DU-BRO 101

Quality tools help you build better models. The EZ Threader is a multi-purpose tool to help you manage those smaller hardware pieces with precision and these are a few tips to get you started:

• The EZ Threader helps you have a mechanical advantage for easier use of small plastic hardware. 
• One end of the EZ Threader is specifically shaped for installing, adjusting, and removing nylon Kwik-Links
• The other end can be used for Socket Ball Links and Swivel Ball Links
• The tool also comes apart intentionally in the event that a smaller size of your link gets dropped inside on accident. The two halves are keyed so there’s no need to glue them together. 

Installing a Hatch Latch (CAT 925) is easy and provides a secure and reliable mechanism for getting in and out of your model. Here’s a few key steps to take while you install the hardware:

• The ridge on the back side of the latch/catch and the catch plate are for your glue application. It’s recommended to use thick CA for this job so that the glue is instant and you minimize the chance of wicking glue into the moving mechanism.
• On the back of the product card, trim away the black box using a razor knife to make a template for material needed to be cut away for the installation. 
• Trace the template onto your model, noting where the seam should be between the latch and the catch plate. 
• Trim away material carefully, using multiple light and shallow passes to make sure the cuts are clean and accurate. Trim any additional material away after test fitting the parts with no glue. 
• Apply glue to either just the underside edge of the parts or around the perimeter of the opening where they will be installed. Apply the parts to the appropriate locations and wick away any excess glue with a paper towel. 
• Test the functionality of the Hatch Latch and if there’s binding, do some additional plastic trimming.

Single servo aileron connections can be done the wrong way or the DUBRO way. The Aileron Connector is a sturdy and adjustable way to setup your single-servo aileron where you need to use multiple lengths of push rods. Here’s a few points to keep in mind.

• Aileron Connector Ball Link (SKU 183) ideally is used in conjunction with a single servo and bellcranks (SKUs 167 and 851). Primarily consider this option if you do not have a single rod long enough to run from one bellcrank to the other.
• Do NOT drill out E-Z Connectors to make them larger for two push rods. The E-Z connectors are not engineered to work this way and will eventually, over time, fail. 
• Generally, setup needs to be done while assembling the model. The threaded rod ends are soldered to your push rods. See DU-BRO 101 post onThreaded Rods and Couplers for instructions on how to do this.
  https://www.dubro.com/blogs/du-bro-101/du-bro-101-threaded-rods-and-couplers
• Reference the image on the back of the product card as a reminder during assembly. 
• After basic assembly, make fine adjustments to the Aileron Connector push rods to try and get the same amount of travel on both of your bellcranks. 
• While making fine adjustments, ensure that there is no binding during operation of the servo.

Using inflatable tires is easy and another great way to add realism and functional shock absorbing to your model. Knowing how to service them is great too so that you can prolong the life of these quality tires. Here’s a few pointers for using and servicing your inflatable tires:

• Each wheel and tire comes with an inflator device that can be used with a small length of tubing and a hand pump (sports ball pump or RC retract pump). 
• It is not recommended to use an electric pump as it is too easy to over-inflate the tires or pop them.
• A few pumps should do to inflate the tires but use a ruler to ensure they are not inflated beyond their specified diameter. 
• The tire valves can fail over time and new valves (SKU 809) can be purchased to do this. The inflator can be inserted into the old valve, rocked/rotated gently while pulling to be removed from the tire. 
• New tire valves are inserted using the same motion in reverse but use a few drops of isopropyl alcohol to lubricate them before insertion. 
• Axle holes can be drilled out from 3/16 inch up to ¼ inch using a drill press. Manual drilling risks having a wobbly wheel. 

The DU-BRO E/Z Brake system is a simple addition to your model to give stopping power for more realism in your model. It’s also simpler to install than you might think! Follow along to add this amazing device to your model:

• Open the contents and review the included diagram sheet with the parts, as well as the instructions.
• Install the main hub onto the axle and clip to the gear leg. 
• Attach the control line onto the brake spring using a crimp as outlined in the directions.
• Install the brake spring onto the hub, noting the correct direction of the hub per the diagram.
• Slide the hub onto the axle and align the hook with its corresponding plastic tab. Remove the other secondary tab to allow the spring brake to move.
• Route the brake line using the guide tube through your model. The easiest way is to route the line to the elevator servo and connect the line to the down-elevator side. Review your model’s functionality to pull on the line during down elevator operation.
• Install the wheel and secure it with a collet.
• Adjust the brake sensitivity using the different holes on your servo connection and the adjustment of the clevis. 
• It is advised to use some lubrication on your axle at times but be mindful not to lubricate the brake too.