Adding Canisters to the Hangar 9 Super Decathlon 100cc ARF

[JimD]

We have built two of these models and have made this modification on both. On the first, the rear part of the canisters were open to the interior of the plane. This didn't seem to cause any trouble (even on some very warm days), but we decided to make an enclosed tunnel on the second model. Here is a picture essay of the modifications we made. The engine used is a Desert Aircraft DA-120. Canisters are MTW-75k front dump. Headers are KS 90mm drop with flex section.

This model is being used as an aero towing tug for giant scale sailplanes. We put about 50 hours of flight time on the first model and sold it. This model now has about 10 hours of flight time with zero problems. For our purpose, adding a little extra weight to the model is not a problem. The fuel tank is a 100cc DuBro and gives us about one hour of flight time doing towing duty.

 

[Madinpensacola]

Cooooooooool.

 

[SleepyC]

Holy cow, your plane has to be the most tricked out H9 Decathlon out there!

 

[-Rick-]

Nicely done!

 

[JimD]

Thanks guys!

There is more...We had a custom gear made by T-n-T Landing Gear Products.

The exact dimensions given to T-n-T are as follows:
A=2-1/2"
B=1-1/4"
C=0
D=0
W=25"
X=12"
Y=9-1/4"
Z=1-3/4"
Thickness=1/4"

Basically, this gear is 1/2" wider in the mounting plate area but width and height are the same as the stock gear. Aero tow tugs make LOTS of takeoffs and landings and the gear has to be up to the task. In addition, with the 100 oz. gas tank and other mods, the plane is not light weight, so again, the gear has to be able to carry the weight.

The tail wheel was upgraded to the Ohio Superstar Products Maxi tail wheel.

The tail brace wires in the kit were replaced with DuBro 4-40 rod and fittings.

The 4-40 bolts that attach the struts to the wings were changed out and a smooth shaft "shoulder" bolt so the threads don't cut into the metal parts in this joint.

A tank mount platform was built to place the center of the DuBro 100 oz. gas tank on the CG.

Redundant receivers finish out the radio installation. Right aileron, left flap, left elevator, throttle are on one receiver and left aileron, right flap, right elevator, choke, and tow release are on the other. Each receiver has its own battery pack (2,500mAh 2-cell A123) and switch.