Effective Tips for Storing RC Planes

Effective Tips for Storing RC Planes

When you’re an RC plane enthusiast, taking proper care of your aircrafts is essential to extending their lifespan and ensuring they’re always in top working order. Storing RC planes is particularly crucial for protecting the delicate aircraft from damage and wear and tear when they’re not in use. Proper storage not only safeguards the plane against accidental bumps or dings, but also shields it from potentially harmful environmental factors such as dust, heat, and moisture that can cause structural or mechanical problems down the line. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist or a new enthusiast, it’s essential to know how to safely store your RC plane to maximize its longevity and maintain its performance. In this article, we’ll cover essential tips and strategies for storing your RC plane effectively and ensuring that it’s always ready for the next flight, season after season.

Clear and Clean

Before storing your RC plane, it is essential always to give it a thorough cleaning. Dirt, dust, and debris can cause serious damage to your aircraft during storage, so it’s crucial to make sure it’s as clean as possible before storing it away. Some tips to help ensure your RC plane is prepped for storage include:

  • Use a clean, damp cloth or compressed air to clean the exterior of the plane and remove any dirt or debris.
  • Use a soft-bristled brush to clean any hard-to-reach areas, including crevices and gears.
  • Be sure to clean the landing gear or wheels thoroughly.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as they can damage the plane’s finish or internal electronics.
  • Consider using a protective cleaner or solution that can help repel dirt and dust.

By taking the time to clean your RC plane thoroughly, you can ensure that it’s in top condition come the next flying season. For cleaning supplies or solutions, check out your local hobby store or online retailers such as Amazon or eBay for some great options.

Why is cleaning tools and equipment important before storing it?

Properly cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment before storing them is crucial to their longevity and effectiveness. Here are some reasons why:

  • Prevents rust and corrosion
  • Removes debris and buildup that can damage the tools
  • Helps to prevent the spread of pathogens and bacteria
  • Keeps tools in good working order for future use

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storing your tools and equipment. Regular maintenance can prolong the lifespan of your tools and ultimately save you time and money in the long run.

If you’re in the market for high-quality cleaning tools and equipment, check out websites such as Home Depot or Lowe’s for a wide selection of products.

Disassemble for Safe Keeping

Once you’ve given your RC plane a thorough cleaning, it’s time to start disassembling it for storage. Disassembling your plane is incredibly important as it helps reduce the risk of any accidental damage during storage. Here are some tips for disassembling your RC plane:

  • Remove any detachable parts, including the wings, rudder, landing gear or wheels, and battery pack. Make sure to store each of these components separately.
  • Ensure that all screws and bolts are tightened securely, so they do not get lost during storage.
  • Be sure to label all your parts and components, so you know which piece goes where when it’s time to reassemble your plane.
  • If you plan to keep your propellers attached, be sure to pack them carefully and cover them with a protective cloth to prevent any accidental contact or damage.

To make disassembly and storage easy, you can purchase pre-cut foam inserts that custom-fit your RC plane. These foam blocks can offer excellent protection for your plane and reduce the risk of any unwanted damage during storage. Most hobby stores sell these foam inserts online or in-store.

Table: Steps for Disassembly

Step Action
1 Remove any detachable components, such as wings, rudder, landing gear or battery pack.
2 Tighten all screws and bolts securely.
3 Label all components, so you know what goes where.
4 Cover and pack any propellers carefully.

What is the process of disassembling?

Disassembling is the process of taking apart a machine, device or equipment in order to repair, maintain or replace parts. The process typically involves the following steps:

  • Turn off and unplug the device.
  • Remove fasteners, screws, bolts or clips that hold the device together.
  • Separate the different components of the device.
  • Identify and assess the condition of each part.
  • Replace or repair any damaged or worn out parts.
  • Put the device back together in the reverse order of disassembling.
  • Test the device to ensure it functions properly.

This process may vary depending on the type of device or equipment being disassembled. It is important to follow manufacturer instructions or seek professional help if needed.

If you need assistance with disassembling your device or replacing its parts, you can check out websites such as iFixit or RepairClinic that offer tutorials, guides and tools for DIY repairs.

Choose a Suitable Storage Location

Now that your RC plane is cleaned and disassembled, it’s time to select a suitable storage location. The spot that you choose to keep your plane is essential to ensure that it stays in good condition and remains undamaged. Here are some tips for selecting a storage location:

  • Choose a dry and cool spot to keep any moisture from damaging the plane’s electronic components. Moisture can cause corrosion to wires and metal parts, leading to expensive repairs later on.
  • Avoid storing your RC plane in a spot where it is likely to suffer any accidental damage by pets, kids or furniture. Keep it away from heavy-traffic areas and ensure it’s elevated high above the ground.
  • The storage container should be well-ventilated to avoid temperature fluctuation and prevent mold or mildew buildup.
  • If you have an RC plane with a large wingspan, consider storing it in sections to save storage space.

