Well I think it's about bloomin' time I made a start on the build of my new ZII. It's been sitting in my spare room patiently waiting since about November. :whistle:
(http://s11.postimage.org/ein9415u7/ZBuild01.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ein9415u7/)
This is the basic kit. You don't appear to get much for your money, however it's an awesome aircraft. This is my second one!
(http://s17.postimage.org/f1jxvw3tn/ZBuild02.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/f1jxvw3tn/)
The propulsion and RC control system.
(http://s17.postimage.org/qs724rbdn/ZBuild03.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/qs724rbdn/)
The FPV suite. Somehow gotta shoehorn this lil lot in too.
I feel some head scratching coming on. :rtfm:
Watch this space over the next few weeks.
Nice!!!
Looking forward to seeing it come together!
Gimme a shout if you need any eagle tree tips, can email you my config file too if that helps any, good for RTH settings etc.
Cheers Dude. I'll give you a shout if I need help. Highly likely looking at the manuals.
When it's ready for maiden, you fancy giving me a hand??
Cool mate - yeah no worries can help out for sure, just let me know when :D
Mam Tor - Part 2!!!!
She will be conquered ha ha!!
The Tor won't be taking this one! :P
Things to consider.
If you knew what it cost to get it molded you would see where your money goes.
Keep in mind its not molded in china by a work force of kids held hostage.
The workforce in china usually live in housing on the factory grounds, then they can only see their family once a year at china new year.
They only make a few dollars a day.
The mold for the ZII was precision made in Germany and then shipped here to be used in the USA .
The plane went through almost 3 years of RND to get its flight manners dialed all while ballancing with heavy bats and camera's.
The original hotwire cut ZI kit was 180.00 , so the ZII was dropped by 50.00 and that is substancial!!!
Let me know if you have any build questions.
Thnx for the support guys.
Chris
Sorry Mr Ritewing. I'll consider myself told.
...Walks off with tail between legs. :-[
Its all good buddy , somtimes the whole china thing makes us take other views.
I was just trying to clear it up some , thats all.
Sometimes things being so cheap are just that sooooo cheap!!!
Quote from: Spookfish on February 25, 2013, 04:27:07 PM
Sorry Mr Ritewing. I'll consider myself told.
...Walks off with tail between legs. :-[
Totally agree with that, I'd rather buy a real ZII for the proper money over a cheap Chinese knock off fr half the price, cos you just know it'll be utter crap!
And with that said, I will support my products unlike any other mfg or supplier will.
So you are not stuck or if you have any questions or problems with anything Ritewing or Ritewing related.
I am not perfect like most ,I will always do my best to take care of you Ritewingers .
CK
Do I get a free wing if I get a Ritewing Z2 tattooed on my butt??? Think I should ha ha!!
Mine flys great and love it.
Quote from: Teamftp on February 25, 2013, 05:34:16 PM
Do I get a free wing if I get a Ritewing Z2 tattooed on my butt??? Think I should ha ha!!
Mine flys great and love it.
I'll raise you a butt and offer a forehead! ;)
Keukpa
Quote from: keukpa on February 25, 2013, 06:25:01 PM
Quote from: Teamftp on February 25, 2013, 05:34:16 PM
Do I get a free wing if I get a Ritewing Z2 tattooed on my butt??? Think I should ha ha!!
Mine flys great and love it.
I'll raise you a butt and offer a forehead! ;)
Keukpa
If you get a Zephyr II tattoo'd on your forehead, I'll buy you one. It's gotta be a real tattoo though and I need to be present at the applying of said tattoo. :P
Here's a couple of pic's of my old Zeph. This is the sort of thing I'll be aiming for.
(http://s15.postimage.org/fxije71yf/Zephyr01.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/fxije71yf/)
(http://s14.postimage.org/69qrwen9p/Zephyr03.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/69qrwen9p/)
Now look what you made me go get out of the loft!!
(http://s15.postimage.org/ahmw423zb/image.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ahmw423zb/)
Lol!! Sweet fix it up mate, get the old gal flying again!!
Yeah get yer Zeds out. Lets see em! :great:
(http://s3.postimage.org/bjn29dvnz/Flyn_ZIIStudio_Sml.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/bjn29dvnz/)
Sweet. :licklips:
Not a particularly tidy build but it was built to fly I guess.
Cracking on with the build... I've carved out my equipment bays ether side of the battery bay and also the Vtx and Rx bays out on the each wing. To do this I marked out where I wanted to cut using a Sharpy marker pen then used a scalpel to cut around the outline about 10mm deep. I then used a soldering gun with an attachment simply made from M2 push-rod, to carve out the foam. I found that by using the scalpel first gives a nice clean edge. The equipment bays are about 30mm in depth and the Vtx and Rx bays are approx 20mm deep.
(http://s14.postimage.org/5b9yaqszx/ZBuild05.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/5b9yaqszx/)
I then marked out and cut the cable runs into each wing half using the soldering gun and connected the runs to the equipment bays by heating the end of a length of push-rod and melting through the foam to form a little tunnel. By not cutting the runs right up to the bays saves on filler later and keeps the edges of the bays nice and neat. Cable runs are approx 10-15mm deep.
(http://s14.postimage.org/ss6wu5xe5/ZBuild04.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ss6wu5xe5/)
This is the soldering gun. I think it came from Machine Mart as part of a soldering kit. It wasn't pricey and has a nifty little built-in light that illuminates your work area.
(http://s15.postimage.org/xgzoh2gtj/ZBuild06.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/xgzoh2gtj/)
Nice start dude :D
Quote from: Flyn on February 26, 2013, 12:47:26 AM
Nice start dude :D
Cheers Bud.
I know what I was gonna ask you... Your FPV system battery in your Z... is it a 2s or 3s??
