Remote Control Airplanes Spring Refresh
Time for a Spring RC airplane refresh. Here is what I do during my Spring Refresh.
My Planes: All those dents and dings I planned on repairing over the Winter. I get out the foam filler, or Spackle, the airbrush, and get my planes back to excellent condition. Something about a freshly repaired and painted aircraft looks better at the field and in the sky.
If you haven't tried airbrushing, maybe this is a great time to dry it out.
Now is a great time to add to your hanger. There are great start of season sales. Maybe it's time to acquire that plane you've been eyeing.
My Planes Control Services / Gear - I charge up a battery and give each of my planes a ground test. I check all the mechanicals. I make a simple spreadsheet by plane with each repair needed. (the laptop comes in handy sitting in the back of my SUV while I power up on my driveway).
My Batteries - I check my batteries. I store my batteries in meal ammo boxes, sorted by size. (1 each for 3 cells, 4 cells, and 6 cells). Any signs of damage and battery is correctly disposed of.
According to Large.net, damaged batteries can be identified by "Damaged plastic cell envelope or visible deformities on the cell package. The smell of leaking electrolyte. Or puffing or swelling shows that the battery is damaged, and therefore you should discontinue discharging or charging immediately.
Remember, regardless of the cost, it is never worth it to charge or fly with a damaged battery.
Do I need more batteries? There are many great early season sales. Maybe it is time to add to your battery arsenal. Also, check your charger to make sure that it is in good order.
A trick I use during the season to evenly use my batteries is that I number each battery with a Sharpie with both a number and the date placed in service. That makes it easier for me to cycle through the batteries evenly.
My tools - I get my toolbox organized and ready for the field. I collect the tools that are out on my workbenches and bring them back in the toolbox.
I look to see if there are any damaged or lost tools needing replacement. I go through my box and throw out the dried-up CA glue. I give my box a general refresh and restock (tape, Velcro, zip ties, etc.). Give the box a refresh and restock. Better to do that now than realize you need something while at the field.
My transmitter - I do a clean and organize on your transmitter. I review the planes stored in my transmitter's memory and delete the aircraft I have crashed or don't have anymore. If they are going to fly again no need for them to be clogging the menu.
Get the planes you fly the most up to the top of the selection menu.
My Memberships / Licenses: A quick check to ensure all my registrations and memberships are current and active.
Club Field Day - I attend our Dayton Wingmasters field day. A focused field refresh and clean-up go a long way to creating an enjoyable flying experience for you and the other members.
Volunteer and attend a Swap Meet: Maybe you don't like that particular plane, sell it at a swap meet and add another plane.
As you get ready for a great flying season, I hope some of these ideas have helped. If you have any other great ideas, leave them in the comments below.
Have a safe and enjoyable flying season.