To the majority of Radio Controlled Helicopter enthusiasts the expression RC Helicopter blade tracking is probably a complete mystery. It therefore makes sense to educate or at least try and educate those who are still perplexed by the matter.
So, what is blade tracking? Basically it is when one of the rotor blades rotates in a circular motion and the blade following it is exactly on the same level. In other words both blades turn round on the same plane with neither one being higher or lower than the other one. They are both travelling through the identical airspace that has been created by their spinning. Should the rear blade follow through on a different plane then vibrations can shake the RC helicopter. This is something you do not want to happen.
So how do you track your blades? If possible try and secure the assistance of an experienced flyer to help you. If this is the first time you are flying your copter you need to ascertain if the blades are tracking correctly. The blade tracking can be easily checked simply by hovering the copter at eye level and paying attention to the blades. If there appears to be shaking or vibrating this infers the copter is not tracking correctly. If you are unsure then try getting two different pieces of coloured paper and attach one piece to each blade. A different colour on each will make it a lot easier to ascertain which blade is out of kilter.
Once the tape is attached ask an experienced flyer to hover the copter for you so you can see the spin of the blades. Pay attention to the blades spinning and observe whether they are showing as a single circle or two coloured circles. Obviously if the former then all is well. If the latter then one of the blades will need realigning.
In order to track your rotor blades correctly you will to begin with need to land the RC Helicopter. When the blades stop spinning any necessary adjustment can hen be made. Keep the manual handy to enable you to look up the correct blade tracking data in it. Follow the information given and not the words of any one else. The correct way is always as the manual tells you.
When you believe that the matter has been corrected then get someone to fly the helicopter for you again so you can have a further look at the blades. If they are okay then all well and good otherwise repeat the process until such time as they are in order. In other words when they are properly tracked and are spinning on the same plane. When completed your helicopter will handle much more smoothly and will be much easier to fly.


