Simages Eco 8 Mod - yes another rebuild

[simages]

Acknowledgment

First; I'd like to thank all moderators, contributors, posters, writers, researchers and all around helifreaks…… for Sharing Information, Technology and your Experience! Giving time to the RC forums and sharing your experience can at times be a thankless pass time. However; I'm sure you're all rewarded in many ways to include personal satisfaction making every effort worth it. So, this is for all before and all who will follow……

Because of all you HELIFREAKS, I’ve decided to make my first mid sized heli the age old "Ikarus ECO 8".

Regards -

[simages]

I left the RC hobby seven years ago leaving behind all my RC related planes, equipment, tools and gadgets that I owned. It was a sad day for me made easier by a friend who I left everything with. You see he just started into the hobby and the look of delight on his face well, I never looked back……….

That said; I'm excited about returning to this hobby however; never having owned helicopters, my fiancé bought me a Falcon 3D from Hobby-Lobby that was the hook…… now the old "pucker factor" feeling creeps back from the days of my first Airplane solo. But, I'm older, much wiser and I can use that experience to take this really slow avoiding the uncontrollable urge to fire the bird up in anything other then perfect conditions. Besides, working around my instructor’s schedule. So, as I practice on AFPD, learn to fly my Falcon 3D with an experienced pilot, I’ll build and modify this ECO 8 into a fine Sport Flyer.

Gadget1, Dogwoodtheone, Lynxman, Spidious and others………… All an inspiration!

Honestly; my goal this year is to reach a comfortable level of simple sport flying.

[simages]

How I came to own an ECO is that I simply got sucked back into this great hobby and chose to pursue an affordable mid size electric. I planned on buying new, and then decided to post on the forums - WTB ECO 8 Royal. Luck would have it that there are many pilots who have shelved their ECO or maybe got lost in the fleet. Received offers for ECO8s and accepted a deal I could not refuse.

[Dogwoodtheone]

welcome :) the addiction is starting to take hold... in another month there will be no turning back :D

I think you'll find there is a lot of life left in the old eco 8 :cool:

the one thing I really like about it is you can spend as little or as much as you want on it and still have a nice Heli :D

watching some of these guys throw the whole 9 yards at it sometimes makes it hard not to do the same (then the wifes dirty looks brings thing back to reality :eek: )

-Dog

[simages]

I was fortunate to receive what I think is a great starter lot. No Gyro, but it has very suitable upgrades;

CF Chassis - aluminum base – front plate – extra Boom – CF Vertical Fin
120 swash – autorotation gear - harden mainshaft - alum pitch arms
alum tail slider - CF rotor blades
Kontronic FUN 500-19 brushless
Phoenix 45 brushless controller
4 x HS85BB Servos plus HS81
New 9650 tail servo and custom carbon fiber tail mount
MS composite CF mains – plus two or three slightly damaged main blade sets
2 x 10 cell packs
Plus extras – 3 x Hardened Main Rotor Shafts – tail spindle and rotor shafts – Flybars
Etc………

[simages]

Thanks - Dog

Yes.... I know the addiction too well and it has already taken it's hold... so there's already NO turning back! =:P

And to think my fiancé started it.... what a gal!

While reveiwing the rebuild threads, I'd have too agree that there is life in these birds. The videos don't lie and I know to make them perform well, they have to be updated so, let the process begin!

[Dogwoodtheone]

wow thats quite the nice rig you got there,off to a very good start :cool:

Oh yea she sounds like a keeper :D

[simages]

Much wiser these days!
Keeper she is.............. and who wouldn't as she supports my GOLF as well, but I have to buy my own clubs.

[simages]

Because the first lot didn’t come with a gyro I was still in search for a good deal however; just about to buy a new 401 and along came yet another deal! I’ve always been a Futaba guy and received some sound advice a few weeks ago regarding a gyro. I told to get a GY401 nothing more nothing less so, I did just that.

I had my eye on an ECO8 for sale which was equipped with a GY401 so; I took a chance and bought it. It checks out so far with the static testing and responds well in correcting rotor pitch, but will it fly? Hope so, just the same the chassis came with an autorotation hub, 120 swash, alum tail slider, 4 x HS81 servos, Quannum 36-55 Brushless, New Boom etc…..

[Dogwoodtheone]

if you want to sell one of your 120 degree swash plates, I'm in the market :D

Will probably upgrade my gyro to a 401 next month :cool:

[simages]

if you want to sell one of your 120 degree swash plates, I'm in the market :D

Will probably upgrade my gyro to a 401 next month :cool:
We can probably make that happen! Let me sort this stuff out over the next few days and make sure it all checks out.

[Dogwoodtheone]

Sweet, let me know

Thanks

-Dog

[simages]

And if what I already have isn't enough!

