This session is a supplement to the GYRO - THE TRUTH write up;
https://ameblo.jp/marcus38060/entry-12413849272.html
Here is your typical Gyro connection;
Steering Servo <=> Gyro <=> Receiver <=> Radio
On a conventional Gyro, it is ideal to set the Steering EPA (End Point Adjustment) on the Radio to 100 to reach full lock left and right. Steering EPA, ideally should be same between left and right. If the full lock reaches at EP 80, you will set the radio EPA for steering at 80, but the Gyro can still override the Radio Steering EPA (because the Gyro is PAST the receiver in the connection) and over-correct beyond Steering EPA 80 when you are spinning out. This causes stress on the servo and the steering mechanical components.
Gyro "Steering" EPA
Newer Gyros have Gyro Steering EPA function.
Don't confuse this with the Radio Steering EPA ! This is End point adjustment on the Gyro itself. Sanwa was one of the very first to introduce this a few years ago. KoPropo/Overdose DAIS, Yokomo DP-302V4, and the Futaba GYD450 are the most popular ones on the market.
So, what is Gyro "Steering" EPA?
This function allows you to set the End Point on the Gyro...which means it is your true "Hard Stop" and cannot be overridden by anything else, and you no longer need to set your Radio Steering EPA.
There are two benefits;
1) Even if you have uneven steering travel to reach full lock from left to right, by setting the Gyro Steering EPA, will offset for this deviation and make the steering travel 'even' left to right.
2) By setting the Gyro Steering EPA, will prevent any over correction by the Gyro, which will protect your Steering Servo and your mechanical components in the steering.
Please refer to each manufactures manuals to set the Gyro Steering EPA. I strongly recommend doing this 'frequently'. This is a MUST when you build the chassis, or when you do ANY small adjustments in the steering or any front end alignment including Ackerman setting. I would still recommend doing this frequently even if no mechanical adjustments are made, just to make sure you are teaching the correct Gyro Steering EPA.
Gyro "Gain" EPA
This is a trick that many may not know...but may have heard of. This is the EPA on the "Gain" channel.
Many talk about what "Gain" they run....but this is a very relative, or arbitrary number that can vary depending on your steering setup, lever ratio, Gyro brand and Radio setup...so "Gain 86" on one chassis may not be the same on a different chassis...
Furthermore...there is difference from the Radio manufacture on the 'adjustable range'. Sanwa usually is said to have a narrower range than Futaba.
So, how can I get the maximum out of my Gyro??
This is where EPA on the Gyro channel, or the Auxiliary channel comes in to play.
Simply set the EPA on your auxiliary channel (CH3 or CH4 where you connected the Gyro signal) to the maximum value. Do this on both H and L side if you have a Gyro that allows to set the gain in both directions like the Yokomo DP-302V4.
This allows to give the maximum "headroom" in the Gyro. Gyro setting 100 on your Radio may not actually be the Gain volume 100 on the Gyro itself, so by opening up the EPA to maximum, this allows you to use the full capability of the Gyro. The diagram between Sanwa and Futaba is only shown as reference and not necessarily an accurate figure. However, I would encourage to just set the EPA to the maximum just to give more "headroom". What Gain you run is your preference, however, having the additional "headroom" is always good.
I have heard that some pro drivers adjust the trim or sub trim on the Gyro Channel. I have also heard some using mixing functions on the radio to change the Gyro Gain to the throttle position. There are many creative ways to use the Gyro Gain, so just try what you feel is best!!!
Happy drifting!
April 11, 2020 / Irvine CA
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