How to Build a Radio-Controlled Helicopter

There's a real challenge in learning to fly a radio-controlled helicopter, but many enthusiasts take the R/C hobby to a new level by building the model before taking to the air.

Things You'll Need

• X-Acto Knives
• Wet And Dry Sandpaper
• 14-function Pocketknives
• Desk Lamps
• Flat Hobby Paintbrushes
• Airplane Glue
• Superglue
• Dremel Rotary Tools - Plus Assorted Tips
• Worktables
• Razor Saw Sets
• Razor Plane Sets
• How-to Video On R/C Airplanes
• Gripping Straight Tweezers
• Hobby Drop Cloths
• Tweezer-nose Pliers
• Jewelers Screwdriver Sets
• Hobby Clamps
• Round Hobby Paintbrushes
• Rotory Modeler Magazine
• Bent-nose Pliers
• Magnetic Screwdrivers
• Nut Drivers
• Electric Screwdrivers
• Groove Joint Pliers
• Needle-nose Pliers

Instructions

Preparation

1. Read, read, read. Subscribe to "Rotory Modeler" magazine. Get on the Internet and browse sites like eHobbies.

2. Join a local modeler's club.

3. Find a fellow R/C helicopter enthusiast to mentor you.

4. Select an ARF (almost-ready-to-finish) kit if you're new to the hobby.

Assembly

1. Open the kit and check the materials against the parts list.

2. Make sure the parts are undamaged.

3. Read the instructions completely before beginning assembly.

4. Attach the landing gear. Putting it on first adds stability.

5. Install the radio gear. Remember, the radio gear normally does not come as part of an ARF kit.

6. Hook the radio gear to the servos.

7. Adjust the servo linkage according to instructions.

8. Install the gyro if you've purchased one. Most kits have space for installation.

9. Tie down the wires to the frame.

10. Mount the switch to the radio gear away from the engine exhaust port.

11. Pause and review your work, going completely over the kit to make sure all nuts, bolts and other fasteners are secure.

12. Mount the rotor blades on the rotor head exactly 180 degrees apart.

13. Balance the rotor blades. Keep the tightening nut slightly loose, grip it and allow the blades to seesaw to a balance.

14. Apply balancing tape, if necessary, to bring the blades to a level.

15. Mark the blades with small pieces of different colored balancing tape to allow you to differentiate between them in motion.

Finish

1. Clean the model's surface if you plan to apply non-factory paint or decals.

2. Paint only after the model is completely dry.

3. Use multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat.

4. Loosen and prepare your decals by using absolutely clean water.

5. Use tweezers when moving or applying your decals. You can customize your model by applying after-market decals.

Tips & Warnings

• R/C helicopters are probably the most challenging radio-control models to operate.

• R/C can get away from even an experienced pilot. Get flying instructions.

• Check your blades for damage before flying. Make sure your batteries are fully charged.

• Fly only in open areas.

• Overconfidence might result in the loss of your model. While learning, keep the helicopter within a few feet of the ground. R/C helicopters are hard to see at altitude.