Accessories

Field Equipment

In addition to the major components needed for the helicopter, there is field support equipment needed to start the model combustion engine. Most modelers will spend better than $100-$150 dollars before they are finished stocking a good field box. There are good ways to save money however the basic items remain the same. A 12volt starter, helicopter starting shaft, check with the manufacturer, some helicopters require them (one way or hex), other do not (cone start). To power the starter you will need a 12volt a portable battery 7-10amps and a 12 charger 500-800mah to charge it. Be aware that the glow plug (OS #8 or Enya 3) for the engine runs on 1.5 volts and a glow plug (glo starter) with charger is needed to ignite the engine. A power panel is optional and is a good solution especially if the (glo starter) runs down during the day. A mechanical or electric fuel pump is needed to fuel/defuel the helicopter.

Fuel is a big topic and there are plenty of good fuels out their, from experience I prefer "COOL POWER" from Morgan fuels. Both the 15% and 30% fuels have always performed well. Essentially, 15-30 percent nitro methane content and synthetic oil only.

Next you will need some tools. Not only to build the helicopter, but to work on it. Its not advised to do major work at the field but a good drawer full of tools can come in handy. Basic tools will include: nut drivers, metric allen style wrenches, a glow plug wrench (to remove your engines glow plug) and a ball link driver to thread ball links onto the rods ends. This will save your finger tips. You should have a good set of "ball link" pliers to remove ball links. A good pair of "forceps" are great to have also. Great for getting in to corners and such.

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Last updated June 5, 2003 Contact me by sending an email to bpreds@earthlink.net