E-Sky E-Smart 600 series build thread

[PLATINUM]

One of these beasties should be arriving early Tuesday morning. I did a search in this forum and found most of the posts on it located in the belt cp thread..sooo I figured this beauty should have her on location. Feel free to post away, I can't do much but review the frame when it gets here.

Here was the original thread from general heli chat
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=609144

A word of warning if you are new to helis and the price is in your range. This is not a toy!
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8457564&postcount=998

SETUP

Motor: Stock 1200kv ESKY motor
Shaft: 5mm
Pinion: 12T (included in kit)
Main Gear: 120T
mods: .8 or 32 pitch
Max Voltage: 24v
Max Amps: 50amps
Max Watts: 1000
Poles: 8
Dimensions: 43 mm x 73.5 mm
No load Current: 5.0 Amps

Servos: 4 x SSV-9764MG
Weight: 48g / 1.058oz
Torque: 9.7kg-cm 132oz/in @ 6v
Speed: .12sec / 60deg
Size: 40.5 x 20 x 38.5mm
Gear Type: Metal Gear
https://www.unitedhobbies.com/UNITEDHOBBIES/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=3880

ESC/BEC
80 AMP PRO HEXTRONKS
https://www.unitedhobbies.com/UNITEDHOBBIES/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4315
HD 5v/3A BEC up to 34v
http://www.helidirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=93&products_id=1157

Gyro: FUTABA GY401 (tried true trusted)

Reciever: Futaba 8ch

Power: 6s2p configuration using 4 x Hextronik 1700

Battery Bay Aprox Dimensions
174mm Long X 68mm Wide X 62mm High

RTF Weight: 2610g

E-sky Produced Vid outdoor 3D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCG5ONjKzUo


Possible substitution parts & mods:
QJ EP-8 Main gear and auto hub: Direct replacement
Quick of Japan and Hurricane 550 pinions
T-Rex Tail Holder and further details from Tweekster on how to make it all fit together~ can be found here! (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8524285&postcount=1182)


READ Known Issues READ
Please PM me with others and I will post them. Please be sure that its a common issue, and not just a problem you experienced.
1) Stock tail rotors have to much slop, upgraded tail assembly solves problem
2) Stock motor has thrown the set screw out of the pinion, and some have ground a flat spot of the shaft.
3) links on some are to tight, so some link sizing may be required
4) guide pins for washout assembly need to be affixed with epoxy.. or method of your choosing.
5) See attached photo for placement of last brass ring
6) Upgrade silver tail rotor holder does not work with cnc blade grips.
7) hinge pins loose in the forficiform control arms in some kits (ca fix)

Upgrade problems & fixes
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8555114&postcount=1258


Other Build Guides
Sting35 pointed out these excellent build guides linked by Beer Man which have excellent info.
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=9503799&postcount=2136

[PLATINUM]

Kit arrived today :) Thanks HD! Pics to come soon.

[lcdfun]

More more info! :)

[Nick J]

Interesting head design, can't wait for more details.

[PLATINUM]

Lets just say this build is cake! I need to run around her again with loctite.. but this heli can be ready for servos in about 2 hours if you have fair knowledge of how most helis go together..

As always e-skys instructions are not the best..but they were better than what ya get outta their smaller helis. All the parts seem real tough, and fairly well made.

The motor that comes with it is 1200kv and rated at 50amps.. they rec a 70amp controller. I read that this heli will can get in the air on 6s1p, I am gonna try running in series my 2 x 2070 TPXs..

Have a gy401.. Just need to pick out servos..

[HeliSmith]

What did you pay for it?

[PLATINUM]

$185 shipped included motor.. it was the deal of the day at HD for 24hrs.. I posted it all over the heli sections and bargins area.

[hurleybt]

Nice plat!

[PLATINUM]

I think it is still a deal at $239 shipped from HD.. I am going to make this bird as inexpensive yet good as possible. Ya I know.. usually don't go hand in hand.

BUT I found 4 dig servos that are .12 over 100oz for $60 total

80amp hv esc for $40

hv bec $10.00

GY401 is $138.00 (not totally skimping here)

Cheapy 6 ch rx from esky $20.00

I picked up 4 x 1700mah 20cs new for $100.00

So if this all works out it will be under $600 to get this bird off the ground. I have the batts to run it 6S2P .. but I am gonna carefully test it with 6S1P 1st.

[lcdfun]

That thing is going to be like a walkera with all that bad elctronics

[hailo]

I dont know if A123 fit but thats another option to keep runtime cheaper...

More macro pics please!

(i knew i should have bought this thing :censored: :mad: :censored: )

-hailo

[PLATINUM]

Um.. bad? heh.. those servos are on someones gas raptor 50. If they can run that.. they can run this like its a red headed step child. I have found many many inexpensive parts from china that are every bit as good as the name brands out there.

