Image source: http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pMqR3gjMLjg/maxresdefault.jpg
If you have been flying an remote control helicopter for some time, then it is best to understand the basic workings of your aircraft. By doing this you are better placed to make a more informed choice on which craft best suits your needs and budget. Some of them are exact miniaturized versions or replicas of the real thing. Due to this, they can be even more difficult to handle than a real life machine. Miniaturized replicas have lots of moving parts and because of this; the cost could be very high for the average flier. Different models and designs come with different engines. The cost of maintaining these engines can be quite high so it is best to understand the way they work to best choose which RC helicopter is right for you.
For most traditional enthusiasts, nitro and gas powered engines are the only way to go as they were traditionally the most powerful. With the new and improved motor and micro electronic technology however, this is now a thing of the past. These days an RC helicopter is powered using a lithium battery. Not only are their engines just as powerful as those powered by nitro or gas, they have the added advantage of being much cheaper to purchase, maintain and operate. Because they are less noisy, the electric versions can be used inside your home or in the comfort of your backyard. They also come in wide range of sizes of up to 80 inches. You can choose between a fixed pitch and collective pitch aircraft.
A nitro powered RC helicopter is the most popular option for hobbyists. They are highly durable and a lower cost option compared to other fuel powered birds. A nitro engine produces a lot of power compared to its size and use glow plugs rather than starter plugs. Be sure to read up on how to care and tune up your nitro engine. You also have to make sure that you familiarize yourself with the fuel, muffler and exhaust systems in order to get the best use out of your bird. A nitro powered aircraft is much noisier than its electric counterpart and is only suitable for outdoor use. For some fliers this loud noise can be reminiscent to that made by a real life helicopter. Due to its powerful engine, it is easy to achieve a higher speed and longer flight time compared to an electric bird. The cost of fuel is also very high because nitro is classified as a hazardous material. Nitro powered engines are very strong and virtually indestructible.
Maintaining both an electric and nitro powered RC helicopter requires a lot of dedication as they both need servicing after every flight. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your aircraft operating for years to come and you can easily do this by ensuring all the parts are kept well lubricated. When choosing between the two, it would be difficult to judge which of the two is better as they both have their pros and cons. So decide which option suits your current circumstances and choose the one that best satisfies your needs without compromising on your budget.
