RC hydroplane problem.

by Sam
(QLD Australia)

Hi, I have an RC hydroplane and for some reason when I use it on the ground (not even got it in the air yet) it keeps pulling to the left. There seems to be no balance issue. Could this be caused by the propeller some how?
Many thanks
Sam

Comments for
RC hydroplane problem.

Click here to add your own comments

Aug 12, 2009

Re: RC hydroplane problem
by: Pete

Hi Sam,
It's very common for some rc models to have a natural tendency to turn left; it's a reaction to the torque generated by the motor. It could be that your hydroplane is particularly effected in this way.
You could try repositioning the motor so that it points slightly to the right (introduce a few degrees of 'right thrust'), or you might just need to trim the model so that it drives in a straight line, if the motor can't be moved.
The obvious question is... did you check to make sure all control surfaces are in their neutral positions with the tx sticks centred, in particular the rudders?

Aug 13, 2009

reply
by: sam

I turned the rudder completely to the right and it was only just going straight, so when everything is straight it goes left pretty sharply. Unfortunately the motor can't be moved, so I don't know what I will do about it.
I would love to get it worked out so I could fly it but I may be out of luck...

Aug 15, 2009

Hull alignment?
by: Pete

I wonder, then, if it's an issue with the two hulls not being aligned correctly. Maybe it's going to the left on the ground, but in the air it might be OK.
If you have access to an area of long grass, or something soft, you could try a gentle test flight from a hand launch. A test glide (motor off) would be best but I'm not convinced that rc hydroplanes glide too well...
Have you tried it on water yet?

Nov 17, 2009

Your needs
by: Anonymous

I'm quite young but I might reccomend having 2 propellors because if you just have one the spin of the propellor is making it turn left, so if you have another one on the opposite side it should help you because the other propellor will turn right and your plane will stay center! I hope...

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Ask an RC Question