The essential points about DuBro linkages

• Understanding the role of an RC airplane linkage.
• Discovering the different systems offered by DuBro.
• Choosing the right components according to the type of airplane.
• Eliminating play in control surfaces.
• Building a reliable, precise, and durable setup.

Download the DuBro accessories catalog.

Why is the linkage essential on an RC airplane?

When discussing the performance of a radio-controlled airplane, people often think of the engine, the radio, or the servos. However, an element plays an equally crucial role: the RC airplane linkage.

The linkage is the mechanical connection between the servos and the control surfaces.

Every movement transmitted by the radio must pass through this set of components before actuating the elevator, rudder, ailerons, or flaps.

An imprecise control, play, or excessive resistance immediately degrades the quality of piloting.

Conversely, a properly designed linkage offers precise control, consistent responses, and improved flight safety.

It is precisely in this area that DuBro has established itself as a reference among modelers worldwide.

What is an RC airplane linkage?

A linkage is not limited to a simple metal rod.

It is a complete set of components that work together to transmit movements from the servos to the control surfaces.

A typical setup usually includes:

• a DuBro Pushrod
• a DuBro Ball Link or a DuBro Kwik Link
• a DuBro E/Z Connector
• a DuBro Control Horn
• clevises
• mounting screws
• RC hardware

Each element has a specific function.

The efficiency of the whole depends on their proper combination.

Why choose DuBro linkages?

For several decades, DuBro has been developing solutions specifically designed to improve the precision of radio-controlled airplane controls.

The brand's accessories are now used on training planes as well as warbirds, aerobatic models, jets, gliders, or scale models.

Their reputation is based on several qualities.

Firstly, precision.

The parts are manufactured with tight tolerances that greatly reduce mechanical play.

Secondly, durability.

The materials used withstand the vibrations produced by glow, gas, or electric motors.

Lastly, compatibility.

Most DuBro components can be installed on models from many manufacturers.

This versatility explains why modelers often use multiple DuBro accessories on the same airplane.

The different elements of DuBro linkages

The DuBro catalog includes several product families for control surfaces.

Each one meets a specific need.

Before choosing a system, it is important to understand the role of each component.

DuBro Pushrods

The DuBro Pushrod is the backbone of the control system.

It directly connects the servo to the system installed on the control surface.

This control rod must possess several essential qualities.

It must be rigid enough not to deform under load.

It must remain lightweight to not affect the overall weight of the airplane.

Lastly, it must maintain perfect straightness to faithfully transmit servo movements.

DuBro offers various types of Pushrods suitable for both small electric airplanes and large glow models.

The different lengths and diameters allow equipping virtually all categories of RC airplanes.

DuBro Ball Links

Among all the accessories offered by DuBro, the Ball Links are probably among the most appreciated.

Unlike a traditional socket, a ball link allows for freedom of movement in multiple directions.

This design reduces stress on the servos.

It also decreases the risk of binding when deflections are significant.

The main advantages of DuBro Ball Links are numerous.

• Elimination of play.
• Very smooth operation.
• Excellent precision.
• High mechanical strength.
• Longevity.

These qualities explain their presence on aerobatic planes, jets, warbirds, or large gasoline models.

DuBro E/Z Connectors

Setting up controls is often one of the longest steps in assembling an airplane.

DuBro E/Z Connectors greatly simplify this operation.

The principle is simple.

The rod passes through a connector attached to the servo arm.

A screw then locks the control at the exact desired length.

This system offers several advantages.

The adjustment is extremely quick.

It can be modified without disassembling the entire control.

Corrections are very easy after the initial flights.

For a beginner modeler, E/Z Connectors save a lot of time while achieving precise results.

DuBro Kwik Links

DuBro Kwik Links provide a simple, economical, and highly reliable solution.

They allow for quickly connecting a metal rod to a control surface.

Their design also facilitates maintenance operations.

In a few seconds, it becomes possible to disassemble a control to work on a servo or replace a control surface.

This simplicity explains their success over many years.

They remain particularly suitable for training planes and models intended for leisure flying.

DuBro Control Horns

The Control Horn is directly attached to the control surface.

It receives the force transmitted by the linkage.

Its rigidity directly influences the precision of control.

DuBro Control Horns are available in various shapes to adapt to different control surface thicknesses.

Their design allows for a secure attachment while effectively distributing forces.

