This seems to be one area that is overlooked by many, but with a few tips, this can be completed in approximately fifteen minutes.
We will start by building a differential from the ground up. This will include the spur gear, differential balls, differential ring, bearings and lube.
You want to start by working on the spur gear. The differential balls are 1/8" in diameter, so you want to begin by running a drill bit the same size through each of the holes that will have a differentail ball in it. The reason for doing this is to remove any burrs left behind by the molding process. The balls must move freely once they are installed. You then run a 3/8" drill bit through the center until the brearings fit and there is no binding. Put this aside for the time being. Next we will tackle the differential rings. You want to polish the rings using a low speed drill. Start with 600 grit sandpaper and polish all four sides until they shine. Next use 1500 grit sandpaper and polish them to a mirror finish. Upon completion of this step you will want to put some polish (I personally use Semi-Chrome) on a rag and finish them off with this. Before you assemble the differential, you will want to clean and thoroughly inspect the bearings that are housed in the hub. The outer bearing takes the most abuse as it is always loaded due to left turns only and will cause a "crunchy" differential if not serviced properly. The bearing should be replaced approximately every three to four weeks (depending on how much they are run) and kept as spares. Now we are ready to assemble the differential. You will slide the first differential ring on followed by the bearing/spur gear assembly. Using a differential lube of your choice, place a small amount in each of the holes, then install the balls and outer ring. Next you want to oil the bearings in the outer hub and then install it followed by the cone, then washer and finally the differential nut. Tighten the nut, making sure the rings are aligned properly. The final differential adjustment should be made on the track with a fully charged battery pack.
This smooth differential will not make you a lap faster, but it will help the car turn better ... which ... by the way ... is the name of the game.
|
