Notchy Blade Grips

[torch628]

This is probably more of a general question but since I've got a Vibe I'll ask it here.

I just replaced my blade spindle after a crash. After tightening down the end bolts I found that one of the blade grips was very "notchy" while the other one moved smoothly. I'm trying to figure out 1) whether the culprit is the radial bearings or the thrust bearings and 2) whether this was caused by the crash or by my over tightening of the bolts on the spindle.

I've taken all of the radial bearings out and for the most part they seem o.k. One set has a very very slight roughness while the other set seems smooth. I thought maybe the rough set was causing the problems but then I noticed that the "notchiness" does not really become pronounced until the spindle bolts are fully tightened which makes me think it's the thrust bearings.

Is there any good way to find a definitive answer without spending $25 for a whole new set of bearings and swapping them out until I find the guilty bearing.

And finally is there a chance I caused this myself by tightening the bolts too much? If ever there was a place for tight bolts the spindle seems like the place.

Thanks for the help

Matt

[Pinecone]

Put a load on the bearing while checking. Stick a spindle in there and push sideways and push the inner race in both directions.

To check the thrust bearing, I would first clean it and visually inspect for any dents in the races. Lube lightly, and assemble on the bench. PUsh down and turn, if they feel notchy replace.

I know on other helis, I find the bearing close the head to go most often. And it is getting the majority of the bending load of the spindle.

[torch628]

Pinecone,

Thanks.....again. Once I put the loaded the bearing up it became quickly obvious which ones were the culprit.

Matt