Andy-H

Same here, but it was worth asking……. BTW was using the original cable plus tried several others. I think the usb socket (or associated internal gubbins) is faulty Thanks all.

The error message shuts down the usb port on the pc which means the device isn’t recognised and doesn’t show in File Explorer. My understanding is firmware updates usually rectify glitches rather adding new features which why I thought it worth trying to update.

I suspect something has gone awry with the main board of my lipo charger, but worth floating this issue in case anyone might know of a solution. I have several Toolkitrc chargers, one of which is an M6DAC which can be ac or dc powered. Firmware updates are undertaken via on board USB-C socket to a pc port using a fairly standard usb cable. Whilst this worked when first bought in 2022 (so now out of warranty) it updated without any problem. However, when I tried to do so recently, the pc gives a current surge error message. Same thing trying with a different pc. Interestingly, when I plug it into a usb hub which has an independent power supply, the power light on the hub goes out, even when the hub isn’t connected to the pc. Have also tried several different cables. No solutions shown on YouTube or through Googling so I guess there’s a hardware problem associated with the on board usb port. It is charging and discharging properly but I just can’t update the software. No issues updating my other chargers. Anyone else had a similar issue and any suggested solutions ? Many thanks.

Thanks all - understood.

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Thanks again. As regards fuel, Jon suggested above using fuel with 5% nitro & 15% fully synthetic oil content. Is this a stock off the shelf product or would it need to be specially ordered ? I called SMC with a general enquiry and they suggested Duraglow 5% or 10% but that seems to have 6% castor oil content which I’m keen to avoid.

Thanks for all of your suggestions. I did wonder about some of the other brands so good to hear they are worth considering. TBH, as regards using a test bed, I had in mind using it mainly to gain familiarity with starting process, rather than letting it run for long periods. I’m quite looking forward to this.

I’m on the case …..

Brilliant ! Thank you.

Thanks Jon. I did buy one years ago but came stuck/unstuck with castor oil based fuel. Gummed up completely. No idea how to handle it and of course no on-line forums to turn to for guidance so sold it. If I may ask, what’s the main issue as regards tank placement ? I presume relationship with carb ? Thanks again.

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As a recent novice returnee to the hobby, I have focussed on electric powered models for their simplicity, whilst I build up my experience learning to fly these blooming things, and fix them when I goof. I’m currently flying a couple of models from the Chris Foss stable. Meanwhile, I have a long standing fascination with four stroke engines (I like the noise they make), and an interest in retro models for one reason or another. Having dabbled with basic 2-stroke OS FP motors 20+ years ago, I would now quite like to have a go with a four stroke, to see if I can get the hang of them, with a view to perhaps building an Astro Hog powered by a suitable motor. I’ve therefore been looking at used motors on the BMFA classified ads. I fully appreciate there is risk associated with buying a used engine, but I’ve been watching a few YouTube videos and am comfortable that I can replace bearings etc if necessary. My inclination is to stick with OS or Saito engines, solely based on brand perception, and to buy something that looks fairly clean in the 40-50 size . Plan is to buy one (maybe two), stick it on a test stand and play with it for a while to see if I can get the hang of it. If I can, then take the whole idea forward. I have a couple of questions and would very much welcome advice. 1) is it a good idea to stick to OS/Saito smaller engines to gain initial familiarity ? 2) what’s your usual practice for end-of-session clean down , particularly if the model has a cowl ? I have an old handbook (by Bill Burkinshaw) which recommends taking the cowl off and squirting oil into breather pipes, carb & glow plug apertures. Is that common practice ? Would welcome any guidance on the subject. Many thanks

Many thanks, both.

Thanks Grumpy. What gave rise to the question is that I have a spare AR631 AS3X receiver (which does not have a satellite socket). I also have my name down with Richard Wills for one of his Tempest kits and am wondering whether to use one of those in the Tempest or bite the bullet and buy a new receiver which can accommodate a satellite. Obviously, sticking with the Spektrum brand, that’s a significant outlay.

Any suggestions as to the circumstances when installing a satellite receiver might be warranted/recommended, in addition to a main receiver ? I’m using Spektrum radio kit and my aircraft are currently everyday balsa/ply/foam sports models, i.e. no carbon fibre in the structure. I have fitted these in a couple of models but just wondered whether there’s any general guidance on when to use and when not to bother. Any advice or thoughts would be much appreciated.