I had a hard time getting the pushrod tube in with the tank installed as well. At first I was trying to push them in from in from in front of the tank, but then I decided to push from the rear and was able to get it done that way. I have not flown mine, because I took the advice of others above and bought a Great Planes CG & AccuThrow to make sure that it is balanced and trimed correctly. They are due to arrive Monday from Tower Hobbies. So I hope by next weekend I get to take my first flight.