Author: kabrackin@gmail.com

Happy New Year from the York Area R/C Club

By York Area R/C Club | January 1, 2026

As we turn the page on another year, the York Area R/C Club would like to wish all of our members, families, and fellow RC pilots a very Happy New Year.

The past year brought plenty of flight time, learning moments, repairs, laughter, and shared experiences at the field. Whether you logged hundreds of flights or just enjoyed being around good people and great airplanes, every moment helped make our club what it is.

Looking ahead, the new year brings fresh opportunities — new models to build, skills to sharpen, events to enjoy, and memories yet to be made. No matter your experience level, there’s always something new waiting in this hobby, and we’re glad to share it together.

Thank you for being part of the York RC community. We look forward to seeing you at the field soon.

Blue skies and smooth landings,
York Area R/C Club

Twas Christmas at the RC Field | York RC Club Holiday Poem


Christmas at the RC Field | York RC Club

The York Area R/C Club would like to share a little holiday fun with our pilots, families, and friends. 🎄

As the flying season slows down and the days get shorter, it’s a great time to think about the people and airplanes that made this year special. ✈️

Instead of a technical article, we wanted to celebrate with a Christmas poem. 🎅

If you’ve ever spent a cold morning at the field warming up your fingers on a transmitter, this one is for you.

If you’re new to the hobby, consider this a lighthearted welcome to the York RC community. 🤝

And if you’re a long-time member, we hope it brings back a few memories of frosty runways and smooth winter air. ❄️

So grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and enjoy a visit from a very special RC Santa. ☕

Here is our take on the classic ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, RC airplane style. 🛩️

Continue reading “Twas Christmas at the RC Field | York RC Club Holiday Poem”

The Ultimate RC Pilot’s Christmas Gift Guide:

Christmas is in the air, and for RC pilots, that means one thing: it’s time to dream of new planes, gear, and gadgets under the tree. Whether you’re buying for a fellow pilot or writing your own wish list, we’ve rounded up the best RC-related gifts to make this holiday season truly fly. From practical tools to bucket-list models, this guide has something for every type of flyer — beginner to expert.

🎁 RC Airplanes & Kits

🧰 Tools & Accessories

  • Field Toolkit: Hex drivers, nut spinners, pliers, and a dedicated RC tool bag.
  • Soldering Station: A digital, temperature-controlled unit for perfect joints.
  • Prop Balancer: Inexpensive, practical, and a perfect stocking stuffer.
  • Workbench LED Lighting: Bright, adjustable lighting makes winter building far more enjoyable.

🔋 Batteries & Chargers

  • Smart Chargers: The ISDT K4 or Spektrum S2100 deliver safe, fast, and flexible charging.
  • Extra Packs: More batteries = more flying time! Just check connector type and cell count.
  • Battery Storage: LiPo-safe bags or fire-resistant cases make thoughtful, safety-focused gifts.

Safety Tip: Always charge LiPos on a non-flammable surface and never leave them unattended.

📡 Transmitters & Radios

🧤 Cold Weather Gear for RC Pilots

  • Transmitter Mitt: Keeps hands warm and radios dry.
  • Heated Vest or Gloves: Ideal for hardcore winter flyers.
  • Snow Landing Gear: Skis or floats help convert snowy fields into flyable runways.

🎮 Flight Simulators

  • RealFlight Evolution: The gold-standard RC sim — perfect for winter practice.
  • AccuRC: A great option for heli pilots honing agility and 3D skills.

Pro Tip: Pair a simulator with a USB controller or transmitter dongle for a complete training bundle.

📦 Stocking Stuffers (Under $25)

  • LED navigation lights
  • Servo testers or digital angle gauges
  • Propeller sets and clevis assortments
  • RC-themed keychains, patches, or pins

📚 Books & Subscriptions

🛠 DIY & Custom Gifts

  • Hand-painted spinner or cowl
  • Custom vinyl decals with name or tail number
  • 3D-printed field accessories (wheel chocks, transmitter stands)
  • RC-themed Christmas ornaments (planes, helis, drones)

Note: As the flying season winds down, this will be our final article for the winter. We’ll return with new content starting March 7, 2026 — see you in the spring!

