- Model Number: Z-BLH3438
- Bearing Type: Thrust Bearing
- Inner Diameter: 2.5mm
- Outer Diameter: 6mm
- Thickness: 2.8mm
- Compatibility: Blade 180 CFX
- Compatibility: Blade 130 S
- Compatibility: Blade Fusion 180
- Application: Main Rotor Assembly Thrust Load Management
- Manufacturer: Blade
- Quantity Supplied: Single Unit
Overview
The BLH 2.5x6x2.8mm Thrust Bearing is an essential micro-scale helicopter component designed specifically for the Blade 180 CFX, 130 S, and Fusion 180 RC helicopter models. This precision bearing serves as a critical part of your helicopter's main rotor assembly, where it manages axial loads and enables smooth rotation of the main shaft. Whether you're a dedicated RC helicopter pilot in the UK looking to maintain peak performance or recovering from a crash, this genuine Blade spare part is indispensable for keeping your micro helicopter flying at its best.
Thrust bearings are among the most important wear items in any RC helicopter, as they endure continuous rotational stress during every flight. Over time, even with proper maintenance, these bearings can develop wear, noise, or play that compromises flight stability and vibration characteristics. By replacing your thrust bearing with this authentic Blade component, you ensure that your helicopter maintains the crisp, responsive handling and smooth rotor performance that you expect from these popular micro-scale models. RC Model Shop stocks genuine Blade spares like this thrust bearing alongside a comprehensive range of parts for helicopter maintenance and repair.
This bearing is manufactured to the exacting tolerances required by Blade's engineering team, ensuring perfect compatibility with the 180 CFX, 130 S, and Fusion 180 platforms. Whether you fly regularly at your local RC club, practise in your garden, or compete in micro-scale helicopter events across the UK, keeping spare bearings in your field box is essential maintenance practice. Replace worn or damaged thrust bearings promptly to avoid secondary damage to the main shaft or swashplate assembly.
Key Features
- Precise 2.5x6x2.8mm Dimensions — This bearing is engineered to exact specifications that ensure perfect fit and function within your helicopter's rotor head assembly, maintaining the tight tolerances necessary for smooth, vibration-free rotation and reliable thrust load management during all flight regimes.
- Genuine Blade Component — This is an authentic spare part manufactured by Blade, the world-leading micro-scale helicopter brand, guaranteeing compatibility, reliability and performance that generic aftermarket bearings simply cannot match.
- Compatible with Three Popular Models — This single part fits the Blade 180 CFX, Blade 130 S, and Blade Fusion 180, making it a versatile spare for pilots who operate multiple micro-scale helicopters or who may upgrade their fleet over time.
- Critical Load-Bearing Component — Thrust bearings absorb the axial (up-and-down) forces generated by your helicopter's main rotor disc, protecting the main shaft from wear and maintaining proper rotor head geometry for stable flight characteristics.
- Wear Item Replacement — Even well-maintained RC helicopters experience bearing wear through normal operation, making periodic replacement essential for maintaining peak flight performance, eliminating bearing play, and preventing noise and vibration issues.
Technical Performance
The BLH 2.5x6x2.8mm thrust bearing represents precision engineering in miniature form, manufactured to tolerances typically associated with industrial ball bearings despite its diminutive size. The bearing operates within the rotor head assembly of your Blade helicopter, where it must withstand thousands of rotations per minute whilst managing significant radial and axial loads without deflection or wear. Blade specifies this exact bearing size for the 180 CFX, 130 S, and Fusion 180 models, and no substitution should be attempted as even fractional size variations will compromise fit and flight performance. The bearing's internal geometry is optimised for the rotational speeds and load characteristics of these particular helicopter platforms, ensuring that when properly installed, your rotor head will deliver the smooth, responsive handling and stable flight dynamics that these models are renowned for. Quality micro-scale RC helicopters demand quality spare parts, and this genuine Blade bearing is engineered to maintain your helicopter's original performance specifications throughout its operational life. Regular inspection of bearings during routine maintenance is recommended, particularly after crash incidents, heavy flying sessions, or if you notice any increase in rotor head vibration, play, or noise during operation.
What's in the Box
- BLH 2.5x6x2.8mm Thrust Bearing – single unit
What You Need to Complete
This bearing is supplied as a replacement component and is designed to be installed by users with helicopter maintenance experience. No additional items are required for installation, though you may wish to have replacement thrust bearings on hand as part of your regular maintenance kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does my Blade 180 CFX need a new thrust bearing? — Thrust bearings are wear items that experience continuous rotational stress during flight. Over time, internal ball surfaces develop microscopic wear, which manifests as play in the rotor head, vibration during flight, or audible noise from the main rotor assembly. If you notice these symptoms, or if you've had a significant crash, replacing the thrust bearing restores smooth rotor operation and prevents secondary damage to the main shaft.
- Is this bearing suitable for the Blade 130 S? — Yes, this 2.5x6x2.8mm thrust bearing is compatible with the Blade 130 S, Blade 180 CFX, and Blade Fusion 180. The same bearing specification is used across these three popular micro-scale helicopter models, making this a versatile spare for pilots operating multiple aircraft.
- How do I know when my thrust bearing needs replacement? — Signs that your thrust bearing requires replacement include visible play in the rotor head when you manually rotate the blades (a small amount of movement is normal, but excessive play indicates wear), increased vibration during flight, audible grinding or squeaking sounds from the rotor head, or asymmetric blade blade strike patterns on crash recovery. After any crash involving rotor contact with obstacles, bearing inspection is strongly recommended.
- Will a larger or smaller bearing work instead? — No – bearing dimensions are critical to proper function. Using a bearing that is even slightly oversized or undersized will compromise rotor head geometry, affect flight stability, and may cause additional damage to surrounding components. Always use the exact Blade specification: 2.5x6x2.8mm.
- Can I install this bearing myself? — This is an intermediate-level maintenance task that requires careful handling, proper tools, and understanding of your helicopter's mechanical assembly. If you are experienced with helicopter maintenance and have the necessary tools, you can perform this replacement. However, if you are uncertain about bearing installation procedures, we recommend seeking assistance from an experienced RC helicopter technician.
- How often should I replace my thrust bearing as preventative maintenance? — Bearing lifespan depends on flight hours, flying style, and maintenance practices. Many experienced RC helicopter pilots replace thrust bearings every 50-100 flight hours as part of scheduled maintenance, or more frequently if they fly in dusty conditions or engage in aggressive manoeuvres. Keep spare bearings in your field kit so you can replace them promptly if wear is detected.
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 BLH 2.5x6x2.8mm Thrust Bearing: 180 CFX, 130 S, Fusion 180 Z-BLH3438 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.
We want to make sure your delivery goes smoothly, so here are some important details about our service:
- For orders above £120, we offer delivery to most mainland UK addresses. For orders under £120, we can still deliver to Northern Ireland and the outlying isles, as long as the item can be sent by Royal Mail, weighs less than 30kg, and fits within 61cm × 46cm × 46cm. Some highland and remote areas may carry an extra delivery charge as couriers often apply surcharges in these locations. If you live in one of these areas, feel free to contact us before ordering so we can confirm the delivery options and costs for you.
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