As I understand it, the replacement "soft" springs you can get from VKB site are already the stock option in the mk2. I would like to go even softer. Are there any options for that?
Posted Jan 28, 2020, 8:40 PM UTC
Hey, OP, how about NO springs at all and just use the rubber in the center for soft, stretchy centering...
https://old.reddit.com/r/hotas/comments/biywlp/vkb_gladiator_nonpro_owners_might_want_to_try/
If you want to try it, AMA.
I had wondered about this actually! I figured I'd want at least a little centering force. I like that idea about pulling the rubber piece up. I'm going to try it!
man... similar to another in that thread, I am just having a hell of a time trying to get this rubber piece inverted
Use your pinky finger or rear of a pencil with some soft cloth over the end.
Take your time with it - one person said they tore it when reefing too hard. (But VKB sent them a replacement rubber grommet, then they got it working!)
So to be clear, you've removed the two-piece hand rest, right? Coz sacrificing that is part of this mod. (Also, twist will get tighter).
Let me know how you go!
Yeah I've taken the rest off. I also took the grommet holder off to get a better angle. So far no dice. I just don't have the grip strength to be able to pull this whole thing around. I've even tried to pull the whole thing over the bottom like an upside down skirt so I could then just pull it down and invert it.
Crud, mine tore too :(
I don't think it has to do with the instrument (though obviously if you use a sharp one it'll puncture), but if theres any minor imperfection in the rubber and you stretch it out that much, it starts a microtear which very shortly becomes a very large tear.
The original Gladiator springs are softer than anything else from the GunFighter and I don't think it could go softer than that as the grip won't be centering properly. You might try some rubber bands if you'd like to experiment or some springs like: https://www.amazon.ca/VANTSKITT-Compression-Extension-Assortment-Electrical/dp/B0755VWHMG/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=springs+set&qid=1580245234&sr=8-3 (I'm not saying that these would fit or work, I'm just using it as an example!!!).
Thanks! Thats a good idea I'll take a look around the hardware store. Rubber bands would probably do the trick but of course would need replacing. I figured since the center play is somewhat large I find myself manually centering anyway, I might try going super-light on the tension. Kind of a fun experiment at the least!