Bit Steering 101

[Namuna]

Welcome to Bit Steering 101. Today we will be going through the components and terminology of the steering system used in the Bit (which is the same for MicroSizers, ZipZaps and the clones).

Note: The images used are from Ausmicro, I've only added the text.

First up, disassemble the car and unscrew this small screw to access the Steering area.

[Namuna]

Once you've taken out the screw, gently pry the Stabilizer Assembly off.

The Stabilizer applies tension to the Travel Arms (you'll see what this is below) of the Front Wheels, this is the Bits' suspension system. You can purchase Stabilizer kits that have several Stabilizers, each of which applies more or less tension.

[Namuna]

Once that's off, you now have a view of the inner workings of the Bit Steering System.

Let's start taking out the pieces...

[Namuna]

Next thing to come off is the Steering Arm, the integral part of the steering system.

From the picture above; when the Steering Arm is pulled to one side, the Steering Spring is also expanded to that side...Once you let go of the button on the controller (and the magnet is released) the Steering Spring does its' job and pulls the Steering Arm back to the center position.

Note: A common problem with steering on the Bit is that the magnet on the Steering Arm will get jarred slightly off-center. If you do notice this problem with your Bit, it's a good idea to recenter the magnet (you can even consider using super-glue to make sure it stays centered)

[Namuna]

Alright, with the Steering arm out, here's a look at what's left.

We're going to take the wheels off next.

[Namuna]

Here's a closer look at the Front Wheels.

Steering is done via the Steering pin, which is interconnected with the Steering Arm. When the Steering Arm is pulled to one side, it in turn pulls the Steering pins of the front wheels.

Another thing to check for (if you're having steering problems) is that there's no debris on the travel arm (upper or lower) and that the wheels spin freely.

[Namuna]

And lastly, here's the bare inner parts and a look at the 'magic' of how steering works on a Bit.

When you press a controller button for left or right...It in turn activates the *coil and pulls the magnet on the Steering Arm to that side.

The Steering Coils should be neat, compact and in its proper place.

*For folks that might not have done the experiment in school; if you coil wire and then send electricity through it...you turn it into a magnet, and when the electricty is turned off, no more magnet.

[Namuna]

Alright boys and girls, that concludes our class for today. Hopefully you now have a better idea of what the Steering system looks like and an idea of how it works.

Stay tuned, I'll be adding animated gifs of the steering system in action (so you can SEE how it works, not just read about it)

[mcbusiness]

Awesome job Namuna!

Taking questions from the class?

[Namuna]

Always glad to answer questions, fire away.

[payaso]

Cool, Can I be excused to go to the bathroom??? LOL

My name isn't payaso for nothin...

silla

*Cabo throws spit ball on back of payaso's neck*

teehee

[blacksabbath070]

(*throws a butcher knife at the back of CaboWabo's head*)
MWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

*Cabo raises hand to tell teacher*

neiner - neiner - neiner!

[MTL]

*MTL falls asleep