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2011Arms forum

Upgrading Flyer LE arm springs to support heavier camera packages

15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.

What the thread found

  • The Zephyr arm uses similar structure to the Flyer arm but with heavier springs, making it a potential source for upgraded springs, though compatibility is uncertain
  • Manufacturers typically do not sell upgraded spring kits separately and will not endorse modifications that exceed the specified weight limits
  • Some operators have successfully flown camera packages significantly over the stated weight limit by careful balancing and positioning of equipment, though this risks damage to the gimbal and top stage
  • Surgical tubing modifications do not produce satisfactory arm behavior compared to proper spring upgrades
  • Replacing the entire arm with a Zephyr model is the officially supported path for operators consistently working beyond weight specifications

Depends on

  • Whether Zephyr springs are physically compatible with Flyer LE arms is unknown and untested
  • Exceeding weight limits may overtax the gimbal and top stage even if the arm itself can support it
  • Manufacturer support explicitly does not cover modifications beyond specification
  • Only one person reported actual experience flying significantly over limits, suggesting this is not typical practice
  • Exact weight capacities and spring specifications vary by generation of the equipment

Gear in this thread

Zephyrcatalog, BFD

Parts

Top Stage

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