Proper storage of your RC airplane is crucial for maintaining its condition and ensuring that it is ready to fly without unexpected issues. Storing your RC model correctly can prevent damage, preserve its electronic and mechanical components, and extend its lifespan. This article outlines best practices for storing your RC airplane effectively, whether it’s for short-term breaks between flights or long-term seasonal storage.
Introduction to RC Airplane Storage
Storage conditions and methods can significantly affect the performance and maintenance requirements of your RC airplane. Factors such as humidity, temperature, sunlight exposure, and positioning all play a role in how well your aircraft endures downtime.
Essential Tips for Effective Storage
1. Choosing the Right Location
The location of storage is critical. It should be a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and moisture are the main enemies of RC airplanes, capable of warping wood, corroding metal parts, and damaging electronics.
- Avoid Basements and Garages: Unless climate-controlled, these areas can be damp and prone to temperature fluctuations.
- Control Humidity: Consider using dehumidifiers or silica gel packets in storage areas to reduce moisture.
2. Cleaning Before Storage
Dirt, oil, and debris can cause long-term damage if not cleaned before storage. Follow these steps:
- Surface Cleaning: Wipe down the airplane with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Deep Cleaning: For internal components and hard-to-reach areas, use appropriate cleaners to remove oil residues and grime.
- Check for Pests: Ensure no insects or rodents can access parts of the plane, as they can chew wires or build nests.
3. Battery Care
Proper battery storage is crucial to avoid capacity loss, leakage, or damage:
- Discharge to Safe Levels: Store LiPo batteries at approximately 50-60% charge, which is considered the safe storage voltage (about 3.85 volts per cell).
- Cool and Dry Location: Keep batteries in a fireproof container away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.
- Check Periodically: Even in storage, batteries can lose charge. Check them every few months and recharge to safe levels if necessary.
4. Detach and Loosen Components
Reducing tension in the components during storage can help maintain their integrity:
- Remove Propellers: This prevents accidental damage or bending.
- Detach Removable Wings: If possible, store wings separately to reduce stress on joints and servos.
- Loosen Tension: Release tension in control surfaces and retractable landing gears to prevent servo strain.
5. Covering and Protection
Protect the airplane from dust, sunlight, and physical damage:
- Use Dust Covers: Soft, breathable covers can prevent dust build-up without trapping moisture.
- Avoid Plastic Wraps: These can trap humidity against the surface, promoting mold growth and corrosion.
- Positioning: Store the airplane in a way that prevents warping. Hang it from the ceiling or place it on a padded rack to avoid pressure points.
6. Fuel System Maintenance (for Gas-Powered Planes)
If you have a gas-powered airplane, the fuel system requires special attention:
- Drain Fuel: Remove all fuel from the tank to prevent gumming and corrosion.
- Clean the Engine: Use an engine cleaner to remove any residual fuel in the carburetor and fuel lines.
- Lubricate: Apply after-run oil to the engine to prevent rust and corrosion within the internal components.
7. Check and Maintain Periodically
Even during storage, periodic checks are necessary to ensure the airplane remains in good condition:
- Monthly Inspections: Look for signs of damage or stress.
- Operate Moving Parts: Briefly activate control surfaces and retractable parts to ensure they don’t seize up.
- Battery Checks: As mentioned, keep an eye on battery charge levels and health.
8. Preparing for Reactivation
When it’s time to take your airplane out of storage, do a thorough inspection and testing before flying:
- Comprehensive Inspection: Check for any signs of damage or wear that might have occurred during storage.
- Test All Systems: Ensure all electronics, controls, and motor/engine functions are operational.
- Charge Batteries: Fully charge your batteries and perform a capacity test if possible.
Conclusion
Proper storage of your RC airplane is as vital as any aspect of its operation. By following these best practices, you can protect your investment, ensure it’s ready to fly when you are, and maintain its condition over many flying seasons. Whether storing short-term between flights or long-term over the winter, the right storage techniques can make all the difference in the performance and longevity of your RC model.