Saito FG-36 Gas Engine in a Hangar 9 P-51 150 ARF
Have you heard about the Saito G36 gasoline 4-stroke engine? It shares the same case as the FA-220a glow 4-stroke and features an electronic ignition and Walbro carburetor. Its valve seats have also been directly hardened for long life with gasoline fuels. And like its glow fueled Saito cousin, the engine is very receptive to different size propellers which gives you many different options.
With this new engine, many different projects are possible. The G36 will fit almost any 1.20 to 1.50 size airplane - so what airplane do we like? Hangar 9 has recently re-released their P-51 1.50 in a new trim scheme. This RC airplane has traditionally been an exceptional match with the Saito 1.50 or 1.80 glow engines. Plus, Saito engines perform wonders with large diameter propellers which only add to the scale appearance of a Mustang. And of course, the sound of that Saito humming away up front just makes the experience all that much better.
Making it Fit:
Does the Saito fit the Mustang 1.50? Yes, but with a little modification that is not to difficult. Two options are available for the engine mount. The G36 includes a very nice machined aluminum mount, or you can use the universal mount that comes with the Hangar 9 kit - both work well.
With either mount used, a modification to the firewall is required as the G36 is longer than the glow FA-180 normally used in the Hangar 9 P-51. The fix involves cutting part of the firewall away and installing another firewall on the back side of the factory piece. Other items you will need to make room for in the fuselage include the ignition battery, the electronic ignition module, and a smaller than normal fuel tank - gas engines use less fuel. Also, it is recommended that you use a True Turn 5″ spinner when setting up the engine-to-cowling spacing.
Cut Template
Cutout Template
Firewall Template
Spacers template
Field Setup:
When you are ready to go to the field, check everything over in the radio installation and gas engine setup. Make any adjustments to the control surfaces and remember to secure all screws and bolts. Your new DX7 will provide all the functionality this model needs.
Fly Away:
The flight characteristics of the Hangar 9 P-51 1.50 have always been exceptional. A 2007 Nationals Scale-winning entry is proof of that. The G36 provides all the power a pilot is going to expect from a model of this type. There is no longer any concern about the fuel consumption of the previous glow engines with the gas ignition Saito on board. A smaller gas tank can easily provides 10–15 minutes of flying time.
Related Product Categories:
Hangar 9 RC Airplanes
Saito RC Gas and Glow Engines
Spektrum RC Radios