How to Tell If Your RC Heli Is Running Low on Power
When flying an RC heli, sometimes problems occur due to insufficient power. This can arise due to a number of issues some of which include the condition of the helicopter and the weather. The heli may be low on power causing the blades to spin lower revolutions per minute.
- Inspect the RC helicopter to ensure it is in proper condition. The blade pitch rods should be the same size and the shaft should be undamaged. Make sure that the model is not front heavy or tail heavy.
- Read through the helicopter manual to find out how much flight time you can expect from the battery. Most RC helicopters should be able to get at least five minutes or more of flight time on a fully charged battery.
- Look at the helicopter when it is in flight and determine the point at which it begins to fly slower. Slow speed is an indication that the helicopter battery is running low. If the flight speed reduces by more than half, you should land the helicopter. Get someone to video tape the flight and watch it later to get accurate results of battery life.
- Find out exactly how long the helicopter remains in flight before the battery runs out. Time the flight using a stopwatch.
- Check to ensure that the blades are of the same weight and they have the same center of gravity. The helicopters balance will affect the speed at which it can fly.
- Land the helicopter before the power runs out completely.