V
FUTABA 9Z
THE UNOFFICIAL WORKSHOP MANUAL
WARNING:
THE INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND MAY BE INCORRECT, CAUSE DAMAGE
TO YOUR RADIO OR INJURY TO YOURSELF AND OTHERS. IF YOU USE THIS MANUAL YOU DO SO SOLEY AT YOUR OWN RISK.
www.jamesandtracy.co.uk
Copyright 2012 jamesandtracy.co.uk
Page 42 of 84
suggest you fit collets to your joysticks regardless of whether you have a current crack –
they will really help prevent one occurring. If you do fit a collet, for whatever reason,
remember to continue to periodically check for play in the joystick as the collet will “hide”
any future damage from view.
Figure 36 Metal joystick strengthening collet
A simple collet can be made from stainless steel or brass tube and glued into place
using epoxy. Stainless steel is preferable due to its higher strength, but is harder to
obtain. Never be tempted to use aluminium tube as it is not strong enough and will snap
during use. To manufacture the collet, simply measure the outside diameter of the
joystick’s plastic base and purchase a tube that will ensure a very tight fit. Slice a “collet”
from the end of the tube, remove the joystick’s metal stick heads and slip it on before
gluing into place (see Figure 37).
Figure 37 How to repair a cracked joystick with a collet