Flying Season Checklist
By: Brian James
The snow has melted, the birds are singing, the grass is green. YAY! Time to grab your Heli and head right out to the field! Wait just a second... You didn't think you could just dust off your model and fly it did ya??? Theres a few things to double check before you take to the skies again for another flying season. Do it right, and spend A LOT less money on preventable crashes. Here's what to look for
1. Transmitter/Receiver Battery
Make sure it's charged. It's a good time to cycle the battery and make sure that it still holds a charge. If it's in question, replace it. I promise that it costs less to replace a battery than it does to repair a crashed model. As Eric used to say, no one ever crashed because of a fully charged battery!!
2. Helicopter Airframe
It's a good time to go over EVERYTHING. Bearings, bushings, linkages, screws, nuts, make sure they're in good condition, and secure. Hardware is cheap AND it prevents stuff from falling off your helicopter, amazing! I always replace the clunk line in the fuel tank as well, cheap insurance. Check out the hardware kit from FMP.
3. Engine/Motor
Engines that sit in damp areas are subject to rust...bummer. IF your helicopter sat in a damp garage all winter, you should consider taking a look at the bearings, especially the rear crankshaft bearing. Electric motors have bearings too that need lubrication. A drop of Tri-Flow and you're good to go! If you need to replace a bearing on your engine, check our tips/tricks section for information on how to do it. It's probably a good idea to start off with a fresh glow plug, and new fuel line as well.
4. Starting and Field Equipment
It sucks to get all the way out to the field only to find that your starting and fueling equipment is in need of attention. You came to FLY, not mess with your fuel pump. Check this stuff BEFORE you leave the house. Make sure your pump actually moves fuel, and that your glow igniter is charged and heats a plug. Your starter battery should be fully charged, and if you are still lugging that 12 volt battery around from the 80's, now may be the perfect time to go cordless...WAIT, I said cordless, not topless, put your shirt back on! with Mavrikk's cordless starter combo you ditch the cord, AND the heavy 12V lead acid battery!
5. Range Check
Once you get out to the field, make sure to do a range check, I mean you do this EVERY time you go flying anyhow right? It certainly can't hurt to double check.
Have fun, and be safe. Remember to "Fly hard, HeliProz has the parts!"
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