A properly installed unit limits deformations and significantly improves control precision.

A control system where every element matters

An RC airplane linkage functions like a chain.

The servo produces the movement.

The DuBro Pushrod transmits it.

The Ball Link or Kwik Link ensures the connection.

The Control Horn actuates the control surface.

If any element has a flaw, the entire control precision is affected.

That's why it's better to use components of consistent quality rather than combining very different parts.

By choosing a complete DuBro linkage, the modeler benefits from excellent compatibility between the different elements and reduces the risks of play or premature wear.

How to choose the right linkage for your RC airplane?

Not all RC airplane linkages face the same constraints. The model's weight, flight speed, control surface deflections, and servo power directly influence the choice of components.

That's why DuBro offers several complementary systems, each meeting specific needs.

Before purchasing a DuBro linkage, I recommend asking four essential questions:

• What is the weight of the airplane?
• Are the control surfaces heavily stressed?
• Does the airplane fly fast?
• Is control precision a priority?

The answers help in selecting the most suitable components.

Linkages for training airplanes

RC trainers prioritize simplicity, robustness, and ease of maintenance.

On this type of device, the forces applied to the control surfaces remain relatively low.

A classic solution composed of a Pushrod DuBro, an E/Z Connector DuBro, and a Control Horn DuBro perfectly meets the needs.

The Kwik Links DuBro are also an excellent solution. Their assembly is quick and they facilitate adjustments after the initial flights.

For a beginner pilot, this configuration offers an excellent compromise between cost, simplicity, and reliability.

Control linkages for aerobatic planes

An aerobatic plane imposes very different constraints.

The deflections are more significant.

Direction changes are faster.

The servos work more.

In this situation, precision becomes the main criterion.

The Ball Links DuBro are particularly recommended in this case.

Thanks to their ball joint articulation, they virtually eliminate all play in the controls and ensure extremely precise movement transmission.

Paired with correctly sized Pushrods DuBro, they allow for direct and very pleasant control in flight.

Warbirds and scale models

Warbirds generally combine high speed with a very realistic aesthetic.

The control surfaces are often heavier than on a trainer.

Therefore, the controls must transmit more force.

For these models, Ball Links DuBro often represent the best solution.

They reduce stress on the servos while maintaining excellent precision.

When multiple control surfaces are actuated simultaneously, this lack of play becomes particularly valuable.

Large gasoline models

Planes equipped with gasoline engines generate more vibrations than electric models.

The RC plane linkage must therefore be able to withstand these constant stresses.

In this category, it is preferable to use:

• reinforced Pushrods DuBro;
• metal Ball Links DuBro whenever possible;
• quality RC hardware;
• sturdy Control Horns DuBro.

This combination ensures excellent longevity of the installation.

Radio-controlled gliders

On a RC glider, the mechanical efforts remain relatively low.

However, the finesse of the controls is essential.

The slightest resistance can affect flight performance.

The Ball Links DuBro provide a real advantage here due to their particularly smooth operation.

Using small diameter Pushrods also allows for light control without compromising the rigidity of the system.

Ball Link or Kwik Link: which one to choose?

This is probably the most frequently asked question by modelers.

Both systems serve the same purpose: effectively connecting a linkage to a control surface.

However, their characteristics are different.

In practice, I recommend Ball Links DuBro whenever precision becomes an important criterion.

However, Kwik Links remain an excellent solution for training planes and leisure models.

How to eliminate play in the controls?

Play is the enemy of a good RC plane linkage.

Even a few tenths of a millimeter can make an airplane less precise.

To limit this phenomenon, several simple rules can be applied.

Use Pushrods that are rigid enough.

Avoid unnecessarily long rods.

Choose Ball Links DuBro when significant deflections are needed.

Ensure that the Control Horns are securely fixed.

Regularly check the tightening of the RC hardware.

Finally, immediately replace a part showing abnormal wear.

A few minutes of maintenance often prevent a much larger breakdown.

The most common assembly errors

A good linkage depends not only on the quality of the components.

The assembly also plays a crucial role.

Among the most common errors are:

• a rod that works off-center;
• a Pushrod that is too flexible;
• a misaligned Control Horn;
• a stressed Ball Link;
• an insufficiently tightened E/Z Connector;
• mechanical deflections limited by poor servo positioning.