.12 secs is better than the top end hitec mg

HS-985MG specs

Operating Voltage: 4.8-6.0 Volts
Operating Temperature Range: -20 to +60 Degree C
Operating Speed (4.8V): 0.16sec/60° at no load
Operating Speed (6.0V): 0.13sec/60° at no load
Stall Torque (4.8V): 144 oz/in. (9.6kg.cm)
Stall Torque (6.0V): 172 oz/in. (12.4kg.cm)

Dimensions: 1.55" x 0.78"x 1.48" (39.4 x 20 x 37.8mm)
Weight: 2.18oz. (62g)

And the Scanner RC Servo

Weight: 48g / 1.058oz
Torque: 9.7kg-cm 132oz/in @ 6v
Speed: .12sec / 60deg
Size: 40.5 x 20 x 38.5mm
Gear Type: Metal Gear

So I lose 4oz of weight :) gain some speed, and lose some torque. These were given 5 stars by about 15 people. But the proof sure will be in the puddin.

The ESC has been used by well over 100 people with 0 problems.

I have already had several of the batteries and they work on par with TP.


Hailo from what I understand the A123s don't give as much umpf either. I know that 4 x 2200 mahs will easily fit in the bay. 4 x tpx's 2070s will easily fit.

[siryan]

plat do you know what was the motor shaft diameter and where can i buy those esc and bec? also if i want to do the 2 2100 mah pack parallel thing how do i do that?

[PLATINUM]

The pinion comes with the kit Siryan.. but I can see if I can get my calipres in there to measure the shaft.

You would want to run them in series not parallel.. I am not sure if this is gonna absolutely work. Motor is rated at 50 amps.. this Heli will probably draw at least 40amps. So I am testing 6s1p carefully.. and if the batteries look like they are getting to hot, I'll go 6s2p.

I posted links in the 1st post to the esc.. here are the p and s connectors.. or you can make your own.

https://www.unitedhobbies.com/UNITEDHOBBIES/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=2155

https://www.unitedhobbies.com/UNITEDHOBBIES/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=2156

[siryan]

great info thanks the pictures explains it all :)

so if i have 4 2000 mah pack i can make a 6s2p 4000 mah pack with the combination of series and parallel cables :)

[PLATINUM]

That is correct! I am pretty sure this is gonna need the 6s2p config.. its either that or 4000mah 6s1p.

No worries though there is plenty of room on this heli :)

[PLATINUM]

Rest of the power set has shipped! So it should be here mid to late next week :)

[PLATINUM]

More Pics of the head, linkage, main gear to tail, and tail assembly.

There is also cnc items for this heli... Swash, head, grips, tail, linkage arms, etc..

You can also upgrade to carbon frame if you wished to.

bphobbies currently has the largest selection, but I am sure helidirect will catch up. HD is currently selling the metal edition for allot cheaper than bp.

http://www.bphobbies.com/view.asp?id=B2131397

http://www.helidirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=29&products_id=2105

[Steve_C]

That is a nice heli, and the price is good ; center your belt on the tail gear :)

[PLATINUM]

NM.. heh.. I see what you were saying.. Ya she will be all set up nice when the rest arrives from china.

[PLATINUM]

Ok so.. nice package was waiting for me at work from my day off. 5 days to the USA from CHINA.. good job United hobbies.

SCR 48g / 9.7kg-cm / .12sec Metal x 4 $57.12
HXT 2500mah Transmitter Lipo w/ PC x 2 $51.90
HXT T-Connector Parallel Pack lead x 3 $10.50
HXT T-Connector Series Pack lead x 3 $10.50
Deans Style T-Connectors 10 Pairs 2 $11.90
hexTronik PRO 80A BESC w/ PC Progr x 1 $39.75
hexTronik USB Key for HXT BESC x 1 $9.90
HXT UBEC 5/6v output, 5.5~23v Inpu x 2 $13.90
HXT D9 1700mAh 11.1v 20-30C Lipo P x 4 $96.92

In case you think these are cheap items.. I suggest looking at the reviews from folks here in the states that have ordered these items. All are rated on par with popular name brands.

[hurleybt]

lookin' goood plat! I can't wait to see a video!

[PLATINUM]

Ya I am pretty excited.. a 600 size heli that is under $600.00

I'll try to get vid.. hard to find a camera person brave enough to hang out when I fly :p

[PLATINUM]

Ok here are some updates since 5:15PM eastern

Servo fits like a glove :)

4 x 1700 mahs have more room than I do for this heli..easily fit 4 x 2500mahs in there.