Have been using a 3s 1000mah
But am thinking of using a 1000mah 2s I have to ease the load on the vtx.
3s is best for balance on mine though.
I've got a 4x 800mah 2s and a couple of 500mah 3s. Reckon I might stick with the 2s then.
Hi,
I used my solder gun to cut out my bays using the same system as you have <almost identical :o> but this time I started getting a bad smell ££ and then magic smoke (?) Think I need a better gun as that was a realy cheap one. :laugh: they do cut nicely though ;D
Your build looks realy good and looking forward to test flights and video ;)
Cheers MIKE. :)
Quote from: micarus on March 01, 2013, 10:51:12 AM
Hi,
I used my solder gun to cut out my bays using the same system as you have <almost identical :o> but this time I started getting a bad smell ££ and then magic smoke (?) Think I need a better gun as that was a realy cheap one. :laugh: they do cut nicely though ;D
Your build looks realy good and looking forward to test flights and video ;)
Cheers MIKE. :)
Thank's Mike. I'm aiming for a better, stronger build this time.
I find it's best to keep the cutting adaptor small when using the solder gun or it takes ages to heat up and the gun itself tends to get quite hot.
If you use solid copper wire it cuts much better using the soldering iron.We use a copper pice thats about 2.5 mm
Quote from: Ritewing on March 01, 2013, 06:36:49 PM
If you use solid copper wire it cuts much better using the soldering iron.We use a copper pice thats about 2.5 mm
Thanks for that Rightwing. ;D
MIKE. :)
Right moving on with the build. I marked out and cut in the slot for the motor mount on the left hand wing half only, then glued the two halves together using UHU Por glue. I then cut the motor mount slot in the right hand wing half using the slot in the left as a guide. This is how Chris from Ritewing recommends to do it. Works a treat. I used Evo-Stik Serious Glue Fix & Repair Adhesive to secure in the mount.
(http://s7.postimage.org/z74ihhhzb/ZBuild07.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/z74ihhhzb/)
This is were to mark the motor mount.
I then set about glueing in the carbon spars. For this I used Gorilla Glue. It's mega messy if you're not careful, but mega strong. I found it's best to do the carbon spars and nurse them for about 45 mins as the glue foams up and ends up pushing the spars out of the slot. I did the same for the 4 FRP stiffeners, one at a time, nurse it til it's set then move on to the next.
(http://s10.postimage.org/fctzt5pid/ZBuild08.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/fctzt5pid/)
I also made an extra ally spar for the front of the wing, it sits just behind the camera box and out aproximately a third of the leading edge. I've done this as I found it to be a weak area on my last Zeph. I ended up having to remove the camera box and install sparing after a failed launch attempt. It worked well and was pretty strong, but this method should be stronger still.
I cut the groove for the spar with the solder gun and glued it in using more Gorilla glue as per the method above.
(http://s9.postimage.org/phnviy7bf/ZBuild09.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/phnviy7bf/)
THAT IS LOOKING STUNNING!!!
Yet another awesome build from RAF Spookfish!!!
STUNNING!!!
Not RAF anymore dude. Finished just over a week ago. ;D
Quote from: Spookfish on March 04, 2013, 10:03:45 PM
Not RAF anymore dude. Finished just over a week ago. ;D
Retired already :laugh: :laugh:
Well it is a stunning build and you can tell you have an eye for detail and carefully engineered solutions.
The last one was beyond fantastic and this is looking to top that.
Yeah this one will be better! :P
It's rigid as f%*& with that extra spar. ;D
Looking good so far matey! Bet you cant wait to fly it!
Yeah but I'm not looking forward to wiring it all up. :rtfm:
Lol, my ZII's electronics bay looks like snake pit!!
It works so I dont mess with it!! :o
I've been slacking on the build a bit lately, but I've finally got the camera box finished. It's made from ply and liteply, and is covered in matt black vinyl with carbon effect vinyl on the front plate. I also added some trims made from the top of a hand soap bottle (these were on my old Z).
The skids have long 9mm wide tie wraps glued around them for durability. I found the best stuff to stick the skids on (after a lot of trial and error) is silicone sealant.
The whole lot weighs in at 86 grams, so not to bad.
(http://s9.postimg.org/bi8ivxcx7/ZBuild11.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/bi8ivxcx7/)
The nose of the wing was recessed using the modded solder gun.
(http://s13.postimg.org/lfxsdniir/ZBuild10.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/lfxsdniir/)
Edit; I've not stuck the cam box into the wing at this stage, pics are just a trial fit.
(http://s22.postimg.org/t8p2z7l31/ZBuild12.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/t8p2z7l31/)
(http://s24.postimg.org/j1hkjs9e9/ZBuild13.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/j1hkjs9e9/)
(http://s12.postimg.org/vorv99umx/ZBuild14.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/vorv99umx/)
Next step; Wiring the whole thing up. (?)
I've had everything plugged in on the bench (kitchen table) and all seems to work so shouldn't have too many dramas... Hopefully.
That looks cool bud, was just wondering yesterday how your build was going!
Yeah it's slowed up a bit cos I been busy with other stuff. Just been doing a bit here and there.
Oh yeah I forgot to add... I've installed some neat little buttons on this cam box (something my last Z didn't have) so I don't need a pokey tool to podge the GoPro buttons. :P
Thats the way it goes mate, same here. Ive not even flown the lipos I bought a month ago yet!! Been too busy!
Lol - now that is a very good idea ;) forgot about the pokey tool.
Looks Sweeeeeeeeet spooks
Im the same with my build a bit here a bit there
Im sure they will get done
I tried that spray adhesive yesterday on a bit of cutoff of my wing
And so far it not melted lol its
So when its ready ill be able to cover it now
Cheers for the tip m8
Mr Spookfish,
I'm very disappointed, it seems have been neglecting your build thread ;)
Any updates mate??
I got a second ZII to rebuild at the min.
Quote from: Flyn on April 14, 2013, 10:45:06 PM
Mr Spookfish,
I'm very disappointed, it seems have been neglecting your build thread ;)
Any updates mate??
Yeah sorry Dude. I've been beavering away and all but finished the beast but neglected the thread somewhat. :+
I'll update in a bit. Its pimp as foook! ;D
Sweet dude!! Wonna see pics now!!! :)
Its looking good bud, You actually inspired me to pull my finger out and get on with my one, Im loving your pod on it.
;) G
Starting to look like we need a ZII only meet this summer lol ;)
Quote from: Flyn on April 27, 2013, 09:51:12 PM
Starting to look like we need a ZII only meet this summer lol ;)
Yup! We should start an owners club :laugh:
I've been slacking with this build thread again :+ But not with the build so best I catch up a bit.
Right... I got the wing all wired up. The goal here was to get everything tucked away out of site. This is done to minimise the risk of accidentally snagging a wire whilst plugging in the batteries and to keep things looking neat and simple.
(http://s11.postimg.org/8on3pwzvz/ZBuild15.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/8on3pwzvz/)
All the Eagle Tree gear is tucked into the left hand equipment bay. As you can see it's a bit of a squeeze with an ELogger, OSD Pro, Guardian Stabiliser, Altimeter and all the plugs and wiring crammed in. The GPS sensor is located out on the left wing, safely away from the VTx.
(http://s7.postimg.org/yfbb6zg2v/ZBuild16.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/yfbb6zg2v/)
The right hand equipment bay houses the UBEC, a TeleFly OSD and a TBS Core. The Telefly OSD takes a spur off the Eagle Tree GPS and demodulates the signal so it can be read by the MyFlyDream tracker on my ground station. It sends its signal down the left hand audio channel.
The TBS Core is a little overkill really, I was going to run a separate video battery but I decided that it would be easier and lighter to fit the Core as I had it kicking about anyway. I wrapped it in copper tape (after heat shrinking it) to shield any noise.
(http://s24.postimg.org/dn9jxgd1t/ZBuild17.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/dn9jxgd1t/)
Once all the wiring was complete and tested, I then panelled out the battery bay and rear equipment bay. I installed an extension from the ELogger's USB socket to a female socket in the rear bay. I also installed the battery connections, Battery bay floor with launch hook, battery straps and hatch magnets.
(http://s3.postimg.org/wd4pod5i7/ZBuild23.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/wd4pod5i7/)
The launch hook is made from a coat hanger hook and held in place with a pair of 10SWG wire landing gear saddle clamps with captive nuts under the floor panel. I heat shrank the part of the hook wire that is clamped to the battery bay floor to minimise the risk of shorting the batteries as it's quite close to the connections.
what are those bays lined with?
I'm tempted to 3D print some bays :)
Nice dude!! Very tidy!
The next part of the build was to start finishing. The cable runs and GPS were all covered with strips of 6mm depron and the servos were panelled in with 3mm liteply. When I installed the servos I cut them in a little deeper so they could be panelled in. I only did this for a neater finish. I used a light filler and sanded the wing smooth.
I also cut the elevons to shape at this stage.
(http://s12.postimg.org/3w36k90ax/ZBuild18.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/3w36k90ax/)
(http://s17.postimg.org/sbl70qnx7/ZBuild19.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/sbl70qnx7/)
Elevons were fitted using Duck Heavy Duty Packing Tape, top and bottom, to form a good strong hinge. Most people cover the elevons before fitting, again, I only did mine after for a neat finish.
(http://s23.postimg.org/djvuyu0w7/ZBuild20.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/djvuyu0w7/)
I hot glued in some plastic cornering (available at B&Q) to the RX and Vtx bays to form panel landings. The panels are made from 1mm ply and held in place by 4 small screws. The landings are notched for the antennas.
(http://s21.postimg.org/xmcdwjgmr/ZBuild21.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/xmcdwjgmr/)
(http://s12.postimg.org/3vgo6wybt/ZBuild22.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/3vgo6wybt/)
Quote from: keukpa on May 04, 2013, 12:34:51 AM
what are those bays lined with?
I'm tempted to 3D print some bays :)
The bays are lined with 0.8mm ply around the sides and the rear bay floor. The battery bay floor is 2mm ply and has the velcro straps slotted through it.
I went a bit mad with the covering and did all the panels and floors. :P
Quote from: Flyn on May 04, 2013, 12:43:57 AM
Nice dude!! Very tidy!
Cheers Mate!
Right the next bit was covering the beast. Not my favourite job! Came out OK though I think.
First off I covered all the tricky bits like the elevons (silver solar trim) around the motor mount and along the elevon hinges (I used matt black vinyl here). I then cut out the carbon effect vinyl sheet. After masking off I applied a light coat of 3M 77 spray adhesive to the lower left wing surface and then carefully stuck the carbon vinyl sheet in place and trimmed to fit. I repeated the process for the 3 remaining wing surfaces.
I then decorated with dayglo green and yellow Solar Trim.
After covering I glued the camera box in place with silicone sealant and also the wing tip panels. The wing tip panels are drilled and have 2 plastic M6 wingnuts bonded to the back so the winglets can be screwed in place using nylon wing screws. This allows me to change a winglet if it gets damaged (I used this system on my last Zephyr, only I stupidly used hot glue and one fell off).
The hatch has small lengths of steel pushrod in the flutes of the correx that correspond to the magnets that hold it closed. I covered the hatch with the same matt black vinyl to match the camera box and fitted an scoop (made from a hilighter pen lid) to direct cooling air over the ESC.
