Trex450 SA Owner Thread

[Sleepstalker]

I suggest a sticky for the new Trex 450 SA owners that are about to be gratified at the end of September. Speculations....Plans...the manual is available now...News ect.let's hear er rip about Align/Horizon Trex 450 SA ARF!
laterz...Sleepster... 8)

Sure. Let's start the thread now.

[eddiemoth]

For those who has Trex450 XL or Trex450 SE, can you tell what this SA version brings to the market or it is just simply a new RTF package Herizonhobby is now get into?

Features:
* Extreme 3D capability right out of the box
* 95% factory-assembled
* Stacked aluminum frames
* Direct-to-swash CCPM linkages
* Aluminum and composite swashplate
* Gun-metal gray aluminum head block
* Aluminum motor and battery mounts
* Gun-metal gray aluminum skids and tail boom
* Tail servo boom mount
* Belt-driven tail rotor
* Stainless steel tail rotor hub
* Auto-rotation system
* 325mm PRO symmetrical wooden main blades

Specifications:
-Main Rotor Diameter: 27.6 in (700mm)
-Tail Rotor Diameter: 5.9 in (150mm)
-Gross Weight: 22–24 oz (620–680 g)
-Length: 25.6 in (650mm)
-Kit/ARF/RTF: ARF
Features:
* Extreme 3D capability right out of the box
* 95% factory-assembled
* Stacked aluminum frames
* Direct-to-swash CCPM linkages
* Aluminum and composite swashplate
* Gun-metal gray aluminum head block
* Aluminum motor and battery mounts
* Gun-metal gray aluminum skids and tail boom
* Tail servo boom mount
* Belt-driven tail rotor
* Stainless steel tail rotor hub
* Auto-rotation system
* 325mm PRO symmetrical wooden main blades

Specifications:
-Main Rotor Diameter: 27.6 in (700mm)
-Tail Rotor Diameter: 5.9 in (150mm)
-Gross Weight: 22–24 oz (620–680 g)
-Length: 25.6 in (650mm)
-Kit/ARF/RTF: ARF
http://www.horizonhobby.com/ProdInfo/Articles/1606-main.jpg
http://www.horizonhobby.com/ProdInfo/Articles/1606-T-Rex_outofbox.jpg

A review by Jim Broker on HH website
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Articles/Article.aspx?ArticleID=1606

[Sleepstalker]

T-REX Mania
By John Adams

In case you haven’t noticed (or are just new to the planet) electric helicopters have become R/C’s latest obsession. And Align’s T-REX 450 is clearly leading the hi-performance mini-electric helicopter class with a cult-like following. With aerobatic performance that rivals the most powerful glow powered 3D machines, Align’s T-REX offers the challenge and excitement of doing the most radical 3D maneuvers, quietly, in confined spaces, and at a fraction of the cost of 50-90 size glow powered machines.

The Advantages of Flying Electric
Imagine doing flips and tumbles, tic-tocks and inverted flight, or working on perfecting backward flying in your backyard or at the park. That’s exactly what I’ve been doing almost every day for the last 5 months. Because it’s electric (quiet) and compact, a T-REX can be flown nearly anywhere, anytime. I fly almost every morning before work in my yard and during lunch at the park. I’m actually getting more heli stick time than I ever have in over 20 years of flying helicopters.

The T-REX 450SA ARF
Here at Horizon, we have an exclusive version of the T-REX—the T-REX 450SA ARF. The 450SA’s design is based on Align’s top of the line T-REX SE and it shares the exact same layout and geometry as the SE. The 450 SA is the only T-REX that comes pre-built. All that’s needed is to install the radio gear, motor, ESC and gyro, hook up the linkages, trim the canopy and fly. Typical time from box to ready to fly is about 6-8 hours.

To keep the SA affordable, carbon side frames are replaced with anodized aluminum. Some of the aluminum head, frame and tail pieces are replaced with fiber filled nylon parts. This actually reduces the overall weight by nearly 2 oz, making for even more nimble flight performance. Hop ups are available for those wishing to upgrade to SE level. Other 450SA features include a machined aluminum head block, newly designed tail rotor grip and pitch change mechanism, and 325mm PRO wood blades.

Suggested Setup
For the hot setup I recommend (and use) Align’s 430L motor with a 13 tooth pinion, the Align 35 amp speed controller, an Align or JR 500T gyro and Thunder Power 3S 2100 Prolite batteries. I have JRXS285 servos on cyclic and an S3650 servo on the tail rotor. Spektrum’s DX6 2.4GHz DSM system is the ideal transmitter and receiver. In my experience, I’ve found this to be the ultimate setup for precise control with tons of power.

