Identifying & repairing TAC-2 joystick shaft, Chinese or original USA?

[pauli]

Hi

I just got broken TAC-2 from my friend. Thin brass shaft has snapped from base of threads.

I disassembled the TAC-2 and noticed that upper part of the shaft is actually TR418 tubeless tire valve stem, with chrome sleeve on top.

Is this model made in USA or cheaper made in China version? Can anyone please open their USA made TAC-2 and verify? If it's TR418 valve stem, it should read so in rubber base inside joystick.

I'm trying to repair this with new valve stem, brass rod, and 1/2" brass ball with threaded hole.

PHOTOS:
http://www.suikka.net/~pauli/amiga/tac2-repair/DSC_2075.jpg Before disassembling the shaft
http://www.suikka.net/~pauli/amiga/tac2-repair/DSC_2078.jpg knob and chrome sleeve removed
http://www.suikka.net/~pauli/amiga/tac2-repair/DSC_2082.jpg inside view. broken brass part is missing, and note TR418 text in rubber.

-Pauli

 

[protek]

I don't know where mine's been made but I can take a peek tonight.

 

[protek]

I checked mine. It's made in the USA and it has a TR418 stem.

 

[pauli]

Thank you So now we know cheap tac-2 shaft replacement. I bought new TR418 stem with chrome sleeve with few bucks and it is identical. Next problem is lower end, the brass ball. I wish I had metal lathe.

 

[plazma]

One good fix is to swap the button and joystick contact plates. They are the same but wear differently.

 

[Ed.D]

As well as a lathe you'd also need a radius turning attachment of some kind, or a CNC lathe (€€€) if the ball has to be a true sphere,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwGLL7cMdHk

Or you could do it with files and emery cloth if it's not critical.


Ed.