Heli-Max HMXE04 User Manual

READ THROUGH THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL
FIRST. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS
AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY
AND USE OF THIS MODEL.

HMXZ7006 for HMXE04** V1.1Entire Contents © Copyright 2007

Champaign, Illinois

[phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Rotor Span: 20.75 in [528mm]
Height: 8.125 in [206mm]
Length: 23 in [584mm]
Weight: 16.5 oz [468g]
Radio: 5-Channel FM with 3 micro servos and Receiver with

built-in ESCs and Gyro

Motor: 380 Brushed motor

Heli-Max

™

guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both
material and workmanship at the date of purchase.This warranty
does not cover any component parts damaged by use or
modification. In no case shall Heli-Max’s liability exceed the
original cost of the purchased kit. Further, Heli-Max reserves
the right to change or modify this warranty without notice.

In that Heli-Max has no control over the final assembly or material
used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted
for any damage resulting from the use by the user of the final
user-assembled product. By the act of using the user-assembled
product, the user accepts all resulting liability.

If the buyer is not prepared to accept the liability associated
with the use of this product, the buyer is advised to return
this kit immediately in new and unused condition to the place
of purchase.

To make a warranty claim, send
the defective part or item to
Hobby Services at this address.

Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as
much contact information as possible (daytime telephone number,
fax number , e-mail address), a detailed description of the problem
and a photocopy of the purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the
package the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible.

WARRANTY

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Dr., Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

USA

™

2

INTRODUCTION ..............................................................2

AMA ..................................................................................2

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................................................2

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED ....................................3

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS ..............................3

KIT INSPECTION..............................................................4

KIT CONTENTS................................................................4

METRIC/INCH RULER......................................................4

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS ..........................................5

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY ..................................6

PREFLIGHT ......................................................................7

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts) ....................................7

CONTROLS ......................................................................8

FLYING..............................................................................9

MAINTENANCE..............................................................11

OPTIONAL UPGRADE ..................................................13

PARTS LIST / OPTIONAL PARTS ................................16

DETAILED VIEW OF R OTOR HEAD / EXPLODED VIEW ....17

PARTS IMAGES ..............................................................18

OPTIONAL PARTS IMAGES ..................Back Cover Page

Thank you for purchasing the Heli-Max AXE™Mini EP RTF
Helicopter. We are certain you will get many hours of
enjoyment out of this model. If you should have any
questions or concerns please feel free to contact us at

[e-mail].

For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the
AXE Mini EP RTF visit the Heli-Max web site at
www.helimax-rc.com. Open the “Helicopters” link, and
then select the AXE Mini EP RTF. If there is new technical
information or changes to this model a “tech notice” box will
appear in the upper left corner of the page.

We urge you to join the AMA (Academy of Model
Aeronautics) and a local R/C club. The AMA is the
governing body of model aviation and membership is
required to fly at AMA clubs. Though joining the AMA
provides many benefits, one of the primary reasons to join
is liability protection. Coverage is not limited to flying at
contests or on the club field.It e ven applies to flying at pub lic
demonstrations and air shows. Failure to comply with the
Safety Code (excerpts printed in the back of the manual)
may endanger insurance coverage. Additionally, training
programs and instructors are available at AMA club sites to
help you get started the right way. There are over 2,500
AMA chartered clubs across the countr y. Contact the AMA
at the address or toll-free phone number below.

IMPORTANT!!!Two of the most important things you can do
to preserve the radio controlled model hobby are to avoid
flying near full-scale aircraft and avoid flying near or over
groups of people.

Failure to follow these safety precautions may result in
severe injury to yourself and others.

Keep your f ace and body as well as all spectators a wa y from
the plane of rotation of the rotors whenever the battery
is connected.

Keep these items away from the rotors: loose clothing, shirt
sleeves, ties, scarfs, long hair or loose objects such as
pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket
pockets into the rotors.

The spinning blades of a model helicopter can cause
serious injury.When choosing a flying site for your AXE Mini
EP RTF, stay clear of buildings, trees and power lines.
AVOID flying in or near crowded areas.DO NOT fly close to
people, children or pets. Maintain a safe pilot-to-helicopter
distance while flying.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Academy of Model Aeronautics

5151 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, IN 47302

Tele: [phone]

Fax [phone]

Or via the Internet at:

http://www.modelaircraft.org

AMA

CAUTION: Be aware that the AXE Mini EP RTF

operates on the same frequency band as larger R/C
models.If flying your AXE Mini EP RTF within five miles
of an R/C site, there is a real possibility that you could
be operating your model on the same frequency
(channel) as another R/C pilot. If this happens, a crash
will result–with the person flying the more expensive
model suffering the greater loss (and having greater
potential for property damage or injury). The best thing
to do is to join an R/C club and fly at the site where
frequency control measures will be in effect.If y ou insist
on flying elsewhere, always be aware of your

proximity to R/C flying sites.