In the Air
So what it’s like flying a T-REX 450SA? For experienced pilots the Rex offers incredible response and maneuverability. Flip and tumble rates are faster than any 3D glow machine thanks to its light weight and low mass. Over 9 minutes of aggressive 3D flight is the norm using the 2100mAh Thunder Power Prolite pack. And with a 60+ mph forward flight speed, the T-REX can get very zippy when you’re ready to rip.

Lately I’ve been flying several 90 size 3D machines and the T-REX 450SA will do everything the big machines will do except for auto rotations. The Rex just doesn’t have the blade mass to do the type of autos that a 90 size machine can muster. In fact, other than autos, the Rex may be even more capable at really aggressive 3D maneuvers. And unlike with the big machines, a crash won’t break the bank.

If you’re a heli guy and have yet to see a T-REX go, hang on as your not going to believe what one of these things can do. If your getting comfortable flying your Blade CP and are ready to advance to the next step, the T-REX 450SA will take your flying skills to the next level and beyond. If for any other reason, you owe it to yourself to get a T-REX and find out what thousands of heli pilots around the world have already discovered—flying the T-REX is addictive.

I can't wait...Sleepster... 8)

[leapfrog]

When in "Oct" are they going to be available? I recently purchased two of 'em... (and it said available in October)... just wondering... *big smile*

[Sleepstalker]

You should be getting yours any day now Leapfrog.....=]

[Sleepstalker]

It looks like the first SA's have shipped in the states , my LHS say's I should see mine next week . I found a vid of Allen Szabo flying a bone stock SA with HS56 servos and the Align 500x gyro...kinda impressive
http://www.align.com.tw/bb2/mpeg/0014.wmv

Sleepster... 8)

Also a daytime vid of Allen with less background noise..
http://www.align.com.tw/bb2/mpeg/0010.wmv

[Sleepstalker]

Well what can I say? I prepaid for this unit on July 8 and now over 3 months later have finally received the heli...(no fault of my LHS..Horizon kept delaying the release)
First Impressions: Well packaged...you don't get the nice little aluminum case that the non ARF Align 450's come with but you get a solid cardboard style case with a carrying handle and the heli airframe centered in the case and secured to the floor with wire ties around the skids. No part of the heli touches the side of the case and a plain brown cardboard ..."outer sleeve" also slips over the Display case for additional strength. Also in the box is another box containing the canopy , tinted windshield , all the control rods, ballinks , motor mounting screws , spare parts bag , and large well written manual with very clear pix...oh yeah and needed hex wrenches , screwdrivers , loctite , and tracking tape and velcro battery strap.
The unit is definately bigger than my 400 Shogun and the fit and finish is very nice , the gunmetal aluminum frame , skids , and tailboom are easy on the eyes and if I order extra bling for this girl it will be in the same grey. Today I will spend awhile unscrewing and locktiting the factory assembly and getting to know the airframe.
As this will be a slow build ( limited funds ) I did not want to post this as a build thread but expect to be completed around Xmas.
The canopy is the standard extruded white plastic with approx 3/16" around the edges to be trimmed , I recommend a new Xacto knife blade and a steady hand when trimming this canopy . How your canopy looks says a lot about how you approach an rc project and where your skill level is at !
I do not have a lot of luck taking pix but will try , my Polaroid 5.1 megapixel does not seem to want to take close up shots , but it is likely my fault for not knowing how to use it to its full capability.
I plan on using Hitec 56 servos all around for the swash but this will require some modification to the servos and more than likely a 9650 digi on the tail . I have an Align RC500x Gyro for the tail.
Things I will be ordering..Align 430l motor and 35 amp esc , and will use a Spectrum DX6 and receiver as the Manual gives all the pitch and throttle curves for various setups using this TX and RX.
I will keep you posted as this progresses..Happy Hovering..Sleepster... 8)
http://img1.putfile.com/thumb/10/30114095569.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic.php?img=3836884)
http://img1.putfile.com/thumb/10/30114095466.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic.php?img=3836883)

[eddiemoth]

Well what can I say? I prepaid for this unit on July 8 and now over 3 months later have finally received the heli...(no fault of my LHS..Horizon kept delaying the release)

You are a lot way....... more patient than I am. I admire you for that.


No part of the heli touches the side of the case and a plain brown cardboard ..."outer sleeve" also slips over the Display case for additional strength. Also in the box is another box containing the canopy , tinted windshield , all the control rods, ballinks , motor mounting screws , spare parts bag , and large well written manual with very clear pix...oh yeah and needed hex wrenches , screwdrivers , loctite , and tracking tape and velcro battery strap.....

I always like the way HH takes care of their packaging. You sounded like it was packaged carefully. I hope they tried to cut down the price by not using the aluminum case.

I plan on using Hitec 56 servos all around for the swash but this will require some modification to the servos and more than likely a 9650 digi on the tail . I have an Align RC500x Gyro for the tail.
Things I will be ordering..Align 430l motor and 35 amp esc , and will use a Spectrum DX6 and receiver as the Manual gives all the pitch and throttle curves for various setups using this TX and RX.

