Rebushing a small bore primary gear

[gs.davies]

I have a friend who is going to attempt rebushing a primary gear for me as we suspect the top hat bush in mine has worn down too much (and there's the obligatory chip in the face of it anyway)

It'll be done by aviation folk so there shouldn't be any question of the skills. However, it seems that for a small bore engine (mine's a 1098), the only bush available is the Top Hat bush for the rear. The front bushes all seem to be floating.

Is it possible to just buy two top hat type bushes and machine off the top hat part to make it suit the front bush application?

Cheers
Gary

[GraemeC]

Not sure on the direct answer to your question, but AC Dodd does custom bushes to suit.

[gs.davies]

I spoke to AC - I'd have him do it but this is a cheaper option and funds are becoming low

[bwaminispeed]

I've done it, it works......

Also, I buy sintered bearing material in 4 inch lengths, that are already correct ID, and, just need OD turning (or, ID and OD if doing a 1275 crank) for either push fit, or floating bearing......Costs about 75.00CDN, and, I get 3 bushes out of that......

[gs.davies]

I’ve done further research on this topic now; as usual, a minefield..

Apparently the Minispares top hat bearing is the wrong material, too hard for the crank and liable to cause damage at some point.

Anyone know of a source of original material so we can make up some new bushes?