Ahsan posted on May 16, 2010 22:47
Introduction: Hangar 9 P-51 Mustang 60 size electric conversion.
Many modelers have asked me how to convert popular 40/60 nitro arf kits into electric power. This process is relatively simple, in fact Hangar 9 and some other brand name manufacturers are now starting to include both power options for their new planes right out of the box so conversions aren’t needed. However, if you happen to have a kit or arf that currently doesn’t have an electric power option, you don’t have to settle for nitro only power as pretty much any model can be converted into electric.
Before I begin this conversion it’s important to note that this article assumes you have knowledge about electric R/C systems and understand wattage requirements for r/c aircraft based on size and weight. If you are not familiar with this information, please ask a fellow modeler that is knowledgeable about electric r/c power to assist you in choosing the right motor combination and setup for your aircraft.
This article details the conversion of a Hangar 9 P-51 60 size warbird that I had converted in August of 2008 right after the Gustav Hurricane. This plane is no longer produced and has been replaced with an updated model that has built in options for both nitro/gas or electric power. However, you could apply the same building techniques to other Nitro only planes such as the Hangar 9 Corsair, Spitfire, Hellcat, or any other 40/60 size plane that are still in production.
NOTE: I will also be replacing the stock landing gear with updated gear form Century Jet Aircraft. I find the oleo struts make landings a breeze and the pneumatic assemblies last a lot longer than conventional mechanical gear. This is simply a personal preference and has no effect on the electric conversion.