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3

1. Your AXE Mini EP RTF should not be considered a toy,
but rather a sophisticated, working model that functions very
much like a full-size helicopter. Because of its performance
capabilities, the AXE Mini EP RTF, if not assembled and
operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or
spectators and damage to property.

2. You must assemble the model according to the
instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing so
may result in an unsafe or un-flyable model. In a few cases
the instructions may differ slightly from the photos.In those
instances the written instructions should be considered
as correct.

3. You must correctly install all R/C and other components
so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in
the air.

4.You must check the operation of the model before every
flight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the
model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check
linkages or other connectors often and replace them if they
show any signs of wear or fatigue.

5. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not flown this
type of model before, we recommend that you get the
assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for your
first flights.If y ou’ re not a member of a club , y our local hobb y
shop has information about clubs in your area whose
membership includes experienced pilots.

Remember: Take your time and follow the instructions
to build a safe and enjoyable model.

❏ Great Planes

®

Pro™Foam Safe CA+ Medium Glue

1 oz. (GPMR6069)

❏ Eight “AA” Alkaline Batteries for the Transmitter

Replacement parts for the Heli-Max AXE Mini EP RTF are
available using the order numbers in the Parts List on page

12. The fastest, most economical service can be provided by
your hobby dealer.

To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at
www.hobbico.com. Choose “Where to Buy” at the bottom
of the menu on the left side of the page. Follow the
instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian
or International dealer.

Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services by
calling [phone], or via facsimile at [phone],
but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will
apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged
sales tax. If ordering via fax, include a Visa®or MasterCard

®

number and expiration date for payment.
Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to:

Hobby Services

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed in
the Parts List. Payment by credit card or personal check
only; no C.O.D.

If additional assistance is required for any reason contact Product
Support by e-mail at [e-mail], or by telephone
at [phone].

ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED

We, as the manufacturer, provide you with a
top quality, thoroughly tested helicopter and
instructions, but ultimately the quality and flyability of
your finished model depends on how you build it;
therefore, we cannot in any way guarantee the
performance of your completed model, and no
representations are expressed or implied as to the

performance or safety of your completed model.

4

KIT INSPECTION

KIT CONTENTS

Before starting assembly, take an inventory of the AXE Mini EP RTF to make sure it is complete, and inspect the parts to
make sure they are of acceptable quality.If any parts are missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if you need assistance
with assembly, contact Product Support. When reporting defective or missing parts, use the par t names exactly as they
are written in the Kit Contents list.

Heli-Max Product Support:

3002 N. Apollo Drive, Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822

Telephone: [phone], ext.5

Fax:[phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

5

4

6

Kit Contents

1. Transmitter

2. Main Rotor Blades (2)

3. Body

4. Helicopter

5. 110V Wall Charger

6. 10.8v NiMH Battery

7. Training Gear (Carbon Rods,
Fittings, Foam Balls)

3

2

7

1

To convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4

5

Install Batteries in the Transmitter

❏ Remove the battery cover from the back of the

transmitter. Remove the battery box and install eight “AA”
batteries in the transmitter. Double-check the polarity of
each battery before replacing the battery cover.

❏ Turn on the transmitter using the power switch as shown

above.Check the LEDs on the front of the transmitter. Only
the Green LED should be on. If the Red LED is on, then the
batteries need replacing.

Install the Transmitter Antenna

❏ Insert the antenna into the top of the transmitter and turn

clockwise until tight.

Charging the Flight Battery

❏ WARNING! The charger supplied with the AXE Mini EP

RTF is only meant to charge the supplied NiMH battery
pack.Do not attempt to charge any other type of battery with
this charger.

❏ Plug the battery charger into an AC outlet. The light on

the charger should be Green.Now plug the battery pack into
the charger. The light should turn Red, which indicates
charging. Once the battery is completely charged the light
will turn Green again, indicating it is done.

If your flight battery is completely discharged it will take
approximately one hour to re-charge.

❏ The optional ElectriFly

™

11.1V 910mAh 15C balance
BP910 Lithium-Polymer battery (GPMP0709) can be used
for longer flight times and increased power. You must
purchase a special charger for Lithium-Polymer batteries
such as the Great Planes Lithium-Polymer Charger
(GPMM3110).To use this battery you will need to purchase
a Deans Ultra to Micro Deans adapter (GPMM3127).

