Folks
I am looking for info on how to remove and replace one of my ball bearings that supports the elevator on the tail. Anybody with experience of this? One of my bearings has more play in it than I would like. Also looking for a source;  I expect they are Timken
Thanks


Tom,
You didn't specify which model of Lancair you have...but your description of "ball bearings" implies this is for a 4-seater (all--not sure?). If so, these bearings are pressed into an aluminum hinge bracket. If the bearing has turned in the bracket, you'll need to replace the bracket as well as the hinge, as the aluminum wears much faster than the hardened steel bearing. If the bearing itself is the worn part, it can be pressed out using a vise or (preferably) an arbor press made for the purpose, and the new bearing pressed in. It's usually a good idea to put a small amount of LockTite around the mating surfaces, and to stake the edges of the retainer to hold it in place. Lateral positioning of the bearing is important. You need to position the new bearing in the same position in the bracket as the old, or the hinge will bind when you re-install the elevator. Lancair can provide both the bracket/bearing as an assembly if desired. I'd recommend this to get the right part and to be sure you fix the problem. Not sure how/where else to buy these spherical bearings, as they are know, separately.

Bob