Making up linkage rods

[maxout]

Newbie in the heli world. I just got a 450se V2 and I'm in the build process. making up linkage rods now. I thought the rod end screwed onto the rods. My question is, do you have to run thread into the rod ends first?

[spork]

Nope. The plastic ball-link clevises that go on the ends of the rods are self-threading.

[maxout]

Thanks Spork, I've got a little worked to due.

[spork]

Thanks Spork, I've got a little worked to due.

Be sure and ask lots of questions and definitely check out the Finless Bob build videos for the T-Rex. Might as well save yourself a bunch of headaches.

[Pinecone]

One tip to help get them started is to use a hobby knife and rotate it in the link to make a small bevel. It helps the threading start.

[maxout]

Hey, thanks guys for the advice. I'm looking @ ordering a deal from Tower Hobbies, called a E/Z threader. It's supposed to be a great aid in threading ball links, kwik links etc. For $5.00, I'll give it a try. Will try the local HS tomorrow and see if I can get locally. Let you know how it turns out.

[ZipZap]

They also sell tools that hold the ball links, so they save your fingers.

Here's one at readyheli: http://www.readyheli.com/Heli_Max_Heli_Ball_End_Tool_p/hmxr4859.htm

[Pinecone]

I find that the tool doesn't work well for trex links. It works great for the larger heli links though.

Just toughen up your thumb and fingers. :)

[maxout]

Just wanted to let you guys know I completed the linkage arms and yes Pinecone, the thumbs do fill it. I used my small phillips screwdriver and twist it in the ends of the links, giving them a slight bevel and the rods thread in, with a lot of thumb action. I checked out the tool also I'll probably invest in one. Thanks again guys