Why upgrade an RC helicopter?
An upgraded remote control helicopter offers more power and playability, perfect for aerobatics.
What are some popular upgrade options for an existing RC helicopter?
- Upgrade a plastic helicopter to a metal version.
- Swap out a brushed motor for a brushless one.
- Change a general remote control system to a JR, Futaba or Spektrum remote control system.
- Some 450 remote control helicopters can be upgraded to get a Flybarless E-Stabilizer gyro system using the GYRO 3 Axis Gyro System Flybarless E-Stabilizer.
Which models are worth upgrading?
Some upgradeable models simply by changing them for metal parts:
- Esky Llama v3
- flame v4
- Hunter
- kob
- Comanche
- Esky’s Big Llama
- Esky honey bee king 2
- esky belt v2
- Esky belt cp.
Owners can also retrofit the Esky Honey Bee King 2 to a brushless motor and ESC to upgrade to a brushless version.
How easy is it to update these models?
These updates require some technical skill.
Which models require more skill to upgrade but offer higher performance?
- The king of honey bees from Esky 2
- Esky cp belt
- esky belt v2
Who would like to upgrade an RC helicopter?
New riders who have tried less expensive models and found that they are now true enthusiasts.
What is the price difference between buying a new one vs. update an existing model?
It can range from 10 to 100 US dollars.
What tools do you recommend for these projects?
The RC Hobby Tools, a set containing 10 pieces:
- nose pliers
- a clamp of cut silk
- a ball head clamp
- one 5.5mm long handle socket
- one 4.5mm long shank socket
- a long-handled Phillips screwdriver
- a long-handled screwdriver A
- a 0.9mm long-handle hex socket driver
- a 1.5mm long-handled hex socket driver
- and a 2.0mm long handle hex socket driver.
There is also a portable RC helicopter tool kit.