Sounded like a good plan. What is your impression on the owner manual? Is it easy to follow? Does it has all info you need to put your heli together? This is going to be a good thread. It got more than 1000 hits already!

[Sleepstalker]

Hi Eddie the SA manual is very well done , very precise and with nice clear photos of the topic at hand . They give options and instructions for various approaches to building this Heli using...JR , Hitec , or Horizon servos , RX's and TX's and the appropriate trims and curves ect for the TX's and how you anticipate flying from mild to hardcore 3D... :)
I think a lot of folks are gonna be happy with this Heli..the manual also gives a nice breakdown of upgrade parts if you want to bling out this Heli as you order crash parts....Yeah right I never crash you say.....ROFL!... 8)

[a68fan]

Good day all!!!

I too have one of these... And mine will be on the back burner... Couple other projects first.... HDX300SE, and some honey do's... If I do a good job on my honey do's, maybe she'll buy me the 'tronics to finish....

Allen

[Rx]

Please advise me on Phase Purcase of T-Rex 450
So my 13 year old shows me the T-Rex and says "Christmas List" while getting parts for his two e-flight helicopters. He has proven himself with flight, maintenance, and upgrades on the two e-flights and puts on public exibitions in the school gym.

OK, so I am just a lowly state civil servent protecting the environment and upon seeing the price: lucky for me they were demonstrating the defibulator at the next counter and used me for a demonstration. :shock:

So, I was hoping that maybe for Christmas I can get the base frame, for his birthday in March, the controller/servo, and for summer 8th grade graduation the motor and battery?

If anyone can give me a "phased plan" for the T-Rex 450 or any tips, suggestions, ... maps to hidden treasures ... it would be greatly appreciated.

Lucky for me I have a very patient understanding teen. Otherwise he would have traded me in long ago :)

[Rx]

:roll: I did not mention that my son hopes to submit his article on high-altitude flying electric helicopters in Colorado. We went down the road to Vail and took photos of e-Flight's two models up at Vail summit and even up to Pikes Peak. We have a photo of e-flight over the sign of the tunnel on I-70 at the Contential Divide, Vail summit, and other peaks including Pikes Peak. E-Flight failed to lift at Pikes Peak. He also was invited to a tour for the Army High Altitude Training. To make some spare change, I work part-time with a group building the new portable Army training simulator including voice activation for MS Flight Sim for helicopters. Here is a picture of him during its early development stage. Yeah, its a real gun with forced feedback control, the screens are now two 180 degree high-res graphics (8 projectors) that present and react to targets with hard simulations. He is all about everyting Helicopters - I would appreciate you reading my previous post. :P

[eddiemoth]

Hi Rx, Welcome to HeliTown! I have to say your 13 year old son is a very few lucky teens in the world. Without knowing how much you want to spend for the frame, I would recommend a Trex SE kit. This would have all the upgrades he would add to your next Christmas list later. Not sure where you live but check here (http://www.grandrc.com/inc/sdetail/28695) to see the SE kit. it comes with a CF frame. You can also go with the Horizon Hobby's Trex 450 SA kit above which is more reasonable but of course there are rooms to be improved with more upgrades. This comes with an alum frame.

[swatson144]

Hello RX, and welcome to HeliTown.

If I may ask you to indulge me with some opinions as a heli addict, and the father of a son (15yr old) who has no interest what so ever in helis.

I look at my sons collection of console games etc and I'd rather add up the cost of my helis than start totaling that stuff! 50$ a game and they continue to grow in qty. At least with a heli yours will be outside, and I doubt he'll be wanting much of that other stuff, well maybe a sim but that's the same price as a console and not nearly as many add on costs.

A heli will be his most valuable possession so thus it'll be unlikely you need to worry much about any shenanigans while he is out with it.

At first glance they seem awful expensive. I'd have a talk with the lad and make sure that a Trex is exactly what he wants and not just settling for something he thinks has the best chance of being obtainable. If it is, go ahead and get the SE IMO. Gift certificates to his favorite online shop can be the norm for family members.

I just wanted to point out it ain't as bad as it looks on 1st glance.

Steve

[Rx]

I will continue to look at thes options. Did have a talk with the lad this morning. He is committed to building everything from the ground up himself. I am also concerned about the safety of false starts with electric motors and feel that the build up may give him an advantage over the take-it-out-of-the-box flight.

He is no stranger to console games. Last year he talked me into a game development software that he has made most excellent use of. He has developed some "helicopter" games of course. Even a 3-D first person game that spans two networked computers. He has proven himself to be most dilligent when making a commitment.

I really appreciate the honest and fast responses! :P

[cmaxim]

[quote=Sleepstalker]

You are a lot way....... more patient than I am. I admire you for that.



