So here it is:
Hardware store had some Aluminim pieces, but in the tools they had an Aluminim Yardstick for $2.49. This was a better deal than the stock AL so I picked it up long ago thinking I would someday make something out of it. I think it is an alloy because it is stiff and harder to drill through than regular AL. I aso used a 3mm die that cost about $3. Bracket was made using hack saw, hand file, dremel drill bit kit, 3mm die, and a digital vernier caliper.
It is super sturdy! Motor lines up perfect now with no shims. Frame is now rock solid.
The hole locations are not exactly perfect, but they are really close. My frame had a crack in the motor mount on the left side that I CA'd, but I think I will get a new frame anyway to be safe. I can then measure and post exact dimensions for the hole locations. Also, I don't want any vibrations from cracks.
I started with making a brace for one side, then copied it for the other side. The support holes were drilled out with 1/8" drill at existing frame hole locations. The one behind the front servo is right next to the servo cable, so take out the front servo before drilling the hole.
Supports are old feathering shafts, re-straightened, and threaded an additional 15mm on each end with a 3mm die. I didn't have a die holder so I used a 1" wrench ('spanner' for the UK bunch).
I am going to get some AL spacers for the gaps today and some more 3mm nuts to finish it off.
Satisfaction: 9/10.
The 3 feathering shafts add a little weight, as does the AL and nuts. I will weigh them when I take it apart next. Some cut-outs could be made on the brace to lighten it up a bit, but it is really not that heavy.
It fits in the canopy nicely.
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I'm laughing from the dark abismal inside.
KingX - Xtreme frame, CopterX head + tail, 3800, Gorilla LG TF & Paddles
CopterX/Exi-450, in drydock
Trex500 - Honey I'm Home!
Century Hawk .36 Nitro
Futaba 7CH Tx
Last edited by chase_richard55 on Mon Feb 18, 2008 7:02 pm; edited 3 times in total