I ordered;

Ballistic Tech Styrene Canopy by Darth's Heli bodies
Aluminum 120-degree Servo Plates
Stainless Steel Metal Flybar Arms
Aluminium Swash Plate Handle
Rx NiCd 4.8V 1000mAh

Maybe I’ll get some of those ( links with balls in them ) sorry, Spidi………. I couldn’t resist Gadget01.

[Gary Morris]

Welcome Simages, good to see you over here on the Zone! ;) I've now been flying my Eco 8 Royal for several months and it's become my favorite helicopter next to my Trex. I had some real problems at first with blade tracking but with the help of guys here on the Zone I have since fixed that problem and now I'm enjoying long smooth flights. Speaking of gyros, beleive it or not I'm using the Art-Tech gyro like I have in my Falcon 3D and it works perfectly. I'm not into 3D so I don't know if it would hold up to hard 3D type flying but I doubt the Royal would hold up to that type of abuse anyway!
Take your time on the rebuild, you may want to flip the grips around as suggested by Ikarus with there revised build manual since this corrects the tracking problems some of us face with the Eco 8. I'm using the suggested 4350 3-cell PollyQuest battery with the AXI motor with cooling fan and Jeti Spin 44 controller and I'm getting 10 plus minutes of flight. On hot days the motor still gets very warm but so far I've had zero problems with the electronics. I'm also running the Spektrum DX-7 and I love it! Here's hoping you have fantastic success with your new bird!

Gary Morris

[Gadget01]

And if what I already have isn't enough!

I ordered;

Aluminum 120-degree Servo Plates
Stainless Steel Metal Flybar Arms
Aluminium Swash Plate Handle
Rx NiCd 4.8V 1000mAh

Maybe I’ll get some of those ( links with balls in them ) sorry, Spidi………. I couldn’t resist Gadget01.

:D

If you want some metal ball links and 2mm pivot balls, let me know. The links are 3 euros each, which makes them $4.08 @ the current rate. They look ultra spanky and they are rock solid. They are threaded for 2mm.

I also make a CF gyro plate that clamps on to either the front of the frame or the upper rear.

Your Eco looks good. Welcome to the Eco flyer's and upgrade support group.

[Dogwoodtheone]

And if what I already have isn't enough!

I ordered;

Ballistic Tech Styrene Canopy by Darth's Heli bodies
Aluminum 120-degree Servo Plates
Stainless Steel Metal Flybar Arms
Aluminium Swash Plate Handle
Rx NiCd 4.8V 1000mAh

Maybe I’ll get some of those ( links with balls in them ) sorry, Spidi………. I couldn’t resist Gadget01.
LOL :D

it's amazing how there is always something you want to add :cool:
The darth body does look very nice and is on my list of things to get as well, holding off a bit until I can fly well enough not to destroy it on the first outing :eek:

What radio are you using?

[Kosmic]

Good to known I'm not alone in this Eco modification madness :p

simages: Look like you got a great deal with your Eco. Will certainly be a great flying machine.

Kos

[simages]

Although the CAP version; Futaba 9C with a Synthesized Transmitter Module.

[simages]

Man your rcuniverse Falcon thread is still going strong! It seems to have newcomers on a daily basis. As you know I’m still awaiting the “official” first dialed in flight with my instructor and using the Futaba 9C. Should be in the next week, then I’ll finally be on my way! I still have the stock Falcon at heart along with my scratch built modified version. Not in any RUSH as it all can come to a smashing halt if one is too careless!
I read your original Royal post as well as the follow-ups. I will say that it was very helpful info regarding the Autorotation gear “not” included in the kit. One of the reasons that I put off the purchase, but glad I did as you can see by my used Eco. The seller is an Engineer which shows by the condition of this bird, he really cared. I love to build so, it’s a good balance for me. I will definitely take my time and take all the advice I can get…… Although, the lot included the 10 cell NiMH Battery Packs I’ve acquired an ENER-MAX 3s 4400 LiPO. I look forward to when I have enough stick time and heli trimming knowledge to make such performance tweaks as I’ve observed across these forums.

Thanks for wishing my success!

[simages]

:D

If you want some metal ball links and 2mm pivot balls, let me know. The links are 3 euros each, which makes them $4.08 @ the current rate. They look ultra spanky and they are rock solid. They are threaded for 2mm.

I also make a CF gyro plate that clamps on to either the front of the frame or the upper rear.

Your Eco looks good. Welcome to the Eco flyer's and upgrade support group.

I’ll probably take you up on the plate and ball links, heck the “ultra spanky look” is worth $4.08 alone!
I suspect I’ll eventually mount my batteries top front as well. I recall that you used the skid mounts from a 600, but did you make the CF gear struts? That’s a nice touch with your canopy!

As I progress, I’m sure you’ll receive a PM from me regarding a plate and those “links with balls in them”………… sorry, that still cracks me up, Spidi - Your killin me!

Cheers -

[simages]

Good to known I'm not alone in this Eco modification madness :p

simages: Look like you got a great deal with your Eco. Will certainly be a great flying machine.

