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Rudder bushing material
http://t18.net/thorpforum/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=8812
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Author:  peterjaypriest [ Mon Jan 08, 2024 12:20 am ]
Post subject:  Rudder bushing material

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

Author:  James Grahn [ Mon Jan 08, 2024 12:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Rudder bushing material

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

Author:  Jim Mantyla [ Tue Jan 09, 2024 3:10 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Rudder bushing material

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

Jim

Author:  fytrplt [ Tue Jan 09, 2024 3:43 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Rudder bushing material

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.

Author:  peterjaypriest [ Wed Jan 10, 2024 8:40 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Rudder bushing material

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

Thanks!

Author:  Ryan Allen [ Wed Jan 10, 2024 9:14 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Rudder bushing material

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

Author:  peterjaypriest [ Thu Jan 11, 2024 9:33 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Rudder bushing material

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...

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