Thorp Air Command - T18.net

So...

I'm about to make up a pair of rudder hinge bushings, as spec'd in drawing 581. The specified material is Micarta. I can do that.

But, I wonder if something else might be better, and I have UHMW Polyethylene in mind. (Or, I could possibly make them in stainless. I'd rather not, though.) I've used (as specified) UHMW for the rudder pedal bushings in my Glasair, so have some familiarity with this slippery stuff...

What say you? Is UHMW Polyethylene a suitable / good alternative in this application? Not trying to reinvent any wheels...but possibly improve the longevity...

Thanks,

Peter
N41RS

I just had some made by a machinist. He suggested, and I approved, using brass.
Cubes

Aluminum bronze or oilite bronze would be a better choice. Brass has no lubricative or wear resistance properties.

Jim

I have been advised to stay away from the plastics as they can imbed grit and act abrasively on aluminum, especially here in Florida. I use stainless steel and have had virtually no wear on the aluminum parts in over 3,000 hrs.

_________________
Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

I like the oilite bronze idea. Think I'll give that a try...

Thanks!

would these be desirable? https://www.mcmaster.com/products/oil-i ... -bearings/

Those bushings from McMaster would be desirable, but the dimensions aren't quite workable. I saw those... and wound up ordering the oilite 3/4" diameter rod. Anything will be better than what I have now...