ESPFlight Docs v1
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Motors & Propellers

Verify the v1 motor map and rotation with propellers removed; do not rely on an undocumented single-motor test control.

ESPFlight Docs · v1 • Validated v1 documentation path

# Motor order

Swipe horizontally to see all columns.

MotorLocationGPIORequired rotationPropeller
1Front-right5CCWCCW
2Rear-right4CWCW
3Rear-left13CCWCCW
4Front-left15CWCW

# Verify mapping before spinning motors

The public v1.0.0 application materials do not define a dedicated single-motor test control, so this beginner path does not assume one exists.

  1. 1

    Power off and remove propellers

    Disconnect the battery/power source and remove every propeller.

  2. 2

    Trace each motor output

    Use the board labels/schematic and continuity where practical to confirm M1→front-right, M2→rear-right, M3→rear-left and M4→front-left.

  3. 3

    Connect and ARM only after the full bench setup is ready

    Use the normal application control path with throttle at minimum; telemetry must confirm the intended controller and ARMED state before any powered motor check.

  4. 4

    Raise throttle only enough to confirm operation

    With the frame secured and propellers removed, use the lowest practical powered command above the motor-off boundary. Confirm all motors respond and observe their rotation direction.

  5. 5

    Return throttle to minimum and DISARM

    Normal motor output should stop at the documented low-throttle boundary; issue DISARM at low throttle before touching wiring.

# Correct a mismatch safely

M1 and M3 must rotate CCW; M2 and M4 must rotate CW. If a reference two-wire brushed motor rotates the wrong way, correct its motor wiring/polarity only with power disconnected. Custom motor-driver hardware may use a different reversal method; follow that hardware rather than assuming the reference method applies.

STOP CONDITION

Do not install propellers if any motor is on the wrong corner, does not start/stop predictably, or rotates in the wrong direction.

# Install propellers last

Only after the complete propeller-off bench test passes, install each propeller so its CW/CCW type matches the motor table. Confirm the propeller is secure and has clearance from wiring and the frame.

# Identify propeller type and clearance before installation

Before installation, identify each propeller as CW or CCW from reliable specifications or markings for that product. If you cannot positively identify a propeller, do not install it and do not guess from color or appearance.

With power disconnected, rotate each propeller by hand in its installed position and confirm clearance from the frame, wiring, and other parts.
M1/M3 use CCW propellers and M2/M4 use CW propellers.
Do not power an unknown propeller installation just to discover its type.