Well after finding some bad bearings in the tail, and then moving the gyro to the BACK OF THE HELI WHERE THE INSTRUCTIONS RECOMMEND, this machine finally flies like a helicopter!!!

I cheesed the gyro plate since I didn't have the original bolt on plastic one, I used a CF plate that I trimmed to size, and strapped to the heli with zip ties through the bolt holes, and then CA'ed the edges. The plate doesn't move and I can pick up the heli by holding onto it. I just gyro taped the 401 to it.


Reasons:

Even when the machine is balanced and flies well and hovers nicely with no noticeable vibes, there are still vibrations from the engine/start shaft. If I put my finger on different spots on the heli while it is idling, I can tell where vibration is the greatest and least. The lowest vibration point on the whole heli seems to be that spot right above the tail boom mount point on the crutch. Strangely enough, that is where I have the exact same gyro mounted on my R50, and it holds the tail DEAD NUTS in any kind of wind at 40% gain in HH mode. The highest vibration point on the Sceadu seemed to be that very front most mounting plate (the piece that bolts to the heli and holds the battery underneath it). That part shakes like a leaf.

I am pulling the engine this week to check runout with my digital caliper at the fan, the hub, and then the start shaft. I suspect I will find something that is not quite right but I intend to leave the gyro where it is.

Flame away.