Official RotorScale 470 Size MD-500D Magnum PI Super Scale GPS Stabilized Helicopter RTF Discussion Thread

[xviper]

RE: The lack of support for the "hanging" blades, I'm not concerned. IMO, those blade supports we see on 2-blade helis are there mainly to prevent the rotor head front moving around while the heli is being carried. I've had such 2-blade helis with no suport and other than the rotor head swinging around when being carried, I don't believe there are any ill effects. Any pressure due to the weight of the blades on the swash is directly transferred to the swash and cyclic pitch servos. I'm confident that those servos can take it. This would be not much different than, say, the flap servos on a fixed wing when fully deployed while the plane is moving through the air. They are designed to accept such pressure. Same goes for servos on 3D planes with very large control surfaces. When not powered up, the weight of the surfaces simply drops down and rests on the servos at their end points - not a big deal - some have been like that for years.

RE: Differences in blades MD500E conversion kit and Magnum 5-blade. I don't have the Magnum one but as per the specs, it appears that the blades are identical. In fact, I would go out on a limb and say that the 5-bl conversion kit for the MD500E is the same as what comes with the Magnum PI heli. Furthermore, I would say that the entire "internal" powertrain of the 2 are the same. The 5-bl conversion kit could very likely be used for all Roban 470 sized helis (assuming owners wanted to go that route).

[Helifly]

This is so cool. I've just finished the mod to my MD500E ("Sheriff"), 470 size with the 5-blade rotor head directly from Roban. It was an easy job, flew perfectly as if it came that way. I would have preferred the Magnum PI version, but, Oh Well!
They really do look so much better as a 5-blade.

Would you happen to know if the blades included in the Roban 5 Blade Conversion Kit are identical to the blades that come with the Magnum PI helicopter, except for the different paint scheme ?

[Helifly]

I fold 3 blades to the rear and 2 to the front. I hang it from the middle blade holder at the rear using an S hook from a single hook in the ceiling between 2 floor joists in the basement. Without a battery, it balances perfectly from there.

Thanks, I am mostly concerned about leaving the blades attached and unsupported at their tips. I don't want them to develop a sag or introduce play somewhere in the rotorhead over time, if that makes sense. If I understand your setup, the blades would still be unsupported at their tips.

[xviper]

I fold 3 blades to the rear and 2 to the front. I hang it from the middle blade holder at the rear using an S hook from a single hook in the ceiling between 2 floor joists in the basement. Without a battery, it balances perfectly from there.

[Helifly]

How are folks storing their 5 Blade MD500's when not flying? Is it ok to leave the blades installed in the grips and out? I am used to folding the blades back and using a boom mounted blade support on 2 bladed rotors, but I don't see a way to do something similar with these.

[Helifly]

You guys pretty much mirrored my reply in the other thread where Helifly asked this question.

Apologies for the dual post. After I posted in the "PI" thread, I realized this was a new model and might not get many views, so I also posted in the the other thread. Thanks to everyone who responded in either!

[Helifly]

Tail isn't necessary, just for scale appearance.

As for the tail rotor, the full scale MD-500's vary a decent bit, so ultimately just depends on what the owner is running for tail blades. Several of the different Magnum PI full size helis had different setups. Actually, several of the full size PI helis even had variations in the fuselage stripe widths, N Number sizing and placements, and different tails too. Beauty of scale modeling is, you can paint it or mod it to however you'd like it to be 😉

Thanks for the confirmation on the tail. It does seem from the pictures that the tail rotor blades have red stripes. Maybe it was to match Magnum's red Ferrari? It is truly a stunning model and I am very much looking forward to flying it.

[xviper]

You guys pretty much mirrored my reply in the other thread where Helifly asked this question.

[Helifly]

I don’t know why you’d remove it, but no it isn’t needed. At the speeds these move there isn’t much airflow for that stab to be particularly effective.