Some picks of checking alignment of linkage...etc

[PLATINUM]

Little More pics and a bit of cyclic vid :)


Link to vid..
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=718166#post7864403

[Gary Morris]

The motor shaft diameter is 5mm.

Gary Morris

[hurleybt]

mmmm... starbucks... caffeine.... mocha's my favorite.

hmmm...a sub $600, 600 size heli... that's without the batteries though, right? I figure your 6s batts are gonna be worth about 1/3 the cost of the heli... hah!

[nieves50]

Any idea on boom diameter?

[PLATINUM]

No that is WITH the batteries..

Heli w/ motor $185
4 x 1700 mah 20c $100
parrallel and series connector $10
Servos $60
ESC $40
BEC $6
GY401 $138.00
Futaba 8ch rx $60

$599.00

I'll put a calipre to the boom when I get home..

[PLATINUM]

Boom is 20mm OD

[Ichigo]

no doubt....thats a really good price

[softball21dad]

After seeing your build and looking at a 600 size heli when I got home from work today I saw that HD had the E-Smart w motor for 199.95 plus free shipping. I could not resist. I only have been at this since last Nov. I have a HB FP 2 Falcon 3D's, T-REX XL and now a new bird. My wife just keeps asking why do you need another helicopter. I do not need another one I want another one. Ha Ha.

Jeff

[PLATINUM]

Just sell the Falcon.. it will pay for 3/4 of the frame :)


I think you are gonna be pretty happy with this heli.. it is not a cheap POS. Very sturdy.. everything fits together nicely.

[hurleybt]

wow, I paid 200 for my rex 450s kit... if I didn't have to eat, i'd buy it too :)

plat, if you get your 600 up before I get my 450 up, I'm gonna be mad. I need more disposable income!

[PLATINUM]

Its my Bday today so you get a free day to build ;)

[SlowRide]

Its my Bday today so you get a free day to build ;)


Happy B-day Plat! :cool: I've been keeping a close eye on your project. I find it very interesting and I might be leaning in that direction myself. Can't wait to read about your first flight.

Good luck
Rich

[PLATINUM]

Thanks Rich!

I am looking forward to it as well.. hopefully I can get her in the air by this weekend. I am no 3d master or anything.. so its gonna be slow to start. These big guys are a bit intimidating when the blades get up to speed.

[PLATINUM]

Tail has been setup, but not fine tuned.

Soldered deans on all the new batteries, esc and bec.. tested BEC to see if it got hot when there was allot of cyclic and tail input. It did get warm and I was only testing with 3cells.. so thats a little bit of a concern.

Right now I have it at 5v's.. it can deliver 3amps at either 5 or 6v my tail servo is MG but not digital.. but it seems to react extremely well. The bec can take up to 23v.

My 80a ESC is OPTO so I shouldn't actually have to cut the red wire.. but I am trying to make 100% sure this is the case.

I ran into a mechanical problem with the forward/reverse pitch cyclic servos. The arm is hitting another servo. So I need to test 1st if I really need all the throw I have it set for.

[PLATINUM]

ok nother small road block.. the bec I picked up is for 5 cells. I saw the 23vs and figured it would work..but noooo.. :rolleyes:

[sparrow1717]

im awaiting your maiden before I pull the trigger :)

Awesome bargain for this size heli for $600. Hopefully the componets you selected will work ( besides BEC) .

Spar

[PLATINUM]

I am confident in the servos and esc..

I found I had picked up a HV BEC a long time ago and had forgot about it. I guess I will just use these on smaller 3 cell helis I have :)

[softball21dad]

My E-Smart 600 came in today. I checked it all out and every thing was there. I ordered it from HeliDirect on Wed. evening and it arrived on Sat. I got the EK5H-E001 with metal main housing upgrade and motor. All for 199 and free shipping. The manual that came with it was for the plastic main housing but I had downloaded the manual from the web site and it showed the metal housing. As I was putting the head together and opened up the links bag I noticed the some of the links would not fit on the head. Them as I when thru the rest of the manual I found a lose insert that they had put into the back of the manual. It showed the correct head setup I was to use along with the correct links. I come to find out that the links setup for the plastic head is different than mine with just the metal housing. They had setup all the links for the plastic so I am short 3 link rods. They use different sizes from one to the other. So its off to the hobby store I go on Monday to get a few parts. Other than that it has gone together very well.

Jeff

[PLATINUM]

Nice! I didn't have any probs with the links at all. You sure you are not using the servo linkage for the head linkage?

[softball21dad]

Nice! I didn't have any probs with the links at all. You sure you are not using the servo linkage for the head linkage?


That is what I first thought. But see my attached copies of the two different pages. In the original it call for 2X B size and 1X C size and 6X D size.

