RE: High Level Go-Karting...pics...share your stories and pics...
I was the Apex (Perris, California) series champion two years in a row. We ran 100cc single speed karts. Very cool stuff. Ran shifters a couple times but not in races. They wanted me to enter the shifter series or sign up for the SuperKart Nationals, but I didn't have the money to purchase a competitive kart.
Posted on: 10/13/2009 10:26 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "Off Topic Forum - Planes/Helis"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9171346

RE: awfully dumb question about battery type
If it's an Epic 3000- a quick google search shows those come up as NiMh and 3000mah. To find out the capacity, you'd need a charger/ cycler that shows you that information. i.e. my Alpha 4 just cycled and charged a 5100mah Orion Rocket Pack and showed 5768mah, so I know that is most likely a healthy pack and it's rating is conservative. I don't believe you can damage a pack by charging a NiCd or NiMh with the opposite setting as long as you slow charge it. If you have a peak charger, it may not peak with a bad setting, but a slow c/10 charge won't hurt either if left on.
Posted on: 10/10/2009 10:33 AM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "Batteries & Chargers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9161469

Onyx 230 broken tabs
Hi all, Been away from the forums for a while.... Don't fly anymore but got the RC bug and wanted something to do with my too-young-to-fly son, so I bought a Traxxas Summit. I bought the Duratrax Onyx 230 charger along with it. I charged a couple of the Rocket 5100 packs and everything worked fine. The next time I went to charge a pack, I heard a loud whine- as if the fan had a bad bearing. Pushing on the case right above the fan would affect the sound. After a few seconds, and I was about to unplug it, the noise stopped and the pack charged with no issues. I figured I'd send the charger in to be checked out and as I was picking it up, I noticed it was rattling as if there were loose parts floating around. Sure enough, I could see a small black plastic piece through one of the vents. I opened the case up and found two small black tabs had broken off and were floating around. One of them probably got stuck in the fan which caused the noise. The tabs appear to have been used for routing a wire by the power supply. I contacted Hobbico- who offered to replace the unit. I doubt there will be any further issues and with a 5 year warranty, I've got lots of time to change my mind. :) Figured I'd post here in case someone else runs into a similar problem. Expert graphics added to attached photo.
Posted on: 10/9/2009 1:30 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "Batteries & Chargers"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=9159366

RE: Model Tech Magic Tailskid to wheel help!
I know what you mean..... that was two kids ago for me too. :) While I *could* have managed without a steerable tailwheel, I was glad I added it. Taxiing was so much nicer with it.
Posted on: 4/14/2008 9:11 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "3D Flying!"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7374202

RE: Model Tech Magic Tailskid to wheel help!
Found the thread with pics.... boy, that was a looooong time ago. :) http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_81887/anchors_81905/mpage_1/key_magic/anchor/tm.htm#81905
Posted on: 4/14/2008 6:45 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "3D Flying!"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7373430

RE: Model Tech Magic Tailskid to wheel help!
If I remember correctly, when I put the tailwheel on my Magic I used a metal push-rod to control it off of one side of the rudder servo. Thought I had a picture here but it looks like it''s on my home computer.
Posted on: 4/14/2008 6:28 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "3D Flying!"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=7373357

RE: SuperGear?
In the interest of good information, the person who originally e-mailed me has since updated me that he did receive his gear and is satisfied. Brian also PM'd me to see if he owed me anything. Although our incomplete deal is long gone and my RC days are over so there is no way for him to make amends at this point, the PM did show me that Brian is more responsive than he was back then.
Posted on: 7/26/2007 1:17 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "The Clubhouse"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6159205

RE: SuperGear?
Yes, I know this is old.... but since a member e-mailed me yesterday and asked if I ever got my gear (I suggested to Brian he donate mine to someone in need... fool me once...) I thought I would come and search on supergear. This (my) old thread came up in the search. The person who e-mailed me said they are having problems getting their gear from Supergear (not sure if Brian is still there). I figured I'd bump this thread so if Supergear is still around, they can be made aware of the issue.... in case they don't already know.....
Posted on: 7/24/2007 11:39 AM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "The Clubhouse"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=6149990

