- Product type: Control/Linkage Ball
- Ball length: Short
- Quantity per pack: 10 units
- Compatible helicopter models: Blade B450, Blade B400, Blade 330X, Blade 330S
- Manufacturer: Blade
- Model number: Z-BLH1636
- Application: Swashplate linkage system
- Part classification: Genuine OEM Blade part
- Fitment type: Standard replacement part
Overview
The Blade Control/Linkage Ball, Short (10) is an essential replacement spare part for RC helicopter enthusiasts maintaining their Blade micro RC helicopters. Whether you're a dedicated RC pilot in the UK or a weekend flyer, this genuine Blade component ensures your helicopter's control linkage remains in perfect working condition. These short control balls are precision-engineered to maintain accurate cyclic and collective pitch control, delivering the responsive handling that serious RC helicopter pilots demand. As part of Blade's comprehensive range of genuine spares and upgrades, this part represents the quality standard you can expect from a leading manufacturer in the micro RC helicopter market.
Compatible with the Blade 330S, 330X, B400 and B450 models, this pack of 10 short control/linkage balls provides excellent value for pilots who fly regularly and want to keep spare components on hand. Control balls are wear items that naturally deteriorate through regular use, particularly in the swashplate linkage system where they manage pitch control inputs. By stocking genuine Blade replacement balls, you're investing in flight safety and maintaining the precision engineering that makes these helicopters so enjoyable to fly. RC Model Shop stocks authentic Blade spares, ensuring you receive genuine components that meet manufacturer specifications.
These short-length balls are specifically designed for applications requiring shorter control linkage configurations within your helicopter's swashplate mixing system. They differ from the longer variant (BLH1635) in their overall length, making them essential to have on hand if you operate models that specify short control balls. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn control linkage components is fundamental to trouble-free RC helicopter flying, particularly for competitive pilots and those who fly their helicopters frequently throughout the UK.
Key Features
- Pack of 10 units — This generous quantity ensures you have multiple replacement balls available, reducing downtime when swashplate linkage maintenance is required and providing excellent value compared to buying individual units.
- Genuine Blade manufacture — These are authentic OEM Blade parts, not aftermarket copies, guaranteeing compatibility and performance that matches the precision standards of your helicopter's design.
- Multi-model compatibility — Designed to work with the Blade 330S, 330X, B400 and B450 helicopter models, making this a versatile spare part for pilots operating multiple Blade micro helicopters.
- Short length specification — The short profile design is engineered for specific control linkage configurations on compatible models, with a distinct design that differs from longer control ball options.
- Swashplate linkage application — These balls are critical components in the swashplate mixing system, managing the connection between servo outputs and main rotor pitch control, directly affecting flight response.
- Wear-resistant design — Built to withstand the constant articulation and stress of helicopter control inputs, though regular replacement maintains optimal control response and safety.
- Essential maintenance component — Control balls are fundamental wear items that should be inspected regularly and replaced as part of preventative maintenance schedules for dedicated RC helicopter pilots.
Technical Performance
The Blade Control/Linkage Ball, Short represents precision engineering specifically calibrated for micro RC helicopter applications where control responsiveness directly impacts flight quality and safety. These components form critical connection points within the swashplate linkage system, the mechanism responsible for translating servo outputs into main rotor pitch changes. The short length specification makes them essential for models designed with compact control linkage configurations, where proper ball size is crucial for maintaining correct geometry and control feel. Built to Blade's exacting manufacturing standards, these balls exhibit the durability necessary to withstand hundreds of flight cycles whilst maintaining the tight tolerances required for precise helicopter control. The material composition and ball bearing design ensure smooth articulation through the entire range of control motion, from full collective pitch changes to refined cyclic inputs. Regular replacement as part of your maintenance schedule prevents wear-related slop in the control linkage, which could otherwise result in spongy or unresponsive handling. For UK RC helicopter pilots who fly their machines regularly, maintaining fresh control balls is as important as checking rotor blade condition and inspecting the tail boom for damage.
What's in the Box
- 10x Blade Control/Linkage Ball, Short
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between short and long control linkage balls? — The short variant (BLH1636) and long variant (BLH1635) differ in overall length, designed for different control linkage configurations on specific helicopter models. Your helicopter's design determines which version you require; consult your manual or the compatibility information to confirm which type your model uses.
- How often should control linkage balls be replaced? — Control balls are wear items that deteriorate through regular use. Inspect them during routine maintenance for excessive play or wear; replacement frequency depends on flying intensity, but dedicated pilots typically replace them every few months or after 50+ flight hours. Worn balls result in spongy control response and should be replaced promptly.
- Which Blade helicopters use these short control balls? — These balls are compatible with the Blade 330S, 330X, B400 and B450 micro helicopter models. Verify your specific model's requirements in your user manual before ordering, as some variants may use the longer control ball option instead.
- Why buy a pack of 10 instead of individual replacements? — A pack of 10 provides excellent value and ensures you always have spares available, minimising downtime. For regular RC helicopter pilots, having a stock of replacement balls is practical maintenance planning, particularly if you operate multiple Blade helicopters or fly frequently.
- Are these genuine Blade parts? — Yes, these are authentic OEM Blade parts manufactured to the original equipment specifications. Genuine components ensure perfect compatibility and maintain the precision control standards your helicopter was engineered to deliver.
- What do control linkage balls do in my helicopter? — Control balls form the connection points between servo outputs and your helicopter's swashplate mixing system. They allow smooth articulation of the control linkage whilst maintaining precise geometry, directly affecting your helicopter's cyclic pitch control responsiveness and collective pitch authority. Worn or loose balls degrade control feel and flight precision.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Blade Control/Linkage Ball, Short (10): B450, B400, 330X, 330S Z-BLH1636 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
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