450 TREX Clone EXI Helicopter Build

Let's face it, when some one talks of an RC helicopter the name TREX comes into play. The Align brand has become the “premier” 450 name in helicopters since it was introduced in 2002 in kit form. Improving through several versions up to the Pro version available currently, hobbyist worldwide flock to the TREX 450. With the “premier” status, also comes premier price. TREX 450 kits are quite pricey, some as much as $500.00! That will stop most hobbyist's from getting a helicopter in the first place. Couple that price with the amount needed to get a transmitter and receiver, $300.00-$400.00. to get the helicopter in the air usually puts the price right out of range for the common hobbyist. $900.00 to fly a helicopter is just too much, and we have not even got off the ground yet! Crashing is a part of flying and the “Old Timers” at the local club warned you to “Stay away from those helicopters”. Spare parts are needed for repairs ($100) because crashes are going to happen, oh yes, and more than a few. We are at $1000.00 for a TREX at this point! Don't forget the batteries and charger! That's another $100.00 Well, make it $1100.00

Now, for the good news! With the popularity of the TREX, come the clones. The clone helicopter now is available for a fraction of the price. A complete flying helicopter for around $300.00 is now a common occurrence. This build will be using the EXI 450 V2 with the belt drive tail system. All the parts needed to build your own are listed below, along with where to get it all from!

Build Sheet for the EXI 450 TREX clone....

49.70                   EXI Aluminum 450 Barebone Kit Version 2 w/ CNC/Aluminum Rotor Head

17.95                   Exceed RC Alpha 400 (3500kv) Outrunner Brushless Motor for EXI 450

17.95                   30A Electronic Brushless ESC Speed Controller [Volcano Series] for EXI 450

19.23                   Detrum GY48V HH Headklock Professional RC Helicopter Gyro

36.00 (9.00 x 4)  9G EXI Digital Metal Gear Servo D213F

44.90                   Exceed RC 2.4Ghz 6-Channel Radio System w/ 1 FREE Receiver 2.4G Transmitter + Receiver

54.95                   Thunder AC6 Smart LiPo Balance Charger/Discharger w/ AC Adapter for 1-6 Lipo/ 1-15 Nimh

29.95                   11.1V 2200mAh 20C 3 Cell High Performance Lithium Polymer Battery

30.00                   Shipping in the United States

300.63                 Total to the door!

All these parts are available from the  link!

Spare parts needed.. one of each will do to get started or you can order when you need them. Also consider the price and buy two kits and use the second one for spare parts.

2.94      EXI-31146 Horizontal shaft set. Feathering Shaft

3.68      EXI-31147 Main shaft

1.10      EXI-31109 Stabilizer Bar. Flybar

8.09      EXI-31140 Main Gear

2.57    EXI-31132 Tail Boom

4.04    EXI-31151 Screw Kit

3.62    EXI-Pro-3252 FRP main blade for electric 450 helicopter(325mm)

26.04  Total for Spare Parts    Total for order with Spare parts...$326.67

That's not bad! You were looking at $1100.00

You will also need a few tools... 

10.00    Flybar Lock Tool  db-designs.net  Used to set up pitch range

 8.95     EXI Swash Leveler Used to level the swash plate, one of the most important steps in set up.

25.00    18P37 Tools/Box Kit 15 pcs. Contains tools needed for the build.

You may substitute any of the parts listed to suite availability and preference.

The 2.4 Transmitter is computer programmable for several models, you will need a pc to set up!

Building a helicopter is a big step in the hobby, letting you build first hand allows a greater feeling of achievement.

There are many helicopter support sites, or local clubs, choose one and join! I recommend HeliFreak, it has numerous video's as well as support from members worldwide! You will get much needed information in the building of your new helicopter.