank Installation ......................................................32
Cowling and Muffler Installation - Glow Option ..............34
Receiver, Receiver Battery and
Switch Harness Installation - Glow Option ..............36
Motor Installation............................................................37
Cowling, Propeller and Spinner Installation - EP Option. 39
Receiver and Motor Battery Installation - EP Option ......40
Final Assembly................................................................41
Center of Gravity.............................................................43
Control Throws ...............................................................43
Preflight ..........................................................................44
Range Test Your Radio ...................................................44
Flight Hints and Tips.......................................................44
Safety Do’s and Don’ts for Pilots ....................................45
Daily Flight Checks..........................................................45
Warranty and Repair Policy ............................................45
Warranty Services...........................................................46
Compliance Information for the European Union............46
Academy of Model Aeronautics
National Model Aircraft Safety Code........................47

3Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Included Parts Listing
PACKAGED INDIVIDUALLY LARGE BAGS
Fuselage with canopy hatch
Left wing with aileron
Right wing with aileron
Tail set
Landing gear
Wheel pants (right and left)
Cowl
Carbon wing tube
Spinner
Landing gear cover plate
FUSELAGE
Main wheel, 2-inch (51mm) (2)
Nylon clevis (2) rudder and elevator
Pushrod connector (with 3mm x 4mm machine screw) (1) throttle pushrod at servo
1.5mm knurled nut (1) throttle pushrod at servo
1.5mm washer (1) throttle pushrod at servo
Tail gear wire with wheel collar and setscrew (1)
Tail wheel bracket (1)
Tail wheel, 1-inch (25mm) (1)
Wheel collar with setscrew, 1.5mm (1) tail wheel retention
Wheel collar, 4mm with setscrew (2) main wheel retention
Axles, 4mm (2) main gear axles
Threaded control horn (2) rudder and elevator horns
Control horn backplate (2) rudder and elevator horns
Control horn fitting (2) rudder and elevator horns
2mm x 12mm machine screw (4) aileron control horns
2mm x 12mm machine screw (6) rudder and elevator control
horns
2mm x 8mm self-tapping screw (2) tail wheel bracket attachment
to fuselage
2mm x 8mm self-tapping screw (8) aileron servo hatches
2.5mm x 10mm machine screw (2) wheel pant attachment
HARDWARE
2mm x 83/4-inch (220mm) pushrod tube (1) throttle
2mm x 137/8-inch (352mm) throttle pushrod (1) throttle
2mm x 201/4-inch (514mm) pushrod (1) elevator
2mm x 217/8-inch (555mm) pushrod (1) rudder
2-inch (51mm) pushrod (2) (1) aileron
3mm blind nut (4) engine mount to fuselage
3mm lock washer (4) engine mount to fuselage
3mm locknut (4) engine to mount, or EP motor
to standoffs
3mm washer (12) engine to mount and mount
to fuselage, or EP motor to
standoffs
3mm washer (2) cowl mounting
3mm washer (2) wing retention
3mm x 10mm socket head screw (2) cowl mount
3mm x 10mm socket head screw (2) wing retention
3mm x 20mm socket head screw (4) engine mount to fuselage
3mm x 25mm socket head screw (4) engine to mount
3mm x 30mm socket head screw (4) motor mount (Power 25)
3mm x 35mm socket head screw (4) motor mount (Power 32)
3mm x 4mm socket head screw (1) throttle pushrod to servo
4mm washer (2) landing gear to fuselage
4mm x 12mm socket head bolt (2) landing gear to fuselage
Locknut, 4mm (2) axle to landing gear
Aileron servo cover (2)
Aluminum stand-off, 11/16-inch (27mm) (4) power 32 to firewall
Aluminum stand-off, 3/4-inch (22mm) (4) power 25 to firewall
WING
5/16 x 5/16 x 5/8-inch (8mm x 8mm x 15mm) hardwood aileron servo mounting block (4)
Nylon clevis (2) aileron clevises
Control horn (2) aileron horns
Control horn backplate (2) aileron horns
ENGINE
Engine mount (right and left) (1ea)
Fuel tubing, 41/2-inch (115mm) (1)
Fuel tank (1)
3mm aluminum tube 2-inch (51mm) (2) fuel tank feed line
3mm aluminum tube 23/4-inch (70mm) (1) fuel tank vent line
Clunk (1)
Stopper plate, large (1)
Stopper plate, small (1)
Rubber stopper (1) tank stopper
3mm x 30mm self-tapping screw (1) tank stopper assembly screw
Plywood engine mount template (1)
Plywood throttle servo tray (1)
Plywood throttle servo tray support (2)

