[bensidus197217]

I have a Futaba T7C radio controlling my 500 with a Futaba GY401 gyro. I fly mild to say the least, no 3D for this boy so I would like some tips on setting up my radio and gyro to get the best results. Thanks in advance.

[Crash alot]

There is a thread that really helped me out when I changed to 401's from my old mechanicals..STICKY: Headlock Gyro Installation and Setup in the heli discussion area.
Worth a read!

[bensidus197217]

thanks James I'll check it out.

[Jimmy P]

Hi Jim, I use the same radio. Were you able to figure it out? First off start a new model or reset the one you want to setup for this model. You must first pic the correct swash type and apply this, it will reset everything to zero to begin a fresh setup. Once you have the swash working properly it will be time to do the tail next. Plug in the tail servo to channel four for rudder, center the tail rod control horn, put the ball on the servo arm 10 mm from center screw hole. this is the correct length. Now adjust the tail rod so you have 3 degrees of tail blade pitch dialed in holding against the torque of the main blades rotation. Now unplug the tail servo, power down the unit and plug in the tail gyro. Under gyro enable it . Now adjust the gain numbers to be 70U and 70A enable switch B as your rate mode and heading hold switch. The U and A are heading hold and rate mode, the numbers you dial in are your gain numbers. 70 is a perfect setting for you to have 100% control of the tail. Let me know how you make out there.

[bensidus197217]

Thanks Jimmy I will use those settings this weekend!

[Cougar429]

I'm the one that wrote the gyro setup thread:

https://www.rccanada.ca/rccforum/show...highlight=Gyro

The 401 gyro was the benchmark for small to medium helis for years and I found a couple of others that came pretty close in performance. The problems came with the GY401 clones intentionally trying to look identical, but all the tweaking in the world would not make up for one with substandard innards. The statement "It's got Sony guts!" does not work here. There were some clues to identifying the fakes. Just cannot remember what they were now.

Believe it or not, the diminutive Telebee did a darned good job, (if you got the one with the ATV dial under the sticker) and the more confusing to set up Logictech 2100, as well.

Mind you, the best gyro out there would not do very well with a wimpy tail servo.



I had a 7C a while ago, (picked it up non-functional, found the problem and then sold it) and still have the manual in .pdf format, along with their 2 page addendum that contains some heli specific corrections. If you need either or both PM me your Email and I can boot them off.

Although no specific experience with the 7C Futaba followed a common programming architecture so may be able to help that way if you have questions on the Tx end.

To be truthful, I have been out of active heli flying for a bit, (larger scale welded wing). Still have some of the early to mid stab systems, but lately have been looking into ones adaptable for that app.

[bensidus197217]

Thanks Cougar, info is good because I plan on sticking with this radio for the long run. The Gyro actually is a Futaba not my normal cheap out, I'm getting away from HK stuff in general but if quality isn't an issue I will use some of their stuff. I would like that two page addendum though Cougar if you could post it please.

[bensidus197217]

I read your post and think I could use new tail rotor blades and do you think a double layer of sticky tape would be helpful?

[Cougar429]

The structural tape I mention, available at H/H or H/D, is very close to Zeal tape that was the rage for a while. I have used both the grey and clear, with the latter the preferred option. Just remember you will need a very good razor to cut either of them cleanly.

Standard adhesive backed foam pads did not seem to work that well, even double layered. They also dry up and degrade.

I cannot post their addendum directly, but if you PM me your Email address I can boot it off that way.

[cassat]

I have the actual video for the 401 and the 7C radio on file in PDF format
if you need it. makes life easier. And no, you don't need $30 gyro tape, just make sure
the wires aren't bundled and straining or pulling on the gyro.