The ultimate guide to the Hangar 9 Carbon Cub 15cc ARF model aircraft

Are you looking for a high-quality aircraft that gives you an authentic flight experience? The 90-inch model of Hangar 9 could be exactly what you are looking for. In this comprehensive article you will learn everything about this impressive ARF model (Almost Ready to Fly), which is suitable for both gas and electric drive.

Technical specifications and performance data

Before we dive into the details, we take a look at the most important technical data of the Carbon Cub model:

Construction and material quality

The Hangar 9 Carbon Cub impresses with its high quality wood construction. The model is made entirely of laser-cut wood, which gives it an impressive stability with low weight. The lightweight design ensures excellent flight properties, while the robust design gives the model a long service life.

The surface is covered with real UltraCote® film, which not only ensures an authentic appearance, but also provides a durable and easy-care surface. The paint on the hood made of fiberglass and the accessories is perfectly matched to the overall picture.

Special design features:

• Main suspension with tundra wheels
• Two-piece, pluggable wing with functioning flaps
• Fast connection wing struts with aerodynamic profile
• Functional LED landing lights (already installed)
• Portable cockpit side doors
• Instrument details and seats in the cockpit
• Floatable with fixing points for optional floats (1/5 scale)

Flight performance and flight characteristics

The Carbon Cub replica is characterized by excellent flight properties that are very close to the original. Like its great role model, the model also offers impressive short-start and landing capability, especially when the functional flaps are used.

Flight time

With an average flight time of 12 to 15 minutes, the Carbon Cub offers enough time for extended flight maneuvers. The actual flight duration may vary depending on the drive system, flight style and weather conditions. Pilots flying with electric drive often report on somewhat shorter flight times, depending on the battery configuration chosen.

Increased power

The gradient of this machine is impressive. With a 15cc petrol engine, the model rises powerfully and quickly. With the recommended electric motor (Power 60, 470Kv), the Cub shows an excellent climbing rate. The combination of lightweight design and sufficient engine power ensures a realistic representation of the gradient of the original.

Construction and assembly

As an ARF model (Almost Ready to Fly), the Cub is already largely pre-assembled to the customer. However, some assembly work is required before the model can go into the air.

Construction time and difficulty

Experienced model flyers require about 15-20 hours for assembly. The following main steps must be taken:

1. Installation of the engine (gasoline or electric)
2. Installation of servos and steering
3. Mounting of the chassis
4. Installation of electronics
5. assembly and alignment of the supporting surfaces and the guide mechanism

The model is classed with a level 3 difficulty, which means it is aimed at advanced model flyers. Beginners should ideally have already gained experience with simpler models before they venture to this project.

Quality of construction instructions

The included construction instructions are detailed and well structured. It contains step-by-step instructions with numerous illustrations that significantly facilitate assembly. Especially helpful are the tips for correct adjustment of the center of gravity and the rudder rudders.

Target group and requirements

The Carbon Cub from Hangar 9 is aimed primarily at advanced model flyers who already have experience with larger models. Due to its size and weight, this model is not suitable for beginners.

Ideal pilots for this model:

• Advanced model flyers with multi-year experience
• Pilots looking for a realistic scale model
• Model flyers that place value on high-quality materials and processing
• Enthusiasts who consider both gas and electric drive

Transport and storage

With a span of 90 inches (228 cm), the transport represents a certain challenge. Fortunately, the model has a two-part, pluggable wing that significantly facilitates transport. The quick-connecting wing struts also allow for a fast up and down on the flight field with minimal tool insert.

For transport, a special transport container or a tailored bag is recommended that protects the model from damage. Many pilots also build their own transport solutions that are specially tailored to the dimensions of this model.

Customer reviews and reviews

The feedback from buyers of Hangar 9 Carbon Cubs is mostly positive. The flight properties, the material quality and the detailed accuracy of the model are particularly praised.

Positive aspects according to customer reviews

• Excellent flying properties, especially with slow flight maneuvers
• High quality materials and solid construction
• Realistic optics and detail
• versatility through the possibility to choose between gas and electric drive
• Good visibility in the sky through the characteristic yellow colour

Critical Points in Experience Reports

• Some customers report smaller fitting problems during assembly
• The relatively high purchase price is sometimes imposed
• Additional solutions are needed for transport
• The construction instructions could be more detailed in some places

Spare parts supply and support

An important consideration when buying a model aircraft is the availability of spare parts. In the Carbon Cub of Hangar 9, the spare part supply is quite good. As a product of an established manufacturer, most components are available both via specialist trade and online.

Particularly frequently required parts such as chassis components, motor carriers and small parts are generally readily available. For more specific components, longer delivery times may occasionally occur.

Community support and online resources

An active community has developed around the Hangar 9 Carbon Cub. In various model building forums and social media owners exchange experiences, modifications and tips. This community provides valuable support for newcomers in questions and problems.

Popular platforms for exchange are:

• Special model construction forums
• Facebook groups for Hangar 9 enthusiasts
• YouTube channels with construction and flight videos
• Instagram accounts with focus on scale model construction

Alternative models compared

In order to make a sound purchasing decision, it is useful to compare the Carbon Cub model with similar products.