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

6

Install the Battery

❏ Remove the canopy by sliding the canopy grommets off

of the carbon rods. Slide the battery into the front of the
battery tray as shown above. use a rubber band to hold the
battery into the tray.

Install Main Rotor Blades

❏ Using the 2 x 12mm hex bolts, mount the main rotor

blades as shown.Be careful not to overtighten them.

Blade Tension T est

❏ T o test the b lade tension, hold the helicopter up sidewa ys .

The blades should support themselves until the helicopter is
shaken slightly; then they will fall as shown in the picture
above.The blades should be fairly loose but it is critical that
both blades be the same tension.

Assemble T raining Gear

❏ Snap the four plastic fittings onto the landing gear as

shown. Slide the carbon rods through the underside of the
fittings.Center the carbon rods and apply a drop of medium
CA to the fittings to lock the carbon rods in place.Also apply
a drop of CA to the landing gear skids where the fittings
snap on.

❏ Cut the supplied silicone tubing into eight 1/8" [3mm]

pieces.Please k eep in mind that carbon rods are dangerous
to handle and splinter easily. Using pliers carefully slide the
silicone tubing onto the carbon rod approximately 4"
[102mm]. Now install a foam ball followed by a washer. Now
using pliers install the last piece of fuel tubing. Repeat this
step for the other three balls.

Electric Motor Warning

Electric motors are very dangerous. Please remove the
pinion gear or unplug the motor while working on the model.
If your heli uses an electric tail motor, make sure it is
unplugged as well.

GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY

7

Turning the Model On

Always turn the Transmitter on first and ensure the idle up
switch is off.With the AXE Mini EP RTF sitting still, plug the
battery into the ESC.The AXE Mini EP RTF must sit still for
10 seconds so the gyro can initialize and determine center.
If the AXE Mini EP RTF is moved during this initialization,
then the gyro will not operate properly.

Always step 15 feet away from the AXE Mini EP RTF before
flipping any switches or operating the throttle. Do not hold
onto the model and run it up. Safety first.

Range Check

Ground check the operational range of your r adio bef ore the
first flight of the day. For safety reasons, unplug the main
motor so power cannot be applied to the main rotor blades.
With the transmitter antenna collapsed and the receiver and
transmitter on, you should be able to walk at least 50 feet
away from the model and still have control. Have an
assistant stand by your model and while you work the
controls, tell you what the servos are doing. If the controls
do not respond correctly, do not fly! Find and correct the
problem first. Look for loose servo connections or broken
wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, poor solder
joints in your battery pack or a defective cell or a damaged
receiver crystal from a previous crash.

Balance the Main Blades

The AXE Mini EP RTF main rotor blades are already
balanced and ready to fly.

Identify Y our Model

No matter if you fly at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or if you
fly somewhere on your own, you should always have your
name, address, telephone number and AMA number on or
inside your model.It is required at all AMA R/C club flying sites
and AMA sanctioned flying events. Fill out the identification tag
on page 11 and place it on or inside your model.

Read and abide by the following e xcerpts from the Academy
of Model Aeronautics Safety Code.For the complete Safety
Code refer to

Model Aviation

magazine, the AMA web site

or the Code that came with your AMA license.

General

1) I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air
shows, or model flying demonstrations until it has been
proven to be airworthy by having been previously,
successfully flight tested.

2) I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately
400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the
airpor t operator. I will give right-of-way and avoid flying in
the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary, an
observer shall be utilized to supervise flying to avoid having
models fly in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.

3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the
flying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately fly my
models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.

5) I will not fly my model unless it is identified with my name
and address or AMA number, on or in the model.Note: This
does not apply to models while being flown indoors.

7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device
that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind).

Radio Control

1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground
check before the first flight of a new or repaired model.

2) I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of
spectators until I become a qualified flier, unless assisted b y
an experienced helper.

3) At all flying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be
established in front of which all flying takes place with the
other side for spectators.Only personnel involved with flying
the aircraft are allowed at or in the front of the flight line.
Intentional flying behind the flight line is prohibited.

4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies
currently allowed by the F ederal Comm unications Commission.

5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three

miles of any pre-existing flying site except in
accordance with the frequency sharing agreement
listed (in the complete AMA Safety Code).

9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person
touch a powered model in flight;nor should an y part of the

model other than the landing gear, intentionally touch
the ground, except while landing.

