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View Full Version : Should Rod End Bearings for Ailerons use Zerk Fittings



conodeuce
05-30-2018, 09:30 AM
For my project airplane, the Acey Deucy, the ailerons are mounted on rod end bearings. In shopping for these bearings, I see that Zerk grease fittings are an option.
I would appreciate learning from experienced builders whether these are useful.

Thank you.

Ref: https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/appages/heimmbearings.php

Sam Buchanan
05-30-2018, 12:32 PM
RVs use a lot of rod end bearings and none of them have zerks. Greasing these bearings is a great way to trap dirt and cause premature wear and rough operation. Best to use a non-stick lube such as one of the LPS products.

By the way, the much less expensive Aurora bearings will work fine on your project.

conodeuce
05-30-2018, 01:02 PM
RVs use a lot of rod end bearings and none of them have zerks. Greasing these bearings is a great way to trap dirt and cause premature wear and rough operation. Best to use a non-stick lube such as one of the LPS products.

By the way, the much less expensive Aurora bearings will work fine on your project.

Thank you for the reply, Sam. Very helpful.

cub builder
05-31-2018, 06:39 AM
Sam is exactly right. My KR has numerous rod end bearings as well, including the aileron push rods. At 22 years (aurora bearings) and 1200 hours, they are still nice and snug. I use Triflow to lubricate annually, but it's a very similar product to Sam's recommendation.

Auburntsts
06-03-2018, 07:23 AM
There's an EAA Homebuilder Hint video that explains the greasing procedure: http://www.eaavideo.org/detail/video/1628410977001/greasing-rod-end-bearings?autoStart=true&q=rod%20ends