> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.geprc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.geprc.com/01-getting-started/fpv-essential-tools/2.-hardware-tools.md).

# 2. Hardware Tools

Unlike consumer camera drones (like DJI Mavics), FPV drones require high-frequency maintenance. Whether it is replacing a broken arm after a crash, re-soldering a severed motor wire, or simply tightening screws as part of a routine check, you need the right tools.

As the saying goes, "A workman must sharpen his tools if he is to do his work well." A good set of tools will save you time, frustration, and prevent you from stripping screws.

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### The Essentials: Hex Drivers

99% of the fasteners on an FPV drone are Hex (Allen) screws.

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**CRITICAL WARNING: Throw Away the Free L-Keys!**

When you buy a drone or a frame, you often get free L-shaped hex keys. **Please throw them in the trash** or keep them only for absolute emergencies.

Reason: These cheap keys are made of soft metal and have poor tolerance. They will easily **strip (round off)** the heads of delicate 1.5mm screws. Once a motor screw is stripped, removing it is a nightmare.
{% endhint %}

#### Recommended Specs

We highly recommend buying **S2 Steel** handled screwdrivers.

| Size          | Common Usage                                                                                    | Notes                                                                                     |
| ------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **1.5 mm**    | **Most Critical!** Used for motor screws, small camera screws, and M2 stack screws.             | This size strips the easiest. Buy the highest quality driver you can afford for this one. |
| **2.0 mm**    | **Most Common.** Used for arm bolts, M3 standoffs, and stack bolts.                             | The standard screw size for most GEPRC frames.                                            |
| **2.5 mm**    | Less Common. Usually found on larger structural parts of 5-inch or 7-inch drones (e.g., MARK5). |                                                                                           |
| **Phillips**  | Occasionally used for camera back covers or older accessories.                                  | Keep a small Phillips head driver handy just in case.                                     |
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### Propeller Tools

Different drones require different tools to change propellers.

#### For 5-inch / 7-inch Drones (e.g., MARK5, MOZ7)

* Tool: **M8 Socket Driver (8mm)**
* Use: To remove and tighten M5 Lock Nuts.
* Recommendation: Get a socket driver with a built-in **one-way ratchet** or a dedicated FPV prop tool. It makes changing props much faster and is very satisfying to use.

#### For Whoops / Micros (e.g., Cinebot, DarkStar)

* Tool: **1.5 mm Hex Driver**
* Use: These smaller drones usually secure propellers directly to the motor bell using two **M2 screws**. No socket driver is needed.
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### Soldering & Electrical Tools

Wires break, and eventually, you will need to replace a receiver or motor. Soldering is a mandatory skill for FPV pilots.

#### The "Holy Trinity" of Soldering

1. Soldering Iron:
   * Recommendation: Portable smart irons like **TS100 / TS101 / Pinecil**.
   * Pros: Heats up in seconds, compact, and can be powered by a PD charger or even a 4S/6S LiPo battery in the field. Perfect for field repairs.
2. Solder Wire:
   * Avoid: Beginners should **avoid Lead-Free solder** (it has a high melting point and is difficult to work with).
   * Recommendation: **63/37 Leaded Solder**. It has a low melting point, flows well, and creates shiny, solid joints.
3. Flux:
   * Role: The soul of soldering. Apply a little flux to the pads, and the solder will flow like water, preventing solder bridges and cold joints.

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The "Holy Trinity" above covers the minimum for reliable soldering and field repairs.
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#### The Lifesaver: Multimeter

* Use: Every time you touch a soldering iron to your drone, **you MUST use a multimeter in "Continuity Mode" (Beep Mode)** to check the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals before plugging in a battery.
* Verdict:
  * Long Beep: Short circuit detected! **DO NOT plug in the battery.**
  * Silence (or short chirp): Safe to power up.

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If you plug in a battery with a short circuit, you will release the "Magic Smoke" and destroy your electronics instantly.
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### Consumables & Adhesives

* Threadlocker (Loctite):
  * Recommendation: **Blue (Medium Strength)**, such as Loctite 243.
  * Usage: Apply a tiny drop to motor screws and arm screws to prevent vibrations from loosening them.

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**NEVER** let threadlocker touch plastic parts (like propellers or prop guards). It causes a chemical reaction that makes plastic brittle and crack instantly!
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* Electrical / Acetate Tape:
  * Used to bundle motor wires to the arms, preventing them from catching in the propellers.
* Zip Ties (Cable Ties):
  * Used to secure receiver antennas, power leads, and capacitors. An FPV pilot can never have enough zip ties.
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{% hint style="info" %}
GEPRC Repair Tip:

If you crash your **MARK5** or **Cinebot** and break an arm, you will need to remove the motor to replace the arm.

* Try to keep the motor wires **as long as possible**. Do not cut them short; you might need to move that motor to a different frame later.
* If you are unsure which wire goes to which pad, check the **"Wiring Diagram"** on our official website product page, or simply **take a photo** with your phone before desoldering.
  {% endhint %}