Dji M300 Propeller Replacement: The Right Screw For The Job

The DJI Matrice 300 RTK is a high-performance drone that requires regular maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. One important aspect of maintenance is the replacement of propellers and propeller screws. While the manual recommends using the screwdriver provided in the kit, some users have reported issues with the supplied screwdriver, such as difficulty in unscrewing or screwing the propeller screws. It is recommended to use a high-quality micro screwdriver or a Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) screwdriver to avoid these issues. Additionally, it is important to note that once the screws are removed, they should be replaced with new ones coated with Loctite to prevent them from becoming loose due to vibrations.

The correct screwdriver size for the DJI M300 propeller replacement screw is a topic of debate

One user reported that the DJI screwdriver provided with their drone stripped immediately upon use and they had to use a different screwdriver to remove and replace the screws. They also noted that the replacement screws they received did not screw all the way in, leaving about 1mm of travel still to go. This issue was also reported by another user who received a new unit from DJI as they believed it to be a manufacturing defect.

Another user recommended using a different screwdriver, such as a micro screwdriver or a jeweller's screwdriver, instead of the one provided by DJI. They found that a smaller screwdriver worked perfectly and did not cause any stripping of the screw heads. This was echoed by several other users who found that a smaller screwdriver, such as a PH000 or a Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) screwdriver, worked better than the DJI-provided screwdriver.

However, one user reported that they had no issues using the DJI-provided screwdriver and suggested that the problems others were experiencing may be due to user error or variations in screw quality. They recommended cleaning the threads of the screws with a micro tap and die to remove any old thread lock compound before attempting to reinstall them.

It is worth noting that some users have suggested that the shape of the screw head, rather than the size, may be the issue. One user noted that the crosshead pattern on at least some DJI screws is not a standard Phillips pattern, and recommended checking the pattern and style of the crosshead before attempting to replace the screws.

Loctite is recommended to prevent screws from loosening

Loctite is an adhesive used to prevent the loosening of threaded fasteners, such as screws. It is supplied as a thin fluid in a bottle, which can be dripped onto the threads of screws from a nozzle-top bottle. The liquid will then cure to form a layer of thermoset plastic between the male and female fastener threads.

Loctite is available in different strengths, indicated by a colour-coded label. Low-strength threadlocker, such as Loctite's "Purple", is suitable for use on low-strength materials, such as aluminium and brass, and smaller, more delicate fasteners, such as electronic devices. It prevents fasteners from working loose under vibration while providing fairly simple disassembly and reassembly.

For a medium-strength option, Loctite's "Blue" is ideal for preventing screws from loosening due to use and vibration. It is perfect for motorized and non-motorized parts that need occasional servicing, like car parts (oil pans, water pumps, etc.), or even motorized yard equipment, bicycles, and furniture. It sets in 10 minutes and fully cures in 24 hours. It can be easily removed with hand tools.

If you require a more permanent solution, Loctite's "Red" is a high-strength thread locker that can only be removed by heating the parts. This option is suitable for parts that need a stronger, more permanent hold, like structural bolts in a home, auto suspensions and frames, or any other heavy machinery.

When using Loctite, it is important to ensure that the nuts and bolts are clean and free from oil or dirt before application. This is to ensure that the adhesive can develop its full bonding strength.

By using Loctite, you can help prevent the screws on your DJI M300 propeller replacement from loosening over time, ensuring the secure and safe operation of your drone.

Screws should be replaced if propellers are unscrewed

Propellers on the DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone should be replaced after flying over 300 hours or after one year of use. This is because the M300 RTK has more power and propulsion than previous platforms and has high requirements for the proper installation and upkeep of its propellers. If you must replace the propellers yourself in an emergency, be sure to contact your local repair agent or DJI technical support for maintenance as soon as possible after landing.

When replacing propellers, it is important to note that the screws should also be replaced. This is because the screws have thread lock on them, which can make them difficult to remove. Overtightening the screws can strip the thread or make it difficult to remove the screw when it is time to change the propellers.

To remove the screws, it is recommended to use a screwdriver that is the correct size and has the correct pattern/style of the crosshead. The screwdriver should also be large enough to hold firmly, as using a small screwdriver can be difficult and may result in stripping the screw.

When replacing the screws, it is recommended to use new screws that have been coated with Loctite to prevent them from becoming loose due to vibration. Loctite blue or purple is recommended for small screws, as the higher-strength Loctite red can cause damage to plastics. It is important to only apply Loctite to the screw threads and not the propeller, as it can cause plastics to crumble.

Screws should be checked for damage before reuse

When replacing the propeller on your DJI M300, it is important to check for damage before reusing screws. This is because overtightening can lead to stripped threads or screws that are too tight to be removed. Checking the screws for damage before reuse can help prevent further issues and ensure the propeller is securely attached.

Firstly, check that the screws are not already stripped. Screwdriver bits can slip when attempting to loosen a stripped screw, causing further damage. If a screw is stripped, it will need to be removed using alternative methods.

If the screw is not stripped, check that it is not too tight. Screws that are too tight can be difficult to remove and can cause damage to the thread. Attempting to remove overtightened screws can also lead to damage to the screwdriver bit.

If a screw is found to be damaged, it is important to replace it. Using damaged screws can lead to further issues and may affect the performance and safety of the drone. It is recommended to consult the user manual or seek advice from a professional if unsure about how to proceed.

By following these steps and checking for damage before reuse, you can help ensure the proper installation and secure attachment of the propeller, maintaining the performance and safety of your DJI M300.

Screws should not be over-tightened

When replacing the propellers of your DJI M300 drone, it is important to be mindful of the tightness of the screws. While it is essential to ensure that the screws are tight, over-tightening can lead to several issues.

Firstly, over-tightening can damage the screw thread. The thread on a screw is responsible for converting torque into linear force during fastening. By applying too much torque, you can strip the thread, making it difficult to remove the screw in the future. This can also prevent the screw from maintaining a secure fit, defeating the purpose of tightening it in the first place.

Secondly, over-tightening screws can make them extremely difficult to remove. In some cases, you may need special tools, such as a hammer, impact driver, or rotary tool, along with a lubricant, to remove an over-tightened screw. This can be a time-consuming and frustrating process.

Additionally, embedding a screw too deeply into the material can damage the screw itself. The increased torque required to remove or loosen an over-tightened screw can cause the screw head to strip or snap off, rendering the screw useless and compromising the integrity of the attachment.

Finally, over-tightening screws can also lead to damage to the materials you are working with, such as sheet metal or wood. This can result in costly project delays and unexpected expenses due to the need to replace these materials.

Therefore, when replacing the propellers on your DJI M300, it is crucial to tighten the screws securely, but not to the point of over-tightening. This will help ensure the safety and longevity of your drone.

Frequently asked questions