Kos

YES....... Let the Madness Begin! :eek:

[Spidious]

Hey all...
I am in Springfield, IL on vacation. Reading this..Staying at the Fairfield Marriott using their wireless & my wifes laptop ! Just can't seem to stay off this site. As my wife says, I am hooked !
All of the stuff sounds really great, but you forgot to mention how good of a deal you got $$$$$

One comment on the Stainless Steel Metal Flybar Arms they may not fit with the plastic fly bar set up. I bought the red aluminum ones and they are shaped different and it the flybar mounting. But yours might be shaped differently.
Be sure and ask any question you want to know about setting up or modifying the ECO 8 I ahve learned a lot. And others on here have been doing it a lot longer than me..

[Gadget01]

I’ll probably take you up on the plate and ball links, heck the “ultra spanky look” is worth $4.08 alone!

Cool, just say the word and we'll do some business.

I recall that you used the skid mounts from a 600, but did you make the CF gear struts?

Yes, I spawned them after eating a really big pizza with CF toppings :cool:

The skids are indeed from a 'Rex 600- a tip from Artemetra. I snipped the strut ends from a set of the matching plastic gear. The CF struts are from my LHS. They are (or "were" rather) planker main landing gear. I cut about 2" from each end, as they used to curve all the way down to vertical for mounting wheels. They are very light and strong with what seems the perfect amount of spring action to absorb a hard landing. It brings a naughty grin when I hit full negative pitch and watch the heli squat down.

Courtesy of yet another Artemetra tip, to attach the gear to the frame, I cut a short section from 1cm square solid alum tubing. They are bolted to the frame sides with 3mm screws on either side and a single nylon screw attaches the strut as a breakaway item:
http://gadgetspeed.com/images/RC/Eco8/DSC04290a.jpg
(the thicker part of the frame on the right is from a repair I made, from an early attempt at inverted flight without having ground a flat in the motor shaft- the pinion slipped at a less than convenient time)

Another item worth mentioning, and many here will agree, the oem gear struts are terribly weak. They seem to break from looking at them at the wrong time of day. I grew tired of replacing them for the smallest deviation from a soft landing, so you may want to put it high on your list to go with something else.

There are nearly enough Eco flyers in this thread to organize an Eco fly-in event. At what point do we get to officially take over and rename the thread category?

[simages]

Over the next 2 weeks, I’ll have a good chance to make some serious progress with this project. Even though I had enough to truly resurrect my original “used” ECO purchased last month along with the 2nd ECO parts lot, I still had to order a few pieces, parts and accessories from fxaeromodels and helihobby. But wait,there’s more…………. A 3rd and final ECO8 arrived at my door Saturday and have to say now I can put together a solid airframe, control inputs and include both LiPo and NiCAD power sources, ahead of schedule.

Picture #1 "The 3 Amigos" hopefully they'll prove to be worth the investment!

Picture #2 "Assess Pile" Took a chance, but looks pretty Good!

Picture #3 Main items of importance and reason for the purchase.

[simages]

The remaining left over parts from this 3rd ECO include;

Group #1
Aluminum Frame
Aluminum Frame Plate
Autorotation Gear/hub/bearing
Aluminum Swash
Phasor 30/3 Brushless Motor
Electrifly SS-45A ESC

Group #2
Futaba FP-R127DF
4 x HS81 servos
GY400 Gyro (probably send any bird into a TAIL SPIN)
Stock Boom, V Fin and Tail Assembly
Stock Landing Gear (Excellent Condition)
Stock Canopy (Excellent Condition)

[Spidious]

Darn how did you luck out on that buy.
I have been looking for a aluminum Autorotation Gear/hub/bearing & Aluminum Rotor Head & carbon fiber blades

[simages]

In addition to the cannibalization of ECO1 and ECO2, the following new parts arrived on Saturday and will be initially installed as well;

Aluminum 120-degree Servo Plates
Stainless Steel Metal Flybar Arms
Aluminium Swash Plate Handle

[Spidious]

Oh right already

Where are you finding all these parts ?
I must be looking in the wrong place !

[simages]

Darn how did you luck out on that buy.
I have been looking for a aluminum Autorotation Gear/hub/bearing & Aluminum Rotor Head & carbon fiber blades

I've been on the same hunt for months while deciding to go this route by resurrecting a used Heli. I’ve been a user of EBAY for years however; IKARUS stuff has been minimal to say the least, but didn't give up and just happened to stumble on one listed. I made a offer, they accepted, paid instantly and they had it to me in 2 days!
I paid a FAIR price, took a chance and it payed off as the Aluminum Rotor Head, ENER-MAX 3S 11.1 4400mAh, 480mm Symmetrical Wht FG Blades, and 480mm Wood Blades are well over $300.

[Spidious]

Darn I check almost every day and have not seen one that goes way outrageous price. What did you pay for all that ?

[Spidious]

Just went to EBay again and somebody put up 11 Ikarus items. Including my red head I have been looking for (Its still in the bag)

[simages]

Darn I check almost every day and have not seen one that goes way outrageous price. What did you pay for all that ?