AMA SAFETY CODE (excerpts)

PREFLIGHT

8

Always turn the Transmitter on first and ensure the idle up
switch is off.With the AXE Mini EP RTF sitting still plug the
battery into the ESC.The AXE Mini EP RTF will need to sit
still for 10 seconds so the gyro can initialize and can
determine center. If the AXE Mini EP RTF is moved during
this initialization, then the gyro will not operate properly.

There is a safety built into the AXE Mini EP RTF that prevents
the motor from activating unless the collective stick has been
lowered to its lowest position.If the motor won’t run and turn the
main blades, please make sure the collectiv e stic k is all the w a y
down and leave it there for two seconds.

Transmitter Controls

All controls are described with the tail pointing directly toward
you.This is the best way to start out since it keeps the control
inputs orientated the same direction. Once you become
comfortable you can work on side in and nose in hovering.

Trainer System – You can use a cable to connect two
transmitters together and a instructor can take and give control
back with the release of a switch. Be careful not to hit this
switch while in flight as it disables the transmitter output.

The idle up switch is used for forward flight and aerobatics.
This switch raises the main rotor RPM and also changes the
lowest position on the throttle stick to around 40% throttle.
This allows the AXE Mini EP RTF to perf orm aerobatics and
inverted flight. This can be a dangerous switch since it
raises the throttle. Be extremely careful not to hit this

switch accidentally or the motor will instantly come on
to at least 40% power.

Moving the cyclic stick right will cause the helicopter to tilt
right and start moving that direction.

Moving the cyclic stick left will cause the helicopter to tilt left
and start moving in that direction.

Moving the cyclic stick backwards (towards you) will cause the
helicopter to tilt backwards and start moving that direction.

Moving the cyclic stick forward (away from you) will cause
the helicopter to tilt forward and start moving that direction.

CONTROLS

9

Moving the collective stick forward (away from you) will
cause the helicopter to climb higher.

Moving the collective stick backwards (towards you) will
cause the helicopter to descend.

Moving the tail rotor stick left will cause the helicopter nose
to move left (counterclockwise).

Moving the tail rotor stick right will cause the helicopter nose
to move right (clockwise).

Tracking the Main Blades

At zero pitch, bring the main rotor up to speed and observe
whether the rotational planes of the blades are the same. If
they are not, adjust one of the linkages to bring the blades
into the same plane.

Apply the two different colored stripe decals to the tips of
your main rotor blades.

The training gear is a big help to beginners.They soften not
so perfect landings and help to prevent the helicopter from
tipping over. Even if you have experience flying a helicopter,
please consider using the supplied training gear for the first
few flights.

Takeoff

During your first flights it is important to have light winds and a
helper to keep an eye on things around you. Also, if you are
flying from grass, make sure it’s cut low as this will allow the
helicopter to slide around without catching. Also make sure
there are no obstacles in your flying area to distract you.

FLYING

10

Slowly add power and observe the model. If you feel it
needs trimming, do so before lift off.You will quickly find that
model helicopters never allow you to return the sticks to
center. Simply hold the sticks as needed to keep a steady
hover. Please don’t fight the trim too much as it is a normal
thing to experience, Winds have a large effect on model
helicopters. Please wait for calmer days and slowly work
into windy days.

You will notice the cyclic controls lag behind your inputs.
This is perfectly normal and something you become
accustomed to. It is normal to drift around some in a hover,
until you get used to flying the model.The cyclic controls on
the AXE Mini EP RTF are fairly sensitive so only small
movements are necessary.

Hovering

Once the helicopter is in the air simply try to hold the
helicopter in one spot.This will take some practice and wind
has a big effect on the stability of the helicopter. Be patient
and slowly progress, trying to rush the learning process can
be costly.

Landing

Level the helicopter into a steady ho ver and slo wly decrease
power until the helicopter settles onto the ground.

Basic Maneuvers

Once you are comfortable with hovering at different
orientations and landing, it’s time to move on to more
advanced maneuvers.

Slow Pirouettes

– Add a small amount of tail rotor (left or
right) and try rotating the helicopter slightly sideways and
see if you can hold it there. If you become uncomfortable
bring the tail back towards you. Once you are comfortable,
try moving the helicopter to the side and turning back.Then
fly back to the other side in straight lines.

You can try rotating the helicopter around 360 degrees,
which is called a pirouette. The helicopter can dr ift during
this maneuver so make certain you have plenty of room
when you first start practicing.