Several storage solutions are available, depending on how many RC planes you own and their size. There are custom cases or multi-stack drawers for compact storage or hanging storage units which save floor space. Some popular brands for RC plane storage solutions include Plano, Stanley or Zarges.

Recommended Products for Storage

  • Plano Hardshell Multi-Compartment Case
  • Stack-On Multi-Drawer Storage Cabinet
  • Stanley FatMax Storage Rack

How do you store an RC plane?

To properly store your RC plane and ensure its longevity, follow these simple steps:

  • Clean the plane thoroughly, removing any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated during use
  • Remove the batteries and store them separately in a cool, dry place
  • Store the plane in a protective case or specifically designed storage box to prevent damage or warping
  • Store the plane in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat or moisture
  • Check on the plane periodically to ensure it remains in good condition and is not exposed to any potential hazards

Overall, storing your RC plane properly will ensure it remains in good condition for years to come. If you’re looking for recommendations on specific cases or storage solutions, check out hobbyist websites or RC plane manufacturers for product suggestions.

Protective Coverings for RC Planes

Adding protective coverings is a great way to keep your RC plane in excellent condition while in storage. The type of covering you use depends on your storage location and the size of your plane. Below are some popular RC plane coverings that you can consider:

  • Storage Bags – These are ideal for storing smaller RC planes or parts that can fit into a bag. They are made of breathable materials that prevent dust accumulation, provide cushioning, and protect the plane from sunlight.
  • Bubble Wrap – Wrapping your plane with bubble wrap is a great solution to prevent possible damage caused by accidents. It can be used to wrap around the plane’s fuse, wings and other fragile parts to protect them.
  • Foam Wraps – Foam wraps are suitable for storing small RC planes or parts that can be wrapped in foam sheets. It provides cushioning, insulation and moisture protection by keeping the plane dry and cool.

Make sure that the covering you use is not too tight around the plane, as this can cause the plane to warp or become misshapen. Also, avoid using materials that can create static, which can damage electronic components.

Recommended Products for Coverings

  • Waterproof Carrying Case for RC Quadcopters
  • 5-Pack Foam Sheets for RC Plane Packing
  • Bubble Wrap Rolls – 3 Pack

How can I make my RC plane more stable?

Here are a few tips to make your RC plane more stable:

  • Ensure that the center of gravity is correct. This is critical in ensuring that your plane maintains its stability in the air. You can check the center of gravity by placing your fingers under the wings and balancing the plane.
  • Adjust the control surfaces. Reducing the amount of control surface movement can help stabilize your plane.
  • Ensure that you have enough power. A plane that lacks sufficient power will struggle to maintain stability in the air.
  • Check for any potential balance issues. Make sure that the wings, propeller and tail are all level and properly aligned.

For more advanced techniques and upgrades, you can consult RC enthusiast forums or specialty RC hobby websites. Additionally, there are products available such as gyroscopes and flight stabilizers that can help improve your RC plane’s stability.

Conduct Periodic Maintenance Checks

After a prolonged period of storage, it’s essential to conduct maintenance checks before flying the plane again. Below are some important checks to conduct:

  • Battery Life – Check that the battery is still functional and holds a charge. If the battery has degraded or expanded, it needs to be replaced.
  • Wires and Connections – Inspect all wires and connections for damage, such as frayed or disconnected wires.
  • Control Surfaces – Check that the control surfaces are still functional and have not become stuck or warped.
  • Lubrication – Apply lubrication oil to all moving parts to ensure they move smoothly and without excess friction.

By conducting these checks, you can ensure that your RC plane is in good condition and will perform well during its next flight.

Recommended Products for Maintaining Your RC Plane:

  • Battery Checker and Balancer
  • Mini Electric Screwdriver Set
  • RC Plane Lubrication Oil

How long can a RC plane last?

RC planes, like any other mechanical device, have a lifespan. The longevity of your RC plane will depend on several factors including its type, brand, quality and how well it is maintained. Here’s a breakdown of average RC plane lifespans based on type:

  • Electric-powered foam planes typically last between 100-300 flights.
  • Gas-powered planes made of balsa wood or other materials can last up to 1,000 flights.
  • Jet-powered planes have a shorter lifespan due to the stress they undergo during use and may last around 50-100 flights.

Remember to always take proper care of your RC plane by following maintenance instructions and addressing any repairs promptly to prolong its lifespan. Check out hobby and RC websites such as Horizon Hobby and Tower Hobbies for a variety of RC planes and maintenance products.

Conclusion

Proper storage is vital to maintain the integrity of your RC plane and ensure that it performs well during its next flight. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can prolong the lifespan of your RC plane and protect it from potential damage. Remember to clean the plane before storing it, disassemble it, choose a suitable storage location, use protective coverings, and conduct maintenance checks periodically.

We hope this article has been informative and helpful in guiding you on storing your RC plane effectively. If you have any additional tips or experiences on RC plane storage that you’d like to share, please leave a comment below.

With careful storage and maintenance, your RC plane will be ready for your next flying adventure!