Well....... there you go........ "ALMOST everyday".

Everyday is the key.........

Also; sellers often list things incorrectly that might be missed in specific categories by potential buyers. Another tip is that sellers often misspell items which are then missed in random All category searches.

How much? Hmm..... Lets just say a few hundred..........

it was a win - win deal!

[simages]

Just went to EBay again and somebody put up 11 Ikarus items. Including my red head I have been looking for (Its still in the bag)

See, case in point my friend. :D

Hey, ask them the question..... would you accept a Buy it Now? All they can tell you is yes or No.... :censored:

[Spidious]

Well I will try that since my other offer on RC still has not been answered !

[Dogwoodtheone]

hey Simages don't forget to let me know if you want to unload one of your Alum swash plates ;)

[Spidious]

Dogwoodtheone

Surprise Surprise !

Red Aluminum Swash plate (http://cgi.ebay.com/IKARUS-67707-ALUMINUM-SWASHPLATE-ECO-8-ECO-16_W0QQitemZ280132365882QQihZ018QQcategoryZ34056QQ tcZphotoQQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

[simages]

hey Simages don't forget to let me know if you want to unload one of your Alum swash plates ;)

After the strip down and closer inspection the rear pin that is guided by the swash plate handle, well it appears that it's been replaced with a smaller 1.5mm piece of threaded wire. Plus there are two marks on the top... and the bearing is a darker color.
:(
See photos below;

[ammo]

Are the 2 marks made by the washout anti rotation pins?

[simages]

Are the 2 marks made by the washout anti rotation pins?

Yep, that's the culpret!

Thanks

[Gadget01]

Mine has the same pair of marks in the same spot- it's from head linkages not being dialed in correctly or too much CP % on the Tx, or both.

I have since made appropriate adjustments and the pins clear no matter what.

[simages]

I don't have that on my original setup which is very tight and now makes sense as in comparison the other was pretty sloppy. Then later noticed your pics on your build as well.

[Greybird]

Hmmmm... 3 Eco's. That officially makes you even crazier than us. :D :D

[Gadget01]

Hmmmm... 3 Eco's. That officially makes you even crazier than us. :D :D

I'm at 1.9 Eco's and climbing. The holdup is the swashplate. I think I'm gonna try the LaHeli Sniper swash- cheaper than the Ikarus metal swash and better quality from what I hear. It also lacks those silly 90 degree points that I would have to grind off.

[Spidious]

Just saw the build on the LaHeli.
I wonder just how many of these parts would fit on a ECO 8.

It looks very similar... :rolleyes:

[simages]

Hmmmm... 3 Eco's. That officially makes you even crazier than us. :D :D

So, I could just refer to it as an ECHO.......

However; I think I can still consider mine an IKARUS "ECOnomical" heli because I got such great deals on these "used" ones. If I sell off the left overs, then I'll only build one.

[Dogwoodtheone]

I'm at 1.9 Eco's and climbing. The holdup is the swashplate. I think I'm gonna try the LaHeli Sniper swash- cheaper than the Ikarus metal swash and better quality from what I hear. It also lacks those silly 90 degree points that I would have to grind off.
Hmm it does look nice, sealed bearings and I really like the offset balls for the bell attachment points - nice straight line to them.....

and its cheaper :cool:

[simages]

Remounted the servos today to get an idea if these brackets would allow a good linkage lineup i.e. perpendicular. Not much progress today, had to get in 18 holes of golf too.

[Gadget01]

The concern about not having enough control throw using those servo arm holes is quite valid- you won't. In fact, some use even longer servo arms to get enough control throw. The linkages do not have to be exactly perpendicular to the connection points to be effective, but it is preferrable.

I mounted my front servos so that they arms pointed towards the frame and the lineup is quite good. You could use your existing servo mounts turned the other way with some spacer blocks for alignment.

The rubber grommets for the servo mounting tabs may have to go. They give a kind of squishy feel to the swash- some may like it that way, but you don't need them. You should use something to take up the gap though. I used 2mm ball-link balls to do the trick. I grind them down with the dremel until they fit snug and flush with the tabs.

That's a shame about the frame stiffener. What is the fate of this one with the snapped off screw? I'll take it off your hands if the price is right....

[simages]

The concern about not having enough control throw using those servo arm holes is quite valid- you won't. In fact, some use even longer servo arms to get enough control throw. The linkages do not have to be exactly perpendicular to the connection points to be effective, but it is preferrable.

I mounted my front servos so that they arms pointed towards the frame and the lineup is quite good. You could use your existing servo mounts turned the other way with some spacer blocks for alignment.

The rubber grommets for the servo mounting tabs may have to go. They give a kind of squishy feel to the swash- some may like it that way, but you don't need them. You should use something to take up the gap though. I used 2mm ball-link balls to do the trick. I grind them down with the dremel until they fit snug and flush with the tabs.

