450 Blade 450 Screws

[RMB677]

On the Blade 450 3D, does anyone know the specs/size of the screws used to lock the tail boom into the frame. On the parts list they aren't called out separately, only in a parts pack that I currently don't need. I've had to loosen these screws a couple of time to tighten the tail belt and with them being phillips head I'm afraid sooner or later the head will strip out. If I can find one's small enough that use an allen key it would be great.

 

[murankar]

Just go to Lowes and see if they have something that matches. If so then get them in hex head or see if horizon hobbies has them in hex.

 

[Tony]

If it's not metric, then I'm guessing it's a 4-40 screw. But, I'm sure even the blade heli's were built in china so they will be metric and I have no idea.

 

[breeze400]

Ace hard where or Hector's is where I would look! Any good hard where store in your area will carry metric screws. I would suggest stainless screws though.

 

[RMB677]

Since it doesn't take much of a tail hit on the ground to move the tail boom and loosen the belt, loose belt already caused a crash, I'm thinking of trying to find a screw/bolt long enough to pass through the frame that can be tightened using a nut rather than depending on a screw in plastic. (Whew, that was a long sentence) I guess taking a screw to ACE and seeing what I can find is my best bet. If need be I might drill the hole larger if nothing is in the way.

 

[Tony]

Put a couple-three rounds of scotch tape on the boom, it will stop it from twisting like that. On a hide note... Mmm Scotch

 

[RMB677]

Thanks for that tip Tony, I wasn't sure if that would be an acceptable solution. As to the side note, I'm getting ready to pour myself a double Jack Daniels and go watch the news.

 

[Tony]

You need to try Crown Black. It's OMG Good!

 

[RMB677]

Solved the problem. Even after replacing the broken tail boom I could not get the boom mount screws to tighten sufficiently to keep the boom from sliding in and loosening the belt. The screws are small machine/sheet metal type screws and go into plastic. To sove the problem I bought a length of 2-56 all threaded rod and nylon insert locking nuts. I drilled out the screw holes through the frame, inserted the all thread with the nuts, tightened everything and so far no more problem.

If you can find 1-64 rod and nuts you will get away without having to enlarge the hole as much.