4 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Contents of Kit and Parts Listing
Safety Precautions and Warnings
Read and follow all instructions and safety precautions
before use. Improper use can result in fire, serious injury
and damage to property.
Age Recommendation: Not for children under 14 years. This
is not a toy.
COMPONENTS
Use only with compatible components. Should any
compatibility questions exist please refer to the product
instructions, the component instructions or contact Horizon
Hobby, Inc.
FLIGHT
Fly only in open areas to ensure safety. It is recommended
flying be done at AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics)
approved flying sites. Consult local ordinances before
choosing a flying location.
PROPELLER
Keep loose items that can get entangled in the propeller
away from the prop, including loose clothing, or other
objects such as pencils and screwdrivers. Especially keep
your hands away from the propeller as injury can occur.
BATTERIES
Notes on Lithium Polymer Batteries
When used improperly, lithium polymer batteries are
significantly more volatile than alkaline or Ni-Cd/Ni-MH
batteries used in RC applications. Always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions when using and disposing of any
batteries. Mishandling of Li-Po batteries can result in fire and
rupture causing serious injury and damage.
SMALL PARTS
This kit includes small parts and should not be left
unattended near children as choking and serious injury
could result.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1. HAN452001 Fuselage with Hatch
2. HAN452002 Fuselage Top Hatch
3. HAN452003 Left Wing Panel
4. HAN452004 Right Wing Panel
5. HAN452005 Tail Set
6. HAN452007 Landing Gear
7. HAN452008 Wheel Pants (2)
8. HAN452010 Wing Tube, Carbon
Items not shown
HAN452006 Cowl
HAN452009 Axles (2)
HAN452011 Fuel Tank, 240cc
HAN452012 Wheels, 2-inch (51mm)
HAN452013 Engine Standoffs for EP, (22mm and
27mm) with hardware
HAN452014 Engine Mount with Hardware
HAN452015 Small Parts
HAN452016 Pushrods
HAN452017 Tail Wheel
HAN452018 Nylon Control Horn

5Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Safe Operating Recommendations
• Inspectyourmodelbeforeeveryflighttomakecertainit
is airworthy.
• Beawareofanyotherradiofrequencyuserwhomay
present an interference problem.
• Alwaysbecourteousandrespectfulofotherusersof
your selected flight area.
• Chooseanareaclearofobstaclesandlargeenoughto
safely accommodate your flying activity.
• Makecertainthisareaisclearoffriendsandspectators
prior to launching your aircraft.
• Beawareofotheractivitiesinthevicinityofyourflight
path that could cause potential conflict.
• Carefullyplanyourflightpathpriortolaunch.
• AbidebyanyandallestablishedAMANationalModel
Aircraft Safety Code.
Important Information
Regarding Warranty
Please read our Warranty and Liability Limitations in the
back of this manual before building this product. 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.
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 () are performed once, while steps
with two or more boxes () indicate the step will require
repeating, such as for a right or left wing panel, two servos,
etc. Remember to take your time and follow the directions.
UltraCote® Covering Colors
White HANU870
True Red HANU866
Black HANU874
Silver HANU881
Recommended Setup–2-Stroke Glow
Evolution®.40NX with Muffler EVOE0401
APC Propeller, 9 x 7 APC09070
Recommended Setup–
Power 25 (NMPRA)
Power 25 BL Outrunner motor, 1250Kv EFLM54025B
APC Thin Electric Propeller, 8 x 8 APC08080E
60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC ESC EFLA1060
2500mAh 4S 14.8V 30C Li-Po, 12AWG EFLB25004S30
Recommended Setup–
Power 32 (Sport)
Power 32 BL Outrunner motor, 770Kv EFLM54032A
APC Thin Electric Propeller, 12 x 8E APC12080E
60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC ESC EFLA1060
3200mAh 4S 14.8V 30C Li-Po, 12AWG EFLB32004S30
Recommended Setup–
Power 32 (Speed)
Power 32 BL Outrunner motor, 770Kv EFLM54032A
APC Thin Electric Propeller, 10 x 10E APC10010E
60-Amp Pro Switch-Mode BEC ESC EFLA1060
2700mAh 5S 18.5V Pro Power Li-Po THP27005SP30
Transmitter Requirements
This model requires a minimum of a 4-channel radio to
operate all the functions of your aircraft. We suggest the
following radio systems available through Horizon Hobby or
your local hobby distributor.
Spektrum DX6i SPM6610
Spektrum DX7 SPMR7710
Spektrum DX8 SPM8810
JR®Systems X9503 2.4GHz JRP2930
JR Systems 12X 2.4GHz JRP1200
Radio Equipment Requirements
The following items are recommended when installing the
7-Channel AR7000 (SPMAR7010).
JR Chargeswitch JRPA004
Receiver Battery, 1100mAh, 4.8V Ni-Cd JRPB4240
DS388 Digital Micro Servo, MG (2) JRPS388
MN48 Mini Servo (2–3) JSP20040
6-inch (152mm) Servo Extension (2) JRPA095
AR7000 DSM2 7-Channel Receiver SPMAR7010
3-inch (76mm) Servo Extension (2) JRPA092
or
Y-harness, Heavy-Duty JRPA135
Servo Placement:
Aileron: DS388 Digital Micro Servo (2)
Rudder: MN48 Mini Servo
Elevator: MN48 Mini Servo
Throttle: MN48 Mini Servo (not required for EP
installations)
Optional Accessories
2-inch (54mm) Aluminum Spinner, EP EFLSP200
2-Blade Aluminum Spinner, 2-inch (54mm) HAN99000
1/4-28 Spinner Adapter Kit, GP HAN99053
Field Equipment Required
Fuel (15% recommended)
Long Reach Glow Plug Wrench HAN2510
Metered Glow Driver with Ni-Cd & Charger HAN7101
2-Cycle Sport Plug EVOGP1
Manual Fuel Pump HAN118
Optional Field Equipment
Glow:
PowerPro™12V Starter HAN161
12V 7Ah Sealed Battery HAN102
Power Panel HAN106
Blue Block After Run Oil EVOX1001
All:
Self-stick weights, 6 oz HAN3626
Spray cleaner
Paper towels

6 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Required Tools
Ball driver: 2.5mm Card stock
Drill Epoxy brush
Felt-tipped pen Flat file
Hobby scissors Hobby knife with #11 blade
Low-tack tape Measuring cup
Medium grit sandpaper Mixing cup
Mixing stick Nut driver: 5.5mm, 7mm
Open end wrench: 10mm Paper towels
Pencil Phillips screwdriver: #1, #2
Pin vise Razor saw
Rotary tool Rubbing alcohol
Ruler Sanding drum
Side cutter Square
String Tapered reamer
T-pins Hook and loop tape
Hook and loop strap
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm), 7/64-inch
(2.5mm), 1/8-inch (3mm), 3/16-inch (5mm)
Hex wrench: 1.5mm, 2.5mm, 3mm
Required Adhesives
5-minute epoxy PAAPT38
15-minute epoxy MEUEPX15MIN
Medium CA PAAPT02
Thin CA PAAPT08
Threadlock PAAPT42
Before Starting Assembly
Before beginning the assembly of your model, 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
(HAN100) and covering glove (HAN150) or covering iron
(HAN101) with a sealing iron sock (HAN141) to remove
them. Use caution while working around areas where the
colors overlap to prevent separating the colors.
Elevator and Stabilizer Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Wing panel (right and left)
Carbon wing tube
Stabilizer with elevator and hinges
Required Tools and Adhesives
15-minute epoxy Paper towel
Rubbing alcohol Low-tack tape
Pin vise Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
Felt-tipped pen Thin CA
Epoxy brush Measuring cup
Mixing stick Ruler
T-pins
1. Separate the stabilizer and elevator. Use a small piece
of low-tack tape to mark one side of the stabilizer and
elevator so they can be repositioned easily. Set the six CA
hinges aside at this time.
2. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill
a hole in the center of each hinge slot. This will provide
a tunnel for the CA to wick into, providing a better bond
between the wood and hinge when they are glued in position.
Prepare both the stabilizer and elevator at this time.
3. Remove the canopy from the fuselage by sliding it
forward then lifting up at the rear of the canopy. The rear
is held in position using magnets and is also keyed to the
fuselage, while the front is held in place using pins that
extend into the bulkhead.
4. Locate the carbon wing tube. Slide the tube into one
of the wing panels. It will slide in easily, so do not force it
further than it will easily slide.

7Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
5. Slide the tube and wing panel into position on
the fuselage. The wing will fit tight against the fuselage
when installed.
Note: The wing does not need to be secured to
the fuselage at this time. It is only being installed
so the position of the stabilizer can be adjusted.
6. Slide the remaining wing panel into position against
the fuselage.
Important: The stabilizer must be aligned to the wing
as shown in the following steps. Not doing so may
require excessive trim to correct for misalignment,
which can reduce the performance of the model.
7. Slide the stabilizer in the slot at the rear of the
fuselage. Position the stabilizer as far forward in the slot as
possible. Check to make sure the stabilizer is centered in the
fuselage as shown below.
8. Measure from each wing tip to each stabilizer tip. Position
the stabilizer so both measurements are equal as shown.
A A
A=A
9. Check the alignment of the stabilizer to the wing by
standing back 6–8 feet (2–3 meters). The distance between
the wing and stabilizer must be equal as shown. If not,
lightly sand the opening in the fuselage for the stabilizer to
correct the alignment.
Check Alignment

8 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
10. Once the alignment has been set, use a felt-tipped
pen to mark the outline of the fuselage on the stabilizer. This
will allow easy repositioning as it will be removed in the
following step.
11. Remove the stabilizer from the fuselage. Note the
direction of the top and bottom of the stabilizer indicated
by the tape placed on it back in step 1. Slide the elevator
into the slot, noting the top and bottom to match that of the
stabilizer that was just removed.
Note: Read steps 12 through 15 before mixing
any epoxy. You must be able to complete these
steps before the epoxy begins to cure.
12. Slide the stabilizer back into position in the fuselage.
Leave the stabilizer so the exposed wood can be accessed.
13. Mix 1/2 ounce (15mL) of 15-minute epoxy. Use an
epoxy brush to apply the epoxy to the exposed wood on both
the top and bottom of the stabilizer. Make sure not to get any
epoxy on the elevator.
14. Slide the stabilizer in position. Use a paper towel and
rubbing alcohol to remove any epoxy that oozes out when
the stabilizer is positioned.
15. Before the epoxy can cure, make sure to check the
alignment of the stabilizer as described in steps 7 through
9. It is very important the stabilizer is positioned correctly
before the epoxy begins to cure, as it will be difficult to
readjust its position after the epoxy has cured. Do not
proceed until the epoxy has fully cured.
16. Remove the wing panels and wing tube at this time.
Place a T-pin in the center of the six hinges removed in step 1.
This will center the hinges evenly in the stabilizer and elevator.

9Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
17. Place the hinges in the elevator.
18. Carefully position the elevator so the hinges are
inserted into the stabilizer. Make sure that all the hinges get
installed, and that none get folded over accidentally. The
elevator will fit tightly against the stabilizer as shown. Use
the T-pins as handles to help in positioning the hinges.
19. Remove the T-pins from the hinges. Make sure the
elevator is pressed tightly against the stabilizer to eliminate
any hinge gap. Check that the tips of the elevator and
stabilizer are aligned.
20. Saturate each hinge using thin CA on both the
top and bottom of the hinge. Allow the CA to fully cure
before proceeding.
Note: Do not use CA accelerator on the
hinges. The CA must be allowed time to
soak into the hinge and surrounding wood
to provide the best bond for the hinge.
21. Once the CA has cured, gently pull on the stabilizer
and elevator to make sure the hinges are glued securely. If
any hinges are loose, apply more CA and check them again.
22. Flex the elevator through its range of motion a
number of times to break in the hinges. This will reduce the
load on the servo for those first flights.

