DIY Network

RC Helicopters: Flying Lesson From "Radio Control Hobbies" episode RCH-114

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Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D Figure E Figure F Figure G Figure H Figure I Figure J Figure K Figure L Figure M SAFETY ALERT: It's extremely important to have and maintain a firm grasp on the rotor blades when starting any RC helicopter. Chris Chianelli and RC helicopter specialist Jeff Green prepare the Shuttle Plus (TM) for takeoff at the flying field.

With assembly complete on the Shuttle Plus (TM ) RC helicopter and basic functions checked, the model is ready for a test flight (figure A). In this segment, host Chris Chianelli gets some pointers from RC helicopter specialist on preflight check and beginner flying techniques. Following is a summary.

Preliminary Operational Checks

• Check to make sure the throttle and collective pitch servos are working properly.

• Check elevator servos for proper operation.

• Check tail rotor servo for proper operation.

• Check to make sure gyro is working properly.

Preflight Procedures at the Field

• Remove the canopy and check to make sure everything is secured tightly on the helicopter's engine -- all servos, rods and the receiver pack (figure B).

• Replace the canopy (figure C).

• Fuel the helicopter from the flight box. Connect the fuel-fill line from the fuel pump to the motor line (figure D) and hold the connection so it doesn't separate.

• Start the electronic fuel pump on the flight box. The tank is full when fuel starts coming out of the exhaust stack (figure E).

• Check the radio functions. Turn the radio transmitter on first (figure F). Check to make sure battery voltage is good in both the radio and the helicopter.

• Turn the helicopter on using the on-off switch inside the main body (figure G). Operate and check the servo functions using the controls on the radio transmitter.

• Attach glow-plug starter at the remote connection (figure H) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Leave the glow driver in place until you get onto the flying field.

• Connect the electronic starter (figure I) and engage it to start the engine.

  Important safety alert: Make sure to have a firm grasp on the rotor blades (figure J) when starting.

  
  

• With the engine started, carry the helicopter and radio to the field to prepare for flight.

Flight Training Tips

• Seek out an experienced RC helicopter pilot and learn how to fly using the buddy-box system (figure K).

  
  

• Begin slowly, practicing takeoffs and landings until you begin to get familiar with the controls (figure L).

  
  

• Using the buddy-box, the novice stands next to an experienced pilot. The expert's radio transmitter is attached to the novice's radio with a buddy cord (figure M). If the novice gets into trouble, the expert can take control of the RC model immediately.

In the segment that follows, a special training device for easy landings is demonstrated.

RESOURCES :
Radio Controlled Helicopters: The Guide to Building & Flying R C Helicopters
Model: 1854861379
Author: Nick Papillon

Nexus Special Interest Ltd.

RC Modeler magazine
RC Modeler magazine
Sierra Madre, CA 91025
Fax: 626-355-1476
Website: www.rcmagazine.com

Shuttle Plus RC Helicopter

Shuttle Plus Helicopter by Hirobo

Distributed in the US by MRC

Hirobo Limited, Model Enterprise Division
FuchuJapan
Website: www.model.hirobo.co.jp/english

MRC (Model Rectifiers)
MRC (Model Rectifiers)
Edison, NJ 08837
Phone: 732-225-6144
Website: www.modelrectifier.com

GUESTS :
Jeff Green
Model Rectifier Corporation
80 Newfield Avenue
Edison, NJ 08837
Phone: 732-225-6144
Website: www.modelrectifier.com
Radio-control helicopter expert and senior product manager for Model Rectifier Corporation.