Patient and Eddie just can't get along ! :evil: :evil: :evil: When Eddie wants anything, he wants he wants, and he wants it right now. HA HA........ :lol: :lol: :lol: Well, sometimes, that can be a good thing. :roll: :roll: :roll:
Chinda

[Rx]

Well, I pulled everyone in the family to buy one part of the trex instead of spending $40 on some Xbox video game this year since he only wanted one thing. By breading down the list of motor, gyro, and the other parts into gift certificates, it all seemed to come together. By the time each upgrade is added, it was close to $1,000. A part-time employee and owner of two Trex volunteered to assemble, program, and test it. Other than just having one battery, it looks like we should have it under the tree for Christmas.
Since I started this thread, we had an electrical fire that burned a large hole in the living room and the fire department left a hole in the roof.
The inspection indicates that last owner who made substantial upgrades the house may not have pulled a permit when the single wire on a 20 amp circuit breaker, put directly to the main made extensions to 9 rooms includin a halogen lit workbench in the garrage. When the old breaker failed to trip, it lit a fire across three beams in the living room attic. The kid heard the smoke alarm at 4 A.M. Sunday morning across the house through two closed doors and decided to get up to investigate instead of going back to sleep. The fire department was able to limit the damage to the living room. We won't put out the tree because the contractors have been pouring in steadily to make repairs.

:?: So, for Xmas morning, do I take off the covering taprs and let the kid fly the Trex out the "skylight"?
Guess I better not, he might get use to it.

[G-MRM]

Wow, so sorry to read your post.... what a good son you have as it could have turned out very bad, better get them an extra present !

I hope you get it all fixed up Ok and get back to normal soon, this will be a Christmas you will remember, but it shows smoke alarms are worth it.

Maybe the helis should just be flown starting in the garden, If you could get it out from the hole in the roof it would be so hard landing it back !! :roll:

Keep us informed on both the house and the helis !

Martin

[eddiemoth]

I am sorry and sad to hear about the house fire but I am glad that everybody is safe. It is the good decision to go with a Trex instead of the video game. You have given your son the hobby of his life time. He will always remember his first Trex. Keep us posted.

[Sleepstalker]

Well the build is still going on and I am happy to say that I have picked up my "second to last part for the SA" it is my Mini Hi -Speed digital tail servo . it is by JR and is the DS3400G nice size and has torque at 42 oz/in @ 4.8 V and Speed at .11 sec/60Deg. @ 4.8V . I have ordered my LAST piece of the puzzle a JR receiver and should pick up in two weeks...WOOT! I am close to flyin again!... 8)

[Rx]

The electric T-Rex is wonderful.
We have been out flying several times.
My son was so excited flying the first time, he did not notice that the small clearing and hill he was standing in was a giant red-ant den. Well, after a few crawled up his legs he ran to the car to pull off his pants, ran back, got the keys, then ran back to the car. :roll:
OK, now that is being excited about your T-REX! :shock:
Anyway, more practice lead to even better control. The E-Flight single and dual blade helicopters practice make all the difference.

Last year, the teachers had him demonstrate the theroy of flight to the 1st and 2nd graders. He puts bows and ribbons on the gym floor to demonstrate the draft using the e-flight.

This year, the teachers brought the K, 1, 2, 3 and 4th graders (about 160 kids). A bunch of 4th graders were suppose to leave early. This year, the T-REX 450 was center court during the E-flight demo. As the demo went on, the teachers told the 4th graders it was time for the next class, but they would not go until they saw the TREX fly. When the TREX starts up in a gym, it really gets your attention. The bows and ribbons flutter off like a leaf blower and move a long way. The sound is something else too. There was fright and excitement with the grade schoolers - and the teachers that did not know exactly what to expect. Half way up to the roof, and then some nice controlled movements (no upside down flying)
and then a perfect landing.
Everyone claped and cheered.
I have not had time to download the video off the camera.
Don't know if I can add a 1 MB attachment with the video or not.

Oh, the gunning training photo was finished and is being shipped overseas, was also covered in an ARMY magizine.

Sorry it took so long to get back.

[Rx]

The electric T-Rex is wonderful.
We have been out flying several times.
My son was so excited flying the first time, he did not notice that the small clearing and hill he was standing in was a giant red-ant den. Well, after a few crawled up his legs he ran to the car to pull off his pants, ran back, got the keys, then ran back to the car. :roll:
OK, now that is being excited about your T-REX! :shock:
Anyway, more practice lead to even better control. The E-Flight single and dual blade helicopters practice make all the difference.

Last year, the teachers had him demonstrate the theroy of flight to the 1st and 2nd graders. He puts bows and ribbons on the gym floor to demonstrate the draft using the e-flight.