Even though the weekly series is taking a winter break, we’ll still post occasional updates whenever something noteworthy pops up. Want to be the first to know when new articles go live? Click here to join our mailing list and receive updates right in your inbox.

✨ Wrap-Up

Whether you’re flying foamies in the snow or building a new kit in the garage, there’s no better time to celebrate the RC hobby than the holiday season. From all of us at the York Area RC Club, we wish you clear skies, safe flights, and a very Merry Christmas!

🎄 Don’t forget to check out our other guides:

Happy Holidays and Blue Skies from YorkRC.org! ✈️

Giving Thanks for RC Flight

Thanksgiving is a time to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the things that bring joy to our lives. For those of us in the RC community, flying is more than just a hobby — it’s a source of friendships, challenges, and unforgettable memories. This season, we’re taking a moment to say thank you for the gift of RC flight.

🛩 Thankful for the Thrill of Flight

  • The excitement of takeoff and the satisfaction of a perfect landing never gets old.
  • Each flight — whether a smooth cruise or a daring aerobatic pass — reminds us why we fell in love with the hobby.
  • Even the occasional crash teaches patience, problem-solving, and resilience.

👨‍✈️ Thankful for Our RC Community

  • Club members who offer advice, spare parts, or a helping hand at the field.
  • Friends who share in both our victories and our “learning experiences.”
  • Mentors who pass down knowledge to the next generation of pilots.

⚙ Thankful for the Hobby Itself

  • A wide variety of models to suit every interest — from scale warbirds to foam park flyers.
  • Innovations in radios, batteries, and electronics that make flying safer and more reliable.
  • The opportunity to learn new skills like building, soldering, and tuning.

🌅 Looking Ahead

As the flying season winds down and winter sets in, we look forward to what spring will bring — new projects, new challenges, and more time in the air. Whether you’re flying in the snow or storing your planes for the season, take a moment to be grateful for the simple joy of flight.

Happy Thanksgiving✨ Wrap-Up

From all of us at the York Area RC Club, thank you for being part of our community. We wish you a warm, happy Thanksgiving filled with good food, great company, and maybe even a little flying if the weather cooperates.

🦃 Next up: Our final article of the year — “The Ultimate RC Pilot’s Christmas Gift Guide: Top Picks for 2025.”

Happy Thanksgiving and blue skies from YorkRC.org! ✈️

Winter Storage & Maintenance for Your RC Gear

As the days grow shorter and colder, many RC pilots take a break from regular flying. But the off-season is the perfect time to give your aircraft and gear the attention they deserve. Proper storage and maintenance not only protect your investment but also make sure you’re ready for smooth, trouble-free flights when spring returns.

🛩 Preparing Aircraft for Storage

  • Clean Thoroughly: Remove dirt, grass, oil, and exhaust residue. Pay special attention to hinges, linkages, and the landing gear.
  • Inspect for Damage: Look for loose covering, cracked control horns, and worn servo arms. Address these now so repairs aren’t a spring surprise.
  • Protect Surfaces: Apply a light coat of furniture polish or plastic protectant to keep the covering material from drying out.

🔋 Battery Storage

  • LiPo Batteries: Store at 50–60% charge in a fireproof bag or LiPo-safe container, away from flammable materials.
  • NiMH & NiCd Packs: Fully charge before storage, and top off every couple of months.
  • Lead-Acid Batteries: Keep fully charged, and check voltage monthly.
  • Storage Location: Keep all battery types in a cool, dry environment to extend lifespan.

⚙ Engine and Motor Care

  • Glow/Gas Engines: Drain remaining fuel, then run the engine dry. Add after-run oil to prevent internal corrosion.
  • Electric Motors: Blow out dust and debris, and check motor bearings for smooth rotation.
  • Propellers: Remove props when storing to avoid stress on shafts and prevent accidents during maintenance.

