Perhaps an old thread, but because of the "big name" endorsements here I decided to order a GH 02042 Aluminum Servo Saver Bellcrank from hopmeup on eBay for my XL.
I was a little skeptical of quality already, and bank's comment gave me reason for a little more concern. But I took a chance anyway.
The items come packaged pretty much like the HPI stuff, a plastic bag and header card, but with no instructions or suggestions at all. If you are really inept, you may want to study your old setup before removal. 😀 After removing from the package, I was actually pretty impressed with the machining. The tolerances seemed to be quite good overall. The bearings were a light press-fit, but tight enough to prevent the outer races from spinning in their seats. Then, I tested the Servo Saver and was pretty disappointed. The material seems to be very soft and I could feel the surfaces galling with only light to med spring tension. (If Integy uses material softer than this, I would like to know how they machine butter!)
I disassembled the servo saver and whipped out my needle files and fine grit sandpaper to break the edges and put a little polish on the mating surfaces. Then, with a very light application of diff grease on the faces and the shaft, I reassembled everything and tried again. This time, it was smooth as silk. I was pleasantly surprised as to how much smoother the steering is now. VERY surprised actually. The Hitec HS-7955TG has no problems whatsoever turning the Pro-Line Trenchers lock to lock sitting still. Matter of fact, if I set the truck on its tail, power off of course, and turn the wheel slightly to one side or the other by hand, they will slowly turn themselves to lock under their own weight. Now that, my friends, is a nearly zero-friction steering linkage.
Ultimately, I am pretty pleased with the assembly. It would be much better with a harder grade of aluminum, but I don't feel like it was a waste of money at all. Being an engineer, I am very anal about most things. So, take my opinion with that in mind. (Now, if the same were available in titanium for $35..... :cheers: )
