I 'm finding it slow and awkward to use the out-of-the-box method for folding and unfolding the X8+ when stowing and setting it up for use. The aluminum thumb nut is so easy to drop and lose in the grass, and the arms have to be opened precisely so that the screw holes align, and worst of all you have to be so careful when inserting the screw not to damage the ESC wires inside the arms. DJI’s solution for the S1000 of captured locking plastic hinges is so much better than this. Has anyone figured out an elegant modification to incorporate a captured locking pin, and to secure the ESC wires to the inside wall of the arm so they can’t be damaged when securing the unfolded arm?
I agree, and have lost those screws several times. I painted our screws neon orange and bring spares with to the field just in case. I had some thoughts on a spring loaded pin similar to how metal crutches adjust the length but haven’t acted on it yet. As far as protecting the ESC wires, you could use wire loom or shrink tube but this would probably require you to remove the ESCs to get the wire loom in place.
I hear you. I just received my X8+ today and was disappointed at the portability. I love the unit and the case is good quality, but it is just not practical for everyday use. Having to unscrew and fold the arms is a real pain and once I mount a gimbal it will not fit either. I’ve spoken with another X8 owner and he purchased small locking slide pins for the arms. I’ll be looking for something like this soon…for both the arms and for the folding crab legs. Would love to hear any other solutions to these challenges as well as the case.
See if you can find more info on the slide pins he used. I have been looking all over but don’t realy know what they are called. If I could figure out what they are called I am sure McMaster has them. I found some small cross pins that accept cotter pins but they were just a touch loose and let the arms move more than I would like.