🧰 Radio System Maintenance

  • Transmitters: Remove or recharge batteries before long-term storage. Clean the exterior and inspect switches.
  • Receivers & Servos: Check wiring for frays, secure connectors, and ensure servo arms are tight.
  • Antenna Care: Inspect antennas for cracks or bends that could affect signal range.

🏠 Storage Environment

  • Temperature Control: Avoid unheated sheds or damp basements. Extreme cold or humidity can cause damage.
  • Safe Positioning: Store aircraft on stands or hanging racks to prevent warping.
  • Dust Protection: Use covers or clean sheets to protect from dust buildup.

🔧 Off-Season Projects

  • Install upgrades like stronger servos, better landing gear, or a more efficient propeller.
  • Rebalance your aircraft and check the center of gravity.
  • Build or refurbish a kit you’ve been saving for the winter months.

✨ Wrap-Up

Taking the time to store and maintain your RC gear properly in the off-season ensures a smooth takeoff into the next flying season. Whether you’re prepping for a few snowy flights or parking your planes until spring, a little care now will pay off with safer, more reliable flights later.

❄ Next up: We’ll take a moment to reflect on the joy of RC flight in our Thanksgiving post — “Giving Thanks for RC Flight.”

Protect your gear now and enjoy a trouble-free spring — from YorkRC.org! ✈️

Cold Weather Flying: Tips for Staying Warm and Safe

By York Area R/C Club

The temperatures drop, some RC pilots pack up for the season — but others embrace the challenge of winter flying. Cold-weather flying can be both rewarding and memorable, but it comes with its own set of challenges for both pilot and aircraft. Here’s how to keep your flights safe, comfortable, and fun when the mercury dips.

🛩 Preparing Your Aircraft for the Cold

  • Battery Care: Cold temperatures reduce LiPo performance. Keep packs warm in an insulated bag until just before a flight.
  • Fuel Engines: Use fresh fuel, and keep glow engines tuned slightly richer to compensate for denser air.
  • Lubrication: Cold air can thicken grease and oil — check control linkages, hinges, and bearings for smooth movement.
  • Pre-Flight Warm-Up: For fuel engines, let the engine run a bit longer before takeoff to reach optimal temperature.

👨‍✈️ Dressing for Success

  • Layer Up: Multiple thin layers trap heat better than one thick coat and give you better movement at the sticks.
  • Transmitter Mitts: Protect your hands from wind chill while keeping your radio dry.
  • Heated Gloves: Battery-powered gloves keep your fingers nimble in sub-freezing weather.
  • Windproof & Waterproof Gear: Jackets and pants that block the wind make long winter sessions bearable.

❄ Flying in Snow and Ice

  • Snow Takeoffs: Skis or floats can turn a snowy field into a fun runway.
  • Bright Colors: White snow hides aircraft fast — use high-contrast covering or decals for visibility.
  • Extra Caution: Snow can hide uneven ground or icy patches that affect landings.
  • Electronics Protection: Avoid snow getting inside — waterproof servos or a light coating of corrosion inhibitor can help.

⏱ Managing Flight Time

  • Shorter Flights: Batteries drain faster in cold weather, and your fingers can only last for so long.
  • Have a Warm-Up Spot: Use a heated vehicle or clubhouse between flights to recover.
  • Monitor Battery Voltage: Land early to avoid over-discharging packs in low temperatures.

📸 Bonus: Make It Memorable

  • Winter flying photos look fantastic — clear skies, snow-covered fields, and frosty breath make for stunning shots.
  • Invite a friend to capture takeoffs and landings for your club’s newsletter or social media.

✨ Wrap-Up

Flying in cold weather adds a unique twist to the RC experience — and with the right preparation, it can be just as enjoyable as summer sessions. Dress smart, prep your aircraft, and keep safety in mind. Whether it’s a sunny, crisp morning or a snowy afternoon, winter flying can give you some of the most memorable moments of the year.

❄ Up next: We’ll talk about winter storage and maintenance — how to get your RC gear through the off-season in top shape.

