Flight Maintenance

[cliffkp]

Are you guys doing any checks to the head/screws etc after running a few packs through the heli? I'm new to this and wanted to ask before it was too late. No craches after 5-6 packs but now i'd like to make sure that there is anything I should be checking about now to make sure it hasn't come loose/etc.. Only thing i've been checking is the blade grips.

[Rototerrier]

In general, you should put a little pressure on every single linkage you can get your hands on. visually check for any screws backing out and feel for excessive slop in any linkages, bearings, servo arms/wheels and make sure no servo connections are backing out.

I ALWAYS do a thorough bench check before heading out and a quick preflight check before every single flight. It only takes a second to look everything over and every once in a while you will catch something and be extremely thankful you checked.

It only takes one link, screw, or connector to ruin your entire day.

[dpelletier]

Originally Posted by Rototerrier

It only takes one link, screw, or connector to ruin your entire day.

You know it brother... ball link screw came out on a blade grip my last flight... what a mess

Boom, shaft, spindle, flybar...

[cliffkp]

well glad I asked! I'm trying to upload a video now of a simple hover! Just checked all the items listed and all look to be tight and secure!. Thanks for the reply's all

[MichiganFlyer]

I am a newbie too! I purchased a used heli from a local guy and noticed the belt was loose. Well the next time we met up he helpme on tightening it. This was all before I flew it. Well after 15 flights I say it was loose again. Now I will check it after every flight. I need to get into these preflight checks myself and make it part of my normal routine.

[Inverse]

I generally do a pre flight and post flight check.
Mind you, most of my post flight checks are post-mortems!

[dpelletier]

Originally Posted by Inverse

Mind you, most of my post flight checks are post-mortems!

I know all to well what you mean