In the insert sheet it calls for 4X B size and 3X C size and 2X D size.

So I did not have enough 20mm rods to make the 4 B sizes and not enough 35 mm rods for the C size. Also for the B size I need the smaller ball links.

Rest of the setup is going great and should have eveything done today except the links on the head.

[PLATINUM]

I would contact HD and let them know what is up.

[PLATINUM]

Ok so me thinks I found my 1st major problem. The guides I circled in this pic, are sliding up and not holding in place. NOT good..

[cmulder]

true not good..
I sugest the folowing if you have a dremel
put the guides in the position they shoudl be and mark where they exit the plastic holder
take the guides out and grind a flat spot in the middle of the side that goes into the plastic holder.
Get 2 grubscrews and a drilbit that is slightly less then the diameter of the screws
dril a hole in the middle of the holder left and right
Put a little ca glue of the end of the guides (just enough to be "wet")
put them in place so that the flat spot you grinded faces the hole you drilled
Screw the grubscrews in place to secure the guides (also put some ca on the screws to secure them )

[helishack]

Plat et al,

Thanks tremendously for putting this thread together and providing so much information on this specific heli.

I've been flying for just under a year (started with the terrible Walkera 22E - and anything was progress from there). I now have (2) T-Rex 450's (one for 3D and one for scale) and I am extremely happy with this hobby (or obsession, as the wife puts it).

Anyway, I've been looking at all of the new 500-600 class ships being made. After reading this thread and a few other threads/build logs, I ended up ordering my E-Smart 600 today from HeliDirect (those guys are always great to deal with). I also used UnitedHobbies (thanks for this great resource too) and picked up the same 80A ESC and SCR (SSV-9764MG) servos that Plat ordered. There was a cheaper (metal gear) servo but there were a few user-feedbacks that stated that it didn't re-center 100% of the time - and that's too painful for helis (IMHO).

Anyway, thanks again and I look forward to this weeked when I start the build! I'm still deciding on battery combo choices and a UBEC... One nit I have is that so far I don't like the included canopy. Do you know if I can use another canopy, and if so, which one?

Thanks again - and I look forward to sharing my experiences!

Jeff

[PLATINUM]

Since this is my 1st 600 class heli.. I really can't comment as to what other canopies might fit.

Couple things you should note:

The sliders on the head need to be set in place somehow.

The servo arm on cyclic for forward pitch will need to be dremeled down considerably to get full forward/aft pitch.

[helishack]

Since this is my 1st 600 class heli.. I really can't comment as to what other canopies might fit.

Couple things you should note:

The sliders on the head need to be set in place somehow.

The servo arm on cyclic for forward pitch will need to be dremeled down considerably to get full forward/aft pitch.

Thanks Plat. With all the scale work & custom mods I work on, any "reasonable" dremel work won't be a problem. Although I read your post and have a concern about the sliders, I decided that I'd take the chance and order my kits - hopefully with a different experience or perhaps simply having to come up with a way to restrain those little buggers.

Actually, I just re-read cmulder's post and it sounds very workable. I'll have to see how brittle the plastic is before I start drilling into it. Cmulder, if you're reading this I'm wondering if you've had to implement this solution yourself. If so, how's it holding up?

Jeff

[PLATINUM]

Ya I don't think its a major obstacle.. there is even cnc parts to replace the whole head.

[helishack]

Ya I don't think its a major obstacle.. there is even cnc parts to replace the whole head.

More metal bits - nice! Btw, if the problem that you're describing is common with all of the models, that is a HUGE QA oversight from the manufacturer.

I was looking at the picture you submitted (I tend to look at things over and over again to analyze problems) and had the following comment: this is similar to the design that I encountered with the Shogun head (which used a single offset pin design) - the pins are typically tightened in place with bolts at the base of the head block (in our case the metal washout guide) - or, like with my experience with T-Rex 450 headbocks, the pins are press-fitted into place. Then the washout base can slide up and down and those pins should not move. Since it is a metal-metal joining, a little blue locktite should ensure that there's no sliding once they have been bolted/pressed into place. Maybe red locktite for these pins going into the washout guide?

Sorry to be redundant if that's what you've already attempted - but on similar head designs I've never seen the pins move unless the retaining bolts were stripped or the head block/washout guide was damaged in a crash and things got loose due to heavily impacted pins.

Btw, after thinking about it (and this post) it's clear that the plastic washout base should not be drilled/grub screws used on it since the washout base is supposed to slide up and down on the stationary pins.


A couple of related questions: It looks to me (from the picture) that the washout guide is held in place by two grub screws (180 deg. apart). Are there any flat spots on the main shaft to ensure that the grub screws stay where you put them?


