Simple questions with probably obvious answers prior to maiden.....

[txjohn73]

Hello from Texas
I am going to maiden my E5 in a day or two and have a question/concern.

I applied clear wrap to tail control rod like any other heat shrink, but either I did a bad job or it seems prone to binding, so I removed it.  I figure the worse that could happen are vibration issues but I will worry about that if an issue arises.

What does worry me is the length of control rod.  After proper sanding and epoxy setting, I can only get tail pitch lever and servo arm at 90 deg. only if I install links with 3 (or less) turns of the ball links.  I have never encountered this in any other build, and was curious if anyone else has experienced this.  I have an extra control rod, and may try assembling and comparing length.  Is this just a case of a control rod that was cut a little too short?  Should I expect vibration issues without the clear material on rod?
I feel like an idiot asking, but I have built 20 plus helis and not encountered this.......
Any feedback, advice, or jokes at my expense are welcomed!

[Chris Sexton]

Double check that the tail box is on all the way and the boom is into both front clamps. It is possible the rod is short but i would double check the rest before ordering a  new rod and control rod ends.

As for the clear tephlon. It is easy to over heat it and turn it sticky. I have ran without for short periods.

sent from my Verizon Samsung Galaxy Note 2

[curmudgeon]

I have a similar experience with the clear heat shrink in all three of my Synergies.  The rods get cought and stick a little on the plastic rod guides.  This does not seem to affect tail performance, but I understand what you mean.

Three turns on the ball links may not be too secured.  It looks like you instincts are guiding you in the right direction.

[curmudgeon]

About the tail rod being too short, make sure the tail servo is oriented so that the servo output shaft is oriented towards the boom.

[txjohn73]

Thanks for all that gave me some helpful advice.  I had planned to maiden it this morning, but after setting up Vbar, I am having OWB issues and gear mesh issues with a KDE 600f I am trying.  Seems like small parts are in short supply, but I know patience is sometimes necessary. 

[Greg Jackson]

Also, once you apply the Teflon keep it oiled.  Usually when I apply some oil to the tail shaft I will also apply it in the area that the pushrod runs through the guides.

[txjohn73]

I am happy to say I finally had a great maiden this morning.  After a mishap last week which left me a bit skittish, I finally got my heli off the ground and it is a great, solid heli that I am very happy to have.  Thanks again to all that chimed in with advice!

[Greg Jackson]

Glad you got it in the air, that should take care of the pre - maiden nerves you bad, which we all get.