Tail Shaft Bearing

"Damn you, tail!" - That dog from "TV Funhouse"

One of the worst parts of the Hornet design is the coupling of the bearing on the tail output shaft to the two halves of the tail pitch slider.

The bearing has a tendency to pop out of the tail pitch slider. This usually results in complete loss of tail pitch control. If this occurs during flight, the Hornet will  usually yaw (spin) completely out of control, often resulting in a violent crash.

This can be fixed by replacing the provided E0360 bearing with a Duratrax 3x6 flanged bearing.

These bearings are inexpensive and be found at many hobby shops, including Tower Hobbies. (Part Number LXD100.) Click here to get one.

The bearing should be replaced as shown, placing the flanged side towards the tail gearbox.

 

For the same reasons as described above, it is highly advisable to glue the new bearing into place. It is best to use 30 minute epoxy, thinned with isopropyl alcohol. 

It is important to use 30 minute due to the fact that the alcohol will accelerate the curing process.

Apply the alcohol sparingly on the areas on the bearing indicated in green. A needle is recommended for careful application.

Be careful not to get glue on the moving parts of the bearing.

 

Note that these parts should be thoroughly cleaned before being glued to assure removal of any oils which could affect the bonding. Rubbing alcohol works best for this, though some people clean them with CA debonder or  nail polish remover (IE acetone) first, then alcohol.