small fyi.
Sometimes you might have to slightly elongate the servo slot..depending on whats used.. for example, the Kitty is designed around the std servo size, when going to an 8711, the hole was elongated and widened a bit.. thats also normal with the curved rod.. When I bought my kitty, the rudder slots had been widened and elongated to accommodate the larger taller wider servo because the spline is about 1mm farther from the opening.. again no big deal..
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The BVM Spec rod is Stainless steel, so yes, you should never ever use soft steel or alum rods.. They are very strong. pop the linkage off.. if it bends easy, replace it however.. maybe someone didn't use the right material.. the stainless rods are definitely NOT easy to bend