Steve Campbell
Elite Veteran
Location: Baton Rouge, LA
| vitek,
You need a one-way (torrington) bearing somewhere in the train so you won't trash things getting the starter un-coupled from the machine. X-Cell start shafts are an integral part of the clutch; therefore, you need the bearing either on the start shaft adapter or the starter wand itself.
The only adapter with a one-way bearing for a start shaft (on the ship) that I've seen was offered by TSK, for the gassers, and it was horribly expensive. Your best best is to get one of the several systems for your starter that have a one-way bearing between the start wand and the starter. KSJ makes the most bullet-proof one I've seen; it is also the most expensive. An added benefit of this one is that it can be had with an optional cup attachment for starting planks. You simply unscrew the heli wand and screw the cup on. This is what I have been using for many years, with much satisfaction.
There are several less expensive knock-offs available, to include a version that fits into a standard plank starter cup. Personally, I would avoid that one. All of these require an adapter for the machine. MA sells one for about $7.
You have two other options. MA sells an excellent attachment that fits over the bare start shaft of the ship- no adapter needed. The Pegae system, with it's own special adapter/shaft, is another excellent product.
But both limit your starter's flexibility. Sure, you don't plan on starting anyone else's stuff. But what if your starter pukes? The great majority of folks use the 6mm hex parts. Without a hex adapter on your bird, you're SOL.
If you could find the afore-mentioned TSK part, which is doubtful, you would pay as much for it as you would to buy a new start wand and adapter. Rigid start wands work okay in ships that have a one-way bearing in the clutch (Raptor, JR, etc.). But using a rigid wand on a rigid shaft is asking for trouble.
Steve
P.S.: You will hear of guys using electric drills, cut-off Allen wrenches, and other such cheap alternatives. Do yourself a BIG favor and spend the bucks on purpose-designed equipment. You most definitely want a hex ball on the end of your start wand, as opposed to a square surface. |
