Spektrum DX8 Antenna Upgrade Collar

This is a simple collet to aid in upgrading the antenna on the Spektrum DX8 (first generation). The stock antenna is quite small and not quick swap (no screw-on connector) so this collet allows you to fit an U.fl to RP-SMA pigtail.

Instructions:

Open the radio (see instructions elsewhere) and set aside the back. Remove the whole antenna assembly including TX module - it's fairly obvious how this is done so I won't go into details here.

Remove the stock antenna and cable from the cylindrical plastic housing.

Remove all washers and nuts from the RP-SMA connector of your new pigtail. Insert new pigtail through the printed component, ensuring the RP-SMA connector sits down fully into the hex recess. Use some CA/superglue to fix the cap part over the top of the threaded section of the RP-SMA connector. Re-install the lock washer, spring washer and hex nut over the top of the cap that you just glued down. Tighten firmly but not too much.

Insert the assembly into the cylindrical housing fully, and then rotate to lock (this is the same mechanism that holds the stock antenna in place, and I have replicated it exactly on this model for ease of installation). Use a 12mm spanner if needed to lock into place- I have modelled in some flats for this purpose.

Thread the U.fl connector through the original metal plate and screw back on exactly as it was originally. Route the pigtail under where the TX module sits. Plug the TX module back in and screw down. Plug in the U.fl connector to the TX module and re-assemble radio cover.

Done!

-