This year, the teachers brought the K, 1, 2, 3 and 4th graders (about 160 kids). A bunch of 4th graders were suppose to leave early. This year, the T-REX 450 was center court during the E-flight demo. As the demo went on, the teachers told the 4th graders it was time for the next class, but they would not go until they saw the TREX fly. When the TREX starts up in a gym, it really gets your attention. The bows and ribbons flutter off like a leaf blower and move a long way. The sound is something else too. There was fright and excitement with the grade schoolers - and the teachers that did not know exactly what to expect. Half way up to the roof, and then some nice controlled movements (no upside down flying)
and then a perfect landing.
Everyone claped and cheered.
I have not had time to download the video off the camera.
Don't know if I can add a 1 MB attachment with the video or not.

[eddiemoth]

Glade to hear back from you and about the Trex you are flying. It is OK for the video. If you are having problem, let me know.

[Sleepstalker]

This was originally posted on the new site but somehow didn't make it... :lol:
OK here is a little quandry I have been playing with..( might draw Steve out of his lurk mode with this one )... 8) On my Rex SA I have an Align 500ex Gyro mated with a JR DS3400G rear rotor servo . If I power up the heli the servo will center and the gyro initialize . The second time I power up the heli the servo throws to it's farthest rear and due to my beefed up oversize CF rod this breaks my tail rotor control and pitch set....Went thru 2 sets learning this lesson... :( On the TX there is no gain or revo setup....what I mean is zero . If I disconnect the remote gain wire from chan 5 on my JR RX I can fly no prob in plain Rate mode...Hooking up the remote gain brings me back to square one... 8O ...An Unhappy camper with this...Sleepster... :?
Oh yeah tried a different servo no change...Also I have not enough change to buy another gyro to test that..lol... 8)
Oh yeah for clarification the TX is a JR XP8303 ... a little old but up to the task...Sleepster... 8)

[swatson144]

I don't know much about the telebees. I only helped my buddy set his up and he likes his soo...

If I power up the heli the servo will center and the gyro initialize . The second time I power up the heli the servo throws to it's farthest rear and due to my beefed up oversize CF rod this breaks my tail rotor control and pitch set.

Has me a little confused. How does the heli know it's the 2nd time if it was powered down? You saying you like switch out packs and it does that? I'd certainly remove the control rod while sorting this one out.

The remote gain is nothing more than a signal on chan 5 (1-2ms 0-100%) if you have no gyro gain topic but can assign a switch for chan 5 and give it a value like for flaps etc, may be your answer. I don't know your TX well enough to speak on that but that should be enough of a hint, and looking at the flaps section in acro mode may be good. Just sending the desired sig to the Gyro should suffice.

Also if I'm not mistaken using the gain pot on the gyro with out the extra wire connected should get you in HH at >50% on the pot <50% being rate.

Steve

[diverjack]

I suggest a sticky for the new Trex 450 SA owners that are about to be gratified at the end of September. Speculations....Plans...the manual is available now...News ect.let's hear er rip about Align/Horizon Trex 450 SA ARF!
laterz...Sleepster... 8)
Yay! Finally! A T-Rex 450 SA thread! Now you're talkin'! :)

Jack in Calgary

[diverjack]

This was originally posted on the new site but somehow didn't make it... :lol:
OK here is a little quandry I have been playing with..( might draw Steve out of his lurk mode with this one )... 8) On my Rex SA I have an Align 500ex Gyro mated with a JR DS3400G rear rotor servo . If I power up the heli the servo will center and the gyro initialize . The second time I power up the heli the servo throws to it's farthest rear and due to my beefed up oversize CF rod this breaks my tail rotor control and pitch set....Went thru 2 sets learning this lesson... :( On the TX there is no gain or revo setup....what I mean is zero . If I disconnect the remote gain wire from chan 5 on my JR RX I can fly no prob in plain Rate mode...Hooking up the remote gain brings me back to square one... 8O ...An Unhappy camper with this...Sleepster... :?
Oh yeah tried a different servo no change...Also I have not enough change to buy another gyro to test that..lol... 8)
Oh yeah for clarification the TX is a JR XP8303 ... a little old but up to the task...Sleepster... 8)

This happened to me, too. I went into the GER setting and gave it a value of -150 to get things on track. Weird.........but it worked! I'm using a DX6 Tx.......which is just a glorified JR radio. Try it. See what happens. :)

[Dave_E]

You would of course count the "S" model here correct? The only thing I don't like about a thread like this, is it gets to be a mile long and you have to stay with it daily to see new posts to it. Also to hard to find information that might be posted in the middle somewhere. There are threads like this on other sites...255 pages long, I won't bother. :doubt: Dave

[swatson144]

You would of course count the "S" model here correct? The only thing I don't like about a thread like this, is it gets to be a mile long and you have to stay with it daily to see new posts to it. Also to hard to find information that might be posted in the middle somewhere. There are threads like this on other sites...255 pages long, I won't bother. :doubt: Dave

Yes of course Dave the S model fits. What you say is true about a popular helis' thread getting out of hand. On the Helis I am very interested in I have been known to compile and post a compendium of info from others and just do a group thank you/credit. It takes some work but it's a good rainy day project.