Jeff

update: I just realized something - the washout guide that I was looking at in another build log is metal and the one in your picture is plastic - hence cmulder's comment about drilling and grub screws. I didn't realize some of the kits came with plastic washout guides and some with metal ones. I ordered the "Metals Edition" EK5H-E002. When it arrives this week I'll have to take a look for myself at which parts are plastic and which are metal. Here's the build log that I was referring to: http://heliguy.com/rchelicopterblogs/mark25v6/e-sky-e-smart-600-helicopter-build-guide/#comment-5

[PLATINUM]

There are 3 kits

Plastic
This kit is nearly all plastic


Metal
Mix of metal/plastic

Carbon
Mostly metal/carbon frame.

From looking.. the carbon and metal kits are 100% interchangable parts.. the plastic kit however has some differences which could be problematic for upgraders.



This comes with plastics/metals
http://www.bphobbies.com/view.asp?id=B2131397&pid=NESK7217


This comes with carbon works with all
http://www.bphobbies.com/view.asp?id=B2131397&pid=NESK7218&img=l

I think I am just gonna epoxy the mofos in :D

[helishack]

Interesting... thanks for the links. The build pic that I was referring to (from the build log link in my previous post) shows a metal washout guide, but a plastic washout base and plastic arms.

I haven't seen that combination in any package or upgrade parts. I'm pinging him to see if he simply only used the metal washout guide from an upgrade (I would assume he'd want to use the arms as well)??

Btw, what kind of battery power are you looking at for this ship? I'm sure it will require more than a couple of 11.1v 2300mAh 20c batts in series (that would be a short flight I would think). I believe it's rated at 6S1P?

/jeff

[softball21dad]

Plat
I noticed on one of your pictures of the head it appears that the pitch control arms are on the trailing edge of your blades. My manual shows them on the leading edge. Which way is right. I have a ways to go on mine and next week my wife is making take a vacation and I can not work on my heli. Well that gives my order with United Hobbies time to get here.

[arclite5]

In almost all cases, you want trailing edge control on your main blade grips. Leading edge control is typically "pitchier" and not as good. You'd also have to reverse your pitch mix in your radio.

If you have defective/problem parts in your kit I would not hesitate to contact HD and try out their customer support. I've heard good things.

-Kyle

[helishack]

If you have defective/problem parts in your kit I would not hesitate to contact HD and try out their customer support. I've heard good things.

-Kyle

HD is an excellent company. I purchased a scale fiberglass fuselage from one of their resellers and the kit had some missing parts from the retract system. The reseller basically blew me off and after I pressed them for a solution they simply said that they got the kit from HD. I contacted HD and Steve promptly took care of everything at no cost to me. Great guys....

I've purchased other products from them in the past so I know that they will support their customers well. That gave me the extra confidence to buy a relatively unknown kit from them.

/jd

[PLATINUM]

Yup HD is pretty dam good.. Easily spent 2-3k with HD...their stock runs out fast on certian items though. Drives me Crazy.. I'll check the head to see where it ended up, I haven't had a chance to work on her in a few days.

For my batteries I am using 4 x 1700mah Hextronik 20-30c's configed for 6S2P. I should get 8-10mins outta that I hope. (need new charger that can charge 4 at once)

If all goes well, and I can finish setting up the head nice and proper.. I should be able to maiden by the end of the week..

[Powerbook]

Hi guys,

I'm Christophe, from France.
My E-Smart is done (metal version), ready to his first flight.

I would like to try a 4S (or A123 5S) setup like setup i see on Swift16.
I don't need an electric 3D heli, i have my R50 and Trex600n for that ;-)

Could you tell me the gear modulus of the E-Smart ? i have an Axi ready to go in 4S but i would to order the right gear, but i don't see on the original esky manual the gear modulus of the E-Smart...

Thanks.

Powerbook.

[PLATINUM]

Hello Christophe,

I will check the stock pinions teeth when I get home.. It will give me an excuse to finish her up.

[PLATINUM]

If my eyesight is good then its a 12T pinion on the motor..

[PLATINUM]

someone call me a slacker please.. I haven't touched this heli for a bit..

[sparrow1717]

slacker ! :)

Take ur time and get her setup properly.....we're all waiting for your flight report !

Spar

[SlowRide]

I guess a gang of us need to come over to your place and help you out with this project. A "heli build party!!" :D :D

I'm getting the itch for a 600 heli but my last E-Sky (Belt CP) didn't like me, so it's big brother might not either. :(

Rich

[PLATINUM]

Ok.. I spent 3hrs checking ..rechecking so I could go out just for a tuning windup.

I set up the tail mechanicly so It was centered.. and got to strapping the wiring, esc, bec down. Velcroed in the rx.. CA'd the canopy glass on the canopy.. Had all 4 x 1700mahs charged.. Plugged em in to the par and ser cables.. and hooked her up.

