As I install each servo I connect it to the reciever, make sure I have a servo arm thats centered to where I need it and that its moving the right direction.

Yes you want to make sure that you setup your heli mechanically first, then use pitch and throttle curves to get your final setup.

PPM is used with any reciever thats not a pcm reciever from the manufacturer of your transmitter, in this case, Futaba such as a 149DP or 148DP (p meaning PCM) any reciever ending in F would be PPM, your reciever in your micro will need ppm.