10 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Rudder, Fin and Tail Wheel Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage Aluminum tail wheel bracket
Tail gear wire Fin with rudder and hinges
Tail wheel, 1-inch (25mm)
2mm x 8mm self-tapping screw (2)
Wheel collar with setscrew, 1.5mm
Required Tools and Adhesives
Ruler Hex wrench: 1.5mm
Phillips screwdriver: #1 Hobby knife with #11 blade
Rubbing alcohol 15-minute epoxy
Medium grit sandpaper Thin CA
Low-tack tape Mixing cup
Mixing stick Epoxy brush
Felt-tipped pen Square
Paper towel Pin vise
T-pins Threadlock
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
1. Locate the fin and rudder. Separate the fin from the
rudder and set the rudder and three hinges aside.
2. Test fit the fin at the rear of the fuselage. Slide the fin
as far forward as possible. Use a felt-tipped pen to transfer
the outline of the fuselage to the fin.
3. Remove the fin from the fuselage. Use a straight edge
and hobby knife with a new #11 blade to trim the covering
1/16-inch (1.5mm) below the line on the fin to expose the
underlying wood.
Note: When cutting through the covering, use very
light pressure or a hot knife to trim the covering.
If the underlying wood becomes damaged, the fin
may fail in flight, causing the loss of your model.
Note: Read steps 4 through 7 before mixing
any epoxy. You must be able to complete these
steps before the epoxy begins to cure.
4. Mix 1/4 ounce (15mL) of 15-minute epoxy. Use an
epoxy brush to apply the epoxy to the exposed wood on the
fin. Also apply a small amount of epoxy in the slot in the
fuselage where the fin fits.
5. Fit the fin into the fuselage. Use a paper towel and
rubbing alcohol to remove any excess epoxy that oozes out
when the fin is installed.

11Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
6. Use a square to check that the fin is square to the
stabilizer. There will be a slight amount of play to correct for
any alignment issues.
7. Use low-tack tape to hold the fin in position until the
epoxy fully cures.
8. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill a
hole that is 1/2-inch (13mm) deep 7/8-inch (22mm) from the
bottom of the rudder.
9. Use a hobby knife and #11 blade to cut a groove from
the hole drilled in the previous step to the bottom of the
rudder for the tail gear wire.
10. Test fit the tail gear wire into the rudder. The wire will
rest flush with the hinge line of the rudder as shown. You may
need to adjust the groove in the rudder to fit the tail gear wire.
11. Remove the tail gear wire from the rudder. Use
medium grit sandpaper to roughen the tail gear wire where it
contacts the rudder.
12. Slide the aluminum tail wheel bracket on the tail gear
wire. The two larger holes are used for mounting the bracket,
while the smaller hole fits over the wire.

12 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
13. Mix a small amount of 15-minute epoxy. Apply the
epoxy to the notch in the rudder and the tail gear wire where
it fits in the rudder. Insert the wire and use low-tack tape to
hold the wire in position until the epoxy cures. Remove any
excess epoxy using rubbing alcohol and a paper towel.
14. Remove the tape from the rudder holding the tail gear
wire in position. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill
bit to drill a hole in the center of each hinge slot. This will
provide a tunnel for the CA to wick into, providing a better
bond between the wood and hinge when they are glued in
position. Prepare both the rudder and fin at this time.
15. Place a T-pin in the center of the three hinges
removed in step 1. This will center the hinges evenly in the
rudder and fin.
16. Place the hinges in the rudder.
17. Remove the tape placed on the fin and stabilizer in
step 7. Slide the hinges into the slots in the rudder.
18. Remove the T-pins from the hinges. Make sure the
rudder is pressed tightly against the fin to eliminate any hinge
gap. Check that the tips of the rudder and fin are aligned.
19. Saturate each hinge using thin CA on both the
top and bottom of the hinge. Allow the CA to fully cure
before proceeding.
Note: Do not use CA accelerator on the
hinges. The CA must be allowed time to
soak into the hinge and surrounding wood
to provide the best bond for the hinge.

13Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
20. Once the CA has cured, gently pull on the rudder and
fin to make sure the hinges are glued securely. If any hinges
are loose, apply more CA and check them again.
21. Flex the rudder through its range of motion a number
of times to break in the hinges. This will reduce the load on
the servo for those first flights.
22. Use a piece of low-tack tape to tape the tail wheel
bracket to the bottom of the fuselage. Make sure the mounting
holes in the bracket are aligned with the fuselage centerline.
23. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill
the two holes in the fuselage for the mounting screws.
24. Remove the tape and swing the bracket to the side.
Thread a 2mm x 8mm self-tapping screw into each hole
to cut threads in the surrounding wood using a #1 Phillips
screwdriver. Remove the screw before proceeding to the
next step.
25. Place 2–3 drops of thin CA in each hole to harden
the surrounding wood. Doing so will make the screws more
secure, preventing them from vibrating loose.

