Larry Jolly

IF you're thumbing through the pages looking for Dave Chesney's column, I'm afraid you'll have to settle for these words, instead. Dave has decided that it is time to relinquish the reins to another scribe. I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision for Dave, and I hope that I can continue the column to the same standard of interest that he achieved. I think I speak for all of us, Dave: as a faithful reader, thank you for a job well done. Before we start our journey through the printed pages, I'd like to introduce myself and describe the intent of what I hope to achieve writing for Model Aviation. My name is Larry Jolly; I am 29 years old, and I am a native California. I was born into a modeling family and, as a result, have been active in the hobby from quite an early age. I have been flying model Helicopters for almost six years. I do not own one of each type of RC Helicopter, but I endeavor to stay current by flying as many different types of machines as possible. I believe that by flying many different models, I can achieve enough experience to intelligently discuss the pros and cons of any machine being evaluated here.

SAFETY. In the preceding article, I said that I would compile a list of mandates necessary for safe RC Helicopter operation. The following are the results: In the shop. Check your Helicopter for loose screws or nuts. Always use locknuts that don't have nylon seals. On nuts that do have nylon seals, always make sure the screw threads extend past the seal at least two threads. Periodically check ball links to see that they are not worn out. Check your radio equipment for loose wiring, sloppy gears, or worn output arms. Make sure that your receiver battery is in good shape and up to the job intended. Four or five servos under a load can really drag a pack down in a hurry. Check the fuel system for leaks or a detached clunk in the fuel tank. Always use a fuel filter and check that it is not plugged up with debris.