installing rod end bearings

SgtZim · #1 07-04-2015, 08:48 AM

Quick question - I'm installing the rod end bearings on the rudder - or trying to. I can start the bearings in and get a couple of turns and then they seem to bind very tight. Looking at the K1000-6 plate nuts, they all seem somewhat out of round. Are these supposed to be extremely tight? I'm afraid I'll shear the rivets off if I try to force them in. I plan on calling Van's on Monday but thought if someone is here this weekend... I appreciate the help.
Thanks!

rv8or · #2 07-04-2015, 09:28 AM

The out of round of the plate nut is the locking method to stop the bolt/screw or in this case rod end that is screwed into it from undoing. It will be tight, it is meant to be like that.

Rob

DanH · #3 07-04-2015, 09:38 AM

Try a little bit of grease on the first few threads

wjb · #4 07-04-2015, 09:50 AM

If you haven't seen this yet, check out this thread about loose jam nuts leading to cracking of the rudder spar. Without a properly installed jam nut, the rivets have to do all the work holding the rudder on.

http://www.vansairforce.com/communit...d+end+bearings

SgtZim · #5 07-04-2015, 11:10 AM

Thanks for the replies - much appreciated! I did find an old post on how to make a tool to help move the bearings into position - 1/2 inch pvc pipe heated up to conform over the bearing - now I have bearing "wrenches". Pressing on.

Taildrgr · #6 07-05-2015, 06:58 AM

I use the solid BoeLube on the threads to prevent galling.

Scremm · #7 07-05-2015, 07:15 AM

I second BoeLube.

vfrazier · #8 07-08-2015, 03:12 PM

Make one of these, or buy one from us:

http://www.flyboyaccessories.com/Rod...ool-p/3003.htm

Makes the job so much easier!

Mike S · #9 07-08-2015, 03:23 PM

Bruce, welcome aboard the good ship VAF

Bees wax works just fine, easier to find than Bolube, and most likely cheaper too.

Do pay attention to the lock nut-----critical part. Be sure to tighten it after getting everything aligned an working smoothly.

Check out this thread about making it a lot easier to install the rudder/elevators later on when you get to that stage. http://www.vansairforce.com/communit...ad.php?t=82829

SgtZim · #10 07-09-2015, 08:28 AM

Thanks for the great tips!

I saw in another part of the forums that some owners/fliers have had the jam nuts come loose in service. I asked Van's about it and they just said to tighten them correctly. Maybe use some blue loc-tite on the jam nut but not red. I'll probably also put on some torq-mark and put that on the preflight checklist.