Combatstick springs

[Nick]

Greetings all,
I've recently purchased the 568 combat stick for which I have only one complaint. The spring tension is way too weak for my taste. I was thinking about going to my local hardware store and buying some stiffer springs. Before I void my warranty, I was wondering if anyone knows if this is feasible or not. Also if anyone knows the spring specs (length, etc.) that would be very helpful.

Thanks,
Nick :w00t:

[ZG77_Spectre]

You might want to wait until Michael (CH Products guru) responds. Seems there was a previous post where someone talked about using the springs from another CH Products gadget (could've been rudder pedals, can't remember) to stiffen-up the stick action. Michael would know for sure, but I would assume any modification of the stock stick would invalidate the warranty. I've been running the gameport version of that stick (F-16 Combat Stick) for about 8 years now and only had to replace the pitch & roll pots about a month ago. In time I think you'll learn to use a lighter touch and may not feel the need to stiffen the action at all. Don't take my opinion or experience as gospel, though. :salute:

[MichaelCHProd]

Photos when I get home, I promise B)


You do want to keep in mind that it may not damage the unit but loosing your Warranty really sucks. It's good for two years.

But here is some rough data on the spring...

1.729 inches total length (top of hoop to top of hoop)
1.677 inches distance between hoops (distance between clips on scissor mechanism in Combatstick gimble)
0.310 inches total diameter (external diameter of coils)
0.035 inches wire diameter

Was that helpful?

[Nick]

Thanks, just what I needed. I'll give it some time, and see if I can get accustomed to the stock springs.

Nick :thumbsup:

[MichaelCHProd]

You are welcome. I will get those pictures up tonight. If you just want to see the springs there is a shot of them at our on-line store's Spare Parts section.... http://www.chproducts.com/shop/parts.html (http://www.chproducts.com/shop/parts.html) you are looking for the spring set that is third down from the top on the left side. It's not marked but the 568 uses the Fighterstick springs.

[mcaulk]

Nick,

Did you apply the O ring fix and if so how did it work?

Mike

[mcaulk]

Michael,

I Am as we speak in the final stages of the decision regarding which stick to purchase.

I have for years owned the FLCS / FCS combo along with CH game-port Pedals. Wife gave me a 24" iMac for Christmas and has inspired re-entry into the flight sim world.
I am trying to decide on which route to take... Fighterstick or Cougar.

It seems as far as the Cougar people either love it or hate it. I have read the many complaints regarding the metal controller while it seems most have few misgivings about the CH unit. I have never used a CH stick however I did give one as a gift to a friend and I (tested) it a bit before wrapping. The spring loading seemed a little light as compared to my FLCS. I read the post regarding someone's application of rubber O rings which sounds relativly harmless. I am aware of Warranty issues however it would be comforting to know that I could mod the stick if desired. My question has this been done successfully without damaging the other components?

Thanks,

Mike in Ann Arbor