We are a smaller forum and as such are not as !use the search feature! in clined as some others. Please feel free to ask specific questions and start other threads with a proper title as you feel needed.

Sometimes the banter and OT seems to be in the way of the good info but if a forum is no fun little info gets posted anyway. I hope over time you find you like the way HeliTown works.

Steve

[edsmullen]

HI: Not sure I'm asking in the right place? Problem with Trex 450 XL. Using a brand new Spektrum DX6 tx and rx. Seem to have a glitch after several minutes hovering, heli jumps into idle up mode for no reason. Esc seems to be hot, but after a few seconds and switching tx off and on all works ok for another 5 minutes or so. Just installed a new gyro, and reprogrammed tx settings, but don't know where to go from here. Any ideas?
Thanks
Ed Smullen

[eddiemoth]

Hi Ed, can you tell us what electronics and motor you use? ESC, servo, gyro, etc.? I thought people don't get any glitch with a Spektrum? I have Blade CX2 and never get a glich since I bought it. I maybe wrong but I am thinking maybe it is something else. However, do have your ESC far away from your RX? I have one in the front and the one at the very back and I rarely get gliches even with 72 MHz radio. When you say hot, how hot it is?

[edsmullen]

Thanks Eddie:
I installed a Futaba GY401. Have a ELE 30A ESC, which came with the machine and what appears to be a generic motor, KV @ 3500 rpm.Bought cheap, got cheap, but it seems to wor ok.
I think I might have remedied the problem. The gyro setup involves the flight mode switch, which for some reason appears to be working in reverse of the description in the manual. For example the stunt mode throttle settings are in effect when the flight mode switch is forward, and the gyro led comes on when switch is back. According to Futaba, the gyro led should only light in stunt mode.
I tried to remedy this by reversing the channel 5 setting, and that worked except for the glitch I spoke of.
I just switched channel 5 back to normal and made throttle and pitch settings the same for both stunt and normal flight modes. Problem has gone away.
Really would like to have a more detailed setup procedure for the Spektrum DX6 and a less technical one for the gyro.
I'm moving up from CPPro and all this technical stuff is a little hard to grasp.
I really appreciate your help.
Ed

[swatson144]

I have a little knowledge of the GY401 3 or 4 of my helis wear it. Simply put on a non Futaba TX the HH (avcs) is starting above 50% gain. So a good place to start setting the gain is ~ 65% which should allow you to hover without hunting. The LED should be on solid. 0-50% would be for rate mode. It's perfectly OK to set it to the same good setting in all flight modes. The only time mine ever get set to rate is for fine tuning setup and I never bother to setup revo mix / rate with any heli wearing a GY401.

I'm not sure I follow the heli jumps into idle up mode for no reason On mine when I switch to IU there is no noticeable change other than I have a full range of negative pitch.

Steve

[edsmullen]

Sounds like I'm on the right track. Thanks. Just finished a full battery flight without any problems, so maybe all will be fine.
Thank You
Ed

[eddiemoth]

Glad everything is fine for you. But if you still need info on setting up Trex450 with DX6, this link right here has good information. http://www.digimemphoto.com/guides/backguide.htm

[theecoop]

my first heli only airshow(first r/c type show I ever went to anyways). I went Saturday th 15th and their must have been 100 heli's from cx2 to turbine powered. Best of All I ran into a couple of guys willing to help get my t-rex450sa setup... well had it close but needed another tool but no one had their. Fortunately Nathan(one of the guys that was helping me lived only 7 miles away from me and offered to finish it one evening next week. Well that day was yesturday. I called him and went over to his place and we worked on my t-rex for an hour setting the swashplate with (the tool)swashplate leveling tool about a 12.00 item ( will be buying one of them soon). then tested it and found the gyro wasn't working proper. after some adjustments and testing ...was time to pull up the www for some answers and found I had mounted mine facing label down inwhich up or down is improper. So we remounted it facing the right and worked great. Before the nights end was hovering (Nathan) controlling. Even did about a 3 sec hands off hover(wow) now I know the t-rex is setup up, now it is time I can start learning to hover without fighting the bad setup I had done....(lack of knowledge can be exspensive).. If your new to heli's get with someone local to help you. It will be well worth it.
__________________
Hypothosis. We learn to fly: We fly to learn lol !!!!
BladeCX2,BladeCPPRO,Alien T-REX450SA

[eddiemoth]

That is a great advice! To have someone locally or from the LHS help is the most helpful if it is possible. But when it is not possible, we all can help each other on the cyber space.

theecoop, it is true and it reminds me again to buy a swashplade level tool. It is a little thing that can help alot. I will buy one too. Do you know what kind your friend uses?