After pirouettes it’s time to move onto nose-in hovering.The
best bet is to wait for a calm day. Take off and climb to 15
feet, practice half pirouettes from tail-in to nose-in hovering,
and try to lengthen the delay between transitions. This will
allow you to practice nose-in and still give you a chance to
get out of trouble. As you improve you’ll remain nose-in for
longer periods of time.

Now it’s time to work into basic forward flight. Just take the
basic hovering maneuvers listed above and slowly fly out
farther and faster and always bring the helicopter back after
one pass.Practice controlled slo w flight in close as well.The
more time you spend practicing here the easier things will
be later on.

Aerobatics

So you are getting comfortable in fast forward flight? Well,
now it’s time to slowly progress into aerobatics. Once you
are in forward flight start using the idle up switch which
raises the rotor RPM for aerobatics and allows the AXE Mini
EP RTF to fly inverted. Also, in wind it may be difficult to
descend to land without the idle up on.

Your first step is chandelles. Fly straight across in front of
you and pull up to a 45° angle. Now at the top, when the
helicopter slows down to a stop, apply some tail rotor to
bring the nose around 180 degrees and continue back down
the 45° angle.

As you progress with the maneuver you can pull a greater
angle than 45 degrees, but 90 degrees would be considered
a stall.

Loops –

Once you become comfortable with the chandelles
and stall turns it’s time to move onto the loop.The key to the
loop is to enter with plenty of speed. Star t pulling aft cyclic
to enter the loop and as the model transitions to inverted at
the top of the loop pull back on the throttle (towards negativ e
(-) collective) this will help maintain altitude. As the model
returns back to vertical add some positive (+) collective to
maintain the speed. One of the most common mistakes
made on loops is using too much negative (-) collective at
the top.

Flips –

These are a lot easier than they sound. Be certain to
start with plenty of altitude. From a upright hover slowly add in
full forward cyclic and as the model approaches vertical br ing
the collective stick back to center. Now as the model continues
to inverted you will need to start adding in negative (-)
collective (or pull the collective stic k back tow ards yourself).As
the model transitions back to vertical again bring the collective
stick back to the middle and start adding in positive (+)
collective as the model comes back to upright.

It’s simply a matter of timing.The most important thing is not
to throw the sticks around as this can cause the head speed
to drop and may cause the tail to drift.

Inverted Hovering –

Keep in mind flying a helicopter inverted
is very difficult but can be learned. One of the key problems is
3 out of 4 of the controls are reversed (forward/aft cyclic,
collective and tail rotor). You have to mentally reverse these
while flying. It will take some practice.

Take the loop you learned above and just hold the inverted
portion for short periods of time. As you become accustomed
to the reversed controls, you will extend the time inver ted. It is
very difficult and will take some practice.Also, make sure you
have plenty of altitude for recovery if needed.

11

E-Board Adjustments
Note: All of the e-board adjustments are pre-set and test

flown at the factory. If you replace the e-board with a new
one or need to re-adjust it for any reason, please follow the
guidelines below. Never turn these adjustments more than
180° and only use a plastic non-conductive screwdriver to
make the adjustment.

Tip: If you need to make some adjustments consider
using a felt-tip marker and place a mark on the
adjusters so you can always return them back to the
factory defaults.

Left/Right Bias –

Is used to obtain a balanced feel between
left and right tail rotor inputs. The adjustment is very
sensitive so only make small changes. Turn clockwise to
increase the left tail rotor bias.

Gyro Gain –

Tur n clockwise to increase gain. Typically too
little gyro gain causes the tail to slowly move around and
drift. With the gyro gain too high, you will notice a very fast
oscillation in the tail known as “Wag.”This adjustment is not
very critical so please don’t spend a lot of time trying to get
”the best” setting possible.

T ail Rotor Trim –

If the helicopter wants to drift one direction
in a stable hover then try using this adjustment. The
adjustment is very sensitive so only make small changes.
Tur n clockwise to add right tail rotor tr im.

Servo Setup
Note: The AXE Mini EP RTF is factory setup and test flown

so there is no need to make these adjustments unless you
have damaged or changed a servo.

Servo arms are perfectly level when the throttle stick is all
the way down in normal mode (Idle Up Off). Helicopter left
side Servo A pushrod length should be 1.77" [45mm].

Servo arms are perfectly level when the throttle stick is all
the way down in normal mode (Idle Up OFF). Helicopter
right side Servo B pushrod length should be 1.26" [32mm]
and Servo C pushrod length should be 1.77" [45mm].