That's a shame about the frame stiffener. What is the fate of this one with the snapped off screw? I'll take it off your hands if the price is right....

Which is why it was a preliminary fitting.... and that said; I contemplated the different configurations, but knew I would have to modify the brackets for anything different. I scrolled through the other birds in the build logs as well, yep no 2 are the same so; there must be room for flexibility.
Although not a heli pilot “yet”, I have confidence with my building skills as I never disappointed my flight instructors whenever I brought a new fixwing to the field for a test flight! Thanks for the 2mm ball-link tip, man sometimes I just don’t see the simple stuff. I was warm though as I thought; I’m trying to “Tighten” the controls yet I’m using some rubber parts……. Hmmm

Standard part = sub-standard performance………

Regarding the frame stiffener. It was already mounted on one of the other frames and after the tear down I noticed the screw broke off. I drilled it out and thought I might simply bolt through using a longer (3mm + -) screw to the other side of the frame. However; I have another NIP FBrace from fxaeromodels so; it’s faith is still undetermined as I have enough extra parts for a 2nd upgraded ECO, minus the cnc rotor head :o .

- We’ll see :cool:

Let me get back to these servo mounts……………

Oh and I know deep down…….that I’m going to soon want some of those “ultra spanky” ball links!

[Gadget01]

Another thing that helps is- pop the balls from the ball links and replace them with pivot balls. The ones I found at my LHS have a long neck on them, so this further helps the linkage alignment. They eliminate the need for a screw since the pivot balls have a 2mm screw built in. The motion range is improved because there is no screw head to collide with the ball link. I use these pivot balls gratuitously and it vastly reduced the bindage that was going on. This is probably not as big of a problem with the plastic ball links though.

[simages]

Took me a while to follow-up (busy work week)

Originally Posted by Gadget01
The concern about not having enough control throw using those servo arm holes is quite valid- you won't. In fact, some use even longer servo arms to get enough control throw. The linkages do not have to be exactly perpendicular to the connection points to be effective, but it is preferable.

Simages; Linkage now on outer holes and close to perpendicular

Originally Posted by Gadget01
I mounted my front servos so that they arms pointed towards the frame and the lineup is quite good. You could use your existing servo mounts turned the other way with some spacer blocks for alignment.

Simages; Reversed the brackets to allow servos to be turned in while I used ball links for the spacers.

Originally Posted by Gadget01
The rubber grommets for the servo mounting tabs may have to go. They give a kind of squishy feel to the swash- some may like it that way, but you don't need them. You should use something to take up the gap though. I used 2mm ball-link balls to do the trick. I grind them down with the dremel until they fit snug and flush with the tabs.

Simages; While I’m using HS-85BB* servos I was able to take up the gap by using a 2mm nut, perfect fit along with a nylon washer from a Du-Bro E/Z Connector.

Rest of this weekend will be for the ECO rebuild, should actually make faster progress.

[Gadget01]

Next step, run around outside and practice falling down. I'll be there in a minute to supervise.:D


Nice work, by the way.

[Lynxman]

I wouldn't exactly call aluminium boom clamps a "must". :) The main rotor torque isn't more than 3 Nm or thereabout on a strong Eco (~5 Nm on my souped up extreme Eco). It'll look great though.

[simages]

I wouldn't exactly call aluminium boom clamps a "must". :) The main rotor torque isn't more than 3 Nm or thereabout on a strong Eco (~5 Nm on my souped up extreme Eco). It'll look great though.

Your right :rolleyes: and they do look great! :D

[Gadget01]

I always liked those boom clamps but they were never in stock at HeliHobby and I couldn't find them elsewhere. Where did you get them?

[simages]

I always liked those boom clamps but they were never in stock at HeliHobby and I couldn't find them elsewhere. Where did you get them?

Got them from HeliHobby last week and wanted the Upper Main Shaft Mount too, but has been "OUT of Stock" for a while and still is.

Also ordered the "Red" Boom Support Clamp Kit" for the servo but they sent it in Blue. Not a big deal however; they won't answer me to adjust my order, I simply expect to receive what I order. Customer support should be timely as well..............

[Gadget01]

Yeah, well HH has a history of inconsistent service, so good luck. I've had pretty good luck myself... it seems like everyone's mileage varies quite a bit with them.

I ended up ordering my clamps and other goodies from Germany hobby stores- some of which I cannot find on any US store, like the cnc tailgear tower, tailcase, and tailblade grips.

http://gadgetspeed.com/images/RC/Eco8/DSC04121a.jpghttp://gadgetspeed.com/images/RC/Eco8/DSC04113a.jpg

[simages]

I do like the cnc tailgear tower, but I definately have enough for a good start.

Break time for now.... I'll get to the GY401 and tail gear in the am....

[Spidious]

Hey gadget
Could you post some of the things not available in the USA and prices ?
Maybe you can give links for us to order them if we want ?