As for the tail rotor colors, they look mostly correct to me. From what I can tell, they look like mostly white blades in the opening credits are white with a single red stripe near the tip, so these are fairly close.

Thanks for the input. I thought the same thing about the airflow. Also, on the full scale helicopter I thought I saw movable control surfaces like ailerons on the back of the horizontal wing, which the model obviously does not have. When I have more time, I do plan to install the stab. Good to know that the tail rotor blades are pretty accurate. Certainly looks that way from the picture.

[3D-Seth]

Ordered one of these earlier. I know the horizontal tail stabilizer is to scale, but I really don't like the way it looks. At least for now. Does anyone know if it is just cosmetic or is it necessary for proper flight on this model? Also, the red and white striped tail rotor blades look a little out of place in the overall color scheme. Maybe orange or black would be better? Can't recall the original color.

Tail isn't necessary, just for scale appearance.

As for the tail rotor, the full scale MD-500's vary a decent bit, so ultimately just depends on what the owner is running for tail blades. Several of the different Magnum PI full size helis had different setups. Actually, several of the full size PI helis even had variations in the fuselage stripe widths, N Number sizing and placements, and different tails too. Beauty of scale modeling is, you can paint it or mod it to however you'd like it to be 😉

[F106DeltaDart]

I don’t know why you’d remove it, but no it isn’t needed. At the speeds these move there isn’t much airflow for that stab to be particularly effective.

As for the tail rotor colors, they look mostly correct to me. From what I can tell, they look like mostly white blades in the opening credits are white with a single red stripe near the tip, so these are fairly close.

[Helifly]

Ordered one of these earlier. I know the horizontal tail stabilizer is to scale, but I really don't like the way it looks. At least for now. Does anyone know if it is just cosmetic or is it necessary for proper flight on this model? Also, the red and white striped tail rotor blades look a little out of place in the overall color scheme. Maybe orange or black would be better? Can't recall the original color.

[xviper]

This is so cool. I've just finished the mod to my MD500E ("Sheriff"), 470 size with the 5-blade rotor head directly from Roban. It was an easy job, flew perfectly as if it came that way. I would have preferred the Magnum PI version, but, Oh Well!
They really do look so much better as a 5-blade.

[Aros]

MD-500D Magnum PI Super Scale 470 Size GPS Stabilized Helicopter - RTF from RotorScale - RSM-470-R-MD-MG

Relive one of television’s most recognizable helicopters with the RotorScale MD-500D 470 Size GPS-Stabilized Helicopter in iconic Magnum P.I. trim. From its unmistakable round-nose profile to the legendary yellow, orange, and brown striping, this beautifully crafted scale replica captures the sleek civilian style and screen-famous presence that made the full-scale helicopter unforgettable.

Built on RotorScale’s proven 470-size platform, the MD-500D blends exceptional scale fidelity with pilot-friendly GPS-assisted performance. The highly detailed fiberglass fuselage features molded panel lines, rivet details, scale exhaust accents, and the signature rounded nose unique to the D variant. An upgraded 5-blade rotor head enhances the helicopter’s realism in the air while delivering an exceptionally smooth and refined scale flying character.

Advanced GPS stabilization actively maintains altitude and position for stable hovering with minimal pilot input, making this helicopter approachable for newer pilots while still rewarding experienced scale enthusiasts. Intelligent features such as Return-to-Home and multiple flight modes provide a smooth progression from confidence-inspiring GPS-assisted flight to increasingly direct pilot control as skills grow.

Arriving nearly Ready-to-Fly, the MD-500D includes the helicopter, transmitter, flight battery, charger, and all major essentials needed to enjoy one of television’s most iconic helicopters—requiring only 4 AA batteries for the transmitter before takeoff.

Fly Out of the Box! The RotorScale MD-500D arrives fully assembled and ready to take to the skies. No setup hassle—just charge the battery, install the main blades and you're ready to fly!