Tail Rotor Replacement

Remove the small piece of silicone tubing from the tail rotor
shaft. Slide the tail rotor off of the shaft. Please notice there
are two pins protruding from the back side of the tail rotor.
These two pins must be aligned with the holes in the drive
gear. Simply slide the new tail rotor onto the shaft aligning
the pins with the drive gear. Press the silicone tubing back
onto the shaft. Make certain there is no end gap on the tail
rotor shaft once you are done.

MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

12

Spindle Replacement

Use a 1.5mm hex wrench to remove a spindle screw.Remove
the linkages from the blade grips and rotate both blade grips
straight down. On the side where you removed the spindle
screw, carefully remove the blade grip by pulling outward.

Remove the dampening spacer. Pull on the other blade grip
and remove the spindle and blade grip. If the O-rings come
loose simply press them back into the head block.

New spindle installation. Apply threadlocking compound to
one of 2mm screws. Slide the 2mm washer onto the screw
and thread it into the spindle. Slide one of the blade grips
onto the spindle followed by one of the dampening spacers.

Using a 1.5mm hex wrench, slide the blade grip and spindle
assembly through the head block.Make certain the O-rings are
properly seated and they do not slide out the other side.

Place the other dampening spacer and blade grip onto the
spindle. Apply threadlocking compound to the remaining
2mm spindle screw. Slide a 2mm washer onto the screw
and install into the spindle. Using two 1.5mm hex wrenches
tighten the spindle bolts.

Snap the ball links onto the blade grips and re-install the
main blades.

Main Shaft Removal

Remove the main rotor blades. Use a 1.5mm hex wrench to
remove the head bloc k retaining bolt.Using a pair of ball link
pliers remove the oval links from the swashplate. While
holding onto the main gear pull upward on the main rotor
head assembly. If the head is difficult to remove simply try to
rotate the main rotor head back and forth while holding onto

13

the main gear. Please note there is a flat spot on the main
shaft, you will not be able to rotate the head more than a f ew
degrees due to this.

Use pliers to grasp the 2mm nut on the main gear. Insert a 1.5mm
hex wrench into the main gear bolt and remov e the screw.

Insert a 1.5mm hex wrench into the main shaft collar set
screw and loosen. Insert another 1.5mm hex wrench into
the hole in the top of the main shaft.While holding onto the
main gear try pulling upwards on the main shaft. If you are
having difficulty removing the main shaft make certain you
have loosened the set screw on the main shaft collar. If
necessary try rotating the main shaft back and forth to help
pull the shaft loose form the lower gear. If you decide to
remove the main gear please note there is a small spacer
located beneath it.

Main Shaft Installation

Using the 1.5mm hex wrench and pliers to hold the nut.Re­install the lower main shaft bolt.

Insert a 1.5mm hex wrench into the main shaft collar set
screw. While pushing downward on the main shaft and pull
upward on the main shaft collar and tighten the set screw.
There should be no vertical movement in the main shaft
once you have completed this step.

Slide the main rotor head block back onto the main shaft.
Make certain the flat spot inside of the head block is aligned
with the flat spot on the main shaft. Use a 1.5mm hex
wrench to re-install the 2mm bolt head bolt.

This section is provided to help you install the optional
Futaba® GY240 AVCS heading hold gyro in the Heli-Max
AXE Mini EP RTF.This section may be omitted if you do
not intend to install this gyro.

Items Needed (must be purchased separately):

(1) Futaba GY240 AVCS Gyro (FUTM0809)
(1) Great Planes®ElectriFly™C-12
Micro Brushed ESC w/BEC (GPMM2015)
(1) W.S. Deans®Micro 2R Plug (WSDM3007)
(for C-12 ESC)
(2) Small Tie Wraps

Optional Items:

(1) Great Planes LiPo 910mAh 11.1V 3s 15C
Discharge Deans battery (GPMP0815)
(1) W.S. Deans 2-Pin Ultra Plug™WSDM3001)

OPTIONAL UPGRADE

14

Tools:

Solder and Soldering Iron
Wire Cutters

Installing a heading hold gyro into the Heli-Max AXE Mini
EP RTF will make the model easier to fly. The gyro will now
allow you to focus your concentration on the other controls
instead of constantly flying the tail.

We highly recommend using the optional Great Planes LiPo

11.1V 3s 15C battery (GPMP0815) for the best overall
performance. This battery provides a longer flight time and
higher power output in comparison to the stock NiMH battery.

Installing the Gyro

Use alcohol and a paper towel to remove any grease or
mold release agents on the gyro and helicopter frame.Apply
the double-sided foam mounting tape included with the gyro
to the bottom of the unit. Carefully align the gyro as shown
in the picture and mount the gyro onto the helicopter frame.

