I received my quick release props yesterday, the instructions that come with them say clearly these have a finite life; 200 flights max and after a close check I can see why.

I think the self tightening system is great and I intend to keep using them. The only problem with them I can see is the human factor; over tightening the props on the drive shafts or not fitting the locks correctly or inspecting them post flight.  I've seen a video of a self tightening prop flying off on someones bird on what would have been their first test flight.  The first thing they did was make a video, place it here and voice their concerns.  I notice they weren't using prop locks ( fool! )  it seems unfair that people can be so negligent and not bother reading all the literature that Dji make available to us then criticise the product if it fails.

Do other people share my faith in the self tightening props? Is there another reason to 'upgrade' that I've missed?

Df

I received my set of QR's and mounts - bought another pair to make up two full sets. These are in the cupboard and will be used when I have gone through the stock of self-tightening props I purchased beforehand. I have no issue with the original system - and once flew quite successfully without the clips (definitely pilot error / absent mindedness then!). As there are two full sets and a couple of spares left I don't see myself changing over for some time.

As long as DJI maintains warranty support while flying with the Self-tightening system, I'll keep using them.

I have two sets of DJI Self tighting Props that came with my Inspire 1 still in the Plastic wrap, if you wana trade them for your QR props look me up.

I am concerned about the stress on the prop locks ... every time you take them on and off.
These might have an even short life span then the quick release props!?
If they break mid air they will go through the spinning blades possibly creating damage to the props and in worst case a crash.

Props are relatively cheap and easy to change ... I would rather use the new ones as they are quicker to setup!

But what about the motors ...
How often should they be replaced ?

We do need to bend the locks to get them to fit into place, I like to believe if they were about to fail it would show on the surface as cracks or the locking claws, if you will, may bend slightly and not sit in the same place.  

When I check my I1 for wear & tear I use a magnifying glass, it's probably not necessary but I hope to give myself every chance to catch a part before it fails. The props & locks get a very close look over as does the metal thread piece in the back of the prop; after scores of flights they're fine and most likely yours are too.

The motors should go for a very long time; they're brushless. I've taken this type of motor apart before and there isn't a lot to them. The shaft is supported by a couple of small sealed roller bearings and they should be good as gold ( bar freak manufacturing flaws ).  But I wonder what Dji recommend?   I'll probably replace the bearings my self every 3-4 years

w1der Posted at 2015-7-7 22:16
I am concerned about the stress on the prop locks ... every time you take them on and off.
These mi ...

Brushless motors last a very long time if they are not abused.

daniel.frederik Posted at 2015-7-8 05:49
We do need to bend the locks to get them to fit into place, I like to believe if they were about to  ...

Great job for being careful and thorough with your machine. I am the same way!

Thanks, you might be surprised how carefully I do everything I can to keep my Bird airworthy: I've just started using dry silicon lubricate on my battery edges and the locks, so it releases much more easily ( pedantic, I know )

daniel.frederik Posted at 2015-7-8 15:16
Thanks, you might be surprised how carefully I do everything I can to keep my Bird airworthy: I've j ...

I wouldn´t let silicon near my bird ...  Not good for the electronics at all!

So I don't get it, what is best the props that come with the bird, or the upgrade prop system?

Both seem to be great systems if used carefully but I think if you're constantly removing & refitting the props when it travels the self lockers are the way to go: look how much pressure is exerted just to fit the QR props and the manual acknowledges they have a limited life of 200 flights.   My self tightening props haven't left my bird, except to go under the magnifying glass, and it travels with camera & props attached and they're fine.  I check my props often and I can't see the material becoming brittle or cracking.  I've seen crash clips of people loosing self lockers but they haven't used the locks and there have been several posts from people expressing concern about the QR system.

But I have no insider information and I'm not a materials specialist just a careful & observant Inspire1 fan.

I think the aluminum QR is the way to go.... I've ordered them for a piece of mind....

Andy

miragecy Posted at 2015-7-10 14:20
I think the aluminum QR is the way to go.... I've ordered them for a piece of mind....

Andy

Hello Andy, where did you ordered them?

leoamartinez@gm Posted at 2015-7-12 12:12
Hello Andy, where did you ordered them?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/151732 ... =STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

On the QR props, does DJI really mean 200 flights? Or should that be 200 on/off cycles?

Or, 50 flights, *if left installed* as Tahoe _Ed has posted. That hints at a loss of spring tension issue to me so,
maybe a time spent compressed would be a better reference? After all, 50 flights could happen in a very short time.

DJI, what say you?