Advanced GPS Stabilization Advanced GPS stabilization ensures a rock-solid, beginner friendly flight performance that can also be turned up a notch for more advanced pilots or progressing beginners. Available modes include GPS Mode, Angle Mode and Manual/Traditional Helicopter Mode for a wide variety of skill levels.

Authentic Magnum P.I. Livery Faithfully recreated in the legendary sunset-inspired yellow, orange, and brown striping, the MD-500D delivers instantly recognizable scale realism with unmistakable screen presence.

Switchable LED Searchlight Switchable LED searchlight adds extra excitement and brings thrilling investigative-style flying to every mission.

High Quality, Detailed Fiberglass Fuselage Exquisitely crafted fiberglass fuselage is molded with panel lines, rivet details and also includes exhaust details for the highest level of scale appearance.

Realistic LED Lights LED lighting adds scale authenticity and added visibility for early morning or late evening operations.

Painted Carbon Fiber Blades Realistically painted, carbon fiber main blades provide that extra bit of detail for the maximum in scale appearance.

Large, 470 Size The large 470 size with 745mm diameter main rotor provides impressive stability, power and presence in the air.

Features:

• Ready to fly package includes everything you need to start flying right away, just add 4AA batteries
• Advanced GPS stabilization provides rock solid, steady, beginner-friendly flight
• Iconic Magnum P.I. livery recreates the legendary yellow, orange, and brown striping of television’s most recognizable MD-500D
• Authentic 5-blade rotor system elevates the helicopter’s scale appearance with rich multi-blade detail
• Larger, 470 size offers enhanced stability and power
• Switchable LED searchlight adds extra excitement and brings thrilling investigative-style flying to every mission
• High quality and professionally painted fiberglass fuselage is molded with panel lines, rivet details, and also includes exhaust details for maximum scale appeal
• Realistic LED lighting adds authenticity and visibility
• Painted main blades and tail rotor provide enhanced scale realism
• Three flight modes provide adaptable in-flight choices for pilots of all skill levels – GPS Mode, Angle Mode, and Manual/traditional helicopter Mode
• Return Home and Land feature ensures safe, easy recovery for beginner pilots
• Low voltage auto-return home automatically returns the helicopter to land at the home point if the battery voltage drops too low
• Carbon fiber frames provide superior rigidity while remaining lightweight
• Brushless main and tail motors for high efficiency and long term reliability
• Reliable 2.4GHz control provides solid, interference free connectivity

Includes:

• RotorScale MD-500D Magnum PI Super Scale 470 Size GPS Stabilized Helicopter – RTF
• 2.4 GHz Transmitter
• Flight Battery
• Charger
• Instruction Manual

Requires:

• Four (4) AA batteries for the transmitter. We recommend the GP Super Alkaline 4 Pack

Product Specifications:

AGE LEVEL : 14 and Up
SKILL LEVEL : Intermediate
BUILD TIME : 1+ Hours

Class / Size	470 Size
Power Type	Electric
Rotor Type	Collective Pitch
Body Material	Fiberglass
Overall Size (L x W x H)	790mm (31.1 in) x 350mm (13.8 in) x 240mm (9.4 in)
Flying Weight	1400g (3lb 2oz) without battery
Main Rotor Diameter	745mm (29.3 inches)
Main Rotor Blade Length	326mm (12.8 inches)
Tail Rotor Diameter	130mm (5 inches)
Tail Rotor Blade Length	N/A
Tail Drive Type	2205 2450Kv Brushless Motor
Cyclic Servos	3x 12g, Digital, Metal Gear Servos
Tail Servo	N/A
Power System	2820 1300Kv Brushless Motor
Electronic Speed Control	60A, 2-in-1 ESC
Recommended Battery	4S 4000-5000mAh LiPo - Admiral 4S 5000mAh LiPo Battery (EPR50004X6)
Required Radio	2.4GHz Radio (included)
Skill Level	Intermediate
Build Time	1+ Hours
Recommended Environment	Outdoors