First Build (Help)

Shuff

Shuff

Member
Hi All, I am in the process of getting together some bits n pieces to build my Quad from scratch.
So far I have decided to go with motors 400mm apart with 200mm props and 15mm aluminium arms
I am not sure which motors to go for which is where I need help..
My intention is to fit a video camera so I am not interested in speed or acrobatics , Just aerial photography. Any help would be appreciated especially regarding the motor size, I also have opted for the KK2 1.5.
 
Welcome to the forum, Shuff! A few questions. Do you have a budget range? Do you have any experience flying quads? Why did you choose aluminum? Are you flexible on the dimensions?
 
Hi, Approx 20 years ago I used to fly airplanes , Budget is not really a problem.
Aluminum was at hand and is light weight. Dimensions are a little flexible.
Any input is greatly appreciated.
 
Cool. My first thought is to recommend you get a cheap RTF quad to learn on like the Syma X5C1 for example. It can be had for around $50.00 and will save you money in the long run. Replacing parts on a toy quad is really cheap compared to your larger build. You WILL crash in the beginning. A lot.
Building something in the 400 to 500mm range is ideal. It's a great size . It is stable enough to easily lift a camera and still supply spirited performance. I would suggest using material other than aluminum. One, it bends easily in a crash and two, it transfers vibration easily. That will cause problems with your video and can even affect your controller. My favorite material to use for playing around with a design is basswood and Sitka spruce. They make full size airplanes out of this stuff. Very light, incredibly strong and if you crash you can replace an arm in 5 minutes for $.50. Check out these guys for versatility and helpful build tips no matter what material you use;
http://quadlugs.com/
The KK is a great little controller. Perfect to learn on. As you progress and decide you want to do serious video with FPV you can always replace it with something more sophisticated.
Motors, props and ESC's are what keep your quad in the air. MY opinion is that bottom feeding on the cheap Chinese crap out there is a complete waste of time and money. It's like buying used tires for your BMW. For the type of flying you want to do I suggest you look into 2213 or 2216 900kv to 980kv motors. Depending on the final wheelbase of your quad look to get 10", 11" or even 12" props( if you use longer arms). For ESC's I would use 25a or 30a. They will run cooler.
Here is a list of the brands that I use. They have proven to offer excellent performance and value at each price point;
Good is SunnySky motors, ZTW Spider 30A Small ESC's and Castle Creations UBEC. Better is T Motor motors and S series ESC's and Castle UBEC. Best is KDE Direct motors, ESC's and UBEC. Absolute primo and that is reflected in the price. I have only one set on a quad right now and am saving up to purchase another set for my next build.
Don't forget you will need a radio. Again. Get a good one like a Spektrum, Futaba or Taranis. Consider that , like buying good tools, you will have this for a long time and use it for many future models.
Well. That's my opinion. Hope it is of some help to you or at least food for thought. As you get into this hobby I believe you will find it's really a disease!!
Enjoy!!!!:D
 
Hi, Many thanks for all the info.
I will look into the timber arms, The radio I have is a 6Ch Futaba but its on 35MHz from my earlier days and am note sure if the KK2 will interpret the signals correctly, If not, I have an eye on the Spektrum D6I (I think it is) nice bit of radio gear though.
 
Shuff said:
Hi, Many thanks for all the info.
I will look into the timber arms, The radio I have is a 6Ch Futaba but its on 35MHz from my earlier days and am note sure if the KK2 will interpret the signals correctly, If not, I have an eye on the Spektrum D6I (I think it is) nice bit of radio gear though.
Click to expand...

You are right. The KK will not work with the 35MHz signal. Good choice on the Spektrum. BTW, there are hundreds of videos out about building quads from wood. Popular building material.
 
The radio I have is a 6Ch Futaba but its on 35MHz from my earlier days and am note sure if the KK2 will interpret the signals correctly
Click to expand...
It will work.

KK2 FC mounted using the supplied foam rubber packaging,triple check all connections before your maiden flight,seriously check them X),then do the receiver check for correct throws,some may need reversing,dont ask how I know this LOL!,you will need at least 4 female to female 100mm futaba style extension leads from the KK2 to your receiver.

Futaba 35mhz 6ch TX/RX
Click to expand...

Lots of info out there about how to wire them.
 
Hi Guys, Have to say many thanks for all your replies.
I will try my setup on the 35MHz tx/rx and if it fails I will get the Spektrum. Time will tell. I purchased some aluminum square tube 15 mm and with a 2mm wall but now its arrived it does feel a bit on the heavy side , However I can find a use for it in another project.
I will look into a timber for the arms. I will post my progress on here, So stay tuned. Its nice to know your are there if I have any questions .
Best regards to you all.
 
Hi Yesha and welcome! The thread size is 2.5mm. You can get them at Home Depot or order them online from HK or Amazon or ebay. Whichever you prefer.

You should go ahead and start your own thread. Ya kinda hijacked Shuff.;). Put it in the Newbie section and be sure to put school project in the title. You'll get overwhelmed by the advice! Don't be shy about asking questions.
 
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