(http://s21.postimg.org/48uw5jz03/ZBuild27.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/48uw5jz03/)
(http://s21.postimg.org/3to7qa2gj/ZBuild26.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/3to7qa2gj/)
Made some decals up from inkjet water slide decal paper.
(http://s22.postimg.org/4udh5ylfh/ZBuild28.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/4udh5ylfh/)
And lastly... I made a launch ramp!
(http://s13.postimg.org/potezmls3/ZBuild25.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/potezmls3/)
Cool bud, REALLY tidy build, loving the attention to detail!
Great launcher too! Could've had mine, think I'm getting the hand throw down now.
Quote from: Flyn on May 04, 2013, 01:46:54 AM
Cool bud, REALLY tidy build, loving the attention to detail!
Great launcher too! Could've had mine, think I'm getting the hand throw down now.
I'm useless at hand launching! I had a 50% success rate with the Mini-Zed.
Im using the ritewing method - just works & is so easy & gets away every time.
Can show you next meet.
Seen this in the flesh, looks stunning!
That is got to be the tidiest wing I have seen, looks sweet as bud, well don.
:) G
Wow that does look neat and tidy!
regards
Andy
Cheers guys!
I'm really pleased with how it's turned out. It had it's maiden yesterday too, which couldn't have gone better really. Needed some up trim but that's all. Might be just a touch nose heavy. Oh and I forgot to set the motor brake.
Just need to wait for this bloomin wind to drop so I can get some stick time "Goggles On"... Can't wait! :D
Good on ya mate!! Nice to have you back in it!!
Got some photo's of the Zeph in action last weekend (courtesy of my Buddy Steve (Blackout19)).
Check em out.
(http://s24.postimg.org/efqs62f8h/ZBuild29.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/efqs62f8h/)
(http://s15.postimg.org/bozjl8bzr/ZBuild30.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/bozjl8bzr/)
On the launch rig ready to rock the skies!
(http://s24.postimg.org/sstevve01/ZBuild31.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/sstevve01/)
Up and away!
(http://s21.postimg.org/a2d2wanib/ZBuild32.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/a2d2wanib/)
Cruzin on by.
(http://s17.postimg.org/mgdrqu2x7/ZBuild33.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/mgdrqu2x7/)
Coming back in.
Sweet bud!!!
So when we meeting up for a fly then?!?
Good question, but it's gotta happen.
Friday???
Friday afternoon is good weather permitting. You got a location in mind??
Cool! Could come to you or could fly at the floodplain near me as we did last time???
There's also a bigger one close by too.
Flood plane sounds good mate. Be quicker if I come to you straight from work (Marham).
Weather looks a bit windy, doable though.
with foresight, the Flood plane wasn't that good a plan. :(
Sorry for your lose bud.
:sorry: G
Hi Spookfish,
What flight batteries are you using on your Zed.
I have Zippy Compact 4s 3700mAh and think they are perhaps too big. I've got little or no space to connect them to the ESC/ Current sensor without hacking lumps out of the rear of the battery bay.
Cheers,
Bob
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Hi Bob.
I have been using Gens Ace 3300mah 4S packs (connected in parallel) with good results. However I will be swapping over to Nano-Tech 6600mah 2S Hard Case packs (connected in series) giving me a weight saving of around 120-130g. Not only are these packs smaller and lighter, they are also cheaper! Win win! ;D
That's an interesting battery idea. I thought you missed typed 2s instead of 3s!
Nope, 2S is the way ahead I'm thinking. Less wiring too as you don't need to have the balance lead in the plane at all.
hmm interesting idea on the batts in series suprised theres not been a few more people gone this route what are the downsides if any to this way?
The only downsides I can think of is, if you get a cell go down things might get a bit tricky as you will almost certainly hit you're low voltage cut. As long as it doesn't completely cut the motor you should be able to limp home though.
And there ain't too many 6600mah 2S batteries to choose from. I can only find the Nano-Techs at Hobbyking.
Yeah never even thought of that! :o
Best it don't fail then!
Actually Steve, if your connector failed you wouldn't even have a 2S cos the batts are in series, it would break the circuit all together. :toiletbang:
Yes you would have 0 volts
What was it you do for a living again Steve?? :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
That is an interesting idea... I've looked at other batteries myself today but they all seem pretty much the same size so cramming them in could well be a difficult option.
I do also have 2 x 3S 3700 mah which are a cell thinner, a little lighter, just wondering if the lack of power using 3S will be a noticeable downside....
Last quick question for you, on you Zed, what did you use as pushrod control horns on your elevons?
Bob
Quote from: Spookfish on May 28, 2013, 07:55:56 PM
Hi Bob.
I have been using Gens Ace 3300mah 4S packs (connected in parallel) with good results. However I will be swapping over to Nano-Tech 6600mah 2S Hard Case packs (connected in series) giving me a weight saving of around 120-130g. Not only are these packs smaller and lighter, they are also cheaper! Win win! ;D
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Quote from: Blackout19 on May 28, 2013, 11:26:44 PM
I've got a Naza V2 and GPS coming tomorrow, just waiting on those discovery frames to get back in stock!
Ahhh the FPV sickness is taking hold Steve! Don't worry I'm riddled with it and still alive and kicking. :P
Quote from: M6TPV on May 29, 2013, 12:39:56 AM
That is an interesting idea... I've looked at other batteries myself today but they all seem pretty much the same size so cramming them in could well be a difficult option.
I do also have 2 x 3S 3700 mah which are a cell thinner, a little lighter, just wondering if the lack of power using 3S will be a noticeable downside....
