On a standard glider RC plane (the Lidi glider) that has twin motors mounted on the wings, and when one or both motors are spinning in the wrong direction, they won’t generate proper thrust. The motor spin direction depends on whether your twin-motor plane has puller (tractor) props or pusher props. Here’s how it works:
For Puller (Tractor) Props – Motors in Front of the Wings (Typical Setup)
Right-side motor: Counterclockwise (CCW)
Left-side motor: Clockwise (CW)
Props: Use normal (CCW) prop on the right motor and reverse (CW) prop on the left motor.
This configuration helps counteract torque and improves stability.
For Pusher Props – Motors Behind the Wings (Reversed Setup)
Right-side motor: Clockwise (CW)
Left-side motor: Counterclockwise (CCW)
Props: Use a normal (CCW) prop on the left motor and reverse (CW) prop on the right motor.
Pusheer configuration is the majority. Below shows a 4 motor configuration, with the black tape indicating the motor positions as well as the battery position. You will need at least 720 motors and 50mm prop under 1S.
If you are using 720 motors (not enough thrust, therefore need a more aggressive elevator setting):
If you are using the more powerful 816 or 820 motors:
How to Check & Fix Rotation?
- Look at the Prop Blades: The curved (airfoil) side should face forward (in the direction of flight). The lettering on the prop should face forward (not backward).
- Motor Spin Direction Test: If the motor spins the wrong way, swap any two motor wires (for brushed or brushless motors) to reverse the direction.
- Confirm Thrust: Hold the plane firmly and throttle up slightly. Make sure the motors push air in the correct direction.
It is always the best idea to first check if the plane can fly straight before falling. If it can so straight for a little while (not going sideway immediately), it is a speed issue so you can increase motor power, battery power OR adjust the elevator statically to improve lift. If it cannot even go straight, something is wrong with the motors and props (or even the wings).
One Motor Not Running (Asymmetric Thrust):
If one motor isn’t spinning or is weaker than the other, the plane will yaw and stall. Verify both motors are running at full power and are in sync. Also, if the motors are angled too far upwards, they will push the nose up too aggressively, causing a stall. The ideal thrust angles for twin motors are usually slightly downward.
How about 2S?
If you want to use 2S, considering using 820 motors instead of 720. These motors are not supposed to work under anything over 1S but 820 will last a bit longer.
How about the figter plane style glider?
This photo shows the approximate location for battery:
