FrSky 2.4Ghz conversions - a how to

[Rick84]

Thanks everyone for the kind advice :)

I think I will keep the original antenna board in situ as I'm no electronics wizz! Don't want to mess it up lol.

If I get it sorted I will attempt a how to so that others have visual of the inside of a Sanwa Super Exzes for future reference

[marcbaynham]

Hi Everyone,

I have a Ko Esprit Vantage II which I converted to FrSky about 2 years ago. Up until recently, it has been reliable with no issues. I love the feel of the transmitter, hence why I had it converted rather than go for a newer model.

Recently I have been having issues with my car loosing signal. This happened a few times racing indoors, with no major damage. It also happened recently, and since I hadn't set a failsafe properly, the car slammed into the barriers at the end of the straight at West London and destroyed the car. Not good.

I had a few issues again at the weekend, has anyone else had these sort of issues?

I have tried;
1. Changing receivers, I'm using the V8R4 ii receivers. I've tried 5 different receivers and lost signal on all of them.
2. Position of receiver- I have had the receiver on it's side behind the servo, flat on the chassis and on top of the servo. Had issues in all of these positions.
3. I installed a Lipo in my transmitter, as the battery doors had a few clips missing when I had cells installed, and I didn't know if the transmitter was turning off if the batteries moved during a race. Still had issues since the Lipo was installed, and I keep it topped up.

Do any of you have any other suggestions? It happens intermittently and at meetings where it has happened, it's happened at different points of the track.

I was thinking about extending the receiver aerials. Looking at other 2.4 systems, all of them have longer aerials. Has anyone tried this?

Should I replace the hack module? Could this be causing the issue?

I use my radio regularly, doing 2-3 full day meetings a month on average, plus setup time at home.

Thanks for you help,

Marc

[Hog]

Marc - I'd check the aerial wire in the tranny for a start to make sure that's not broken or loose.

Second to that, as you've already tried different receivers, try a different hack module. For the price it's cheaper than replacing broken bits on your car. If it's not at fault then you can always sell it on.

While you have the tranny open - check all the wiring!

[neallewis]

yup good advice above from Hog. The antenna rf plug could have detached from the module circuit board inside the heat shrink. the anntenna rf lead or reverse SMA connector could also have become damaged. have you changed plastic antenna at some point? this could also have become damaged. new available here:http://www.t9hobbysport.com/frsky-rc-radio-gear/frsky-accessories

how have you mounted your antenna? is it under any strain?

the failsafe issue... that one can't be blamed on frsky. its so simple to press and set the failsafe when on the bench in neutral. :thumbsup:

[marcbaynham]

Thanks for the replies guys. I will check all the items you have described and report back.

Thanks for your help!

Marc

[marcbaynham]

Yes you are correct- I didn't set the failsafe correctly, my fault- lesson learned!

Thanks!

[Funkymojo]

Hi everyone. I recently got a Ko Propo Esprit II that has been converted using the Frsky hack module. Besides the Frsky V8R4/V8R4 II rx, what other Frsky rx can I use? Thanks

[stuupnorth]

hi guys
I'm looking to convert my Sanwa Gemini 2 but all the links with regards to the parts required seem no longer available
is there a new unit to use, and which rx should I use??
cheers for any help with this
Stu

[RCAshers]

I have just done one of these Gemini 2 radios for a friend, easy job just follow the picture posted buy JCJC on page 2 of this forum. You can us any of the Frsky receivers but for a car the 4 channel one does the job, the module unit has changed the first blue unit is not available now but there is a module in white that come with Telemitery it has a switch to turn it on and off does the same job.

[I-B-Quick]

Using the info here I've had a go a wiring in the frsky module just on the bench into my sanwa super exzes. All seems fine except the handset power indicator doesn't work. It's fine when I plug my spektrum module back in so I suspect there is some internal connection made thru the module to make this work.

Are there any clever people who may know a way to cure this with the frsky module wired in?

Thanks

[Welshy40]

Ive got a Sanwa Gemini and wondered if a spectrum module may fit, seeing as i dont want to take this apart and mess with the insides.

[Cardnim]

Using the info here I've had a go a wiring in the frsky module just on the bench into my sanwa super exzes. All seems fine except the handset power indicator doesn't work. It's fine when I plug my spektrum module back in so I suspect there is some internal connection made thru the module to make this work.