Beep Beep! Good to go..

1st wind up-- gyro needed to be reversed.

2nd wind up -- uber tail wag, but cyclic was not taking the heli to far off course considering. I need to adjust pitch curves and linkage a little... I get about 10-20% to much negative thrust when I power down.

Tried to get the wag out... but I couldnt seem to figure it out.. and it was getting pretty dark so I had to stop.

I have a new to me 9chp (non super) Gy401

In any event.. after several wind ups to about 3/4 power.. the batteries finished out only slightly warm, which is encouraging. No servos were hot.. and the esc/bec seemed fine.

Here is the crap part.. The blades spin so dang fast it takes the covering right off em. I didn't expect much out of these rotors anyway..after all they are e-sky wood rotors.

This heli has ALLOT of power.. when trimmed this thing is going to reach 100ft in about 2 secs. This being my 1st 600.. it is seriously intimidating winding this thing up, but it a 'I am about to go over the 1st knoll on the biggest rollercoster ever' kinda intimidating way.. :D

So 1st to replace is the main rotors.. carbon fibers or at least some t-rex woodies..

I am thinking these would look pretty sweet.. I have em for my Belt
http://www.helidirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=117_120&products_id=2831

[BowerR64]

it is seriously intimidating winding this thing up, but it a 'I am about to go over the 1st knoll on the biggest rollercoster ever' kinda intimidating way.. :D

http://www.helidirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=117_120&products_id=2831

lol :D

[PLATINUM]

Updated 1st post to clean it up. Still not true maiden.. haven't had time to work out the wag yet.

[helishack]

Ok guys,

Saturday I received my E-Smart 600 (really dislike that name). One word - awesome! The kit quality is fantastic - except for where I had to enlarge 4 holes (on the bottom plate) to mount the landing gear and the same for the collar at the bottom of the main shaft that the jesus bolt goes through (used a 5/32 bit on both).

Beside those points I think there are some mistakes specifying which rod lengths go where - so when I maiden her I'll find out if my estimations were correct. Plat, maybe I could bother you for some rod length confirmations? It's for the 3 rods that are used for the elevator servo (I believe that's the correct name: the one on the back of the swash plate pointing to the tail). From the manual I couldn't tell the length of that rod or the servo links for it (I measure from the center of the rod end holes).

Another question - just like anything else, there's sometimes that ~mysterious~ "extra" part (which I don't think is extra). I have a brass ring (bushing/collar) that I can't find a home for. Any hints would be appreciated.

Once again, I love this thing. It's HUGE. I'm attaching some reference pics for those that fly T-Rex 450's (since that's my frame of reference it helps put things into perspective). I'm still awating my ESC, BEC, RX and batteries. Overall, the build went VERY smoothly... The tail will be easier to adjust the belt tension by drilling a hole in the frame (opposite the bolt head) where I can insert a hex driver through the frame to tighten/loosen the single bolt that is used to tighten/loosen the boom. I really like this design because I can now very quickly adjust belt tension. I also like the fact that removing the boom keep the belt tension intact due to the design.

Awesome...

Jeff

[PLATINUM]

I have that same extra brass ring.. it's a mystery to me as well. I looked over the parts map.. and couldn't find it. However, BPhobbies sells these rings in a 3 pack.. I need to return to this item and do some more research. On wind up, it didn't seem to change anything.

I can measure all the links for you.. from servos to swash. I have not done final link adjustments, so these will be approx.



As a side note I did epoxy the steel guides in place. I pulled them down so there was a 1/8 inch or so hole on the top and filled the hole carefully with 15min epoxy.


Furthermore I ordered Carbon mains from HD.. and upgraded tail rotors from BP. If you didn't read my previous notes.. the stock mains suck, the motor is so powerful it will rip the covering off them :D

[hurleybt]

Still watching this build.. and nice work Plat and everyone else. I'd love to see some more pics Plat!! And a vid of you flying it too!! :)

EDIT: Oh, and what is your final cost on the build, PLat (minus the batteries and tx)?

[BowerR64]

This heli doesnt look geared right for some reason. It looks like the main gear is a bit to small.

[PLATINUM]

I think I am at about $500 without batteries $600 with.. I ordered the entire power set from china.

The only name brand items on there are Futaba 8ch rx and the Gy401..

This is without the new blades I just picked up. Add $40 for that..

So this is WAY under the $1000 mark which is normal for most 600 size helis.

[PLATINUM]

12T pinion 120T Main Gear..

I spooled it up.. it is in no way under powered.

