Du-Bro 101 – How To Install HD Adjustable Control Horns on RC Airplanes

Du-Bro 101 – How To Install HD Adjustable Control Horns on RC Airplanes

How to Install DU-BRO Heavy-Duty Adjustable Control Horns

Installing Heavy-Duty Adjustable Control Horns is one of the best upgrades you can make to improve the strength, precision, and reliability of your RC airplane’s control surfaces. Ideal for sport models, giant-scale aircraft, aerobatic flyers, and high-stress applications, these DU-BRO control horns provide maximum durability and fine-tuning capability.

If you’re looking for more surface control parts, visit our Control Hook-Ups Collection and Pushrods & Accessories. You’ll also find compatible hardware in our Kwik Links / Clevis Collection.


Why Choose DU-BRO Heavy-Duty Adjustable Control Horns?

These control horns allow you to:

  • Customize arm height

  • Achieve perfect pushrod geometry

  • Withstand high loads during aerobatics

  • Maintain long-term alignment

  • Improve overall flight precision

They pair perfectly with DU-BRO’s Safety Lock Kwik-Links for secure, slop-free connections.


🛠️ Tools & Materials You'll Need

Before getting started, gather:

  • Heavy-Duty Adjustable Control Horn kit

  • Rotary tool with cut-off wheel

  • Two pliers

  • Threaded pushrod

  • DU-BRO Safety Lock Kwik-Link

  • Prepared control surface with pre-drilled holes

Need a hardware restock? Explore our Hardware Kits or Fasteners.


🔧 Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Insert the Bolt into the Beveled Washer

Place the bolt head against the flat side of the beveled washer. This creates proper seating and prevents wobble.


2. Add the First Bump Washer

Slide a bump washer onto the bolt with the bump facing the beveled side of the washer. This helps center the horn and reduce wear.


3. Insert the Bolt into the Control Surface

Feed the assembly through your previously prepared hole. Ensure it sits clean and centered.


4. Install the Second Bump Washer

Place the remaining bump washer on the bolt inside the control surface—flat side touching the surface.


5. Thread the Aluminum Barrel

Tighten the barrel until it slightly compresses the balsa. This strengthens the hole and provides a firm mounting base.


6. Secure the Lock Nut

Using two pliers, snug the lock nut against the aluminum barrel. This prevents loosening from vibration.


7. Fit the Plastic Horn Arm

Thread the plastic arm onto the bolt to determine the correct height. Mark the excess bolt length.


8. Cut the Bolt to Size

Remove the plastic horn arm, cut the bolt with a rotary cutoff wheel, and reinstall the arm.
For cutting tools, check out our Tools Collection.


9. Attach the Safety Lock Kwik-Link

Using the included Safety Lock Kwik-Link, connect the horn arm to a threaded pushrod. This ensures a secure, slop-free connection.

For premium linkages, explore our Kwik Links / Clevis and Pushrods & Accessories categories.


🎯 Why This Upgrade Matters

Heavy-Duty Adjustable Control Horns offer:

  • Stronger linkages for high-performance models

  • Longer-lasting hardware

  • Fine control surface tuning

  • Improved servo efficiency

  • Better precision during maneuvers

Perfect for large aircraft, 3D flyers, classic kits, and restoration projects.


✈️ Final Thoughts

Installing DU-BRO’s Heavy-Duty Adjustable Control Horns is a simple upgrade that delivers big results in durability and control accuracy. With the right steps and quality DU-BRO hardware, your RC airplane will respond smoother, fly straighter, and withstand high-stress aerobatics with confidence.

For more top-quality RC accessories made in the USA, explore our full Airplane Collection and Featured Products.