Stay warm, fly safe, and enjoy the winter skies from YorkRC.org! ✈️

Winter LiPo Battery Storage Guide for RC Airplane Pilots

By York R/C Club

Introduction

Colder air means longer throttle-on times and stressed batteries. As a result, pilots need to adjust how they store packs for the season. However, a LiPo kept at the wrong voltage or temperature will puff, self-discharge, or lose punch by spring. Therefore, use this guide for the exact voltage, temperature, and routine that keep packs healthy all winter.

TL;DR — Balance-charge to 3.80 V/cell, store packs between 45 °F and 70 °F, check voltage monthly, and log internal resistance. In short, that’s 90% of winter LiPo care.

Continue reading “Winter LiPo Battery Storage Guide for RC Airplane Pilots”

Save Your LiPos: Autumn Battery Care & Storage

By York R/C Club

Introduction

Colder air means longer throttle-on times and stressed batteries. A LiPo stored at the wrong voltage or temperature will puff, self-discharge, or lose punch by spring. This guide shows the exact voltage, temperature, and routine that keep packs healthy all winter.

TL;DR — Balance-charge to 3.80 V/cell, store packs between 45 °F and 70 °F, check voltage monthly, and log internal resistance. That’s 90 % of winter LiPo care.

Continue reading “Save Your LiPos: Autumn Battery Care & Storage”

LiPo Batteries in RC: Power, Safety, and Care

By York Area R/C Club

LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries have revolutionized the RC hobby, offering lightweight, high-power solutions for planes, cars, drones, and more. However, they demand responsible handling. Whether you’re new to RC or a seasoned flyer, understanding how to charge, store, and care for your LiPos is essential for performance and safety.In this article, we’ll break down the essentials of LiPo battery usage — from choosing the right pack to avoiding fire hazards — so you can fly confidently and safely.

🔋 What Makes LiPos Different?

LiPo batteries offer a high energy-to-weight ratio, low internal resistance, and fast discharge capability. Compared to NiMH or NiCd, LiPos are lighter, more powerful, and recharge faster.

  • Cell count (S): Determines voltage (e.g., 3S = 11.1V)
  • Capacity (mAh): Affects flight time (higher = longer)
  • C rating: Indicates how fast the battery can safely discharge

Therefore, selecting the right combination of voltage and capacity ensures your RC setup gets both endurance and performance.

⚡ Charging LiPo Batteries Safely

  • Always use a balance charger set to LiPo mode.
  • Charge in a fireproof bag or container (e.g., LiPo safe).
  • Never leave charging batteries unattended.
  • Charge at 1C rate unless the pack is rated for faster charging.

In addition, inspect connectors and wires before charging. Frayed or loose wires can spark fires or damage your charger.

🔥 Storage and Transport Tips

Improper storage is one of the leading causes of LiPo damage. To extend lifespan and reduce risk:

  • Store at 3.8V per cell (storage voltage) — most chargers have this option.
  • Keep in a cool, dry location — ideally in a fireproof case.
  • Never store fully charged or completely discharged batteries for long periods.
  • Use a battery checker to monitor voltage regularly.

🛠 How to Spot a Damaged LiPo

LiPo batteries don’t last forever. Watch for these signs that a pack needs to be retired:

  • Puffy or swollen cells
  • Cracked or torn outer wrapping
  • Noticeable drop in performance or flight time
  • Unusual heat during use or charging

If in doubt, don’t risk it. Dispose of damaged LiPos safely through a local hobby shop or battery recycling center.

🧯 What To Do in Case of Fire

Although rare, LiPo fires are extremely intense. Prepare ahead of time by keeping:

  • A Class D or dry sand fire extinguisher nearby
  • Non-flammable charging surface (e.g., ceramic tile or concrete)
  • Your charging area in a ventilated space away from flammable items

Never use water on a LiPo fire. It can intensify the chemical reaction.

🧪 Bonus Resources

📍 In Closing

LiPo batteries are powerful tools that elevate your RC experience — but only if you treat them with respect. By charging smart, storing properly, and staying alert to warning signs, you’ll enjoy better performance and peace of mind on every flight.

Stay safe and fly smart,
— York Area R/C Club