700 Helis - Spare Parts Cost Comparison

[rdlohr]

Originally Posted by colcha

I have often wondered how various 700 sized machines compare to one another when it comes to spare parts costs. To satisfy my curiosity, I have put together a spreadsheet comparing a cross section of parts across various 700 helis which I thought may be of interest to others:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/...mc&usp=sharing

When reading this spreadsheet, the following should be kept in mind:

• I have only chosen parts that are common to all helis eg. I have not listed torque tubes, belts, intermediate gears, etc.
• this is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the parts that are likely to break in a crash
• prices are based upon a single unit eg. items such as shafts are often sold in pairs.
• I have not taken into consideration the fact that the same part in different helis may be less susceptible to damage in a crash eg. boom on a Goblin, upper frames in a 7HV
• whilst this list is not exhaustive, it does give a general idea of spare parts costs for a particular heli relative to other helis
• there are a number of 700 size helis that I have not listed (eg. Whiplash, Faifa, etc). If there is interest, I might add more helis at a later time.

It is interesting to note that spare parts costs for the E720 (the most expensive heli):

• was than 50% higher than the cheapest heli (700DFC); and
• was higher than the TDR (even though the E720 is mass produced whilst the TDR is hand made)

Thanks for taking the time to do this. Great information all in one spot!

Rick

[colcha]

Originally Posted by Lighty

I think TSA takes the prize on the cheapest parts.

Almost!

I have just added the TSA Infusion 700E Pro to the spreadsheet.

[Rudy]

I have done spreadsheets like this everytime I buy a RC heli, car or many other things I buy. It's called research, and being an informed buyer. As others have pointed out there are many things to consider in cost of ownership. While Align appears to have a low cost "I" feel they are lacking in quality. While I have broken a ball on a swash plate I have never replaced one before. But these are all things you look at and decide which one fits your needs/wants.

To many people buy stuff with out thinking about it and end up wasting a lot of money on stuff they really did not want. If they had just spent a little time and effort to research what they were buying they probably would not have bought it.