Futaba Service

[RustyFingers]

Recently pulled a 8U out of storage charged the batteries and everything was working fine with my R30.

The radio was dusty so I took a q-tip to it and cleaned it all up like new. While I was at it I removed the frequency module from the back of the radio. After replacing the module the radio glitches like crazy and is now unusable.

I read about cold solder joints on the module connector so I removed the back of the radio and inspected the pins. That does not appear to be the problem. Does anyone have any other ideas to check?

At this point I guess the radio will have to go in for service. I see two options. Futaba factory or Radio South. Anyone have experience with either? Guesstimates on cost??

I wonder if I should put money into this set or just pick up something new?
What would you guys do?

[Rada70]

I would go with a new 9CHP. They're cheap now. If you have the money, and in to the hobby, go ahead and get youself a 14MZ.

[spork]

I would start with a can of tuner cleaner from the shack - and crossed fingers.

I've had good luck with Futaba service in case you choose that route.

[RustyFingers]

Thanks for the responses guys. Leaning towards a 9c anyway.

Did a little troubleshooting last night. Swapped some modules and crystals around from other gear. It appears the transmitter is fine. Narrowed it down to a bad reciever. So at least it won't be a huge hit to fix. It was weird the way it went out though. One minute everything was fine. Next it was broke.

I had this stored in the attic and I know the temps get pretty extreme up there bet that had something to do with it.

Will send the reciever in and get it fixed up

[spork]

Thanks for the responses guys. Leaning towards a 9c anyway.

I don't want to talk you out of the 9C, but I find the 7CHP to have everything I need at a pretty attractive price.

Will send the reciever in and get it fixed up

With the prices of receivers today (and repairs) I'd probably opt for a new RX and a little more piece of mind. Just my 2 cents.

[RustyFingers]

Point taken. New reciever will be installed. One of my customers who specializes in electronics told me the same advice... regarding cost vs peace of mind. 50$ for new vs 1500$ if it fails...

The transmitter turns out to be fine. So I will keep my 8U going.... I'm happy because I really do like that radio.

The 7c looks to be a great value for a dedicated heli radio. It just didn't "feel" right when I picked it up. I know it's stupid and fueled by blind ego.... but the 9 just felt better.... besides it has more knobs to twiddle.... :dontknow

Thanks for all the help. :smokin:

[spork]

The 7c looks to be a great value for a dedicated heli radio. It just didn't "feel" right when I picked it up. I know it's stupid and fueled by blind ego.... but the 9 just felt better.... besides it has more knobs to twiddle.... :dontknow

Hey, it's a hobby, you gotta have fun!


anybody know why futaba chose to "brain kill" the 7c by not including the modular rf of the 7u 8u 9c???????

That is a little annoying. I'm guessing that's either a way to keep the cost down (the 7C really is a great value) OR it's intended to steer people to the 9C. For what it's worth, I simply swapped crystals in my TX. I know it's not "legal", but I put it on the spectrum analyzer, and it easily meets all the specs.