And link to the sites you shop over there. We should be able to translate to English with our browsers

[simages]

Well, I've been summoned to the Golf Course by my rival…… so, this will have to wait!

[Gadget01]

Hey gadget
Could you post some of the things not available in the USA and prices ?
Maybe you can give links for us to order them if we want ?

And link to the sites you shop over there. We should be able to translate to English with our browsers

I'll gather up a bunch of info and post in a new Eco 8 parts thread.

[Spidious]

Great

Thanks !

[simages]

I beat my golf rival today so, this weekend was not a total loss, you see he hates to lose! :D

Anyway, a bit of a set back which at this hour I must put the ECO down because it's just too late. As well as not having an extrator small enough to remove a 2mm broken screw #@!$#%@^ :censored:

I was replacing the Blade Grip Arms with new and thunk..... one screw broke clean off, crumbled actually.

I got a clean drill hole just have to find an extractor, heck do they have them that small? And where to find even a tap that size if needed? :o

[Lynxman]

M2 is a standard size so you should be able to find a tap. I have drilled out a couple of those Ikarus bolts from the aluminium head myself. If you manage to drill perfectly centered with a 1.5 mm bit then the remaining of the bolt will come out easilly without ruining the threads. The bolts are of very poor quality but thankfully that also means they are easy to drill out.

[Gadget01]

Aaaah, that sucks. 2mm hardware is a pain sometimes. I had one break off like that in the actual blade grip arm so it was a little bit easier to deal with. The problem with anodized parts is, the threaded holes are already tapped so the anodizing gets down into the threads. Now when you start turning a screw in there, it wants to act like a tap, but it's not well suited and they get wedged in tight.

I found 2mm taps at my LHS. I think they have them at Tower as well. With that lesson learned from above, I run the tap through any threaded hole that is anodized.

It looks like you'll at least have to isolate that blade grip in a rubber-jaw vise and try and extract that screw with a flat-blade screw driver or something if you can't find an extractor that small. If you drop some lube in there it may help. You might also try drilling on the broken screw. Clamp it down under the drill press for best results.

Good luck

[Greybird]

Replace as many of those Ikarus screws with better hexheads from RTL or somewhere. They are harder and will not twist off so easily.

[Spidious]

RTL fasteners are the way to go. I am amazed at the high quality and they are a lot harder than the Ikarus ones.......

[simages]

Replace as many of those Ikarus screws with better hexheads from RTL or somewhere. They are harder and will not twist off so easily.

Parts box include all those hex screws from RTL, had to replace all those inferior - crap screws on my ART-Tech - Falcon 3D.

I was ahead of the game, but need to place another order after replacing most already.

Anyway - the rotorhead was on one of those used helis and in the replacement process..... thunk, didn't have a chance....... :(

[simages]

The broken screw piece was not removed in one piece. However; I was able to remove the remaining metal close enough to the threads, which allowed me to "not" have to tap it. :D

Instead I gradually "very" carefully re-threaded the hole using various 2mm screws...........

And I did place a order with Tower for a Dubro 10-Piece Metric Assorted Tap & Drill to have on hand.

Like I said; returning to this hobby has also meant replacing all those required tools needed. :cool:

[simages]

:D Mounted CF Fins, Boom Supports and the S9650 servo on a CF mount. Although I adjusted the arm travel, just seems too flexible because it doesn't take much to cause a bend or the flexing.

Glued the Furious E8 Canopy from http://Darthdrk.4t.com and used the recommended plastic model cement...... well, it seemed to have softened some areas like it was melting it :eek: .......Not thrilled however; I'll see after it fully dries. :(

[simages]

Which is why it's going slow however; I love to build and practicing on AFPD so, I'm not overanxious to get airborne. Besides I have to work around my instructor time as well...... the patience will pay off, as I still remember my first days of RC flying and making my first solo!

Anyway; I had to add a new work area.... had an extra tripod camera mount so attached it to a lazy-susan, works great too!

Tweaked the GY401 and 9C settings today as well as the prep work for the canopy finish, oh; I think I used too much glue in two areas). I'll probably keep it white to assist in seeing it and plan to design my own decals.

[Gadget01]

VERY cool idea with the lazy susan tripod thing. I like it! How stable? Can you lock down the turntable if you want?

[simages]

VERY cool idea with the lazy susan tripod thing. I like it! How stable? Can you lock down the turntable if you want?
Q1 - I would have to say that the stability is with the lazy-susan design and of course the tripod mount. My mount for example has a lot of plastic so, for a camera not much torque is required. That said; If either are cheaply made I guess they would have a bit more wobble. For example, mine simply rides on 1.5 in bearing which makes it OK, but a better made LS would make it solid.

Q2 - "Can you lock down the turntable if you want?" If you mean to keep it from not spinning.... I could drill a hole and drop a dowel in.... but, that got me to thinking....... :rolleyes: One could simply mount a "light sturdy ply" base to a clip mount and just use the tripod swivle to turn it around, plus all you would have to do is turn the handle to "lock" it down.