Last quick question for you, on you Zed, what did you use as pushrod control horns on your elevons?
Bob
A 3S setup would require you to up the KV of your motor to about 1400 to obtain the same results with a 9x6 prop, however you're current draw would increase too. I know TeamFTP runs a pair of 3S's in his Zeph with a 1200KV OS Motor, however I think they are only 2200mah so it's a much lighter all up weight.
My Zeph was 2.7Kg AUW with a pair of 4S packs weighing 370g each and flew just fine.
My elevon horns were these bad boys http://www.giantshark.co.uk/extra-strong-control-horn-bearing-34mm-p-402863.html (http://www.giantshark.co.uk/extra-strong-control-horn-bearing-34mm-p-402863.html) They are a bit on the long side, so you might want to go with the 24mm versions. I only used the long ones to keep my servo resolution up. Remember the control throws need to be +-10mm elevator and +-15mm aileron measured at each wing tip. Even with the long horns I was on 40 and 50% rates respectively! If you can keep your servo horns short this obviously helps. I had to go on the top servo horn hole cos I sunk my servos in an extra 3mm so I could cover them with liteply.
The Z11 build is progressing ala Spookfish style...
Question that's going to give me nightmares, what did you use to fill the gaps for the cabling channels for the VTx and Control bays?
Cheers...
Bob
One of the lightweight fillers from the DIY shop, the one's where you pick up the tub and think it's empty it's so light :)
This is one from Screwfix but I got mine from B&Q
http://www.screwfix.com/p/no-nonsense-lightweight-filler-1ltr/88504 (http://www.screwfix.com/p/no-nonsense-lightweight-filler-1ltr/88504)
PK
Is that flexible... I am just thinking it would crack as the wings flex?
Quote from: pk-surfing on June 04, 2013, 08:05:01 AM
One of the lightweight fillers from the DIY shop, the one's where you pick up the tub and think it's empty it's so light :)
This is one from Screwfix but I got mine from B&Q
http://www.screwfix.com/p/no-nonsense-lightweight-filler-1ltr/88504 (http://www.screwfix.com/p/no-nonsense-lightweight-filler-1ltr/88504)
PK
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
On the American forum with a thread dedicated to the Z2 I think this is the same sort of stuff they refer to as 'spackle'.
I've used it on mine for levelling off the spar slots and its fine, you'll be using it and sanding down before applying the 3M-77 and laminate.
PK
Crikes, thanks for the remind, 3M-77, not even considered that. Is it a definite must have for making the laminate bond?
And thanks for the heads up on the 'spackle' stuff.
I used some thin strips of depron to fill the cable runs before applying the filler, otherwise you end up using loads of it and then it does crack.
Thanks Spookfish, deport works a treat and sands down very nicely.
I'm now at the stage of joining the two wing halves together... In the past I have used UHU Por but that was on EPP. Will UHU Por be ok for the Z11 too?
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
UHU Por will work fine. Most of the strength comes from the spars and motor mount anyway. Think I used Por on my last Z.
Well, I've managed to put spars in the Z11 today and used gorilla glue to secure... Apart from a gloomy mess from using a little too much I' not overly convinced as now the glue has set I believe there is a slight degree of flex at the centre... I've not lined the battery bay yet so suspect this may be normal due to the design of the Z11 if someone can confirm this...?
It's my plan to make a battery tray using light ply and have got some 1.5mm stuff hanging about.. Is this sufficient or should I up the size? If so, what size as need to consider the space for the batteries - eek!
Cheers,
Quote from: M6TPV on June 06, 2013, 08:53:02 PM
Well, I've managed to put spars in the Z11 today and used gorilla glue to secure... Apart from a gloomy mess from using a little too much I' not overly convinced as now the glue has set I believe there is a slight degree of flex at the centre... I've not lined the battery bay yet so suspect this may be normal due to the design of the Z11 if someone can confirm this...?
There will be a little flex but without actually seeing your build first hand it's difficult to say. Have you fitted the motor mount?? This will stiffen up the mid section quite a bit.
I also put in an extra spar at the front in the form of an ally strip. See Reply #30 of this thread.
Quote from: M6TPV on June 06, 2013, 08:53:02 PM
It's my plan to make a battery tray using light ply and have got some 1.5mm stuff hanging about.. Is this sufficient or should I up the size? If so, what size as need to consider the space for the batteries - eek!
Should be OK. Remember to slot it and thread your battery straps through it before you glue it in. You'll also need to recess the area where the straps go under the battery tray otherwise it won't sit flat. I used the soldering gun for this. See Reply #49 for pictures.
Just a question - do I see correctly that you have no skids on the wing?
I dont have any and was wondering if I should make some.
I'd put some skids on bud, they help protect your cams from rocks & stuff - as well as keeping the nose out of the dirt. ;)
Does anybody have templates for the skids?
My skids are part of my camera box.
I can do you a template of the original skids too. Send me a PM with you address mate.
Quote from: Spookfish on May 04, 2013, 12:54:21 AM
I hot glued in some plastic cornering (available at B&Q) to the RX and Vtx bays to form panel landings. The panels are made from 1mm ply and held in place by 4 small screws. The landings are notched for the antennas.
(http://s21.postimg.org/xmcdwjgmr/ZBuild21.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/xmcdwjgmr/)
(http://s12.postimg.org/3vgo6wybt/ZBuild22.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/3vgo6wybt/)
Hi my first post here but i cant seem to find that plastic corning to save my life! If you could give me a link that would be great!
Awesome build by the way!!!!!
Hi,
I bought some from B&Q last week, if you go in to your local store and find the shelves that sell the wooden lengths of beading and cornering/dowel rod it should be there. Big long lengths of various dimensions, about 6ft long. I bought the 12mm x 12mm (I think) and it cost less than £3.
