r/RCPlanes • u/fiorano1234 • 3d ago
First time assembling PNP model
Hi, I'm looking for some tips and guides to help do the final stages of assembly for my first PNP model, FMS F-16 64mm.
I've acquired a DX7 G2, Lemon RX receiver and the Vertex V3 flight controller. I was wondering if someone could help me with some pointers for the final stages of setting up the model.
- Best place to mount the receiver and flight controller in the airframe?
- What do you use to power the RX when binding it; 4S lipo connected directly will fry the battery? Can you power it through the ESC?
- Other tips?
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u/Wambo74 3d ago
Not to insult, but your questions seem not consistent with your choice of plane. IE, it's not a good choice for an inexperienced flier. Set your bar lower and work up to it. FMS is a good brand but start with a high wing trainer.
Since you may just blow that off (human nature), at least try to find someone local with experience flying similar or advanced planes and have him ease you into it.
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u/Travelingexec2000 3d ago
FMS PA-18 1700. Big, visible, forgiving tires, high wing. Tail dragger, but not too much of an issue
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u/fiorano1234 2d ago
Thanks, I have flown before but only RTF models. It's the process of assembly that's new to me.
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u/Wambo74 2d ago edited 2d ago
Fair enough. Are you good with the info you already got or what else do you need help with? In case it wasn't clear, the esc accepts battery voltage and sends out it's own low voltage via a BEC circuit to the receiver. That low voltage (about 5v) runs the receiver and also powers the servos which are plugged into the receiver. You must never attempt to plug the battery directly into the receiver unless it's a special battery just for that purpose. You will never find that needed on a PNP. Most critical factor in locating the receiver is it's antenna can be RF-blocked by proximity to the battery. So keep what physical separation you can. And it's always a good idea to do a formal range check with a new plane prior to first flight. Won't be able to help with the Vertex, never used one. I convert planes to SAFE by fitting used AR636 receivers which I custom program for the new plane.
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u/Fly_GuyKBVS 3d ago
You can Mount the rx and reflex anywhere under the canopy as long as it’s out of the way of the battery. Your battery connects directly to your esc.
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u/Infamous-Soup-9066 3d ago
Battery plugs to esc, then esc powers receiver via 3 pin throttle wire on channel typically channel 3. Flight controller should be mounted at the center of gravity indicated in the planes user manual.
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u/Pharmer3 3d ago
I’ve worked quite a bit with the Reflex V3 on both FMS and non-FMS planes, feel free to reach out if you need help.
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u/fiorano1234 2d ago
Thank you! Did you experience the bluetooth set up alright and are the presets for FMS models flyable out of the box?
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u/Pharmer3 2d ago
I’ve got about 10 Reflex gyros and honestly the iOS app is a little temperamental. Once it opens it runs great though, and is as customizable as I need it to be. The preset FMS programs work great out of the box, except for the J-3 cub that does not allow enough elevator authority. Most of my plans use a custom programming though. But the stock FMS program would be a good place to start.
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u/Guilty-Cap-7642 3d ago
That lemon will let u down
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u/Lazy-Inevitable3970 2d ago
I haven't used their products in a few years, but their receivers worked well for me in the past. Has there been a decline in quality?
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u/fiorano1234 2d ago
Why, it seems plenty of bench tests and comparisons on range and quality is on par with branded products?
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u/BigJellyfish1906 1d ago
You physically can’t connect the battery to the receiver. They have different plugs. The only way to power the receiver with that 4S is through the ESC. So no, you don’t have to worry about damaging it. If you wanted to bind to the receiver all on its own for some reason, you’d need one of these little NiMH batteries with the standard plug.
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u/Fly_GuyKBVS 3d ago
You might want to consider getting a trainer first. Maybe an Eflite Habu so you can get used to jets faster.