MA flex start shaft

[Zman39]

I have a flex start shaft that I just got a couple weeks ago and today the one way bearings or needle bearings broke and it just spins on start shaft of heli. Will MA warranty this or if not can it be fixed?

Thanks

Mike

[DavidH]

Send it in they can replace the bearings for a small price. Don't think there is any warranty on the item for the bearings. The reason being all that has be done to kill the bearings is not use it correctly. Pulling off while the starter is spinning is a NO NO.

David

[Alfred]

I have still got the original Flex-starter (with the none-replaceable bearing).
It's been starting 60-70-80-90 engines for more then 3-5years?
Still working.
You just bust them when the engines are flooded on the 90's.
Mine is on a Dyno Starter with two 8.4vdc Nicads in series through Deans connectors. So no shortage of grunt.
Even if it dies now, it's done more then it's money worth.

[capebob]

For some reason every month or so I would forget and pull the starter off before releasing the switch, end of bearings. I got tired of changing the bearings in my Flex starter so I installed a Raptor hex adapter on both my machines. Hirobo and I think JR adapters work also. End of problem. If you use a product like Loctite 680 retaining compound you don't even have to file a flat on the start shaft. A little 680, tighten the set screws and let sit for several hours and you're good to go. It's probably better to file a flat on the start shaft, but if you ever want to go back to a Flex starter you'll have to replace the starter shaft.

Bob

[ClayK]

I had a 6mm hex start on my models. I was stripping out the hex adapter, I think I replaced two of them. I switched to the pro-flex and I haven't had a problem with starting since then. I just remember not to pull off the starter while it's spinning.

[DavidH]

Bob,
I do similar to what you do. I clean the shaft and inside of hex coupling with acetone. I then smear the shaft with the red loctite that MA packages. I then slide the coupling on the shaft. Put blue loctite on the set screw and install it. Let it set 6-8 hours to cure.
When I need to remove the coupling from the shaft. I have to heat the coupling to get the loctite to release. I have actually removed the set screw and started the engine without the coupling releasing from the shaft.

No flat grinding is needed on the shaft/

David

[Zman39]

Well Jeff took care of me at MA . Since I am in Florida, I had it back in two days. Will be more careful about when I pull it off.

Thanks guys

Mike

[capebob]

David,
That's exactly what I do except I use Loctite retaining compound. I have over 200 starts on both machines since converting and I have yet to strip out an a coupling. I do keep a spare on hand. I think the secret to coupling longevity is using a quality hex probe. I'm using the Sullivan unit with excellent results.

Bob