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How to Set Pitch Controls on an RC Helicopter

Flying model helicopters can be an exciting hobby. There are literally hundreds of different models to choose from, but they mainly fall into two categories -- fixed pitch and variable pitch. In general more advanced pilots -- or more adventurous ones -- choose variable pitch helicopters for the wider range of control and performance options. For these pilots, checking and adjusting the pitch controls on their helicopter is part of the initial setup process. Making sure your model is properly setup and tuned to your personal specifications before flight is important, not only for the safety of you and your investment, but also to make sure that your flying experience is as much fun as possible.

Things You'll Need

Assembled model helicopter
Pitch gauge
RC radio

Instructions

- 1
  Turn on your transmitter. Use the elevator trim control on your radio to make sure the helicopter's swash plate is level.
- 2
  Attach the pitch gauge to one of the rotor blades. Use the radio to move the blade pitch to its upper limit and record the result. Move the blade pitch to its lower limit and record the result. The difference between the two settings is called the pitch range. You can make the range anything you want, but be aware that too wide or too narrow a range will have a noticeable and possibly adverse effect on flight performance. Generally speaking, a pitch range of 5 degrees is good.
- 3
  Adjust the pitch range by adjusting the placement of each rotor. Do this by changing where the push rods that control the rotors attach to the servo motors. Moving them in will lower the range; moving the push rods outward will increase the range.
- 4
  Use the pitch gauge to recheck the pitch and pitch range of each blade when you have finished your adjustments.

Aviation