[PLATINUM]

Linkage lengths


Left and Right Swash Front Links
Servo ->> Arm 2 X 70mm
Arm ->> Swash 1 X 80mm

Rear Swash links
Servo ->> Arm 2 X 40mm
Arm ->> Servo 1 X 55mm

[arclite5]

The brass ring might be the ring that goes on the main shaft between the main gear and the bottom bearing?

[Decnav]

I also have the brass ring left over. My build has stalled, I have to offload my work schedule to fit in play time. Hopefuly in 3 or 4 weeks I can order the electronics. If I order the parts now, I'll never finish my project :)

I just have to keep telling myself work pays for the toys

[BowerR64]

12T pinion 120T Main Gear..

I spooled it up.. it is in no way under powered.

Ok cool, it just looks like the main gear is small compaired to the size of the micros. The micro gears seem to stick out further, even the 450 size seems a little larger in size compaired to the scale of the frame and the radius of the main blades.

Does it use a larger pitch on the gears?

[helishack]

I somehow lost a very detailed post that I was writing :mad:. I'm re-doing my post with definitely not as much detail as the original.

Arclite5, thanks for the input. That's actually the very first thing that I tried and all of the parts for the main gear are in place and it spins nicely with a locked in feel (no loose movement). So it seems that the verdict is that this is an extra part. Maybe E-Sky expects this to wear out quickly??

I also broke one of my ball links and replaced them with the Raptor ball links that I found hanging in the LHS parts wall. A dozen ball links cost $8.50 - BP Hobbies has them for $3.95 for the complete heli (a much better deal). Btw, BP Hobbies has the "bling" (metal bits) in case anyone wants to upgrade their tail section or head parts. Here's the E-Smart link for the extra parts: http://www.bphobbies.com/view.asp?id=B2131397. Btw, HeliDirect is now carrying all of the spares (no metal upgrades though).

I'm surprised we didn't get a head button and especially surprised that we didn't get a blade holder since main rotors (albeit, not very good ones) are included. Not a real complaint - just a nit since my blood sugar is a little low :cool: .

Plat, thanks a million for the link sizing info. I'll try some out once the servos get here and then I'll dial her in just right :D

Thanks,

Jeff

[PLATINUM]

Yep.. I have seen the entire offerings available in the USA right now.

HD and BP are it.. so far.. I am not to worried about metal bits at this point though.

Carbon fiber 600mms came in today.. :eek: these things are big and heavy!

[helishack]

Agreed on the metal bits - I'm going to fly her around with the stock parts initially. Once she's flying and I'm happy with the settings, there are some parts that I'll exchange for metal. For instance, I don't like plastic swash assemblies. There are some other parts like the washout that I'd like to have as metal and especially that pesky guide that holds the two metal rods in place. One of the grub screws in my plastic one feels like it is on the edge of easily stripping with another 1/2 turn - the other one is rock solid.

I can't stop the tail rotor grips from having some play. I think it's the way the bearings fit into the plastic grips. I've loctited and tightened them down as far as I'm willing to go and they are better, but they still have a little bit of play. Hopefully that won't manifest itself into slop(py) tail performance when I get her in the air.

Btw, the switching BEC that you have, I like it because I can tie it directly into the 6S pack. I'm wondering if the 3A that it delivers can drive everything? Align stopped making the 3A BEC because they were being overdrawn with the larger servos and associated electronics. What's your take on the current draw for the servos, rx and gyro (I'm also using a GY401)?

I'd much rather go the same route and not use another lipo (7.4v) to drive the electronics (something else to monitor and charge + additional weight). Although I wonder if that will relieve the main power source and help with increased flight time?

/jd

[PLATINUM]

The BEC I got from china did not work was only for 3cells.. I had one from HD that does.. it is not a switching bec.

[helishack]

Plat,

I read your post when you mentioned that the BEC didn't work. Since A 6S provides 22.2v, I can't see why they rated the BEC at 5S on the unitedhobbies site when the specs also state that it works with 5.5v - 23v. :confused: Ok, I just thought a little more about this (lunch always helps clear things up) - It's most-likely because a freshly charged 6S will deliver approx. 25v and a freshly charged 5S will deliver approx. 21v.

I have looked at the HV BEC from HD that you are using and was tempted to purchase it in the past - to prep for my 600 heli (it's only $15). I've held off because I've been wary of the amperage. I'm paranoid about overdrawing current because if/when I overdraw my BEC I'm dead without the ability to shoot an auto or anything.

Looking forward to hearing your results. Depending on different characteristics, this heli (and user setup) may not cause high current draw from the BEC. I've got an Align RCE-B6X (6A) BEC & 2-cell lipo on the bench and ready to install once the other equipment arrives, but I'd prefer not to use this setup.