Solder a Micro Deans plug onto the motor wires of the C-12
ESC as shown. The negative (-) motor lead (blue wire)
connects to the male pin on the connector. This will be
connected to the tail motor in a later step.

It will be necessary to solder the E-Board and C-12 ESC to the
battery connector as shown above. If you decide to use the
Great Planes 910mAh LiPo battery (GPMP0815), we suggest

installing a Deans Ultra Male Plug onto the ESC and E-Board
to match the connector on the battery pack. The Deans Ultra
Plug will better handle the increased current draw of more
aggressive flight as your skill level advances.

Using wire cutters, remove the Deans Micro connector from
both battery input leads on the E-Board and the C-12 ESC.
Remove 1/4" [6mm] of wire insulation from both the positive
(+) and negative (-) leads of the C-12 ESC and E-Board.

Compare the battery pack connector to the ESC connector
and verify the polarity is correct before soldering.Twist and
solder together the positive battery lead from the C-12 ESC
and the positive lead from the E-Board. Slide the supplied
heat-shrink tubing (included with the Deans Ultra Plug) over
the wires and solder them to the Deans connector. Repeat
for the negative lead. Slide the heat-shrink tubing up the
wire to the plug. Use heat to shrink the tubing.

Disconnect the tail motor plug as shown above and connect
the plug directly into the blue and white motor wires on the
C-12 ESC.

Since the E-Board provides power to the receiver and
servos, the BEC in the C-12 ESC must be disabled.

15

Carefully lift up the plastic tab on the C-12 ESC connector,
remove the red pin from the plug, and fold it back over the
wire. Wrap a piece of electr ical tape or heat-shrink tubing
around the connector pin and wire. Plug the C-12 ESC into
the GY240 gyro.

Remove the orange wire from the receiver and plug the
GY240 into the same position.Verify the blac k wire (-) on the
connector is towards the outside edge of the receiver. Now
plug the orange connector into the next av ailab le position on
the receiver (channel 5), and align it with the column of
white wires on the other connectors.

Use two tie straps to attach the gyro wires to the frame.Bundle
the wires and ESC together at the front of the helicopter.

On the gyro, set the “AVCS”switch to “ON”and set the “DIR”
switch to “REV”. Set the gain to 60% using the adjustment
dial on the gyro.If necessary, adjust the gain to match your
flying style or desired setup.The typical range of gain is 50%
to 75%.

Review your work and verify that none of the wires can get
caught in the main rotor gear or the swashplate. The
helicopter is now ready for the test flight.

Flight Initialization

If this is your first time flying a heading hold gyro, be sure to
take your time and become accustomed to the new gyro
before jumping into your normal flying routine.

Tur n on the transmitter, center the tail rotor trim tab, extend
the antenna, and verify the idle up switch is “OFF” (toward
the back of the transmitter). Connect the flight batter y and
allow the gyro 10 seconds to initialize. The helicopter and
tail rotor stick must remain still during this process.

Arming the Tail ESC

The tail motor ESC must be armed before each flight. The
best time to do this is after you place the helicopter on the
ground before taking off.

You will hear three beeps from the tail ESC once the gyro
has initiated. Carefully apply full r ight tail rotor and you will
hear 4 beeps. Apply full left tail rotor and you will hear
another set of beeps. The tail ESC and motor are now
armed and you are ready to fly. If you need to pick up the
helicopter, firmly hold onto the main frame since the tail
motor could operate at any time. You can hold full left tail
rotor on the transmitter to prevent this from occurring.

Flying

If the tail wants to drift slowly due to wind gusts, your gain
may be set too low. Increase the gain a small amount and
see if performance improves.

If the tail has a tendency to oscillate from left to right, your
gain may be set too high. Reduce the gain and see if
performance improves.

GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!

Make a copy of this identification tag and put it on or
inside your model.

16

AXE Mini EP RTF Parts List

Key # SKU Description # of pcs.

