P3 Paint & Reinforcement project.

[Joao Carlos]

So, after experiencing large cracks on the lower body arm ends (3 of them) with barely any flying done (18 flights, 54min, no crashes or hard landings), I decided to do perform preventive maintenance and paint the exterior.

First step was to buy a new shell and have it hydro dipped by Aqua Dip Graphix (www.aquadipgraphics.com), right here in Florida. I can't say enough good things about the owner, Mr John Obremski, he did it like an art work, answered all my question, showed me the process and all patterns and all in 2 days for a very fair price.

I am extremely happy with the end result and I wished my poor iphone pictures could depict it better. It looks great, all holes are still open but painted, all curves etc... pro job indeed!

Second step I am dying the props black. Nothing against CF props, just have no $ right now and I had a bunch of spare white props.

Third step I am reinforcing the shell with Bondic and possibly some hot glue to prevent future stress cracks. I am also going to use strong arms and, one more time, I cant say enough good things about Gary from UAV bits. Awesome guy!

Next I have to figure out a way to transplant everything. After seeing a couple of videos I am confident, but I am not the best craftsmen.

So, after a lot invested (more than I could) in this fluke of a product I am getting some enjoyment and optimism back!

Any comments, tips, ideas are more than welcome.

 

[bobmyers]

So, after experiencing large cracks on the lower body arm ends (3 of them) with barely any flying done (18 flights, 54min, no crashes or hard landings), I decided to do perform preventive maintenance and paint the exterior.

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First step was to buy a new shell and have it hydro dipped by Aqua Dip Graphix (www.aquadipgraphics.com), right here in Florida. I can't say enough good things about the owner, Mr John Obremski, he did it like an art work, answered all my question, showed me the process and all patterns and all in 2 days for a very fair price.

I am extremely happy with the end result and I wished my poor iphone pictures could depict it better. It looks great, all holes are still open but painted, all curves etc... pro job indeed!

View attachment 28977

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Second step I am dying the props black. Nothing against CF props, just have no $ right now and I had a bunch of spare white props.

View attachment 28980

View attachment 28981



Third step I am reinforcing the shell with Bondic and possibly some hot glue to prevent future stress cracks. I am also going to use strong arms and, one more time, I cant say enough good things about Gary from UAV bits. Awesome guy!

Next I have to figure out a way to transplant everything. After seeing a couple of videos I am confident, but I am not the best craftsmen.

So, after a lot invested (more than I could) in this fluke of a product I am getting some enjoyment and optimism back!

Any comments, tips, ideas are more than welcome.

Looks great-- keep us updated with the rebuild

 

[msinger]

This video should help with the shell replacement:

 

[Joao Carlos]

This video should help with the shell replacement:

Perfect, never seen the whole process in one video. Thanks, much appreciated.

 

[Joao Carlos]

Disassembly complete.

Video is great help.

The plastic latches on the shell are the worst part.

Except for one philips screw that holds the gps that got stripped, all went well. I had a lot of trouble removing this tinny screw and replacing it.

Hope the assembly goes well... wish me luck!

 

[Joao Carlos]

Finalizing this project (for now)...

Besides Bondic, I applied a coat of hot glue. My idea is that it may add some flexibility, but also will help hold things in place in case cracks develop.

I also added an "Inspire" type aluminum holder. My tablet is rock solid now.

Hopefully now I get to enjoy my P3 a bit more before something bad happens caused by some weird DJI problem.

 

[nhoover]

Nice! I have patched 4 cracks so far with Bondic. Today I had to open the shell up to clean some sand that gone in on a tipover and yes the clips are a royal pain, but it's doable. I also recommend the I1 aluminum tablet holder - super solid.

 

[TX-Xced]

Looks great - One of the best if not the best looking Phantom3's I have seen.

Thanks for the tip on Bondic as well never seen that stuff but as luck would have it Amazon has it.

 

[swoopair]

So how does it look during flight? Are you experiencing interference because of the paint?

 

[N017RW]

So how does it look during flight? Are you experiencing interference because of the paint?

There's no danger of interference from paint or any non-metallic decoration(s).

Avoid lacquers, dopes, two-part coatings, and similar types as they may react with the plastic but generic rattle-can paints are usually fine. Some manufacturers make coatings specifically for plastic but this is not necessary.

If unsure, always test in an inconspicuous location (most say this in the instructions anyways).

 

[mrtibbs]

I want to see this puppy in the air and some flight results

 

[jephoto]

Where did you get the aluminum Inspire device holder? I see one on Amazon by STO for $27.50. Doesn't look exactly the same as yours but similar.

 

[mrtibbs]

I found the bracket for the Inspire 1 for under that price.
TACO-RC Aluminium Tablet holder bracket for DJI Phantom 3 Ipad Free Shipping

 

[ELHEAPO]

its like the flying version of KIT from knightrider all its missing is the red flashing light!!

 

[fastsmiles]

Your P3 looks awesome! Be sure and post some pics or video of it in the air.

 

[jephoto]

I found the bracket for the Inspire 1 for under that price.
TACO-RC Aluminium Tablet holder bracket for DJI Phantom 3 Ipad Free Shipping

Thanks!

 

[mrtibbs]

Your P3 looks awesome! Be sure and post some pics or video of it in the air.

I just ordered a Helipad from you ....it cost slightly more then the youtube video let on..but can't wait!

 

[fastsmiles]

You'll like it. I use mine all the time, helps keep the camera clean and dirt out of the motors.

 

[Squiddley]

Do you mind me asking what they charged you to dip it just wondering my brother does hydro dipping

 

[PilotHarry]

You'll like it. I use mine all the time, helps keep the camera clean and dirt out of the motors.

You're UAVBITS? Cool!

Almost ordered the Helipad but am concerned that I, being new to phantoms, would slide off the pad and flip.

Can the legs be removed (Laying Helipad on the ground) while I learn and practice?