14 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
26. Secure the tail wheel bracket to the fuselage
using two 2mm x 8mm sheet metal screws and a #1
Phillips screwdriver.
Note: Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal
fasteners to prevent them from vibrating loose.
27. Use a 1.5mm hex wrench to loosen the setscrew in
the wheel collar. Slide the wheel collar against the tail wheel
bracket and tighten the setscrew to secure its location.
Note: Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal
fasteners to prevent them from vibrating loose.
28. Attach the tail wheel to the tail wheel bracket using
a 1.5mm wheel collar. Tighten the setscrew using a 1.5mm
hex wrench.
Rudder and Elevator Linkage
Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Servo with hardware (2)
Transmitter Receiver
Receiver battery Nylon clevis (2)
Control horn fitting (2) Threaded control horn (2)
Control horn backplate (2)
2mm x 12mm machine screw (6)
217/8-inch (555mm) pushrod, rudder
201/4-inch (514mm) pushrod, elevator
Required Tools and Adhesives
Thin CA Hobby knife with #11 blade
Phillips screwdriver: #1 Pencil
Felt-tipped pen Pin vise
Ruler
Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm), 5/64-inch (2mm)
Note: Before starting the installation of the servos,
we recommend centering the trims and sticks on
your transmitter. If using a computer radio, make
sure to reset a model memory and name it for this
particular model. We also recommend binding the
transmitter and receiver at this time following the
instructions provided with your radio system.
1. Prepare the elevator control horn by threading the
control horn fitting on the control horn so the top of
the fitting is flush with the top of the threads. It may be
necessary to hold the screw using a #1 Phillips screwdriver
while installing the fitting.

15Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
2. Prepare the rudder control horn by threading the
control horn fitting on the control horn so the top of the
fitting measures 3/4-inch (19mm) from the base of the horn.
It may be necessary to hold the screw using a #1 Phillips
screwdriver while installing the fitting.
 3. Prepare the servo by installing the rubber grommets
and brass eyelets. Remove the servo horn from the servo
using a #1 Phillips screwdriver.
Note: The grommets install from
the bottom of the servo.
 4. Test fit the elevator servo in the opening in the left-
hand side of the fuselage. Make sure the output of the servo
faces to the rear of the fuselage. Use a pencil to transfer the
locations of the servo mounting screws on the servo tray.
 5. Remove the servo from the fuselage. Use a pin
vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to drill the holes for the
servo mounting screws.
 6. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to run a servo
mounting screw in each of the holes to cut threads in the
surrounding wood. Remove the screw before proceeding to
the next step.
 7. Apply 2–3 drops of thin CA in each hole to harden
the surrounding wood. This will help prevent the screws
from vibrating loose.

16 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
 8. Secure the elevator servo in the fuselage using the
screws provided with the servo and a #1 Phillips screwdriver.
Make sure the output of the servo faces to the rear when
installed in the fuselage. Route the servo lead through the
servo tray in the location shown in the photo.
 9. Prepare the servo horn by enlarging the hole in the
arm that is 3/8-inch (9.5mm) from the center of the servo
horn using a pin vise and 5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit. Use side
cutters to remove any other arms from the horn so they
don’t interfere with the operation of the servo.
 10. Insert the bend on the 201/4-inch (514mm)
pushrod into the hole enlarged in the previous step. The
wire will be on the top of the horn, while the bend will end
underneath the horn.
11. Slide the pushrod into the pushrod tube near the
servo. Inserting the pushrod through the oval hole in the
firewall will make its installation easier. You will need to use a
hobby knife to remove the covering at the rear of the fuselage
for the pushrod to exit the left-hand side of the fuselage.
 12. Use the radio system to center the elevator servo.
Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver and the screw removed from
the servo to attach the servo horn to the servo.
 13. Position the control horn prepared in step 1
on the elevator so the hole in the fitting is aligned with
the hinge line, and the fitting is pointing directly at the
pushrod. Use a felt-tipped pen to transfer the locations for
the three mounting holes onto the elevator.

17Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
 14. Use a pin vise and 5/64-inch (2mm) drill bit to
drill the three holes for the control horn mounting screws.
Apply 2–3 drops of thin CA in each hole to harden the
surrounding wood.
 15. Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to secure the control
horn to the elevator using three 2mm x 12mm machine
screws and a control horn backplate.
 16. With the elevator servo centered, thread the nylon
clevis on the pushrod wire. When the clevis is attached, the
control surface must be centered as shown.
17. Install rudder servo and the 217/8-inch (555mm)
rudder pushrod following steps 3 through 15. Use
the rudder control horn prepared in step 2. The only
difference is that the rudder servo mounts on the right-
hand side and the pushrod routes out the right side of the
fuselage.
18. Remember to turn off the radio system at this time to
avoid running the battery down.

18 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Main Landing Gear Installation
Required Parts
Fuselage assembly Main landing gear
Axle, 4mm (2) Wheel pant (right and left)
Locknut, 4mm (2) 4mm washer (4)
Landing gear cover
2mm x 8mm self-tapping screw (2)
4mm x 12mm socket head bolt (2)
Wheel collar, 4mm with setscrew (2)
Main wheel, 2-inch (52mm) (2)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Nut driver: 7mm Open-end wrench: 10mm
Ruler Threadlock
Flat file Light oil
Ruler Felt-tipped pen
Hex wrench: 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm
1. Carefully slide two 4mm washers inside the landing
gear cover. Turn the cover over and align the washers over
the holes in the cover.
2. Insert the 4mm x 12mm socket head screws through
the washers and the landing gear cover.
3. Place the landing gear cover assembly on the landing
gear. Note that the landing gear will angle forward as shown
in the photo. The screws will fit into the mounting holes in
the landing gear.
Note: Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal
fasteners to prevent them from vibrating loose.
4. Attach the landing gear to the fuselage using the
screws installed in step 2 and a 3mm hex wrench. Use a
paper towel and rubbing alcohol to remove the mark made
in step 1.
 5. Use a flat file to make a flat area on the axle that is
1/4-inch (6mm) wide as shown.
Note: Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal
fasteners to prevent them from vibrating loose.

19Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
 6. Slide a 4mm washer on the axle as shown.
 7. Place a drop of light machine oil on the axle so the
wheel can rotate easily. Slide the wheel on the axle, then
secure it with a 4mm wheel collar. Install the collar so it is
flush with the end of the axle. Tighten the setscrew on the
flat made in the previous step using a 1.5mm hex wrench.
 8. Insert the wheel assembly into one of the wheel
pants. The threaded portion of the axle will fit into the notch
of the wheel pant.
 9. Insert the threaded portion of the axle through
the larger hole of the landing gear. Use a 10mm open-end
wrench and 7mm nut driver to tighten the 4mm nut that
secures the axle. Leave the nut a little loose so the wheel
pant can be moved easily for adjustment.
Note: Always use threadlock on metal-to-metal
fasteners to prevent them from vibrating loose.
10. Use a 2mm hex wrench to reinstall the 2.5mm x
10mm socket head machine screw. Use a 10mm open-end
wrench and a 7mm nut driver to fully tighten the nut on the
axle.
11. Repeat steps 5 through 10 to install the remaining
wheel and wheel pant.

20 Hangar 9 Sundowner 36 ARF
Hinging the Aileron
Required Parts
Wing panel with aileron and hinges (right and left)
Required Tools and Adhesives
Pin vise Thin CA
T-pins Drill bit: 1/16-inch (1.5mm)
 1. Separate the aileron from the wing panel and set the
four hinges aside.
 2. Use a pin vise and 1/16-inch (1.5mm) drill bit to
drill a hole in the center of each hinge slot. This will provide
a tunnel for the CA to wick into, providing a better bond
between the wood and hinge when they are glued in position.
Prepare both the aileron and wing panel at this time.
 3. Place a T-pin in the center of the four hinges
removed in step 6. This will center the hinges evenly in the
rudder and fin.
 4. Place the hinges in the aileron.
 5. Slide the hinges into the slots in the wing panel.
 6. Remove the T-pins from the hinges. Make sure the
aileron is pressed tightly against the wing panel to eliminate
any hinge gap. Check that the ends of the aileron have an
equal gap and are centered in the opening for the aileron in
the wing panel.
 7. Saturate each hinge using thin CA on both the
top and bottom of the hinge. Allow the CA to fully cure
before proceeding.
Note: Do not use CA accelerator on the
hinges. The CA must be allowed time to
soak into the hinge and surrounding wood
to provide the best bond for the hinge.