Some HL M1 Issues

[db_zero]

I took my M1A2 out for a run. Its been quite a while since I ran it. It ran like a Jagdtiger. Very slowly and sluggish. I also heard it emmiting a high pitched whining noince that I don't recall emitting before

I read some threads on the noise issue and think I might have the same issue. I attached a recording made with my Iphone recorder.

I also checked the treads and noticed one side ran more smoother and freely than the other.

I took apart the problem side and noticed the front roller wheel was jamming up. I took it apart and it doesn't look right. Looks like a part that dissolved?

In any case something doesn't look right like I'm missing a plastic washer or 2?

When I inserted the screw that holds the wheel in place, into the roller wheel I noticed it would freeze up after a rotation or 2 so I've scraped off some junk and cleaned it up so it will rotate freely.

I have a few questions for anyone who might know off the top of their heads.

1. Should this front roller wheel assembly have washers? Plastic or metal?

2. I have some white grease. Should I apply that to the upper brass part of the screw that holds the roller in place and fits snugly inside the roller to assist in a smoother functioning?

3. I've heard it mentioned a drop of locktite is good to hold screw in place to prevent it coming off during operation. However I've also heard that locktite and plastic is a very bad idea. It can cause problem. Some have suggested fingernail polish or GE silicone caulk.

4. Does the sound file attached indicate a problem?

[Exhibitedbrute]

The screw looks bent on this photo try grease and some have washers others don’t tank dependant

[Max-U52]

If you use loctite make sure it's Loctite 425 for plastic. Otherwise it may eat the plastic. I have a bottle here, it's a shame you can't pop round and borrow it, because this stuff is expensive, like $25 a bottle. Works great, though. Have you thought about a henntec? Not cheap, but I put one in my Abrams and it worked great. I was well satisfied with it's performance, and it made having the hi-quality tracks easier when it came to tension adjustment.

[Max-U52]

And the sound file doesn't play for me.

[db_zero]

The screw does look bent on the original picture. I did a double check and took a couple more pics and looks ok. Sounds like you were able to see sound file? I wasn't sure if it actually uploaded. Its a native .amr file created on an iphone and I'm able to play on my Windows 10 machine.

I noticed the price on the Locktite 425 on Amazon. Man that's not cheap stuff. I guess I'll have to bite the bullet.

I'm still new to the RC world so I'm not familiar/sure what Hentech is, but assuming a aftermarket motor?

Speaking of parts, does anyone have a recommendation for places online to buy parts in the US? I bought a motor from RC Tank Legion that was on sale, but after shipping from Asia it basically wiped out the discount. Someplace closer may be a better alternative.

I've seen some youtube video where people buy servo motors into tanks and did other modifications. I'm nowhere near that level of ability, but have a cousin who is really into RC stuff who could help when he's in town. I'm sure once I get some more experience under my belt and do the research I'll get it down.

[43rdRecceReg]

Guido (Henntec founder) is a member of this forum, but renowned for making bespoke track tensioner systems. Fitting one of his tensioners is almost a rite of passage here, and is a worthwhile upgrade.
https://www.henntec.de/produkte/kettens ... n-modelle/
But...one step at a time! Ease your way into the hobby.

[Max-U52]

Yes, what the Highlander said. Those idler adjust systems can be a real lifesaver. We don't have a lot of vendors in the US, but Imex down in Florida is a great place and they have lots of parts and complete tanks. They also carry a whole line of trucks.

Have you seen the build videos I did when I built my Abrams? If not, and if you would like to, I can probably post a link to them here. I went a little crazy on that tank, with all metal suspension and road wheels, high-end metal tracks with rubber pads, and a European three color camo job. And I think the method I came up with for duplicating the armored glass was pretty good. If you think the videos might be helpful, Just let me know.

[db_zero]

Yes, what the Highlander said. Those idler adjust systems can be a real lifesaver. We don't have a lot of vendors in the US, but Imex down in Florida is a great place and they have lots of parts and complete tanks. They also carry a whole line of trucks.

Have you seen the build videos I did when I built my Abrams? If not, and if you would like to, I can probably post a link to them here. I went a little crazy on that tank, with all metal suspension and road wheels, high-end metal tracks with rubber pads, and a European three color camo job. And I think the method I came up with for duplicating the armored glass was pretty good. If you think the videos might be helpful, Just let me know.

My first project besides getting the main gun working on my brand new Leopard and fixing the tracks on M1 will be installing the New gears on my T-90 And Leopard when they arrive. The idler adjust will be in the future. The website on link appears to be in German.

Yes when u get a chance post link to your videos. I always enjoy how to videos.

[Max-U52]

Here's the first video, for the rest go to youtube and search m1 gary hoff and that should get you the rest. I really went all out on that one, bracing the hull, adding the henntec, ball bearing gearboxes, etc, etc. About the only thing I didn't do was upgrade the electronics, but there's plenty of room in there for any of the aftermarket boards.

phpBB [video]

If you do add a henntec I would first contact Guido and send him a photo of the idlers you have. That was an issue for me, but not a problem as I'm a machinist for a living so i just turned up a couple posts to fix things. If he knows what idlers you have he'll be able to get you the right idler adjuster.

[Max-U52]

And where are you? If you're in the states you would get the henntec from Bob at ETO Armor.