"Align 700E/E1" MD530F build - NZ
Scott S.
New 700 size heli build, outlook and purpose
Following many years of "flybarring" around a "stand off scale" 600 size Fun-Key MD500E with quite a few hrs on it and lifting external "scale" loads around all on 6S - I decided it was time to consider a replacement.
So, given the growing scarcity of the earlier Align 600E parts I am familiar with, the intent of lifting external loads and the possibility of 5 blades, It was very obvious that a different mechanics should be considered and that 12S was best moving forward.
It had been suggested to me that I should also consider 700 size. This simply makes sense as others have explained that although not too much bigger than 600, they are just better in terms of presence in the air, "knuckle" room when working on it, and a bigger rotor span taking the sling loading better than 600 size. Also....jokingly or seriously - a "north of 50yr old " size model!
I also then felt that the cost of building up a such a model in 700 over 600 size is not significant enough to be concerned with.
So, given happy with the iconic MD500E, I decided an unpainted version of the 700 size Fun-Key fuselage will be the replacement. Then... what to do mechanics wise....well it is also fairly obvious that the earlier Align 700E mechanics are a perfect choice for me, in particular when I discovered that this now older frame set is entirely compatible with the later current 700X transmission parts.
I then found what may have been the last remaining Align 700E combo kit in the world sitting on a shelf in a shop in Canada! A fellow modeller I owe so much to for extensive help and advice already, helped me acquire the kit and get it sent out to NZ for which I am very grateful!
So, the intended purpose of this build could be best described as "stand off scale" with limited scale detail and more focus on building a neat and tidy simple but strong, practical and capable model that will do many hrs of my usual fun "shenanigans" at a cost I "cannot" afford! - well! can any of us "afford" our models LOL?!
43 Comments
Ahhh, the key to getting it right. Having the patience to tack, try and adjust makes for a properly aligned set of mechanics and is always worth the time!
Air = good! 🧐
I didn't know that about the Fun Key fuselages... too late now, but I'll keep it in mind for the next project. I'll be wait to see the finish product 😉
If its any help for those with ready painted models, I know someone who simply added carbon cloth in the shape of the indent in center of upper fin and reported an improvement. It also worth mentioning that there is an alloy upgrade part which keys into the tail box to which the fin is then mounted to, rather than the stock plastic part - I recommend this as the plastic is once again an area that can allow some movement. A small flex here leads to a larger flex at end of fin. Although all a worthwhile assurance against unwanted T tail shimmy, another little trap as I was educated on, is to ensure your governor gain and tail gyro gain settings are appropriate for your given set up. Typically T-Rex helis for example running Castle ESC benefit from a lower governor gain.
NICE !!!!!!!!!
May I ask where you purchased the hook? BTW, I’m enjoying reading your build steps.
Thank you Thomas, here is the hook-note that I have modified mine a little.
https://www.modellhubschrauber.ch/Scale-parts/Scale-parts-exterior/...
Email Thomas Baumann directly to enquire about shipping
Scott, thank you. I recall seeing that one and not being able to ship to the US. I have emailed them, hope they will.
Scott,
This is simply Bad Azz. Nice job on the mounting.
B
Thank you Butch 🙂
Scott,
That is a very impressive set up you have there. An actual functioning RC spreader. How friggen cool is that.
B
Thanks Butch - a scale helicopter "doing scale things" 🙂
Scott, this is so cool....love it
Thank you Mark 🙂
I glad you posted that….good info. Thank you, well done (again!)
Thank you Thomas 🙂
I love this!!
Thanks Michael, its something different!
So cool 😎
That is some fantastic flying. 👍👍👍👍
Cheers Butch 😎
Very nice. Professional Service 😄
I’m in the middle of a Bell 429 build and it seems to go on and on…..so it is good to see someone else spending all this time to perfect what we love to do.
Thanks for the support Thomas, yes I am prepared for the "on and on" as I am about to start the many small steps it takes to get it really good. Then I will take it out into better lighting and discover its still not there!
Scott,
Always a good feeling to see a project going to the paint shop.
I looked through your chapters looking for the paint scheme and did not notice it.
Any pics?
B
Hello Butch here is the planned "scheme" inspired by fellow modeller - missing is some small "thanks to" print also planned to acknowledge key help in the build 🙂
Looks great.
B
Base and clear done
Base and Clear in Baslac auto paint
I even unmasked without breaking anything!
I have always liked the 500 series helicopters. Maybe some day I will build another but bigger. Back in the day had a Raptor 50 with the Thunder Tiger 500 fuse. I used a Helitronic mixer with a couple of 401's, installed along with Century 5 blade head and it flew great.
Looking Great Scott,
B
Thank you Butch, yes things have a come a long way electronically, I was astonished how well the Axon works - never flown FBL or multi - popped it up into hover and within minutes felt a lot of confidence with it on the very first test flight. Thankful also of the Roban heads which seem to be very well machined, and not seen of any complaints with them....a real bonus for us 600/800 modellers...
Dammit Mann, That looks AMAZING. Love the photo with the working sling load equipment. Very Impressive.
Thanks for sharing,
B
Impressive work! Looks full scale alongside the building.
Awesome
Very nice congratulations
Thanks for all the kind comments guys!
SHARP!!!
Great flying! Making it look way too easy.
https://youtu.be/M5HeC_OG_3o
First few goes with the bucket on the 530F...still learning to fly the new multi blade heli and FBL as this is all new for me! bucket strops since lengthened some to stabilize a bit more...
https://youtu.be/_w2bxezZTA4?si=EYTVXk4GHhDkzBb9
a recent go at editing...
https://youtu.be/60Wewe7FiOg?si=rW3uB7ezqK6XKMbc
a recent go at editing some footage https://youtu.be/60Wewe7FiOg?si=xuZKFWFoi6Jiix-w