Hmmmmm think I'll try that as well and see if it works out better. Then I'll use the lazy-susan for my tools and things in use..... Thanks :D

[Gadget01]

You could also attach some landing gear clamps to it as well to secure the heli, then swivel the mount at whatever angle you want.

How's that for cool?

[simages]

You could also attach some landing gear clamps to it as well to secure the heli, then swivel the mount at whatever angle you want.

How's that for cool?
That "IS" even more cool..... as I mounted another top my thoughts exactly and it would work great! Might still look for a sturdy one piece lazy-susan and another clip mount to install, that way I can swap them out depending on what task.
Besides the original LS makes for a great organizer.

[Gadget01]

I say we build and market them- split the profits down the middle. Perhaps offer a 10% discount to anyone with an Eco 8....

[simages]

Gadget - Good Idea if someone isn't already selling them however; I think we should offer the 10% for 90° ECOs – 15% for Blinged – 20% for Ultra Spanky…..

Worked on the canopy some more and it’s still not perfect so, I took a break to put together some decals.

My custom decal sheet came out pretty good! If only I had some of those logos as sponsors to help with this RC passion……….

[simages]

When I first saw gadget's "clean" wiring wrapped, it stuck in my head. Today, I found this kit at RadioShack for $20.

The kit includes;

30 ft of sleeving in 4 sizes 1/8”,1/4”, 3/8” and 1/2"
2 ½ ft of heat shrink tubing in 3 sizes
Plus 10 small tie wraps

Kits come in Black or Blue

[Spidious]

What no RED ! :(

[simages]

:o What no RED ! :(

I knew that would catch your eye! :rolleyes:

[Gadget01]

You know you've come full circle when you influence another's spending habits... :D

You can get cable sleeving in whatever color you like, including UV sensitive and glow-in-the-dark. I know I've seen it in red, so don't get your panties in a wad just yet Spidi.

You can find multicolor sleeving on a lot of PC modding websites, like Xoxide.com (http://www.xoxide.com/wiresleeves.html) for example.

I use expandable sleeving extensively, to include the innards of my PC. I'll post a link to pics a bit later.

It's not the most convenient stuff to use because it's only open on the far ends, but it will keep cables protected and makes a very neat organized appearance if done right.

[simages]

Worked on the electronics and wiring however; was side tracked when a mishap occured with my rx nicad....:(

While swaping out the servo plug the (+) & (-) touched :eek:

They stuck - HOT HOT HOT and couldn't get them apart FAST enough...... :o

Of course the wiring was ruined - :mad:

Had to cut into the shrink wrap to rewire so, trip to the LHS we go!

Battery pack looks better white anyway!!!!

So, while I was at it, knocked out a few tasks and replaced a extra rx 1000mm antenna wire, replaced a channel 5 switch on another tx as well.

Sleeving turned out well, have to install it on my stock and modified Falcon 3D. :cool:

[Gadget01]

Nice handiwork... sorry to hear about your rx pack. I've done quite a few "oops" like that myself.

Just a precautionary tip: you might consider putting some shring-wrap over your motor-esc bullet connectors. They are unlikely to come unplugged and/or contact one another because of the shrink-wrap already there, but you know how it goes sometimes. When the time comes, you can always cut through that last layer and discard it.

How does your gyro plate connect to the frame?

[simages]

Nice handiwork... sorry to hear about your rx pack. I've done quite a few "oops" like that myself.

Just a precautionary tip: you might consider putting some shring-wrap over your motor-esc bullet connectors. They are unlikely to come unplugged and/or contact one another because of the shrink-wrap already there, but you know how it goes sometimes. When the time comes, you can always cut through that last layer and discard it.

How does your gyro plate connect to the frame?
Thanks for the kudos and I'll definately add the shrink-wrap to the bullet connectors.
The gyro plate, is held on by the red aluminum tray which has two M2x30 mm screws through the frame. I think the CF plate is a battery tray extender like from a TRex 450. I was going to also mount the rx over the red plate, but I like the rx on the side much better. That said; Going to flip it around and mount the GY401 over the red plate instead. That way less chance vibrations will throw the gyro off........

[Gadget01]

I make a very lightweight solution for this:
http://gadgetspeed.com/images/RC/Eco8/DSCN0351a.jpg

I use countersunk screws now, so they are flush with the top of the plate.

This is how it looks installed:
http://gadgetspeed.com/images/RC/Eco8/DSCN0301a.jpg

http://gadgetspeed.com/images/RC/Eco8/DSCN0317a.jpg

The 2 narrow CF tabs are held in place with 2mm nuts and clamp the plate to the frame. The plate can be made to any length.

[Greybird]

I have one. It is a nice part..

[simages]

I have one. It is a nice part..
Oh I agree........
But I'll need the matching front lipo battery tray as well :D
Then comes the CF Boom :rolleyes:
However; in the mean time, I modified my original mount and added the plastic tray to the CF plate, now it's solid.