Are there any clever people who may know a way to cure this with the frsky module wired in?

Thanks

Are you sure you have the correct connection point for the PPM wire?

[pugs]

Using the info here I've had a go a wiring in the frsky module just on the bench into my sanwa super exzes. All seems fine except the handset power indicator doesn't work. It's fine when I plug my spektrum module back in so I suspect there is some internal connection made thru the module to make this work.

Are there any clever people who may know a way to cure this with the frsky module wired in?

Thanks

I am surprised the meter works on the spektrum module......The meter is not a power meter it is rf output, with the original rf module in and crystal the meter will read, unplug the crystal and the meter would drop to 0.....i ain't figured a way for it to work on 2.4ghz........yet anyway:lol:

[pugs]

Ive got a Sanwa Gemini and wondered if a spectrum module may fit, seeing as i dont want to take this apart and mess with the insides.

Does the sanwa gemini have a seperate fm module? I didn't think it did so you would have nowhere to put the spektrum module......If you can find the ppm signal inside then the frsky hack would work;)

[B&H Racing]

Has anyone done a guide for the Ko Ex10 Helios ?

Thanks

[Welshy40]

Does the sanwa gemini have a seperate fm module? I didn't think it did so you would have nowhere to put the spektrum module......If you can find the ppm signal inside then the frsky hack would work;)

The Gemini is the model above the Exerd Gemini which you guys know ive already converted, and there is a module box on the back just like the KO Esprit. May have to take a gamble & get a spectrum module & hope it works.

[pro4nut]

If it has a module, is it more likely you will need a Sanwa/Airtronics module by Spektrum?
like this,
https://www.spektrumrc.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdId=SPM1002
Thats what i had in my exzes

[Ross]

I've just done my Daughters early KO Espirt2, it has the power meter in the way of where everyone is fitting the bind button and light, So I fitted it in the rear case, I did get carried away with the body reamer lol, but itgoes very nicely there. I've also used the 3pin plug off the board and soldered the new module to that. It all seems to bind up nicely :thumbsup:.

Thanks to everyone for there input on this thread, think I'll do Exzes and sell all my RX's lol




http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-2pjMXzq/0/M/CA_08281412261315-M.jpg (http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-2pjMXzq/A)

http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-7h9nzbF/0/M/CA_08281412260820-M.jpg (http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-7h9nzbF/A)


http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-p8Gmdjs/0/M/CA_08281412100434-M.jpg (http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-p8Gmdjs/A)

http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-QrgXdDR/0/M/CA_08281412103029-M.jpg (http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-QrgXdDR/A)

http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-hZNPqzN/0/M/CA_08281412103932-M.jpg (http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-hZNPqzN/A)

http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-rMXmVHP/0/M/image-M.jpg (http://www.rosswhitelock-photography.co.uk/Hobbies/Steves-Stuff/i-rMXmVHP/A)

[Losi_110]

Hi I'm in the process of trying to convert my beloved old Acoms AP227 to 2.4ghz using the frsky hack module. If there is anyone out there who can tell me how to disconnect the power from the RF and oscillator section on this specific model I will be forever in your debt.
So far I have found this interesting guide for some other common old transmitters.

http://www.tamiyaclub.com/forum/inde...howtopic=68361

[Ninjagordy]

going to convert my 3vc, does anyone know which module and receivers i will need (need 4 receivers) also, if theres now a plug in one that will do that would be great, if not the direct conversion one (solder in ) will do fine!! :D

thanks again !!

Gordy!

[Losi_110]

Can you still get the hack modules and receivers from anywhere in the UK?

[pugs]

Can you still get the hack modules and receivers from anywhere in the UK?

try t9 hobbysport:)

[andy-aj]

I think I have a new Hack module and a couple of receivers. Let me know if your interested.

[markymark6183]

Is there any place I can just pay and send my Sansa Gemini 2 to be done for me as I really would mess this up ....... If fact I know I would !!! :thumbdown:

[Verde]

Can anyone confirm if this is still the conversion combo of choice for a KO Esprit 2?

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__14352__FrSky_V8R4_II_2_4Ghz_4CH_Receiver.html http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__17205__FrSky_DHT_8ch_DIY_Telemetry_Compatible_Tr ansmitter_Module.html

Many thanks

[fakiee]

I see they have discontinued the V8HT http://www.frsky-rc.com/product/pro.php?pro_id=7 and they now have this with a TOGGLE SWITCH - http://www.frsky-rc.com/product/pro.php?pro_id=7

Will this work, and what the hell is the toggle for?