Compared models of other manufacturers

Top Flite Giant Scale Piper J-3 Cub 1/4 Scale Kit:

• Larger span (108 inch)
• Available as kit (no ARF)
• Comparable flight characteristics
• Higher construction costs
• Similar price segment

FMS 1700mm PA-18 Super Cub PNP:

• Significantly smaller (67 inch span)
• Low price
• Fast flight ready (PNP)
• Only suitable for electric drive
• Less scale details

Great Planes Piper J-3 Cub 40 Kit:

• Smaller span (80 inches)
• Available as kit
• optimized for Glow engines
• Low price
• Less realistic details

In a direct comparison, the Hangar 9 Carbon Cub scores with its high-quality design, detail and flexibility in motorization. However, it is also priced in the upper segment.

Value for money

The Carbon Cub from Hangar 9 is undoubtedly a premium product and moves in price in the upper segment of the hobby market. For the investment, however, the buyer receives a high-quality, detailed and well flying model with numerous scale features.

The price-performance ratio can be considered as appropriate when taking into account the following factors:

• High-quality materials and processing
• Extensive equipment with scale details
• Flexible drive options
• Good flying properties
• Durability due to robust construction

It should be noted that in addition to the basic price for the ARF model, further investments for motor, servos, receivers and, if necessary, Add batteries.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Drive optimization

For petrol drive:

• A DLE-15 or Saito FG-14C petrol engine offers a balanced ratio of power to weight
• A spark plug with medium heat level ensures reliable operation
• A throttle servo with high torque improves engine control

For electric drive:

• A high-quality 6S-LiPo with at least 5000mAh ensures optimal performance
• A controller with at least 80A continuous current is recommended
• Use a 16x10 propeller for maximum efficiency

Priority optimization

The correct setting of the focus is crucial for good flight characteristics. In this model, the optimal focus is between 4.0 and 4.7 inches (100-120mm) behind the front edge of the wing. An exact setting can be achieved by moving the battery or by adding weights.

Rudder and Expo settings

For optimal control, the following rudder fittings are recommended:

• Cross rudder: 15mm up, 12mm down (30% Expo)
• Altitude: 15mm up and down (25% Expo)
• Side rudder: 25mm to left and right (20% Expo)
• Flaps: 15mm for start, 30mm for landing

Transport optimizations

In order to facilitate transport, the following measures may be taken:

• Use of quick fasteners for wing struts
• Installation of removable servo clutches for faster up and down
• production of an accurate transport bag or box
• marking of the center of gravity position for easier assembly

Frequent questions and problems of users

Problem: Motor vibrations

Question: My Carbon Cub shows strong vibrations with running engine. What can I do?

Solution: First check the engine mount on fixed seat. In petrol engines, a good balancing of the propeller is crucial. Also use rubber dampers between motor and motor carrier to reduce vibrations. In electric drives, a high-quality, balanced propeller can solve the problem.

Problem: difficulty starting

Question: My model does not lift clean or tends to break out at the start. What's that about?

Solution: First check the focus and the rudder stops. For a clean start, the flaps should be easily extended (about 15mm). Pay attention to a straight start and give side winds corresponding to side rudders. A higher starting weight can also help with windy conditions.

Problem: Instability in flight

Question: My Carbon Cub does not fly stable and reacts oversensitively to control inputs.

Solution: This indicates a wrong focus or too large rudder rudders. Check the focus and reduce the rudder deflections. Expo settings of 25-30% on cross- and high-rise wheels can make the control softer. Also a check of the rudder couplings on play is advisable.

Problem: Land difficulties

Question: The model is difficult to land and tends to bulge or sag.

Solution: For a controlled landing, the flaps should be fully extended (30mm) and the speed should be reduced. Practice the approach with constant sink rate and slightly pulled uphill. Just before putting on, give a little more height to make putting on more gentle. A slight head load can improve the landing properties.

Problem: Spare parts procurement

Question: Where do I get spare parts for my Carbon Cub?

Solution: Spare parts are available through the trade, the Horizon Hobby Webshop or specialized online retailers. For certain components such as chassis or hood, you can also contact Hangar 9 customer support. Used parts are also occasionally offered in model construction forums.

Conclusion and recommendation for purchase

The Hangar 9 Carbon Cub 15cc ARF is an impressive model that convinces with its high-quality processing, detail and excellent flying characteristics. With a span of 90 inches (228 cm), it offers an impressive appearance in the sky and allows realistic flight maneuvers.

The model is particularly suitable for advanced model flyers that place value on scale details and authentic flight behavior. The possibility to choose between petrol and electric drive also makes the model very versatile.

The comparatively high price is justified by the quality and longevity of the model. If you are willing to invest in a high-quality model, the Carbon Cub from Hangar 9 will receive a long-lasting and impressive aircraft that will convince both visually and in its flight characteristics.

For pilots looking for an authentic Cub experience in a well-processed and reliable model, this machine is a clear recommendation. The active community and the good spare parts supply complete the positive overall picture and make this model a rewarding investment for dedicated model flyers.