X-Lite S: No RIGHT trim function: an in-transmitter trim actuator electronics fail?

[John in Boston]

Wayne & friends, my new X-Lite S is fully functional for all trim imputs except the RIGHT (starboard) trim. The RIGHT-side plastic trim switch button appears to work properly (i.e., there is an audible "click" and the RIGHT switch action looks and "feels" correct and functional), but there is no signal response. This is true for trying to get RIGHT trim function on BOTH control sticks... I can't get the RIGHT trim to function on either stick.

Meanwhile, the LEFT trim works fine, as does the UP and DOWN. This also is true for BOTH control sticks.

And I am returning all trims to neutral via the E Trims RESET button on Page 2 of the model trims menu. That's the easiest way I can think of to improvise until the problem is identified.

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance, guys!
NB: I'm using transmitter Mode 2.

 

[Kilrah]

On the hardware setup page there's a key diag page that will show if the key actually registers or not.

 

[John in Boston]

On the hardware setup page there's a key diag page that will show if the key actually registers or not.

Thank You! I now utilized that “debug” tool page and got confirmation that the “RIGHT” trim key is definitely NOT registering.

But also I’ve now found that the transmitter joystick itself -- our main gizmo, right? -- is no longer functioning in the LEFT direction, ughhh --- but in a purely MECHANICAL way: indeed it now feels mushy, and there is no "click". Feels as though I pushed too hard on it and damaged the physical mechanism, but really I have been VERY careful -- always -- because the joystick is obviously a critical, precise, heavily utilized, and at the same time relatively FRAGILE thing.

So, it seems I have now two separate issues:
1.) The RIGHT trim key "clicks" but does NOT actually register.
2.) The joystick is now longer functional (PHYSICALLY) on the LEFT axis. The joystick RIGHT, UP and DOWN controls actions each appear to be working properly.

My hope is to hear from Aloft and ascertain if they will receive my transmitter for eval/repair.
Thanks again for your interest.
John

 

[Konrad]

Before going through all the trouble of sending it back, take off the back and see if there is anything obviously wrong. Like the mother board is loose, or the connectors are loose.

Whatever the problem is I'm sure Aloft (Chris) will make it right.

 

[John in Boston]

Konrad, thanks -- yeah actually I've already done that kind of eval to the tenth power -- I ALWAYS try and do that stuff thoroughly before I bring my moaning and weeping and whining to this forum or anywheres else! And/but/however you guys then never fail to bring up at least SOMETHING obvious that I hadn't thought about. Much appreciated, always.
?
Learning the basics so far been a great learning experience for me -- it has been fun to suffer oops I mean OVERCOME stuff.
Y'all will make a code-warrior of me yet!

 

[Nigel]

Hey John,

With your gimbal, does it still electronically register? From what I can tell it sounds like a mechanical failure in the spring tension system. If you feel confident about opening your radio up (doesn't void your warranty) to see what actually failed, it would help immensely.

Trim switches are usually one of the first things to go on a radio, I doubt there's much to be fixed. Something that we'll likely replace for you.

If you want to initiate a return and refund/repair, PM me your order number and I can get the process going.

 

[John in Boston]

Nigel, thank you. I've been carefully opening up the Tx up from pretty early-on (from when, like an idiot, I managed to drop one of the stick tension set-screws inside the Tx while setting up the throttle ratchet!) and since then I've taken the opportunity to open up the Tx and try an' semi-intelligently inspect/troubleshoot everything. Also just to develop an understanding of what's inside the box!

Now, by "gimbal" are you referring to the gimbals in the control sticks? I was referring to the single joystick. As I mentioned, the joystick has become mushy and ineffectual on the LEFT direction only. My control stick gimbals are working OK; I need to fine-tune the throttle ratchet but otherwise all seems fine there. My problems are that mushy joystick and the aforementioned lack of RIGHT trim registry/response. I feel I ought now have you guys take a look. I'll send you a PM -- thanks.

 

[Wayne]

The early Xlite radios had some issues with the trim switches. I think it is an issue with the plastics actually, not the switch, but we can check it out and get it going for you.

 

[Konrad]

As I recall this is a new purchase.

 

[John in Boston]

Thanks, guys. I sent the Tx out for TLC yesterday thanks to Nigel from Aloft.

Meanwhile, with anything involving me and aeronautics, you can always factor into the equation the "IS JOHN ROOD SUFFERING ENOUGH?" component! ? --- It is an inextricable element in the mix here. ?ALWAYS!!! ?

 

[Konrad]

Do let us know what they find/you learn.

 

[John in Boston]

The early Xlite radios had some issues with the trim switches. I think it is an issue with the plastics actually, not the switch, but we can check it out and get it going for you.

Thanks, Wayne! If it could possible be seen-to amidst the busy-ness of the holidays and Black Friday sales etc, I'd be very grateful.
John