www.hellecats.co.uk

Club No. 0634

Club Heli Specifications

For a while now it has become clear to the club that many newcomers to the hobby struggle to find a successful combination of heli components. So rather than enjoy the first steps into the thrill of flying their new heli (well - hovering at least!), they end up with having to buy and fit new and replacement components with all the disappointment that doing so implies.

To try and help we have decided to document what combinations of heli components the club flies, thus giving a clue to what we have found works (see Club Specifications).

Before You Buy Anything!

As an over-riding recommendation we suggest that you approach a Model Club, that has a reasonable number of heli flyers, and seek their advice and guidance before you buy anything. It would be better still if the club you approach is also the club you intend to join, so that when you do get to the flying stage there is likely to be someone around who should understand your setup and be more able to help. We have had prospective members come to the field with a setup that has been sold to them that is completely unknown to any member of the club - to the point where even the club experts can't sort out what's what!

General Basic Beginners Specifications

For the beginner here is some general basic specifications (thanks to John Bottomley)...

• The Cheshire Hell-E-Cats generally recommend that newcomers to the hobby start with a current "30-size" helicopter - preferably in kit form, so that as much useful knowledge as possible can be learned during assembly. The Thunder Tiger Raptor 30 V2 and the Hirobo Shuttle Plus are the latest versions of models that are popular in the club.
• Undoubtedly the best all round engine is the OS 32 SXH, although others are suitable.
• Unless a quiet silencer is supplied with the kit (which is most often not the case), then an aftermarket unit such as Hatori or Zimmermann should be purchased.
• No upgrades should be fitted until the basics of hovering are mastered - this reduces repair bills - so standard wooden main blades, etc are the order of the day.
• A good basic gyro is all that is required a the learning stage, and the CSM 180 or 200 units are suitable, as are others from Futaba or JR.
• Radio control equipment should be either a specific helicopter set or a multi-model type. Consideration should be given to a mid range set which will cope with model and pilot requirements as skills improve. Either way, there is a requirement for a minimum of 5 channels, 5 servos, 1000 MAH battery pack (Preferably 2000 MAH), and an on-board battery checker. Try and buy a Radio Transmitter that is common at your local club. That way there is a chance that someone will be able to help you set it up.
• Fuel should be 5% or 10% Nitro - Cool Power or equivalent Helicopter mix (5% Nitro is cheaper, but 10% will provide greater reliability)
• Glow plugs used are mostly OS #8 or Enya #3.
• A 12 volt battery and starter plus the appropriate starter extension will be required for both the Raptor and the Shuttle.
• There is a need for a 2 volt glow plug battery and some form of fuel pump. These ancillaries can be combined into a field box / panel.
• Finally you will need a Training Undercarriage!
• Our local model shop - Revolution Models  can advise on the detail.

Club Specifications

Thanks to Andy Harrison for leading the way...

Models are listed by Manufacturer (alphabetically).