Tin Pusher
Heliman
Location: Surrey, BC
| The first 2 mods recommended for the Century Hummingbird are described here. Parts can be ordered from:
http://www.helihobby.com/html/hummingbird_upgrades.html
part# HH230 or HH118 (Main Shaft Alluminum Collar, 1 or 2 screws)and
part# HH119 (Swashplate Center Ball)
They come with the following instructions but if you want more pictures please read on.
http://www.helihobby.com/commonImages/swashBall.jpg
http://www.helihobby.com/html/hummi...swashplate.html
Pull off needed ball links and remove locking pin. Carefully or you will break a fragile ball link like I did. Below is also a picture of the miracle of 5 minute epoxy.
Remove swashplate assembly and pull out rubber tube with fingers or needle nose pliers.
Here the tube is removed and you can see Shaft Collar and supplied Alan key. This shaft collar happens to be a 2 screw model.
I used 3 drill bits (5/32, 11/64, & 3/16) and a dremel stone to enlarge the swashplate hole enough to insert the Nylon Ball Race, otherwise known as the Swashplate Center Ball. I used my fingers only with the drill bits and stone. The plastic is soft enough that a drill might have taken too much off. Start with the smallest bit and work up. Even after the last bit it still needs a bit of enlarging, but not enough to warrant going to the next size drill bit (7/32). The Ball Race must not be forced into the hole as it will be squeezed and not move freely.
The ball race has been inserted after applying a small amount of CA. Carefull not to get any glue on the ball. I also added some synthetic grease to make the ball move smoother.
Here we see the empty shaft.
and here the shaft collar has been inserted and the screws tightened. Make sure shaft spins freely. Inspect the pinion alignment underneath.
Place the Swashplate back on and reinsert the locking pin. I found it easier if I pushed a sewing pin threw the locking pin hole to line all the holes up first. Then don't remove the pin but push it back out with the locking pin itself. Reconnect the ball links and you are done.
I hope you find this helpful and please feel free to add your own tips and experiences.
Doug |
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