Futaba radio info?

[kevinpratt823]

Looking to try something new, have 4 Spektrum radios, been using them for years with cars no problems, but just can't overcome a signal loss issue in a particular spot I run, I've tried all kinds of things, time to try Futaba.

Looking for a less expensive model, as my boat stuff gets tossed around and the radio comes out in the kayak with me, would rather not beat up or risk an expensive radio. Are they all pretty much equal? Is the FAAST designation better than other models? Looked at the 3PM-X, but can also find used 4pks for close to the same $ on the car forum. Just trying to get familiar with them to choose an appropriate option, not sure what to look for to get best possible range on the lower end of the price scale.

That being said, if price wasn't an issue, is there a model that stands above all as far as range and reception?

Researching now, do certain rx's only work with certain tx?.....Still researching, just wanted some input along the way, thanks for any feedback.

[madmikepags]

the fasst ones are the top of the line and the receivers are close to $100 each, the other ones are fhhs or fhss cant remember but they are considerably less expensive and you can get receivers for 45-50 bucks and the knock off receivers work with them. I have only futaba fasst radios and have them in 100+ models, cars and boats and have had NO glitches. The only problem I have ever had is if the receiver gets soaked. Put em in a balloon and I have no problems. I even run the antennas inside the boats with no issues.

[madmikepags]

the fasst receivers only work w/ the fasst radios the other ones only work with their recievers.

[Fluid]

I ran a FASST 4PKS for several years with great results. It was destroyed in a car crash so I replaced it with a Spektrum DX3R-PRO and have seen no difference in performance. Same long range, same zero interference, same perfect performance at ponds where those running SkyFly radios have issues. Just a data point.



.

[flraptor07]

I've got a 4PL that works flawlessly, it's been a great radio. You can pick them up pretty cheap.

[kevinpratt823]

Thanks for the input so far. In case you guys hadn't seen the thread about my issues, I have a couple "holes" in the 2 ponds I run at. Even when driving from different locations, I still lose it in roughly the same spots. On bad days, I won't get it back until I paddle out to get the boat, then I get it when I get within 50'. I can go straight out in distance at times farther than the spots I lose it, but those dam holes get me at the ends. Tried all kinds of stuff with a little improvement, thinking I may try out Futaba. The less expensive 3pm-x(FAAST) is a likely candidate....Building a KBB 45" this winter, speeds will be considerably higher than what I have been running, so I'm gonna need the range.

[flraptor07]

Kevin,
Have you tried a different Receiver? You may just have a bad one, Does anyone that runs with you have any issues?

[kevinpratt823]

Kevin,
Have you tried a different Receiver? You may just have a bad one, Does anyone that runs with you have any issues?

4 different boats, 4 different rx's, all have antenna tubes, second antenna outside the hull, up the tube, taped inside hatch....., some using bec, some using rx packs, tried capacitors, tried other radio(DX4R-Pro). Only thing that helped a little was fresh alkaline batts in TX(always used rechargeables, but only 5.1v with those). Some days better than others.....

I run solo unfortunately, nobody else runs boats here, in fact, I have only ever seen 2 boats run(in person) other than my own.
I have run with that other person twice. He had a Tactic radio, I don't think he had the same issues from what I remember, but it was a few years ago when I was just starting out.

[Chilli]

I love the 3pm. My son and I have run them for four years now and never a glitch. The receivers can get fussy if wet. A shot of wd40 usually brings them back around. I'm going to try to waterproof mine over the winter for extra insurance. The receivers are expensive but you can find them used and on ebay for about $60-70. Two of the receivers that are compatible are the 603FS and the 603FF. The FS is a little bit more expensive and has an extra, internal antenna. I always run my antenna outside the boat and don't have a problem using either reciever. I've also heard the Futaba receivers can overheat and shut down in the radio box of a fuel boat if left in the sun on a hot day but I have never experienced this. The receives take the extra voltage of LiFe packs no problem.

[NativePaul]

Pistol or stick? I think the 6EX is the cheapest way into FASST, it is the entry level air six channel stick set and was considerably cheaper than the entry level 3 channel ground set when I bought mine. FASST is better than the FHSS protocol. Ground and air RXs are not interchangeable, ground RXs only work with ground sets and air ones only work with air sets. I would suggest dual antenna diversity for all RX from any manufacturer, as 2.4ghz is inherently quite directional, and you can lose a lot of signal when your motor for example is between your TX and your only antenna. As far as I know all FASST sets have a regulated supply so you will get the same range whether you use fresh alkaline batteries, a LiPo, or a nearly dead NiMh pack. All the TX offer the same great range (unless you buy it in France as they have a 10mw limit), some of the air RX do sacrifice range to reduce size and weight for indoor or parkflyers THIS LINK will show you what is compatible with what and which RX are not full range.

[kevinpratt823]

Thanks guys. Definitely pistol Paul, I couldn't imagine trying to adapt back to the stick life, as I have spent a lot of time with pistol racing cars.

[Speed810]

Any input on the Futaba 3pm-x system? Looks like a decent radio and can't find where folks are having any problems with it.
Appreciate any feedback.

Mike

[Chilli]

That's because it's a great radio. Post #9 says it all from me. I typed 3PM in my post but it's actually the 3PM-X. We use two of them on boats and my son uses one with his cars. We've never had a problem with them. Just make sure the receivers stay dry.

[Speed810]

Thanks Mike....Thought I better upgrade for an 1/8 scale hydro I'm building. I think it will just give me a more confident feeling that this boat has a good dependable radio in it than my tactic etc. Don't get me wrong....have not had a problem with the tactic in my UL-1.

Agree on the RX water proofing. I have always used a balloon on mine if they say the RX is water proof or resistant....LOL Again just gives ya a better feeling on the water that things are protected.

Thanks again

Mike

[flraptor07]

4 different boats, 4 different rx's, all have antenna tubes, second antenna outside the hull, up the tube, taped inside hatch....., some using bec, some using rx packs, tried capacitors, tried other radio(DX4R-Pro). Only thing that helped a little was fresh alkaline batts in TX(always used rechargeables, but only 5.1v with those). Some days better than others.....

I run solo unfortunately, nobody else runs boats here, in fact, I have only ever seen 2 boats run(in person) other than my own.
I have run with that other person twice. He had a Tactic radio, I don't think he had the same issues from what I remember, but it was a few years ago when I was just starting out.

Kevin, I see you run the AA batteriesin your Tx, I use the 2s LiFe Tx packs 6.6v. The extra voltage makes a big difference. http://www.ebay.com/itm/1100Mah-6-6v...item51c884bcab