/jd

[PLATINUM]

When I spooled the heli up.. I had no problems with the HD BEC.. however, I am using the 5v one ;)

[helishack]

Getting fidgety while awaiting the arrival of my electronics. Dremel and Krylon to the rescue! :D

[PLATINUM]

Looks nice.. I was going to do yellow as well. Guess I'll pick another color.

FYI yellow sharpie won't stick :(

[PLATINUM]

MAIDENED!

Sorry guys no vid.. no one was home, and I was to excited to wait.

I still need to tweak my linkage in the head a bit.

Flight time with my current setup was probably about 8 minutes. I had to get the gyro set up in the radio for about 2 minutes.. so she was in the air for about 6. My power was 6s2p 3400mah

With 6s2p @ 4400 mah I would expect close to 10minutes.

I didn't go crazy mostly hovered and dialed in.. I put the new 600mm blades on there.. and it makes the heli look even bigger!

Also put on the upgrade tail rotors (same material they are just are wider)

Also put the button on the head..

[arclite5]

Congrats!

[PLATINUM]

Thanks! It certianly gives an adrenaline rush.. I gunned it once.. and it went up like 30ft in just a few secs.

[helishack]

Plat,

Congratulations are in oder! I just got home and saw your post (I've been waiting to read that for a while). That's GREAT news! Wow, now I know what to expect regaring flight time. After receiving the kit and looking it over as well as going through the build process, I felt that this heli should be a "smooth flier".

That's good flight time for 62SP 3400mAh on a 600-sized heli. You're right - I think with 62SP 4400mAh you should get closer to 10 min. Methinks it's time to order those batts. from unitedhobbies... I might bite the bullet and go for 4x3S1P 2200mAh. I also like the conveniece of flying my T-Rex 450's with any 0f the 3S1P batteries (these batts have received excellent reviews).

Damn good job on the maiden. I can't wait to get mine airborne.

Jeff

p.s. Sorry I beat you to the yellow ;) . I'm considering a two-tone paint job to help with orientation. Actually, the yellow is already striking and will make a difference - so will the sheer size of the heli. Airbrushing the curved portions blue is the next step (although I'm feeling kind'a lazy so I might not even turn on the compressor). Yellow sharpie... :D , now that's funny!

[PLATINUM]

Sall right..

This thing is a real lawn mower too.. when I had the bad wag, it mowed divets out of the grass :D

I certianly want VERY vivid colors on this heli.. Maybe I will go Lime Green/Fuscia combo on the canopy and Yellow on the vert/horz stab and tail blades.

Oh I forgot to mention.. the 80amp esc was a slightly warm, packs were warm-ER.. none were puffed or anything.

Me wonders if going carbon fiber bits on this heli would get another minute or so of flight time ..

Unfortunately UH is out of stock on the D9 HXT lipos :( .. they had a single 4400mah 6s2p in stock for a while.. and I almost got it.. but then said naa.. I have to many other things I fly, so the 2200mahs are what I will wait for.

[PLATINUM]

I am gonna try to get vid this weekend on this heli.. I am no 3d pilot, but I will try to give some aggressive FFF :)

[Ichigo]

and a few punch outs so we can see the power

[helishack]

Looking forward to the video!! I just ordered the HV BEC today and another HH gyro (I'm taking my 401 out of my CF T-Rex 450 and putting it in the 600).

I second the motion that punch-outs in the video would be great to see.

Good luck!

Jeff

[arclite5]

You can really show off power if you try to do a FF loop. That sucks a lot of collective/cyclic energy out.

-Kyle

[arclite5]

Man I've been noticing a lot of Bleach fans lately! I like that anime too =] Just finished reading the manga actually.

-Kyle

[PLATINUM]

Noo loops..

Luckily there is a huge corn field so if she does go down.. should be a fairly gentle landing.

[Eeeeky]

i just noticed, this thing is nice! it had teh same servo lay/setup as a swift, same tail drive system, and the same main gear! nice...but not so, oh well...ill get one eventually.

[helishack]

TGIF! But alas, still no servos or ESC in the mail... I'll miss another flying weekend opportunity if they don't show up tomorrow. The weekdays are simply too busy with kids and work.

Oh well, I've got kids - believe me, I've learned patience... :rolleyes:

This waiting and reading and posting is such a tease... Maybe time to put another coat of paint on the canopy and then clear-coat it... Heck, might dust off the airbrush and put it to use again!

/j

[helishack]

I wonder if it's possible that the thread starter (Plat) can move this out of the "Mini Helis" sub-forum to the larger heli sub-forum "Electric Heli Talk"?

/jd

[PLATINUM]

Ok we have some video.. and we have our very 1st in flight mechanical failure :D

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=726351#post7970455

Why move it JD?