RE: Cracked Hatori YS-61- What replacement
Thanks, KC. Here's a pic of the crack. It's very possible this was caused by a rough landing. I bought this used from a "friend" and I've found other suspect issues with it. I can't seem to upload the pic. I posted on over at Run Ryder if you ever hang out over there. As luck would have it, a member here offered to sell me a NIB muffler he has laying around.
Posted on: 5/6/2006 11:22 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter General Discussions"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4248615

Cracked Hatori YS-61- What replacement
Hi all, I have a Freya Eagle with a YS 61ST2 that has a cracked muffler (hatori, I think). I've seen some other people with Hatori's that crack.... not to mention they are $$$. Are there any other decent replacements? I don't mind spending the money (well, maybe a little), I just don't want to spend $130 on a muffler only to have it crack again.
Posted on: 5/3/2006 2:51 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter General Discussions"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4236473

RE: YS61 leaking fuel- doesn't stay running
Thanks, Dave. Will do.
Posted on: 4/29/2006 9:53 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4221538

RE: YS61 leaking fuel- doesn't stay running
More help, if you don't mind, Dave. I've rebuilt the motor, replaced the cracked subplate and while the engine runs now, it won't stay running. If I let it idle too long (more than a minute or so), it dies. NV's are set per instructions (I've tried starting settings as well as in-flight settings). Transitions seem to go from fine to a slight hesitation (not a burbling hesitation, just that "wahhhh.... ziiinggggg" hesitation). But in each case it dies if I let it idle too long. The only unknown setting is the regulator adjustment. The person in Service I spoke with said to set it at "flush", but that didn't seem to work for me.... perhaps he was thinking of the 63? I do know if I turn it too far, fuel starts to leak out of the carb barrel. The saga continues as I noticed the muffler is also cracked at it's mount (remind me to smack the guy I bought this heli from), but I don't think that is what's causing my current problem. Any ideas are appreciated.
Posted on: 4/29/2006 8:46 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4221287

RE: YS61 leaking fuel- doesn't stay running
Hi again, Dave. New o-rings all around and fuel still leaks. While turning the engine over (no glo-driver) I noticed it wasn't feeding fuel. NV's were adjusted to starting positions per manual. I turned the "factory preset" screw on the regulator assy 1/2 turn counter clockwise and fuel started flowing..... unfortunately, it also started leaking. Looking closely, it now looks like it's leaking from the little silver plug on the subplate. So, I'm guessing I need a new subplate, yes? And what is the correct setting on the regulator? Considering it appears to have been moved since fuel wasn't flowing until I turned it, I'm guessing it needs to be reset. Thanks. Edit: Removed the engine and after taking off the carb, I saw a crack in the subplate directly underneath the silver plug extending toward the center of the subplate. I'll be calling service Monday.
Posted on: 4/22/2006 9:03 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4197897

RE: YS61 leaking fuel- doesn't stay running
You're working on the weekend? What dedication! :) Thanks, I'll give service/ parts a call Monday.
Posted on: 4/15/2006 9:24 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4169718

YS61 leaking fuel- doesn't stay running
Hey Dave, My YS 61 ST2 was leaking fuel and making a lot of noise, so I rebuilt it (new bearings/ gaskets/ diaphragm). It still leaks fuel and it appears to becoming from under the carb subplate (the side without a gasket) or possibly from the High Speed Needle.... or both. It also will not stay running. NV's are set per instructions. I did not order o-rings for the NV's, so that will be on the list for Monday, but since there is no gasket under the subplate, I wasn't sure what to do if it was leaking from there. It doesn't appear to be damaged. Thanks for any advice.
Posted on: 4/15/2006 7:37 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4169333

RE: Old time fixed wing, first time heli. Help!
In the same position..... I bought a Blade CX to practice with and it's worked wonders getting my heli fingers ready. I practiced on RF G2 for a while and find it a very valuable tool for trying new moves, but like the real life of the little heli better.
Posted on: 3/20/2006 12:12 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4058250

RE: Blade CX info and Q's
I think you will get bored with the Blade CX at some point also (upgraditis affects us all :) ), but it's a great beginner heli. I use mine to get practice while I'm getting my first glow heli ready to fly. I still can't hover nose in, so until I can, I won't consider myself bored with it. If it's all you fly, and you don't crash too often, the initial $200 or so will be all you'll have to worry about. Once you get into larger E-heli's, the price goes up considerably.
Posted on: 3/16/2006 11:54 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4044664

