Home >> Hobbies >> Aviation

How to Make a Heli Turnbuckle

Helicopters use a part known as a turnbuckle to help with the gyroscopic spin of the rotor blades. The turnbuckle allows a calibrated spin without the blades snapping or going off-balance. Radio-controlled helicopters are no different and use a much smaller version of the turnbuckle. Making a heli turnbuckle in the field allows you to keep your RC helicopter flying session going, if you have a part malfunction. An improvised turnbuckle saves the day and keeps you in the air.

Things You'll Need

Heavy-gauge wire
Ruler
Wire cutters
Black electrical tape
Needle-nose pliers
Multi-tool (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length of the helicopter's existing turnbuckle, found at the top radial on the rotor blade housing. Add approximately 1/4 inch extra length to the measurement. For example, if you measure 4 inches, add 1/4 inch for a total of 4 1/4 inches.
- 2
  Cut a piece of heavy-gauge wire to the measured distance, plus the extra 1/4 inch. It is a good idea to keep a strip of this wire in a repair kit for your RC helicopter.
- 3
  Bend the tips of the wire so they make enclosed, small loops, using the needle-nose pliers. Twist them around the main wire, to create a wire with two enclosed loops -- one at each end.
- 4
  Wrap each end with electrical tape. Twist the wire so the two loops are counter to each other.
- 5
  Slide the looped ends over the heli's rotor blade mechanisms, as per your particular helicopter and servos (RC transmission connections).

Aviation