Post by daver on Feb 23, 2016 19:55:10 GMT -4
Just like going to fly in a real aircraft, preparation is a huge part of flying. I'm currently going through every single plane, charging batteries, checking systems, going over covering, connections, etc. While checking over my Sukhoi, I though that the receiver battery had dumped a cell or two, which was surprising, they are expensive NiMh batteries, and not prone to sudden failure. So, I charged a brand new battery, with the same charger. That would help eliminate the charger as a cause, as well as giving me a second battery for trouble shooting. I hooked the battery up directly to the receiver, to do some checks, all good. Hmm, hooked the old battery up to the RX, worked fine. Ahhh. Got out the load tester, tested both batteries, A-OK. Now we're getting somewhere. Tested both batteries with a brand new switch, noted the voltage under load. Then, load tested both batteries, with the original switch in the aircraft. You guessed it, both batteries failed miserably. Switch works, i.e. it turns power on and off, but it's got a loose connection somewhere.
Want to save $600 and weeks of work, for only a few $$? load test everything, and don't be afraid to toss old switches. Way cheaper to toss them yearly, and buy new ones, than to risk losing a plane. Same with often used Y-connectors, or servo extensions. If you're pulling them every time you take a plane apart, consider checking them over very, very carefully each spring, and if you have the slightest doubt, buy new ones!