Building my first F450

[greeneggsandsam]

Hi there,
I decide to build my first F450. I've looked into some ARF kits but like the idea of starting from scratch. My biggest question is parts. Should I be going with what most ARF's spec from various websites or does anyone have a favorite motor/prop/etc. that they have been really pleased with. I don't know an awful lot about the various manufacturers but I have been spending alot of time browsing them. The only thing I know for sure is that I will be going with the DJI Naza Flight Controller with the GPS.
Does anyone have any advice for a newbie starting his first build?
Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[v84x4]

I am a Noob also

But have been into the RC hobby since 1986

I too bought a F450 and had fun with the stock setup learning the ropes but it was time for me to advance

With the advance of GoPro3........I have since ordered a TBS Discovery Frame ( www.team-blacksheep.com)
Not available yet I have pre ordered it to advance in using a FPV

I have also purchased a lower KV rated motor AXI 2214/22
Lower KV bigger Props allows for a heavy lift (GoPro, NEX 5 FPV system) where as higher KV and smaller props allow for more maneuverability and lesser battery.......

I ran my f450 10" stock props on 3S 3200mAh and had flight times of 16 min.
Then I switched to 4S 5000mAh LiPo on 10" props and had 26min of flight time

Every little change makes a BIG Difference

So you should ask yourself "What do you want to do with your quad first........... FPV?...... Long flight time?........ Heavy Lift?
(You can't have it all)

Then............ re ask your question using specifics to your advancement like:
I have a F450 and want to carry a GoPro and get 15min flight time
OR
I have a F450 and need to stay in flight for more then 20min, what do you suggest for motors, battery & ESC's?

The ppl on this forum are awesome & knowledgeable ppl, but chose to treat N00B's like N00B's so getting an answer takes a while.....
Chances are, your question has been asked & answered before and they want you to read first (just like any forum)

Another good source is http://www.oddcopter.com/
Just a blog but many great links to use to your advantage

How about a quad that floats?

Hope this helps
Regards Rick

 

[greeneggsandsam]

Thanks Rick for your reply that's awesome feedback. My biggest concern was the F450 overall. Could I conceivably do it all with that frame, and it sounds like I could.
For now I am looking at average flight times (20-25 minutes) and maneuverability so I can really hone my flying skills. If I got this right then as my skills progress and I wish to get into the aerial photography and FPV arenas I can swap out parts. That TBS looks pretty sick and it gives you that "In the drivers seat" feel versus hanging from some skiis below the quad as I have seen with most camera mounts. Again thanks for the input and as I start building I'll be sure to refer to the forums here for tips and tricks. I'm hoping to be up and running by the spring.