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My question...
How are people fitting the elevons to the wing, on my other wings I've used blenderm tape, or other tape which has worked... Just wondering if there are other more robust ways of doing it that can be easily maintained?
Cheers,
Bob
I use this tape for my elevons
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B000I5U58E (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B000I5U58E)
My ZII is over a year old now with many flights & a few crashes on it without a single issue with the elevons.
Also here's how you do it for those who don't know.
http://youtu.be/5sdvJB6qN8E (http://youtu.be/5sdvJB6qN8E)
Considering putting a launch hook on my Z11 to give me the option of launching like a V1 Doodlebug...
Can you let me into the secret of what's involved in the making of one of the launchers please as cant fathom how it goes from 0 to 60 in 2 nanoseconds :-)
Cheers
Quote from: Spookfish on May 12, 2013, 04:07:42 PM
Got some photo's of the Zeph in action last weekend (courtesy of my Buddy Steve (Blackout19)).
Check em out.
(http://s24.postimg.org/efqs62f8h/ZBuild29.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/efqs62f8h/)
(http://s15.postimg.org/bozjl8bzr/ZBuild30.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/bozjl8bzr/)
On the launch rig ready to rock the skies!
(http://s24.postimg.org/sstevve01/ZBuild31.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/sstevve01/)
Up and away!
(http://s21.postimg.org/a2d2wanib/ZBuild32.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/a2d2wanib/)
Cruzin on by.
(http://s17.postimg.org/mgdrqu2x7/ZBuild33.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/mgdrqu2x7/)
Coming back in.
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you need a bungee cord, or sometimes called a hi-start.
that is how it goes to warp 10 in a second!
the frame just inclines the wing to a decent launch angle.
This is for FPV goggles down launching, it is a bit unnerving holding a wing at full chat with your goggles on:-p
catapult that bad boy up there
/Steve
I've got a bungee for launching other kites, do I assume its the same principle, peg out the bungee a zillion yards away, meters for those who ain't imperial like me, set the wing on the launcher and then ping, away she goes??
What do you use as the release and how's that rigged up?
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http://youtu.be/0fJIosJlO3c (http://youtu.be/0fJIosJlO3c)
That's brill, next question, can you then iron on solartrim over the top without damaging the storage tape?
Cheers,
Quote from: Flyn on June 24, 2013, 04:02:54 PM
I use this tape for my elevons
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B000I5U58E (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B000I5U58E)
My ZII is over a year old now with many flights & a few crashes on it without a single issue with the elevons.
Also here's how you do it for those who don't know.
http://youtu.be/5sdvJB6qN8E (http://youtu.be/5sdvJB6qN8E)
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Yep, if anything ironing over the top just makes the tape stick more!
Finally managed to get my Z11 laminated... Can't say I was overly joyed with using the 3M90 which attacked the foam slightly. Fortunately as it is my intention to cover with coloured covering the minor issues will be 'ironed' out.
Is using gorilla glue the best way of securing the motor mount. I want something robust and solid as may wish to try the standard method for bungee launching and think gripping the motor will have best results, I just need to make sure the mount will stay where it's meant to stay....
Bob
Yeah use neat gorilla glue though. It's definitely strong enough. And you will be pulling the motor mount in towards the fuse so you would have to be yanking it extremely hard for it to rip out.
And Tesa Extra Strong is the best laminate glue. Stronger than any of the 3M stuff and very foam safe. Bit of a shame to say now of course but anyone else looking to laminate should use it.
DO NOT USE 3M90 for lam'ing!!!!! It WILL destroy your wing if not careful.
To aid the sticking of laminate 3M77 can be used!!
3m90 is ONLY used to stick the two wing halfs together, but UHU-POR is a far safer bet! Used it on my new one - way better!
Flyn is correct, you can use 77 or not use any spray glue at all to assist the lam films adhesion ,
Lately I use rustolem double coverage gloss paint prior to the film , then I lam with no spray glue before the film.
The only place we use 3m 90 is if you want it stick the roots together.
Lately I use CA or hot glue for this
Hahaha.... It's well too late now for not using the 90M, I've done all the lamming and think its been successful...albeit a bit of foam weirdness in places but the shape of the aero foil hasn't been affected and it all looks groovy..
Bob
Well then share the groovy pictures !!!
:-)
Haha.... Not yet.
Spoil sport. :-(
I've got ESC issues!!!
:-(
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You've got issues full stop mate.
:-)
What's up with it?
I've got that turnigy 60amp you can borrow.
Might be worth starting your own thread on this one fella. ;)
I have, it's in the right place on here rather than delta wings.. I'm worried the Castle Creations ESC Talon 90 i have which i was going to use isn't reliable and will cremate the wing... Just wondering if its worth bench testing the thing for a few hours to see if its going to be trouble or just selling it and getting something else that's got a far better track record... Thus far I've never had an ESC go down on me and don't wish to start now on something as expensive as a Z11 but I want to run 4S batteries and have enough ummmmpf to get the thing in the air...
Harumpf
Hi, I've just bought a zephyr 2 having seen one at the Doncaster meet a few weeks ago and researching on line. I think it was spookfish's that I saw and he kindly took the time to chat about his build to myself and a couple of other fellas. I quite liked the look of carbon film having seen it in both black and white varieties but am not sure if I use this whether I still have to use the clear laminate film first then carbon or coloured film over the top ? Any advice would be much appreciated. Many thanks.
Laminate and then cover... The laminate will add a mass of robustness to the Wing for sure.
I've got the carbon effect covering too.. Take your time with the build and don't use 3M90 adhesive when covering... I did and only by the grace of god has it turned out OK. The covering over the top of the lam will disguise any unsightly errors you may make when glueing in spars etc.