Trex 450 SA or S is great and I have one of them. I don't hesitant to believe that if you set one up properly, you'll be able to hover it hand free.

[theecoop]

here is the link.
http://www.rchover.com/inc/sdetail/49347
site loads a little slow but worth waiting

[mtpenguin]

I currently fly a CX/2 and am looking to get a CCPM heli to be able to do more stunt flying, outside flying, but still want one small enough to fly indoors.

There a TONS of trex's and I'm confused about the different versions.

From my CX/2, I value the aluminum parts. I only ever brake blades now instead of heads. I didn't go with the grips as they seem to just introduce more to adjust / balance etc.


With the trex's, the SE V2 is the one that comes with aluminum parts and b/l motor and esc, right?

What is the SA version?


B-)

[swatson144]

AL frames and a lot less bling.

To keep the SA affordable, carbon side frames are replaced with anodized aluminum. Some of the aluminum head, frame and tail pieces are replaced with fiber filled nylon parts. This actually reduces the overall weight by nearly 2 oz, making for even more nimble flight performance. Hop ups are available for those wishing to upgrade to SE level. Other 450SA features include a machined aluminum head block, newly designed tail rotor grip and pitch change mechanism, and 325mm PRO wood blades.

Frankly if I was gonna buy a 325 heli right now it'd be this one (http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXMAE5&P=ML)
http://www2.gpmd.com/image/h/hmxe0210.jpg

I don't think it can be beat for 150$. I'm running 2 of them converted from the original X400 and some parts from the x400 upgrade selection and some trex parts, or I'd be buying one.

The Trex SE is nice but I'd rather put that money into a 420mm size heli. The same people who make this one for helimax (ARK) have just released a X500 using 420mm blades and I'm looking for one as that is my favorite size.

Steve

Steve

[mtpenguin]

The SA does sure seem to be a great option...

$250 already built with motor and esc.

Allot cheaper that SE V2 but still with the gooder parts.

Interested to know the difference in design of tail pitch control.

Does the SE V2 now have that same change in design?

B-)

[swatson144]

Just remember when buying one assembled it is wise to pretty much diss-assemble it and re loctite everything. They are assembled by poorly paid people who are rushed to make the numbers.

The 325s will fly in a gymn but that's about as small indoors as you can go. You can hover in a 1.5 car garage though.

You really can't go wrong with any of the helis you are looking at. The metal is much more durable in crashes but you can always buy a copterX metal head to repair the 1st crash etc.

Whatever mini you decide to get you'll find the Trex screw kit an excellent thing to have around as they all pretty much use the same screws.

Steve

[mtpenguin]

I think I just need to get the Phoenix Sim first, then the DX/7 next, and once I have those, see what I can find for a small electric at that time.

I'm thinking
HBKII
TREX 450SA
TREX 450SE V/2 (if it has that tail rotor change, if consensus is an improvement)
TT Mini Titan


I'll probably just watch e-bay and see what comes up used first / best $$$$.

Although there may be good used from helitown member (hint, hint)

B-)

[Griffin]

Not sure if this has been convered elseware but I am looking at flying a 450 SA with a DX7. Do I need to fit the AR7000 receiver (dual channel) or will the AR6100 (single channel) be OK?

[mtpenguin]

As far as I know Griffin, the DX/7 is compatible with any of the AR6xxx.

And for the record, I ended up with a Blade 400. I am VERY pleased with it. I can't believe the value for the $$$. This heli KICKS ARS!


B-)

[diverjack]

Not sure if this has been convered elseware but I am looking at flying a 450 SA with a DX7. Do I need to fit the AR7000 receiver (dual channel) or will the AR6100 (single channel) be OK?
The AR6100 is the one to go with. No need at all for the 7000
series receivers. Waste of money.

[Razor_Racer]

Strange I never saw this thread. I have a 450sa (no kidding!). Probably one of the cheaper setups... 6100 w/dx7 and a 401 is nice, but it goes down from there! S75 cyclics, HS-65 tail, Align 22c battery...

Currently waiting on cf blades to arrive, dorked my woodies trying to AV

[mtpenguin]

For $149.

I wasn't planning on getting one just yet, but for the price, how could I refuse?

Won't be building it for a while though.


B-)

[Razor_Racer]

http://www.vimeo.com/1088114
http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/4048/hextronik001rm0.jpg
http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/571/hextronik004xi8.jpg

Just got that brand new Hextronik 2200mah Gen3 battery and it rocks 8-):)

[mtpenguin]

Is that a stock tail?

LOL

Nice looking bird!