04 ..........HMXM1002 ........NiMH Battery 650mAh, 10.8V ........1

05 ..........HMXE4703..........Antenna Tube..................................1

01 ..........HMXE7420..........Canopy White ................................1

03 ..........HMXE7426..........Canopy Grommets..........................2

35 ..........HMXE8607..........Center Hub ....................................1

37 ..........HMXE8606..........Control Hub Pin ..............................2

06 ..........HMXE8605..........Canopy Mounts ..............................3

52 ..........HMXM2005 ........Receiver..........................................1

53 ..........HMXM2003 ........E-Board (Mixer, Gyro, ESC) ..........1

50 ..........HMXE7802..........Flybar Links ....................................2

34 ..........HMXE7806..........Feathering Spindle..........................1

42 ..........HMXE7805..........Flybar Weights................................2

43 ..........HMXE7803..........Flybar..............................................1

39 ..........HMXE7804..........Flybar Paddles ................................2

49 ..........HMXE8621..........Head Bolt and Nut..........................2

40 ..........HMXE8622..........Head Button ....................................1

31 ..........HMXE7627..........Linkage Set ....................................5

48 ..........HMXE7362..........O-Ring Set......................................4

46 ..........HMXE8308..........Main Rotor Blades..........................2

47 ..........HMXE8313..........Main Blade Grips............................2

10 ..........HMXE8407..........Main Frame ....................................2

54 ..........HMXE8002..........Main Motor, 380..............................1

44 ..........HMXE8403..........Main Rotor Shaft Bushing ..............2

51 ..........HMXE8404..........Main Rotor Gear ............................1

30 ..........HMXE8405..........Main Shaft Collar and Bushing ......3

32 ..........HMXE8406..........Main Shaft ......................................1

25 ..........HMXE7301..........Replacement Bearing Set ..............8

8 ..........HMXE7342..........Screw Set ......................................40

38 ..........HMXE8801..........Seesaw ..........................................1

28 ..........HMXE8701..........Silicone Secure Tubes....................4

07 ..........HMXE8901..........Skids ..............................................2

09 ..........HMXE8902..........Skid Suppor ts ................................2

36 ..........HMXE9058..........Slide Block......................................1

41 ..........HMXE8813..........Stabilizer Control Hub ....................1

33 ..........HMXE9001..........Swashplate Assembly ....................1

14 ..........HMXE9002..........Swashplate Stay ............................1

11 ..........HMXM2004 ........Servo ............................................1

12 ..........HMXE8814..........Servo Mounting Screws..................6

13 ..........HMXE8818..........Servo Arms w/screws ....................6

16 ..........HMXE9550..........Tail Boom........................................1

17 ..........HMXE9551..........Tail Fin Support Rod ......................1

21 ..........HMXE9553..........Tail Motor ........................................1

5 ..........HMXE9554..........Tail Motor Extension Wire ..............1

23 ..........HMXE9555..........Tail Motor Mount ............................1

24 ..........HMXE9556..........Tail Motor Screws ..........................2

Key # SKU Description # of pcs.

27 ..........HMXE9557..........Tail Rotor Blade..............................1

26 ..........HMXE9558..........Tail Rotor Gear ..............................1

22 ..........HMXE9559..........Tail Rotor Shaft ..............................1

19 ..........HMXE9560..........Tail Shaft ........................................1

29 ..........HMXE9561..........Tail Vertical Fin Bracket w/screws ..3

18 ..........HMXE9562..........Tail Vertical Fin................................1

45 ..........HMXE9900..........Washer Set ....................................4

20 ..........HMXE8623..........Heat Sinks ......................................2

02 ..........HMXE8819..........Battery Rubber Bands ....................3

..........HMXE7508..........Decal Set ........................................

..........HMXE9552..........Training Gear ..................................2

..........HMXP1003..........Wall Charger ..................................1

..........HMXZ7006..........Instr uction Manual ..........................1

Optional Parts

Key # SKU Description

18 ..........HMXE7450..........Carbon Fiber Vertical Fin

w/mounting hardware

..........HMXE7451..........Carbon Fiber Horizontal Fin

w/mounting hardware

39 ..........HMXE7452..........Carbon Fiber Flybar Paddles

16 ..........HMXE7453..........Carbon Fiber Tail Boom

33 ..........HMXE7454..........CNC Swashplate Assembly

35, 40 ......HMXE7455..........CNC Center Hub & Head Button

36, 37 ......HMXE7456..........CNC Slide Block & Seesaw

41 ..........HMXE7657..........CNC Flybar Carrier

47 ..........HMXE7658..........CNC Main Blade Grips

..........GPMP0815..........Great Planes ElectriFly

™

910mAh,

11.1V LiPo Battery

17

Detailed View of

Rotor Head

Exploded View

18

Parts Images

19

Optional Parts Images

ElectriFly™11.1V 910mAh 15C
Balance BP910 LiPo Battery
Part # GPMP0709

ElectriFly T riton™Jr.Charger
Part # GPMM3152

ElectriFly T riton2

™

Charger

Part # GPMM3153

DuraTrax

®

IntelliPeak™ICE Charger

Part # DTXP4170

ElectriFly PolyCharge

™

LiPo Charger

Part # GPMM3010