How to align the built-in pitch gauge
last updated 12-9-2005

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STEP 1:
The first step is to turn the radio and helicopter on. Next adjust the aileron and elevator trim so the swashplate is level with the top of the frameset as seen in the picture on the right.
STEP 2:
NOTE: See the section at the bottom of this page if you are doing piloting skills are advanced.

The next step is to move the collective so that the back of the pitch arm is aligned with the zero mark on the built-in pitch gauge. Note: The built-in pitch gauge on the Raptor 60/90 is upside down of this one. It still has a zero degree mark, just set the pointer on the end of the pitch arm to the zero mark.
Fold the blades straight out and inline with the tail boom.

STEP 3:
Stand in front of helicopter and sight down the blade so you see the leading and trailing edge of the blade aligned with the flybar as seen in the picture below.
If both tips of the blade align with the flybar then you are done. If not then adjust the long link from the swashplate to the head so that the blade does align.
Repeat the steps for the other blade.

Correct

wrong

 
3D setup
Aligning the blades with the built-in pitch gauge is the recommended technique for someone starting out however if you are doing 3D flying then you will want to do a slightly different setup. To get the maximum pitch for both positive and negative then ignore the markings on the built-in pitch gauge. Level the swashplate then move the pitch arm so that the mixing arms (see pictures below) are parallel to each other. You can see in the first picture that the center of the screw is aligned with the center of the ball. The other side should also align. If not then the swashplate is not level. Now do STEP 3. Then for the final in-flight adjustment you will leave the flight mode 1 (aka idle up 1, stunt 1) pitch curve set to 0,50,100. Do an upright climbout then do an inverted climbout. The rate of climb needs to be equal. If it is not then adjust both of the long links.

In the above two pictures you will see that the mixing arms will be parallel to each other when the built-in pitch gauge is at the center of travel as indicated by the label 'center A=B'