[Mike2222]

The switch simply allows you to use the old V8R4 non-telemetry receiver,
or the replacement telemetry D4FR receiver. The third switch position is used for firmware upgrades.

[fakiee]

The switch simply allows you to use the old V8R4 non-telemetry receiver,
or the replacement telemetry D4FR receiver. The third switch position is used for firmware upgrades.


Cheers Mike. So fine to use the updated version with old KO/Sanwa etc. Just need to hide that switch somehwere

[Verde]

Fitted, tried and tested the new DHT with V8R4 rx, and it worked fine, really happy with it so far. I'll post some pics when I can.

[neallewis]

Cheers Mike. So fine to use the updated version with old KO/Sanwa etc. Just need to hide that switch somehwere

I used to cut off the switch, and solder up the pins on the circuit board where the switch attaches to in the non-telemetry position, rather than try to hide it inside.

[Mike2222]

Cutting the switch off is not much help if you have both types of receiver:confused:

[Verde]

No need to cut the switch off, it looks fine installed imo. I've also used nylon nuts to fasten in the bind switch to reduce the risk of anything shorting out on the psb.

87895

87896

[neallewis]

Cutting the switch off is not much help if you have both types of receiver:confused:

I only ever used non telemetry receivers Mike. Plus doesn't the BRCA specifically disallow telemetry in 1/10th off road, I'm sure it did a few years ago, bit this may have been updated.

[AndyFahey]

I think I was the one that tipped you off about these modules? I have an Assan module in a Hitec CRX (which works faultlessly, but the module 'write-protects' settings on the radio, so I need to pop it out to save changes); my soldering skills would be about as effective as simply hitting the radio with a lump hammer.

printed circuit board assembly services (http://www.7pcb.com/PCB-Assembly-Service.php)

[Hog]

I used to cut off the switch, and solder up the pins on the circuit board where the switch attaches to in the non-telemetry position, rather than try to hide it inside.

I think it's black and green wires to solder together - the same as having the switch in the non-telemetry position - easy to check with a test meter. The yellow wire just needs making secure and tucking out the way along with the soldered black and green wires.

[Paul Seddon]

sorry to jump into the thread but I have made these cases if anyone's interested.

search ebay for FRSky Receiver cases if you want to buy.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/63644107/sml_JSR_FRSky_Case_View_01.jpg

[Hog]

Cases look nice Paul. Just a thought - if you've got to remove the cardboard receiver surround to fit the receiver in the case, would it perhaps be an idea to have the +-s markings for the receiver pins shown on the case instead?

[Paul Seddon]

Good idea

[dodgydiy]

I have done cases too, with the plus and minus markings, bit different to those ones though as they enclose the pins as well. have also done them for the receivers I have modified to vertical pins

[Tothepoint]

OK so this thread is a bit old and i'm in a bit of a bind :cry: joke

I have this radio and want to get back into driving

I cannot find my manual for the radio. If anyone has a copy

Is this conversion still worth doing, only if i can get a manual mind

Opinions gratefully received

Thanks

[Hog]

Can't find a manual I'm afraid - perhaps one of the document torrent sites might have a copy? Operating and setting up the KO isn't rocket science though.

Still very much worth doing the conversion. it's so cheap but very reliable.

[Tothepoint]

Thanks Hog

Any names for the torrent sites to search on

[Hog]

Found this - as to whether it's any good or not I don't know as I cannot open at work.

http://paulashx-bookreviews.com/page/ko-propo-esprit-2-vantage-manual/

[Tothepoint]

High Hog

Thanks, i was over the moon till i clicked on the link

But you have to sign up for a usenet account (Free 14 Day Trial)

I entered my card details but nothing happens :mad:

[Hog]

Ahhh - apologies i thought that might be the answer to your issue.

Only other thing is to email KO themselves and see if it's possible to download the manual either from the USA or Japanese websites?

[Mugenextreme]

I have a pdf for a KO Espirt2 vantage.
Pm me an email address I will forward it later in the week.

[Tothepoint]

Ahhh - apologies i thought that might be the answer to your issue.

Only other thing is to email KO themselves and see if it's possible to download the manual either from the USA or Japanese websites?

Thanks, that was the first thing i tried, this is the response i got.

