Heim rod end bearings

[bmoore2156]

I was looking at replacing my rod end bearings on the controls for my RAF.
I have the hardest time keeping all of my leading edge cad plated hardware from getting corrosion/surface rust. Does anyone have a suggestion for this problem? A new cad plated bolt will last about a year/100 hrs before corroding.
Anyway, is the HM-6M rh from Aircraft Spruce the ones they use on RAFs? 3/8 threaded stud with a 3/8 hole. They are $25 each. Is there a less expensive one that will work just as good without
compromising quality?
Thanks
Brad

[Mike484]

Stay American made. I have heard of issues with useing the less expensive imported ones.

[jany77]

i have lots of new old stock heim rods the one you mention i might have probably 6 of them ill let you have one for 15$ ,or if you need 3/8 thread with 1/4 hole on top i have those as well thank you

[bmoore2156]

Jany,
How much for 6 of the 3/8 rod and 3/8 hole.
And 2 of the 3/8 rod and 1/4" hole?
Was it $15 for 1 or $10 for 8?
Thanks
Brad

[jany77]

let me check tomorrow how many do i have but i think i have 6 of 3/8 -3/8 and about 8 of 3/8-1/4 i let you know tomorrow but the price is going to be if you take all 6 10$ each and 10$ for each aditional 3/8-1/4

[jany77]

i sent you a pm

[bmoore2156]

Got it! I'll let you know very soon!!
Thanks
Brad

[fara]

They are about $3 to $6. They are cheap but industrial strength steel, zinc plated (grade 5 steel). Just cycle them out every 100 hours.
http://www.mcmaster.com/#rod-end-ball-joints/=hx96z6

You need to know your size, rotation direction etc. I have used a ton in aircraft we have sold

[Steve Weir]

I know Heims are not designed for a side load but just curious where you could find info on the side load specs.

[AirScooter]

Steve,

Thrust rated heims are made. Go on mcmaster carr website and look at item 8405K12, it is 5/16 x 5/16, radial load is 3972 lbs, thrust is 1545 lbs. But they have a polyurethane race. Not sure if that is good or not.

[AirScooter]

Steve,

Aircraft spruce sells actual heim brand rod ends. They are made by RBC, here is a link to the RBC literature. On page 28 or 29 or 30 (can't remember) they tell you how to figure allowable axial load.

http://www.rbcbearings.com/literature/pdfs/Heim.pdf

[Steve Weir]

Thanks Scott for the info, I will take a look. I have the same set up as the Butterfly Aurora they are .5 x .375 hole and I am getting surface rust on the front side like Brad has on his. I am trying to decide whether to just replace the Heims or go back with a conventional setup.

[bmoore2156]

I am considering painting mine. I'm just not sure if it's a good idea because it will make inspections impossible. I was thinking 2 part epoxy and a tiny paint brush so I could keep the paint out of the joint. If I ever needed to remove them I would have wire brush the paint off. Good idea or not?
Brad

[JEFF TIPTON]

Have you considered using LPS-3?

[bmoore2156]

I have not seen that stuff Jeff. I have tried corrosion x and Boeing shield. Only lasts a few weeks in the salt air climate I fly in. Steel will rust in just a few minuets.
Brad