Specifications

DCS
[P-51D Mustang]
26
AIRCRAFT OVERVIEW
Tail Section
The tail section consists of a horizontal stabilizer, vertical stabilizer, elevators, and rudder. The fabric-
covered elevators and rudder are equipped with trim tabs controllable from the cockpit. Lead weights
are attached to the leading edges to balance the elevators and rudder statically and dynamically.
Compared to the earlier B-C model, the P-51D features a dorsal fin section ahead of the vertical
stabilizer for increased lateral control and structural strength.
Flight Controls
The ailerons, elevators, and rudder are controlled by a conventional stick and rudder pedals. The
ailerons are sealed internally so that no air can pass through the opening between the aileron and
wing section. This lightens the pressure on the control stick and at the same time provides more
positive action.
Figure 10: P-51D Elevator Control System
The tail section control surfaces are limited to the following angular movements: rudder: +/-30°,
elevator: +30°/-20°. The aileron travel can be adjusted to the following settings: +/-10°, +/-12°, +/-
15°. The flaps extend the full distance from the fuselage to the ailerons and are hydraulically
operated by a control handle on the left side of the cockpit. The flaps have a 47° range of movement
and are brought to any desired position by moving the control lever to the corresponding angle as
indicated on the panel. It takes 11-15 seconds for the flaps to go from the full up to the full down
position.
Trim tab controls for the left aileron, rudder, and elevators are also located on the left side of the
cockpit. A pointer marker integrated with each control wheel mechanism indicates the position of the
tab in degrees. The rudder pedals are adjustable for leg length by means of a lever at the inboard
side of each pedal.