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I'm getting ready to order a new set of rod end bearings for aileron hinges on my Skybolt. There were a few that had a little more play then they should.
I'm looking for any first hand experience Heim vs. Auroa rod end bearings for the aileron hinges. I did a few searches and didn't see many folks that had used both. If there's a good discussion already posted just tell me where to find it. I have looked at the Fafnir rod ends but won't be going that route due to the cost.
The Heim male rod ends (M34-14M) I need are about 3 times the price of the Auroa equivalent (GMM-3M-470) for Skybolt aileron hinges. If there is a large difference in the quality that is certainly worth it but when I looked at the spec. sheets I didn't see it.
The Auroa spec. sheet for the bearings list that they have a ISO 9002 and FAA approved quality control system and a 2158 lb ultimate strength vs. the Heim spec. sheet that lists a 1,700 lb ultimate strength and that they magnaflux the housings as a part of the quality assurance process. The dimensional tolerances and materials seem pretty close on paper between the two.
My understanding is that Vans Aircraft uses the Auroa bearings in the RV kits (~8600 fleet size) and I couldn't find any complaints about them in the VAF forums, there were a few long threads on the best bearing lube though.
What am I missing?
I'm looking for any first hand experience Heim vs. Auroa rod end bearings for the aileron hinges. I did a few searches and didn't see many folks that had used both. If there's a good discussion already posted just tell me where to find it. I have looked at the Fafnir rod ends but won't be going that route due to the cost.
The Heim male rod ends (M34-14M) I need are about 3 times the price of the Auroa equivalent (GMM-3M-470) for Skybolt aileron hinges. If there is a large difference in the quality that is certainly worth it but when I looked at the spec. sheets I didn't see it.
The Auroa spec. sheet for the bearings list that they have a ISO 9002 and FAA approved quality control system and a 2158 lb ultimate strength vs. the Heim spec. sheet that lists a 1,700 lb ultimate strength and that they magnaflux the housings as a part of the quality assurance process. The dimensional tolerances and materials seem pretty close on paper between the two.
My understanding is that Vans Aircraft uses the Auroa bearings in the RV kits (~8600 fleet size) and I couldn't find any complaints about them in the VAF forums, there were a few long threads on the best bearing lube though.
What am I missing?
