ball bearings on stock bellcranks &RPM skid

[Out of Sight]

Need some advice guys!

I'd just recently swapped both my skid plates to RPM ones, as I'm tired of popping bellcranks during hard front dive. The RPM steering post fits VERY snug on the bushings, so I get zero play, but a much tighter steering (more friction).

Since I currently have the stock bellcranks, I decided to install brand new 8x5x2.5 bearings in place of the bushings. It worked to some degree by lightening the steering action, but not by much..it still felt tight. So I looked at the 8x5 teflon washer (#1985). It seemed the outer race of the bearings grinded against it as their outer diameters are identical (8mm).

I took my rotary file and carefully trimmed the washer's outer area. Now it's 6mm, and the washer sits perfectly against the bearings inner race. It should solve the problem right..well yes, it helps A LOT. My servo is having a blast :D , but when I moved the bellcranks by hand (without the servo attached) I still hope it will be smoother..but there's still a tiny weeny bit of friction. I checked the screw on the bellcranks connecting bars, no hindrance whatsoever.

Did I miss something?

[DeanSky]

Are you suppose to use the teflon washer with the RPM skids?

[Out of Sight]

Are you suppose to use the teflon washer with the RPM skids?

Yes sir..it's mentioned in the RPM skid plates instruction manual. The stock washers must be installed on both upper and lower steering post.

[DeanSky]

I have the RPM skid on my Slash and have zero issues with the bearings. I dont remember if I used the teflon washers though. Just remember those instructions are for assembly with the stock bushings, not bearings. Try removing the washer and see if it helps. Also make sure that the pins are in all the way, and trim any excess plastic flashing on them.

[Out of Sight]

Haven't thought of that! But the bushings inner/outter diameter and thickness are the same as the bearings right? in theory there shouldn't be any issues. The steering posts were already trimmed amd firmly planted at maximum depth. Anyway I'll try running without the washers! Thanks for the tip!

[DeanSky]

It was just a thought. If the problem continues, you might want to give RPM a call and see what they think.

[Out of Sight]

It turns out the ball ends on the steering tie rods were a little clogged up with fine dirt, that's what causes the frictions!