Rotostay top bearing missing some balls.

[fredrussell]

Like Adolf Hitler, my Rotostay top bearing is missing half it’s balls. The furler jammed at the weekend, so I’m starting with this fault in a process of elimination. Here’s a pic of it (note: missing balls on far side of bearing!)



Anyone done this job? There’s a clip on YouTube of a chap adding balls to his rotostay bottom bearing, which looks very similar to my top bearing, and it seems a straightforward job. Delrin balls available on eBay. Mine measure 5mm, but have they worn to that size (30 year old furler)? If anyone knows original size I’d appreciate the info.

 

[bluerm166]

Yes easy job.Use light grease to hold in place during fitting and later wash out.
Mine came from Simply Bearings .Thirty required if its the MKV ,leaving small gap in total circumference.

'1 x 3/16 inch Diameter Solid Delrin Polyoxymethylene (POM) / Celcon Plastic Balls (DEL.3/16IN) = £9.99
Pack Size Pack of 50'

The size comes from original Rotostay instructions.

 

[fredrussell]

That’s great, many thanks.

 

[Egbod]

That’s great, many thanks.

I was told not to use grease.
Try shaving foam instead as it washes out more easily.

 

[lw395]

I recently reassembled a ball bearing block, the sticky residue from the top of a fairy liquid cap was ideal for holding the balls in place.

 

[Poignard]

Here's a photo of one I have (age unknown). The balls are steel, 3/16" diameter.

 

[wilkinsonsails]

Yes quite easy. Make a catcher for the balls with foil pie dish and duct tape . You will drop them .. wash up liquid helps them stick on the race .