Dominator Rotor Head Bearing

[jimh1]

I will be swapping my kit plane for a used Dominator this summer and have a question hopefully someone can answer for me.
Does the rotor head bearing have a life span? Does RFD recommend replacing it after so many hours? What's the norm? I'm sure one would not run it till it goes!!!
Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jim

[Earthboundmisft]

Jim, just replace it, its your only peace of mind, regardless of opinions. Whats 50 bucks?

[jimh1]

Yes, I was planning on changing the bearing, but what I'd like to know is if there is a general rule in the gyro world on the life span of that bearing.
On your gyro do you automatically change it every 100 hours?, every 6 months?, or when ever you get the feeling to change it??

[Alan_Cheatham]

Take a look at this thread: http://www.rotaryforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5457

And this form the man:

The MRC bearing handbook shows that a 5206 bearing supporting a 500-lb. pure thrust load and turning at 400 rpm will have a life expectancy of 23,265 hours.

The load on the rotorhead bearing isn’t a pure thrust load; there is some moment load which shortens the life a bit and life calculations are under controlled conditions with the bearing well lubricated and free of contaminants. Pounding the flap stops will definitely shorten bearing life.

[Timchick]

Jim,
I've heard some pilots talk about changing it every 100 hours but not sure if that's a recommendation or done just for peace of mind.

[scottessex]

I check the rotorhead for any movement during preflight.
I would say that 300-500 hours would give you a great margin of safety.

[NoWingsAttached]

Go with the MRC 5206 with dual rubber seals, that would be a 5206CZ. It should be changed with a normal total rotorhead overhaul - all bushings and bolts - if you have not had any rough landings and banging around. If you are like me you'll change it more often. :(

[jimh1]

Thank You Guys..... that's what I was looking for!