[Gadget01]

Yours is a "true" composite... CF, plastic, and aluminum. There is definitely no single way to set up an Eco.

[Dogwoodtheone]

That looks really sharp simages, nice job :D :cool:

[simages]

That looks really sharp simages, nice job :D :cool:
Much more rewarding and "easier" then I first thought, building I mean... flying is going to be the hard part. Really glad I went this way for my first mid size heli...... especially since finding these RCGroup build logs. My ECO has simply evolved by watching all of you crafty Heli freaks!!

[quickster47]

simages,

My, my, my. It has been a long time. :D It is good to see you over here and how the heck are you and how you been doing?

Saw a picture with your Falcon in the back and thought I recognized your moniker.

I still fly my Falcon once or twice a month but it gets less attention cause it needs so much TLC and I would rather spend my time flying my Hurricane, or the new Swift 550 carbon I am about to finish. And my TRex still gets plenty of airtime as well.

Good choice on the Eco and great to see you actively doing a cool build or rebuild on yours.

Carl

[simages]

simages,

My, my, my. It has been a long time. :D It is good to see you over here and how the heck are you and how you been doing?

Saw a picture with your Falcon in the back and thought I recognized your moniker.

I still fly my Falcon once or twice a month but it gets less attention cause it needs so much TLC and I would rather spend my time flying my Hurricane, or the new Swift 550 carbon I am about to finish. And my TRex still gets plenty of airtime as well.

Good choice on the Eco and great to see you actively doing a cool build or rebuild on yours.

Carl
Hey Carl,
Thanks for taking time to drop a note.... RCGroups is pretty cool, I like it since I found there's life after RCU forum and the Falcon. :D
Doing well enough to take on this ECO project and never having built a Heli, just Airplanes. Well I did end up with a modified scratch built Falcon :rolleyes: Still lacking the stick time I had planned to have by now, fiancé in NYC, golfing a lot....... and because I'm mildy anal-retentive and a bit of a perfectionist my piloting progress suffers! Heck of a mechanic though and I love to build and practice on AFPD so, I'm not overanxious to get airborne. Plus I have to work around my instructor time as well......
Nice choice on the Swift 550, I was looking at it before aquiring my ECO(s) which kept me away from a TRex. As for the Falcon 3D, Hobby Lobby is only selling parts at this time, pulled the ARF. Hopefully I'll test fly my scratch built Falcon this week and the ECO in 2!

[quickster47]

Good luck with the maiden of the Falcon, and also the Eco.

If you happen to need any weird parts for the Falcon, I might have some that I would gladly give up to you. let me know.

Carl

[simages]

Placed an order with cmehobbies.com today, nothing exciting but enough to add a bit of spark in their ECO sales, nice discount at checkout too! :D

[simages]

Had to put things a side and prepare to drive over 400 miles and attend 2 memorial services in 2 states..... Life is just too short ladies and gentlemen.... Which is one of the reasons why I got back into this hobby!

Behind schedule, but managed to finally find an "IN STOCK" Upper Bearing Mount, Thanks CME Hobbies! Well worth the $21.00 to replace those exposed bearings that you find in the stock plastic mount...........

[simages]

Still somewhat side tracked with trying to learn to :o "correctly" program my Futaba 9C :o and fly my Falcon so, I haven't gotten any further with the ECO. :(

However; for those who are Computer Geeks as well as perfectionists, I found this nice web site called Welcome to Flight Log (http://www.lammers.ca/FlightLog/) and download the FREE :D software to track not only flights, but all the things that go with ownership, like the cost. :eek:

I know when I fly the 600 series ECO I will truly appreciate the difference!

[simages]

A small order from iKARUS USA arrived today nothing exciting except the order included a pair of Royal Paddles. The bummer is their stock number for the Royal Flybar #6083013 is mismatched with the spindle shaft...........

Guess what part I got? Yup the SHAFT! :eek:

What good is FAST shipping if you get the wrong stuff :mad:

[simages]

A small order from iKARUS USA arrived today nothing exciting except the order included a pair of Royal Paddles. The bummer is their stock number for the Royal Flybar #6083013 is mismatched with the spindle shaft...........

Guess what part I got? Yup the SHAFT! :eek:

What good is FAST shipping if you get the wrong stuff :mad:
Well.........Uschi Heinrich from IKARUS-USA in Florida squared me away QUICK! Sent me the Royal Flybar so I spent some time with the ECO this weekend. However; didn't notice before but I had two broken screws on the head. One that keeps the seesaw bearing in, plus a ball link screw on the Blade grip arms...... :mad:
Somewhat side tracked, but glad I bought the 2mm-5mm tap set :D I was able to setup the head and worked on the Canopy as well.

[Dogwoodtheone]

Looking good :)

[Gadget01]

I like that Darth canopy. I might have to scoop one up... seems I'm short a canopy lately.