MS sidewinder hat switch, fixable?

[pembquist]

I have a MS FF Sidewinder and the hat switch is beginning to be a little reluctant in forward position ( how I look up forward is combination of trigger (up) and forward hat (forward)) Does anybody have experience with this problem and is it fixable or do I need to locate a new hat switch.  Assuming you can locate a hat switch are their any tips on replacing it? If its an irredeemable situation any comments on new FF joysticks? (I don't think I can reprogram my brain to handle spring centering.)

[MrRiplEy[H]]

I have a MS FF Sidewinder and the hat switch is beginning to be a little reluctant in forward position ( how I look up forward is combination of trigger (up) and forward hat (forward)) Does anybody have experience with this problem and is it fixable or do I need to locate a new hat switch.  Assuming you can locate a hat switch are their any tips on replacing it? If its an irredeemable situation any comments on new FF joysticks? (I don't think I can reprogram my brain to handle spring centering.)

Get some electronics contact cleaner spray, spray the base of the button and wiggle it around repeatedly. Worked with my hat switch and my 14 year old PP1 is like new again

[nrshida]

It is doable but not easy. The hat switch consists of four momentary switches which are a standard part but precisely mounted. They have a little dish contact and do wear out eventually. Obviously try the simple things like MrRiplEy suggested first but you probably are needing to replace them. It will require dismantling the handle and replacing the individual buttons. You will have to know how to solder and work precisely or find a friend that can do that for you.

Also consider replacing the whole MS Sidewinder with a replacement. I know several people (including me) who have found very low milage Sidewinders on eBay for little money.

Regarding new replacements I cannot advise.

[MK-84]

For button contacts that have worn down, a little dot of super glue does a nice job of closing those contact gaps.

Be careful though as super glue is mostly best for sticking fingers together

[gewehr]

Shoot me a pm, I've one I'll send ya. The whole assembly or whatever components you need. I have an entire handle assembly left  from a mod I did on one.

[cohofly]

The problem with the Hat Switch on the  MS FFB stick is that it has a small square that has been cast into the bottom of the round tang on the hat. This square end (smaller than the actual round tang) fits into a three sided reciever, below where the round tang makes contact to give input. When you take the handle apart you will see that this seat is made up of two sides, on one handle piece and one side on the other. These are quite thin plastic pieces, and are somewhat fragile. They can break after extended use. (its usually the handle side with one piece of the seat). If one of these pieces breaks it will fall to the botom of your handle. Be very careful when taking it apart, I recommend using a white  towel so that you can see whatever comes out. If it is a broken seat piece its an easy fix with some 2 part epoxy and needle nose plyers. Be very carful putting it back together as the hat switch seat is the most delicate spot. Also check that the actual square end on the tang is not worn too badly. If the hat switch is not seated correctly you will not get proper throw onto the switch.
My 2 cents, hope it helps.
<S>
Carver

[pembquist]

Thanks for the replies. I'm a little nervous about dis and reassembly but I'll give it a shot in a couple of days so I can actually visualize the thing.

[nrshida]

Nah, crack it open, you have nothing to lose. I would make you a pictorial disassembly guide but I'm afraid I already gave this circuit board to a friend. If you get stuck take some pictures and ask. 

[pembquist]

I'm finding goog works better than ah's search, found this http://bbs.hitechcreations.com/smf/index.php/topic,280432.0.html
Also saw nrshidas tutorials and that very nice bespoke throttle, Lego gears, I didn't even know there were Lego gears.

[nrshida]

I'm finding goog works better than ah's search, found this http://bbs.hitechcreations.com/smf/index.php/topic,280432.0.html
Also saw nrshidas tutorials and that very nice bespoke throttle, Lego gears, I didn't even know there were Lego gears.

Ah yes. Gears are Lego Technic, very cheap on eBay and perfect for such projects. I've done a bit more work on that since then. Been mostly busy making a custom joystick lately. Lots of work though.