B-)

[Joe Elder]

question from a new T Rex 450 owner. after a few practices flights when I going to take off just as the main rotor is gaining the right speed to lift off the tail rotor stop turning and I have to abort. SO my learned friends what is going wrong and what is the proscription to fix the problem and how do I go about It step be step? could it be in the main gears? all my best

[Skytrek]

Hey Joe and Welcome,
Something is slipping, could be the drive gears or the belt it self. It could also be something simple like a loose set screw. Why don't you bring the Heli and your tool box out to Debby's this weekend? If you can't make it call me and we will get together before then.

[monradon]

Just purchased a Align stock motor with align 35A Esc can some one tell me what voltage this motor runs at ??? Need to buy battery ??

[FlyGuy]

question from a new T Rex 450 owner. after a few practices flights when I going to take off just as the main rotor is gaining the right speed to lift off the tail rotor stop turning and I have to abort. SO my learned friends what is going wrong and what is the proscription to fix the problem and how do I go about It step be step? could it be in the main gears? all my best

Check the shaft that has 2 gears for the tail belt.
One of those gears is probably slipping and will need replaced.
See this thread (http://www.rchelicoptertown.com/forum/showpost.php?p=28381&postcount=75) for details.

[FlyGuy]

Just purchased a Align stock motor with align 35A Esc can some one tell me what voltage this motor runs at ??? Need to buy battery ??

If it's a 450 more than likely you will need a 11.1v 3s1p 2200mAh lipo battery.
That should get you going.
Here is an example on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/2-X-2200mah-20C-25C-11-1v-Lipo-3s1p-RC-lipo-battery-NEW_W0QQitemZ370197416993QQcmdZViewItemQQptZRadio_ Control_Parts_Accessories?hash=item56317c4c21&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A1%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318%7C 301%3A0%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50).

[monradon]

I was having trouble ordering a motor it seems everytime i would decied on one it would be out or I would read a post on how bad they are so I decided to go with the align with matching Esc. Now do I get a 11 volt gyro ?? I am building my first trex from scratch .

[swatson144]

the BEC in the ESC steps down the 11V to 4.8-6V to power the gyro and the radio gear

Steve

[mtpenguin]

be careful....

On my Raptor, the gyro and/or servo can't handle 6V so I put a regulator inline to limit to 5v.


B-)

[monradon]

Boy I am glad I matched the two of them together the motor and the Esc for my first build . Do all Esc have them then ??

[swatson144]

Some do, actually most do. When you read the ESC specs it will tell you the BECs ratings to some degree. Analog BECs are only practical on 2-3S LiPo, so above that you have to remove the red lead from the < = 6S rated ESC and run a separate switching BEC.

Steve

[Trickycopter]

Any one flying the t-rex 450 pro with the torque tube. I put a torque tube on my EXI (t-rex) I say EXI t-rex because all the it EXI now is the frame. just wondering a buddy of mine is looking in to a 450 pro He is waiting until my rave arrives before he buys one I thought about the pro but got rave for about $100.00 dollars cheaper with torque tube tail and Next D support is awsome

[mtpenguin]

I have never flown anything with a torque tube. What is the benefit?


B-)

[Andyash83]

Hi all had my blade for a month had one crash already lol, when not in idle up but norm my blade negative pitch is not as negative as idle up is there a reason for this? Cheers Andy

[Skytrek]

Wow, that could me a lot of things but I'm not sure what you are saying. Going to need more info please.

[FlyGuy]

Hi all had my blade for a month had one crash already lol, when not in idle up but norm my blade negative pitch is not as negative as idle up is there a reason for this? Cheers Andy

Yes look at your pitch curves in your transmitter.
They should all be the same.

[swatson144]

Hi all had my blade for a month had one crash already lol, when not in idle up but norm my blade negative pitch is not as negative as idle up is there a reason for this? Cheers Andy

Yes that is as it should be. Else when landing and lowering the stick to stop the rotor you'd be dumping full negative on the heli. These are just flight modes and you can set them as you like in the TX. Some electric pilots who fly with a governor prefer to have Norm the same as IU. They just plug in with TH and carry the heli out coming out of TH lets the heli spool up on the gov's soft start. *note that if your esc doesn't have a good soft start, doing this will strip your gears. There are other ways you can strip gears even with a good soft start.* On landing they just keep it at mid stick and hit TH.

The conventional method is to have less negative in <norm> usually only a few degrees and everything in the pitch curve above the hovering point matches with IU. This works well as one just doesn't switch out of <IU> to <norm> while inverted. I prefer the conventional method.

Steve

[Skytrek]

True True, after looking again, I'm sure that's what he meant. I thought maybe this was an after crash issue and his negative pitch in normal had changed.

Possibly, his pitch in normal and idle up were no longer in sink and his bird was jumping wildly when throwing the switch? Possible head set up problem.