Replacement GNX Module Base Plate? (Resolved)

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oldmanzim
Posts: 11
Joined: Wed Jun 29, 2022 16:52

Replacement GNX Module Base Plate? (Resolved)

Postby oldmanzim » Tue May 20, 2025 17:02

The 2 screw mounts on the bottom of one of my GNX Modules have broken off (due to user error) and I'm looking for options to fix it.

damaged_unit.jpg


Does VKB offer replacement plates? I have not found one in their online store but maybe I'm missing it somehow.

In lieu of an official plate, I have the ability to 3D print one and add the screw inserts (which I think at 3M?). If anyone has a link to a good model to use for the print I'd appreciate it. Otherwise, I'll just trying making my own.
Thanks in advance.

[Updated 5/56/25]
Given the number of views and no replies, I'm assuming I'll need to make my own solution.
I'm thinking that I'll drill-out the two areas were the ends broke off and 3D print some small tubes about the same diameter and as the ones that were there before. It seems like there plenty of headroom in the chassis for me to add a wide head to the end of it, so it won't just pull through when I tighten it down.
Last edited by oldmanzim on Thu May 29, 2025 6:20, edited 1 time in total.

oldmanzim
Posts: 11
Joined: Wed Jun 29, 2022 16:52

Re: Replacement GNX Module Base Plate?

Postby oldmanzim » Thu May 29, 2025 5:36

Replying to my own post with my own solution.
Hopefully this can help anyone else that encounters this problem.

I've made a 3D printable screw repair kit.

repair_kit.jpg


You can find the print files for the kit here: https://www.tinkercad.com/things/l5k5COAkLUO-vkbgnxbaseplacescrewrepairkit

In the following posts, I'll detail how to use it.

oldmanzim
Posts: 11
Joined: Wed Jun 29, 2022 16:52

Re: Replacement GNX Module Base Plate?

Postby oldmanzim » Thu May 29, 2025 5:44

1) Start by drilling out the holes where the origional posts broke off, using a 1/4 inch drill bit. As shown below.

PXL_20250528_145427178~2.jpg


2) Next, place the "Screw Guide" in the hole, to drill-out the anchoring hole for the plug insert. The following image shows how to place the guide and then use the same 1/4 inch bit to drill the anchoring hole.

screw_guide_placement.jpg
Last edited by oldmanzim on Thu May 29, 2025 6:16, edited 2 times in total.

oldmanzim
Posts: 11
Joined: Wed Jun 29, 2022 16:52

Re: Replacement GNX Module Base Plate?

Postby oldmanzim » Thu May 29, 2025 5:53

3) Remove the screw guide and insert the plug. Make sure the longer column goes into the hole where the origial post was and the shorter column is set into the anchoring hole. As shown below.

insert_placement.jpg


4) The thin hollow tube is a collar that will be placed over the new replacement column. This should help keep the insert from backing out into the chassis whenever you unscrew the unit. This fit will be tight but add a little glue to the inside of the collar to make sure it stays in place.

collar_placement.jpg


It should look like the following, once the collar is set. The diameter of the complete column should match the original in height and diameter, so it should work without issue with other VKB compatible mounts. Though you might need to get M3 screws that are 2mm longer as the copper insert (detailed below) will sit 2mm higher than the original.

insert_set.jpg
Last edited by oldmanzim on Thu May 29, 2025 6:14, edited 4 times in total.

oldmanzim
Posts: 11
Joined: Wed Jun 29, 2022 16:52

Re: Replacement GNX Module Base Plate?

Postby oldmanzim » Thu May 29, 2025 6:01

5) Finally, flip the baseplate over and using some M3 copper inserts with a soldering iron, gently melt the inserts into the 3D printed plug. As shown below.

final_setting.jpg


The copper inserts I used where the ones below. If you have a temperature setting on your soldering iron, set it to about 215c. This will melt the print slowly so you have time to ensure the screw inserts will properly set and be vertical.

M3 Inserts.jpg


And that's it.
Happy flying!
And you're welcome. :)


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