RE: YS61-S Needle Valve Settings
Hmmm. Sorry, Dave. I guess I didn't look as hard as I thought I did on the website and totally missed that.... not sure how since it was SO easy to find this time. Thanks for the assist. :)
Posted on: 3/16/2006 11:47 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4044645

RE: YS61-S Needle Valve Settings
Thanks for the reply, Dave. It has a screw in the middle of the carb barrel as well as the two larger NV's.
Posted on: 3/16/2006 3:18 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4042537

YS61-S Needle Valve Settings
Hi Dave, I didn't see this information in my search, and didn't see this engine on the YS website, so I'll ask here. I have a YS61-S in a Freya helicopter. I bought this used a few years ago and haven't touched it until a couple weeks ago. It had been running before I bought it and I have no reason to think anything has changed on it. I have started it and it seems to run good (but loud), but I would like to know the needle settings so I can make sure I'm at good starting point. I don't know if it's a I or II but it has two needle valves on one side, if that helps. Also, I noticed fuel leaking a bit from (I think) behind the carb when I was trying prime the engine. I haven't run it long enough to see if it leaks all the time, but I wanted to run it by you. Could it be a seal that has dried up from sitting so long. Thanks.
Posted on: 3/14/2006 1:38 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "YS Engines Support"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4033376

RE: GY401 Mounting direction question
I could see how there would be no "up" or "down" since it's rotation that affects the gyro. As long at it was mounted flat (as has been mentioned).
Posted on: 3/14/2006 1:23 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4033315

RE: GY401 Mounting direction question
Wait, you mean there's an "up" or down" ;) Thanks for the links. When I bought this heli, I thought I was doing myself a favor since it was already setup, and was just missing the servos..... but I think it would have been more beneficial if I would have built it. I would have learned more anyway.
Posted on: 3/13/2006 2:31 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4028907

RE: GY401 Mounting direction question
Yes, Barracuda, I understand it and that's what I thought, but didn't want to assume. I read somewhere (multiple searches and my head started to spin) that some gyros have arrows if they need to be positioned in a certain way. That lead me to ask the question. Thanks for the reply. I appreciate the explanation. :)
Posted on: 3/13/2006 11:45 AM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4028387

RE: GY401 Mounting direction question
Thanks for the quick response! :) Sent you a PM on something totally unrelated.
Posted on: 3/12/2006 5:02 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4025134

GY401 Mounting direction question
Hi all, *warning.... newbie alert*. :) I'm mounting a GY401 on a Freya Eagle. Does it matter which direction the gyro faces? i.e. wires to the left/ right/ forward/ backward? Thanks....
Posted on: 3/12/2006 4:35 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4025019

RE: Smokin Joe's new Baby.
Congrats Joe! :)
Posted on: 3/8/2006 1:02 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - 3D & Aerobatic"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=4007690

RE: Too Ridiculous to Hide elsewhere.
My daughter grabbed an electrical socket not too long ago and got shocked. Safety is learned.... as well as common sense. But she's only 2. I flew my foamie at a local park and almost took out one of the lights when it got away from me. Safety is learned as well as common sense... and I'm 37. The club's president should act as an ambassador of sorts to the hobby and help to inform the public about the issues of flying the way this person was flying and provide information about safe(r) places to fly. Whether or not the person heeds the advice is another story, but promoting the hobby should take precedence over picking and choosing who they deem meets a certain standard based on one incident.
Posted on: 2/25/2006 11:19 AM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "The Clubhouse"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=3958165

RE: All parents...please check this out...
FWIW- Megan's law website offers similar information. www.meganslaw.ca.gov It's tough to view that information when you see how many red squares are so close to elementary schools and parks.
Posted on: 2/22/2006 10:55 AM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - 3D & Aerobatic"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=3944616

RE: Stolen stuff
Isn't Apple Valley near Rabbit Lake Bed? Maybe some of the regulars who fly there can keep an eye out for your stuff.
Posted on: 2/20/2006 1:44 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - 3D & Aerobatic"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=3936075

RE: Blade CX
On mine, depending on how the trim for the "rudder" is set, determines how fast it spins one direction v.s. the other. Since the trim changes during the flight, I've just learned to live with it. It's now a "feature" :)
Posted on: 2/19/2006 6:41 PM by Author "MHawker" in the forum "RC Helicopter Beginners Forum"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=3932455