Tight Spinning Flex Shaft Help

[obrien008]

Hi I was wondering what the best way to go about getting a flex shaft to spin more easily in the strut is. I have a 3/16" strut and 3/16" shaft that are pretty tight and hard to turn and even push in.

Maybe a polishing bit on a dremel? Let me know, thanks



Also I was looking to remove some andonization from some alluminum motor mounts, the orange is really ugly and I would like to polish it back to silver, any tips?

[m4a1usr]

The method I like to use for polishing the stub is to chuck the threaded section in a drill press. Then get some varying grades of sand paper and get busy. Use finer grades for polishing. You can even turn down the diameter of the flex if you need it smaller going into the strut. As the drill rotates the stub you can appy an even material removal technique much easier then laying the flex assy on a table and using a wheel.

But before removing anything have you mic'd things to make sure you are doing the right thing? Once removed you cant add it back.

John

[blackcat26]

Hi I was wondering what the best way to go about getting a flex shaft to spin more easily in the strut is. I have a 3/16" strut and 3/16" shaft that are pretty tight and hard to turn and even push in.

Maybe a polishing bit on a dremel? Let me know, thanks



Also I was looking to remove some andonization from some alluminum motor mounts, the orange is really ugly and I would like to polish it back to silver, any tips?

For the anodizing you can bead blast it off then leave natural or paint to your liking...Gives the paint a good surface to bite also.

[Chilli]

My Fine Design struts have a habit of fitting tightly on the Octura 3/16 shaft when new. I came to the conclusion that a little loose is a better than too tight after my shaft locked up in the strut twisting up my .078 wire drive and frying a speed controller. Do what you have to do get her right. IMO- I like just the slightest jiggle of side play between shaft and strut bushing.

I had luck with Easy Off HD oven cleaner with removing anodizing. Apparently it works for some anodizing but not always. For me it started working immediately so I sprayed it on and after a few seconds rinsed it off. I repeated about three or four times untill it was all gone. Use this method at your own risk! The fumes are nasty so be carefull. The cleaner will eat your aluminum if you leave it on too long. You will probably need a bit of polishing when your done.