Bob
Keep in mind chaps the more covering (dead weight) you add the harder it'll be to launch, the slower it'll fly, the higher the stall speed will be etc.
Keep it light & fast I say. ;)
Try to avoid double bagging!
Flyn, just how much do you reckon the extra weight is?
Do they sell coloured laminate?
Cheers !!
Not sure mate, but I've got a roll of carbon fibre wrap here that'll maybe just cover a ZII & I know I don't want that extra weight on mine!
Build it light keep it fast.
Lol!!!
Your right about weight, it's everyone's enemy from cars to models (both sorts)!
When I was building my Elf dlg I was shaving off tenths of grams where I could -)
Thanks fellas, so what your saying is I don't want to get a sleek model that ends up a fat bird with bad habits that I double bag for.......
Now about that zephyr........ ;D
The ZII was purposely designed to be heavy , it takes huge bats and a go pro just to CG.
Weight is all relative to speed , a heavier ZII yes is harder to launch and lands hotter.
If you have a bungee then making it heavy is not an issue, or if you are a seasoned ZII pilot and launch with no issues then extra weight is not a problem.
A heavier build tracks better than a light build.
For an extreme example..
I have UAV contractor who fly's his ZII's at 28 lbs , they launch it with a pneumatic launch system, it needs about 70 mph airspeed to get it airborne.
It cruises at 120 +mph for a short time to achieve its mission.
Before it lands it ejects its super expensive hardware pod that has a parachute .
Then the wing has its own mini chute and it floats down nicely.
They like it heavy because it fly's much more stable than anything they have used or made prior , this was a major part of their requirements.
I never try to make it light during the build, I just build it.
Quote from: Ritewing on July 01, 2013, 10:07:33 PM
The ZII was purposely designed to be heavy , it takes huge bats and a go pro just to CG.
Weight is all relative to speed , a heavier ZII yes is harder to launch and lands hotter.
If you have a bungee then making it heavy is not an issue, or if you are a seasoned ZII pilot and launch with no issues then extra weight is not a problem.
A heavier build tracks better than a light build.
For an extreme example..
I have UAV contractor who fly's his ZII's at 28 lbs , they launch it with a pneumatic launch system, it needs about 70 mph airspeed to get it airborne.
It cruises at 120 +mph for a short time to achieve its mission.
Before it lands it ejects its super expensive hardware pod that has a parachute .
Then the wing has its own mini chute and it floats down nicely.
They like it heavy because it fly's much more stable than anything they have used or made prior , this was a major part of their requirements.
I never try to make it light during the build, I just build it.
Hi Chris,
wow that is one extreme for sure, heavy will definitely track well but will need more power & speed to fly like you said.
I wont ever presume to tell you how to build your product, all I'm offering is the way I like to build the kits I've bought - I never go all out for lightness but like to avoid adding unnecessary weight, like to find a happy medium, maybe I just like it easier to chuck. lol.
In the latest build I've added a couple of short spars to the mid section between & infront of the bays - how this will fly & perform is unknown.
Wow...28lb's, that's one hell of a weight, I can only imagine what it's carrying in terms of video gear etc.
I've laminated mine and intend covering it again with carbon effect and yellow oracover, I'll just have to wing it and see if it'll launch easily but intending adding the option for bungee launching if required, or change the number of batteries.
+1 for build as light as possible. If you want it heavier, its easy to add some lead!
"The only place weight is useful is in a steam roller." - Uffa Fox.
regards
Andy
Hi Guys,
I'm currently putting together my zephyr 2 and am spending lots of time reading the forums and checking out how other people are putting theirs together on youtube etc. I've been flying an easystar2 fpv for about a year, it has been and still is brilliant. This wing is a bit of a leap for me to a bit more excitement !
I've got quite a few 3 cell 2200ma batts and looking at the battery options I notice these will fit nicely, edge side on in the Z2 battery bay . My query is whether I can or whether anyone has fitted maybe 3 or 4 ( could fit 5) in parallel ? ...maybe 2 xt60 parallel leads in parallel? It would just be nice to have batts that could be easily swappable between both planes.
I know 3s is going to be a bit more sedate that going 4s but I'm happy to take things steady at first until I get used to flying the wing. I've attached a photo, I'll be boarding out the bay with thin ply and if need be could shave a fraction of the bay sides to widen it. If it's a sh*t idea let me know (?) Any thoughts much appreciated !
Mate, that's a lot of lipo you got in there, yes you could do it like that but should you... Hmm good question. I know I wouldn't fancy launching it that heavy on 3s.
But please feel free to prove me wrong, all I'll happily be so ;)
Tbh I'd buy bigger packs & just go 4s as lining up loads of 2200s might be ok but what happens if one fails or you forgot to charge one?
I use x2 3300 4s, they seem to be the perfect size & weight & can give over 30mins slow flight or 15 flat out at 100mph!
Hi Flyn,
Many thanks for your thoughts on this.
Yes, it feels like a house brick with the 4 packs in and whilst 3 x 2200 packs apparently weigh a bit less than the equivalent 2x3300ma ( looking at average battery weights on hobbyking), the two 4s will of course provide more grunt for the same capacity.
I suppose I was hoping to save a bit of cash too as I'll need to have maybe 4 or 6 3300mah 4 cell batts available to provide me with more than one flight per trip out !
I must say that adding to an already complicated and busy wiring setup is now putting me off the idea of running more than 2 batts in parallel. I think maybe I'm trying too hard and should follow that famous mantra of "keep it simple stupid" !!
So I'll check out 2 x 4s 3300. May I ask what brand of 3300mah batts are you using or are most brands around the same physical size ?
