Ball links should be checked after virtually every flying session. Don't forget that where you've made up a ball joint by using a bolt through the ball, the ball must NOT be able to rotate. If it does, wear will be rapid which will result in major control slop. Check the ball joint is a good fit on the ball. If it's too tight it can be relieved by gently squeezing the link with pliers whilst it's on the ball. All linkages should be checked for free play at the same time.

End float on the main shaft. I only mention this as it happened to the X-Cell after about a dozen flights. Basically whilst flying circuits I became aware of a new noise. In this case it turned out there was excess end float in the main shaft that was affecting the gear mesh. It was a simple matter to adjust the play out by loosening the locking collars on the shaft, repositioning everything and tightening the collars back up.

Fuel tubing and the general plumbing should be checked on a weekly basis. The tubing inside the tank leading to the clunk is constantly submerged in fuel and will suffer in time. If you own a Raptor the standard clunk fuel line is notorious and WILL fail in a very short time. Don't forget to check the line to the pressure nipple on the exhaust, and check the nipple is secure in the muffler.

Inspect the tail boom for cracks and general integrity, particularly after a heavy arrival. You can get away with a dented boom but NEVER try to straighten a boom as it's liable to crack. If you have belt drive to the tail as in the Raptor and Shuttle, ensure that any minor dents are not getting in the way of the belt and causing unnecessary wear. Boom supports often come undone so check their security on a regular basis. Loose or poorly fitting supports will cause tail stabilisation problems, possible cracks, and can cause radio glitches.

The canopy must fit well with no excessive vibration apparent. If you have cut outs in the canopy to access the main switch make sure there's sufficient clearance as a canopy that either moves or vibrates could switch off your receiver.

Check your servos are in good order and are not binding or over extending. A stalled or binding servo will cause rapid battery drain. Make sure all servos are securely mounted and not coming loose. If you have the receiver and battery secured by straps or elastic bands check everything is secure on a regular basis. Glow fuel will perish elastic bands fairly quickly, so make sure you have spares in your flight box.

Check all wiring on a regular basis. Nylon cable ties are very hard and chaffing will occur if care is not taken. Many people use spiral wrap to protect the wiring but you can use pieces of split fuel tubing to protect the wiring where it's secured to the air frame. Don't forget to check the aerial wire and keep it clean.

The idea of maintenance is to maximise your flying time at the field so develop your own routine and keep to it.

3