Hi, thank you all for your encouragements. The build is going well and actually better than expected.
This post is presenting the Centurion idler adjuster and idler wheels.
Here is the real thing as seen in the book "Centurion of the IDF Vol 1". This book is essential for the Centurion builder, providing tons of detailed close ups.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
These are the parts provided with the basic kit for the idler adjuster and wheels. I am happy to see that the body of the adjuster is a fairly accurate and well designed 3D printed part that will require only some extra detailing to look really good.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
But the adjustable arm for the axle does not come with threads, which complicates things for the builder like me that does not have specialized tools for create tapped holes.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
The adjustable axel arm is made of aluminum, so I was able to do it the hard way by slowly screwing the metal bolt into the aluminum hole and making the threads as I go in, being careful not to force too much and break the bolt. I backed out to remove aluminum material with a bit when required, then continue until I am through.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
It worked.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
The assembled arm, the bolt is moving well into the tapped hole, with the required resistance, but not too much.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
Close up of the 3D printed Idler adjuster body. I was pleased to see that it can be installed on the Centurion with real metal bolts. I have calculated that M1.4 X 10 metal bolts with nuts and washers provide the best option. The part can also be easily improved with some more details.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
The finished idler on the right compared to the original part. I have replaced some 3D printed material with metal components that provide more precision and accuracy.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
The 3D printed idler wheels and shafts were installed as per pictures in instructions with no real difficulty. You just need to measure all dimensions for shafts, brass tubes, and get the ball bearings to fit on the tube.
- 1/16 scale RC Israeli Centurion Shot Kal Gimel build
Continuing on following post