DJI Phantom 1 Teardown and Shell Replacement

I previously bought a used Phantom 1 online (DJI Phantom 1: I Bought a Phantom 1), but I really couldn't stand its dirty shell. Even alcohol wouldn't clean it, and now I finally have a chance to replace it!

Why now?

Another crash! (If you've never crashed one, can you really say you've flown drones?)

Details of the damage

Even the receiver ribbon cable was exposed. It hurt a little to see it like this

 

I bought replacement shell parts from Taobao

 

The included shell screws

 

Starting the teardown the same way as last time.

 

Remember where the ribbon cables go.

 

Transfer the GPS module

 

Ready to replace the main body

 

Recording the receiver's ribbon-cable positions

 

Remove the main assembly completely

 

Installing the LED and receiver

 

Install the motors and mainboard in the new shell

 

Checking the motors, ESCs, and mainboard for damage

 

This shell has no USB opening... so I need to check the final tuning settings.

 

Fitting the upper shell and landing gear

 

 

The Phantom 1 looks brand new now (apart from the remote controller).

 

While I'm at it, I'll put the old shell back together.

 

Finally, a look at the results of several hours of hard work

 

Now to wait for a test flight. I hope everything is fine. (I'm never using Naza in manual mode again.)