Newbie in Detroit

[Karisma]

Hey! I'm ready to get started! Anyone want to help me out? Or do I just got to go to the store and go with the man or woman behind the counter says!

[WillJames]

Hi,

Are you a member of any clubs or are there any R/C clubs near you? If so, you should go see what people are flying there and get the same thing. That way it will be easy to find people who know how to help with the machine you buy.

[Karisma]

I'm not a member or any clubs. I contacted a few people howerver, so far no word from anyone.

[ThBrtmn]

Karisma here is some answers to your post in the main...
What is your budget?
Here a couple of links to some threads on this site that might help you.
If you have any questions please feel free to ask...
As far as you and your buddy wanting something to FLY with not setup...The only way to get that or even close is to buy a used ship... and then you might have to put some things back to gether if you do not buy it locally from someone that you met...
ARFs (almost ready to fly) are the second best option with a little simple building. Most of the main parts of the ARFs are already assembled.
Check these links out and tell reply back here with what you think
http://www.helifreak.com/viewtopic.php?t=140
http://www.helifreak.com/viewforum.php?f=5
http://www.p-locate.rc-helipad.com/

[Karisma]

Karisma here is some answers to your post in the main...
What is your budget?
Here a couple of links to some threads on this site that might help you.
If you have any questions please feel free to ask...
As far as you and your buddy wanting something to FLY with not setup...The only way to get that or even close is to buy a used ship... and then you might have to put some things back to gether if you do not buy it locally from someone that you met...
ARFs (almost ready to fly) are the second best option with a little simple building. Most of the main parts of the ARFs are already assembled.
Check these links out and tell reply back here with what you think
http://www.helifreak.com/viewtopic.php?t=140
http://www.helifreak.com/viewforum.php?f=5
http://www.p-locate.rc-helipad.com/

All of those were great links. I was told that mac has a bird hangin in his shop but he has not gotten a hold of me. Budget is not an issue for me. I just want to start out with something that is not too basic. I like to think I have an above average learning curve. I have nothing but time to practice so I want to buy a bird and start flying.

[Hotshot Charlie]

With finances not being a problem, Consider the Raptor 50, JR8103 with PCM receiver, 811 servos, Futaba GY401 Gyro with matching 9254 servo, OS50 engine. My flying buddy is flying this bird and it is a very stable heli and will take you well into the hobby. Plus parts are very inexpensive compared to other heli's.

Have fun and stay safe ! Keep searching for an experienced heli pilot in your area.
It really makes a difference.

[Karisma]

Besides all of that, is that all I need? I need to know what to know eactly what to get.

[Karisma]

oh and thanks!

[capebob]

I think Rob meant to say that the 9253 servo is the companion to the GY-401. 8)

Other than what Rob said, which are all excellent choices you will need the following.

Starter

Starter battery

Charger for the starter battery

Six millimeter hex starter adapter. You won't need one with a one-way clutch.

Fuel pump and fuel cap fittings

Fuel filter

Fuel line. The stuff that comes with the Raptor and most other Asian helicopters isn't very good.

Bottle of thread lock, I use the green.

I would suggest a set of good quality hex wrenches, a pitch gage
Lots of fuel

AND ABOVE ALL A SIMULATOR Even though they are rather expensive a simulator will most likely pay for itself your first month in the hobby.

I think that's about all, but I'm sure others will have other suggestions.

Welcome to a wonderfully addicting hobby and good luck.

Bob

[Karisma]

Thanks Bob!

[ThBrtmn]

Here is a good list....


Things To Get An RC Helicopter Flying

1. Helicopter kit (will need blades as well as muffler if not in kit)
2. Engine
3. Radio (most come with Reciever and Batteries for both)
4. Gyro (for tail rudder/servo) Some places offer a package deal...(gyro & high speed tail servo)
5. 5 servos(4 if gyro/tservo purchased together) Some places offer package deals of 4or5 servos w/ radio.
6. Glow plug(s)
7. Glow Driver/lighter.
8. Starter (spins the motor over) and starter shaft(type, depends on Helicopter Brand)
9. Battery/Batteries to connect to/run starter. Setup depends on preference…corded or cordless.
10. Fuel and Pump (to get fuel out of container of choice)
11. Fuel Tubing

Tools Needed for Assembly

1. Ball link plyers
2. Hex driver set (1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm hardent tips)...way easier than a set of allen keys.
3. Glow plug wrench. ( can be substuted with a socket wrench with 8mm socket)
4. Pitch Guage (unless you can borrow a buddies for the time being).
5. Blade Balancer (unless you can borrow a buddies for the time being).
6. Blue Locktite (I keep red LT on hand too).
7. CA (Cyanocrylate) model glue...(pretty much super glue)
8. Small metric ruler. (comes in handy)

Optional Items

1. Head Button (to slow your head speed down when retrieving the Heli or tuning the motor)
2. Fuel line clamp and plug for fueling without flooding the carb.
3. Fuel filter (This would almost be a must… very wise to have one) "T" if you use a clamp and plug system.
_________________


Hope that helps...
Are you talking about Mac Hodges @ Hodges Hobbies?

[Hotshot Charlie]

Hi CapeBob and gang,

The GY401 combo now comes with the new 9254 servo, faster and more torque. I just got one from Heliproz. Great price on it also.

Agreed with CapeBob, A SIMULATOR, Realflight G2, or others. This is a must !!! It will save you money, time and heartbreak ! :o

[capebob]

Rob,

Thanks for the update. I just built a R50 for another guy and just slapped the servo in assuming it was a 9253. You are absolutely right it is a 9254. Sorry for the bad information.

Bob

[ImRich]

I'll back up what others have said:

If money is no object (and especially if it is) get a good simlator first. I have the RealFlight G2 and it's worth 10 times it's price in heli parts! :D

[Karisma]

Just curious, how much does it cost new? I seen it on ebay right now for just over 100

[ImRich]

I think it's about $200 or $250. Check with your local hobby shop.

[ThBrtmn]

Karisma...
I bought the light version for $130 new... the Full is $200...When I bought the light I also bought the add on pack that includes the Caliber 30....That was enough to get me flying...total...160$ Not much less than the full but if you need to save wherever you can....that would be all you need.... you just dont get the fancy fixins that come with the full like programmable redio/aircraft and making your own flying fields...also you cant multiplayer with the light...

[Karisma]

I guess, I can get the full from ebay for just over 100 then. thanks you guys

[Hotshot Charlie]

Usually around $130-$150, RealFlight will unregister the copy you get, so basically it is just like getting a brand new sim. Just make sure the orignal owner unregisters it before he ships it to you.

I just sold one for $130.

[Karisma]

thanks for the info...