These defects often cause a loss of precision and unnecessarily increase the efforts transmitted to the servos.

Taking the time to check each step of the assembly is therefore an excellent investment before the first flight.

Well-thought-out installation improves performance

A correctly made DuBro linkage brings several immediately noticeable benefits.

The control surfaces respond more quickly.

The servos work under better conditions.

Corrections are more precise.

Flying becomes more enjoyable and smoother.

Finally, the risks of mechanical failure decrease significantly.

That's why the quality of the linkage deserves as much attention as the choice of the engine, radio, or servos when building a radio-controlled airplane.

Tips for correctly installing a DuBro linkage

A quality DuBro linkage will perform at its best only if its installation is done carefully.

Even the best components cannot compensate for poor alignment or rough assembly.

First and foremost, ensure that the servos are perfectly centered before mounting the control horns. This step ensures identical deflections on each side and facilitates subsequent adjustments.

The Pushrods DuBro should work as much as possible in line with the controls. A rod that rubs against a bulkhead or works in a curve increases the effort on the servo and reduces its precision.

Likewise, the Control Horns DuBro must be perfectly aligned with the servo control horn. The more correct the geometry, the smoother the control.

Finally, take the time to check all fastenings before the first flight. An insufficiently tightened screw or a poorly secured nut can quickly cause play in the controls.

Regularly check your linkage

Like all mechanical elements of an RC plane, the linkage requires periodic checks.

Before each flying session, a few simple checks can detect any anomalies.

Check that the Ball Links DuBro rotate freely without excessive play.

Verify the tightening of the E/Z Connectors DuBro as well as the Kwik Links DuBro.

Ensure that the Pushrods are perfectly straight and show no signs of deformation.

Also, inspect the Control Horns to ensure they remain securely attached to the control surfaces.

These checks only take a few minutes but greatly contribute to the model's safety.

Summary table of DuBro solutions

The DuBro catalog offers several complementary control systems. The following table quickly identifies their main characteristics.

Additional Accessories Not to Forget

A control surface setup is not just about the linkage.

To achieve a reliable and durable installation, several accessories also deserve special attention.

Servo arms must be adapted to the servo torque used.

RC hardware should be chosen in quality materials to withstand vibrations.

RC airplane hinges must ensure perfectly free movement, without any binding or excessive play.

Finally, it is always preferable to use compatible components to limit adjustments and ensure better longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions About DuBro Linkages

Are Ball Links always preferable to traditional clevises?

DuBro Ball Links generally offer better precision and greatly reduce play in controls.

They are particularly recommended for fast airplanes, aerobatic models, and large RC airplanes.

For a training airplane or a leisure model, a clevis or DuBro Kwik Link can still be perfectly suitable.

Which linkage to choose for a beginner airplane?

For a first RC airplane, a combination of a DuBro Pushrod, an DuBro E/Z Connector, and a DuBro Control Horn is a simple, economical, and easy-to-adjust solution.

How often should linkages be checked?

A visual check before each flight session is recommended. It is also advisable to regularly check the tightness of screws, absence of play in joints, and the condition of control rods.

Are DuBro accessories compatible with other brands?

Yes. One of the main advantages of DuBro is the compatibility of its accessories with a large majority of kits and equipment available on the market.

They can be used on balsa models as well as foam or composite airplanes.

Why Choose DuBro Linkages?

For several decades, DuBro has been recognized as one of the specialists in accessories for RC airplanes.

Its catalog covers all needs related to control surfaces, from Pushrods to Ball Links, including E/Z Connectors, Kwik Links, and Control Horns.

This consistency allows for a homogeneous, reliable, and precise installation, regardless of the type of airplane and pilot skill level.

For modelers looking to build a high-performance and durable airplane, investing in DuBro linkages is a logical choice.

These components are designed to work together, simplify adjustments, and maintain their precision over hours of flight.

Find DuBro Linkages at Scientific-MHD

To select the most suitable DuBro linkage for your model, it is advisable to compare the different references based on the airplane size, type of control surfaces, and mechanical constraints it will face.

A specialized distributor like Scientific-MHD allows you to find the main brand references, easily complete your installation with RC hardware, servo arms, hinges, DuBro wheels, or other accessories needed for building a RC airplane.

By prioritizing quality components and careful assembly, you will achieve more precise controls, a more enjoyable flying experience, and better long-term reliability.