Blade Replacement

[EVBmcx]

I am learning to fly the CP+ and as would be expected, have had a mishap or two. The blades are a bit chewed up with some splinters and tears in the plastic cover. I have a spare set in reserve, but so far, they seem to still be functioning.

How much abuse should I expect these blades to take and still be flyable? Do people replace at the first sign of damage or only when things totally splinter?

They are spinning rather quick so I have no intention of flying them heavily damaged - just moderate..

Thanks in advance.

[va3sax]

I tend to replace the blades on my CPs with any sign of damage I'm afraid myself that with a bit of damage the forces on the blades might cause separationg of the 2 different woods or worse yet the metal weight. with my FP type birds I'll fly them with pieces missing out of the plastic blades. as long as it doesn't cause an issue

[EVBmcx]

Thanks- I am getting proficient at replacing parts already....

[Heli Jim]

The metal rod could come loose and fly out and that would be like a bullet so
if the ends are chewed up, replace them. The other concern is balance---if they get chipped up and lose enough wood, it could end up out of balance so if you see or feel any vibration, then replace them.

Also remember to check the spindle, or feathering shaft, that runs between the blade holders. This is kind of soft and can easily become bent and that
will cause you all kinds of trouble.

[EVBmcx]

Thanks. Replaced the blades and it is much smoother.

[Phoebe]

I'm in the minority here, but I've repaired several sets of blades many times each. The effectiveness and safety of repaired blades is proportional to your skills as a modeler and requires a good understanding of the forces involved. You need to honestly asses your capabilities, and err on the side of replacement if you're in doubt.

As far as how the dings affect flight, blades can often function well with some pretty significant scars provided they remain in balance and are tracking well.

[EVBmcx]

Thanks. I didn't see much change in balance with "scars" as you put it, but had some bites which really impacted things. So I suppose I found my threshold. At $14 a pop, however, I won't be changing them if they get dirty!

[va3sax]

check out helidirect for blades at about half what you're currently paying. Blades are something you'll go through a lot of