Thank you for the inquiry.

The radio has been discontinued so many years ago. We cannot locate even the data of the manual.
We are sorry for not being able to comply with your request.

Best regards,
KO PROPO

Well thats the last item made by KO that i will buy

[Tothepoint]

I have a pdf for a KO Espirt2 vantage.
Pm me an email address I will forward it later in the week.

Thank you very much, will do

[Hog]

Mugenextreme has emailed me the pdf - top bloke - so I shall keep that for anyone else that needs it.

[Tothepoint]

Mugenextreme has emailed me the pdf - top bloke - so I shall keep that for anyone else that needs it.

Seconded

[lud]

I have some glitch issues, here is my email to and from frsky ...... hope you guys have a better advice for me.

hi,

I have a frsky module in my kopropo ex10 helios and
V8R4-II
V8R7-II
receivers in two different cars. as long as I drive alone there are no problems, but when driving with other people running sanwa systems I have ocassional glitches. what can I do?"



"Dear Lud,

Thanks contact us, I I suspect that our system has a mutual interference with their radio system, so we suggest you don't use in the same place.

Wish you have a good day.

Best regards
Ray.
------

[Ross]

Has anyone got a link to the best place to buy the module and receivers.

Cheers

EDIT

If i remember its this one, is that correct. Found it whilst looking for a new transmitter for my Mini Quad lol


https://www.t9hobbysport.com/frsky-dht-2.4ghz-telemetry-diy-module

[Tmac]

Hi just wondering if anyone has the pin layout, I did look through the post but all the photo links seem to have expired.

Many thanks

[viya0414]

Any names for the torrent sites to search on


pcb assembly (http://www.nod-pcba.com/pcb-assembly/)

[Bikerbob]

Looking to do this to a KO propo Mars radio.

Anyone????

KO pin output??

Orange RX DIY module be a good one to use for this???

James

[Funkymojo]

Hi everyone. I know this an old thread. But I really hope someone could help me out. I've got a Frsky 2.4 converted Espirit 2 Type R. It haven't been switched on in quite awhile. Decided to get new AA batteries and switch it on. When I switched it on. The Transmitter blue power on led light kept blinking. Is it normal? Thanks...

[coolhands]

Do you mean on the frsky module? Perhaps it means it’s not bound? I would try to rebind to the receiver and see what happens.

[coolhands]

Oh actually if you mean the original KO led light, the blinking depends on certain conditions ie it means you have certain options switched on eg like abs braking or whatever. It’s in the hugely confusing instructions somewhere. It does not mean there is a problem.

[Funkymojo]

Oh actually if you mean the original KO led light, the blinking depends on certain conditions ie it means you have certain options switched on eg like abs braking or whatever. It’s in the hugely confusing instructions somewhere. It does not mean there is a problem.


Thanks for the reply. Much appreciated. Yes it's the Ko Propi Esprit 2 Type R blue led light that's blinking. So I take it that it's from the Ko and not from the Frsky module? And that everything is ok?

[Verde]

Thanks for the reply. Much appreciated. Yes it's the Ko Propi Esprit 2 Type R blue led light that's blinking. So I take it that it's from the Ko and not from the Frsky module? And that everything is ok?

Blue light blinking is likely to be your ABS switched-on on the TX.

[Verde]

Has anybody got a link to the latest hack module for the KO Esprit II? I can seem to find any FRSky DHT modules in stock now.

TIA.

[Ross]

Has anybody got a link to the latest hack module for the KO Esprit II? I can seem to find any FRSky DHT modules in stock now.

TIA.

The DHT isn't viable anymore, this is the latest model.

https://www.t9hobbysport.com/frsky-xht-accst-d8-diy-module

[Verde]

The DHT isn't viable anymore, this is the latest model.

https://www.t9hobbysport.com/frsky-xht-accst-d8-diy-module

Thanks Ross :thumbsup:

[nippy57]

I have a Frsky DHT board in black shrink will this conversion fit in a HiTec Flash stick radio

[pete the plett]

Hi I getting back into racing after a few years.
My Futaba t3vcs module has finally give up.
So wanted to know if this hack will work on it.
If it does please share links to buy.
If not could you recommend a suitable 2.4 module please.
Peter

[Welshy40]

Get a Sanwa Gemini X and is £150 but performs to the higest level, its nice to hold and can tune it perfectly with plenty of sections for each car you have.