I'll also need to get a pair of your spiral antennas. Do they have to worked as a matched pair or can I use one of the pair on the Zephyr, keeping the other as a spare and leave the existing fatshark immersion spiral antenna on the attitude goggles ?
Thanks again
Regards
Mark
Hi mark,
It's always nice to be able to use what you've got but sometimes it's better to spend a little bit extra to get the best out of what you will have ;)
With rc it's always best to keep it as simple as possible, I've seen a few times where people have a multiple battery config where they forget to plug a lipo in with bad results as they think they can fly for longer than they actually can due to unplugged lipo.
Lipos are pretty much the same size for the mah, avoid turnigy nanotechs, they might be good for a few flights but in under 12 months I had them all go bad, with large voltage sags.
Gens ace are pretty good but a bit heavy. A good lipo are new dynamic lipos x2 3200 4s for £40
You can certainly have some antennas & you'll be able to use them as you please with whatever 5.8 antenna you please ;)
My Z11 is ready to maiden... Eeek!!!
I am going to be running 2 x Zippy Compact 4S 3700mah batteries which brings in the AUW to about 2.8lbs. I am lead to understand that this is about the average for the Z11 but before I commit her to the air can someone confirm that my Ritewing Motor, Phoenix Talon 90 and Batteries will give her the ummmmpf to get airborne?
I don't have the bungee launch system so it will be a by hand launch!!!
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Hi mate, sure that'll be fine. A bit heavy but fine I'm sure ;)
What this vid & practice the throw with power off to built up the muscle memory for the action before you try it. This is how I throw mine & it gets away every time.
Also make sure your elevon throws are no more than 12mm from centre or you'll be in for a shock!
http://youtu.be/CXvPXIhLgbM (http://youtu.be/CXvPXIhLgbM)
Actually... I'm hoping you read that as 2.8Kg haha oops!!!
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Hi , I'm not sure what hinge tape to use for my ZII. I've read lots of forum post and have seen suggestions for packing tape, glass fibre tape, blenderm tape, 3m or scotch packing and storage tape (longer lasting adhesive I think) . I always think of packing tape as the cheap brown stuff that's pretty strong until you nick it with a sharp point then it just tears.... (image of dangling elevons in my head). Any advice much appreciated !
Hi mate, you need scotch (3m) packing & storage tape. I've had some on my ZII for well over a year without issue ;)
You can get it on amazon in a 6 pack
DUCK sell a "HD Clear" packaging tape which I've found at B&Q a number of times.
It's a tad thicker it seems than most packing tapes and it's very strong and resistant to ripping
Quote from: Flyn on July 29, 2013, 11:25:54 AM
Hi mate, you need scotch (3m) packing & storage tape. I've had some on my ZII for well over a year without issue ;)
You can get it on amazon in a 6 pack
I had some on my Z11 for about a week hahahah :-(
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Quote from: MarkLloyd on July 29, 2013, 09:58:04 AM
Hi , I'm not sure what hinge tape to use for my ZII. I've read lots of forum post and have seen suggestions for packing tape, glass fibre tape, blenderm tape, 3m or scotch packing and storage tape (longer lasting adhesive I think) . I always think of packing tape as the cheap brown stuff that's pretty strong until you nick it with a sharp point then it just tears.... (image of dangling elevons in my head). Any advice much appreciated !
Mark, instead of buying a 6 pack of the stuff Flynn has pointed you towards, PM me your address and I'll send you a roll from the 6 I have got. It is good stuff!!
Bob
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I have been doing a bit of a rebuild on mine. It is about a year old and needed some TLC. I have it a fresh laminate and then covered in the good ol' canon effect vynil. I have stuck to the yellow and black theme as my FPV fleet seems to have turned out these colours.
Additions now include a 3D printed battery and utility box. This will house a pair of meaty lipos and the Ardupilot that will be used in it. It will be having EZUHF control plus tinytelematary for the tracking side of thing.
The 4mm ply laser cut GoPro / FPv cam box should keep them nice and safe.
Can't wait to get her in the air again now!!
(http://s11.postimg.org/kmfmh3s6n/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/kmfmh3s6n/)
(http://s11.postimg.org/ivwlfmanj/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/ivwlfmanj/)
(http://s11.postimg.org/7h04azyb3/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/7h04azyb3/)
(http://s11.postimg.org/o3d36c1v3/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/o3d36c1v3/)
(http://s11.postimg.org/ljhgc8eb3/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/ljhgc8eb3/)
(http://s11.postimg.org/t0qnrg3u7/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/t0qnrg3u7/)
(http://s11.postimg.org/s8nzs8zn3/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/s8nzs8zn3/)
Nice job on the refurb mate!!
Love the gopro box. Take it you made it yourself? I've got a 60inch EPP Zephyr that needs a nice box, the stock ritewing one is a bit too plastic for me.
Think I may have a spare one.... I will have a dip in the shed tmoz and have a look for you.
Hi Flyn, Dogzilla and Bob,
Thanks for the info on the hinge tape, and thanks Bob for the offer of a roll.
After I read Dogzilla and Flyn's posts this morning I got online and ordered some of the HD clear tape from Ebay as I'm away on holiday at the moment and am hoping to have the last of the bits I need to finish the ZII ready for when I'm home. I've had notification that my 600mw vtx is on the way from Hobbyking , batts have arrived ( thanks Flyn - took your advice !) , just ordered a bit of solarfilm, am reading the FY41 manual, so everything else should have arrived at my work for collection by the time I get back.
Will keep you posted on progress, also Flyn, will contact you re antennas too !
Thanks again for your help fellas.
Regards
Mark
here look what I got on the bench
http://i.imgur.com/KZh6VGR.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/OpSAlUJ.jpg
OOWWWW! Quad Spar Z60!