737SS Tiller
This page is split into three main sections:
Parts Guide
Print Guide
Build Guide
The ultimate printer I can recommend is the Bambu Labs X1 carbon with AMS or P1P if you have deep pockets. ($1200). It's a massive leap forward in 3D printing, with excellent quality and impressive speeds. It's pretty much press print and go as the software and hardware do the calibration before each print.
🛠️ Tiller Mechanism – DIY Build
The Tiller Mechanism is a robust, customizable control unit designed for simulation enthusiasts and makers. Engineered for strength, precision, and tactile feedback, this kit transforms your sidewall setup into a professional-grade interface. The tiller aids in ground manoeuvring the aircraft, allowing significantly tighter turn radii compared to using rudder pedals alone.
🔧 Key Features:
9-Part Modular Design: Easy to print and assemble with detailed build guides.
Heavy-Duty Feel: Achieved with 100% infill and low layer height settings.
Gas Strut Support: Utilises the strongest gas strut possible while remaining compatible with PLA and similar materials, delivering realistic resistance.
Reinforced Shaft: Uses 8mm threaded bolts for high torque tolerance.
Hall Sensor Input: Compatible with Leo Bodnar boards for analogue axis control.
Sidewall Integration: Includes modifications for seamless mounting.
General Information:
Build Guide
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STEP:
1
Insert QTY 4, M4 x 6x6mm Tapered brass inserts into the main body as shown.
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STEP:
2
Insert QTY 6, M4 x 6x6mm Tapered brass inserts into the main body as shown.
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STEP:
3
Insert QTY 2, 6204 bearings into the main body. These should be a very tight fit. A tapometer may be required.
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STEP:
4
Insert an M8 x 85mm bolt or longer
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STEP:
5
Place an M8 lock nut onto the bolt and tighten it to hold the unit together securely.
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STEP:
6
Place an M8 x 50mm bolt into the torque shaft. The bolt may be longer, and after the final nut is added, it can be cut to length if required.
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STEP:
7
Secure the bolt firmly with an M8 Locknut. A washer may also be added to help spread the load.
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STEP:
8
Place the torque shaft into the main body. This should be an extremely tight fit requiring pressure to insert the shaft into the bearings.
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STEP:
9
Place the unit into the sidewall and secure the main body to S1-1 with QTY 2, M4 x 16mm dome head screws.
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STEP:
10
Secure the tiller assembly to the sidewall trims using QTY 6, M4 x 12mm countersunk screws.
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STEP:
11
Place the Tiller spacer onto the Torque Shaft.
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STEP:
12
Insert an M8 x 100mm bolt into the tiller and shaft. You may have to screwit in, then tap it in to position.
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STEP:
13
Place an M8 washer and lock nut on the bolt, securely fasten and then cut off any excess at the end of the bolt protruding past the lock nut. It's always a good idea to leave at least two threads showing from the end of the nut.
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STEP:
14
Place the bearing retainer and stop into location and secure with QTY2, M4 x 10mm dome head screws.
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STEP:
15
Place the 200N 6"/150mm gas strut into the location. A lower value gas struct can be used, such as 100N. I wouldn't recommend a higher value unit. Secure the gas strut with QTY 2 M8 locknuts. If more compression is needed to keep the tiller firmly at the centre point, simply unscrew the gas strut body. This will extend the piston, and the unit does not need to be removed to achieve this!
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STEP:
16
Place an M4, 6x6mm tapered thread insert into the hall sensor mount.
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STEP:
17
Insert an M4 x 8mm Dome head screw. Do not tighten all the way - YET.
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STEP:
18
Insert the Hall sensor
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STEP:
19
Place the gear on the shaft
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STEP:
20
Place the unit on the main body. If you have wired the unit to a Leobodnar, ensure the tiller is centred and the hall sensor is at the mid position, 180 degrees before fitment. This can be done later.
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STEP:
21
I highly recommend wiring the Hallsensor to a leobodnar for an analogue axis and use it as a joystick. Calibrate as required. Follow the Leobodnar potentiometer wiring guide to connect it to the board. It's very simple, only three wires and two of them are +5V and GND. The 3rd being the input value.
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STEP:
22
Not used