I was wondering if there really was a significant performance difference between the "standard" bushing servos like the Futaba s3003 and the "standard" single ball bearing servos like the futaba s3004. I've always been happy with my S148s.

I don't think there's a huge performance difference between the two, but I use BB servos on my larger stuff (60 to 1.20 size).
Dennis-

For normal planes or boring holes in the sky, no.
WHat I did find is that my ability to be accurate and improve my skill was limited by the servos I used. It would still allow me to fly, and it would still let me enjoy the hobby. What I found is that your linking can be only as tight as your weakest link. If everything is stiff and the servo is not repeatable, then you will not get the repeatability that you may desire. If everything is loose and all you want to do is fly, then the 3003's are good enough.

I have noticed the difference. I use all ball bearing servo's now. It does make a difference on how well a surface returns to neutral. I think the small additional cost is worth the bearings. This is my opinion only. I know many a fleir who uses plain old bushing servo's quite happily.

Mark Shuman

I guess it really depends what you'll be using them on... OMO:-) I
do not have Futaba, but have a standard set of BB's and Bushing
and I really did not notice any difference, Although you would
think the BB would be much better and last longer.. But depending
on the plane and how your going to fly them I think the bushing
ones are just fine if you wanted to pinch a penny here or there..
But as Mark said the standard BB's are not that much more...

Now on control rods... I've seen a BIG difference between the
stock 4* rods(plastic or what ever) and the composites....

What I've noticed happens down the road. I fly the sh*t out of my planes. After a year or so the non bearing servos get sloppy. The output shaft where the control horn fits starts to wiggle.

david

I install BB servos for high load applications where accuracy and repeatability is required (rudder, aileron, elevator) and the bushed units for less used or light load controls - flaps, pneumatic gear valve, throtttle. Best bang for the buck, IMO

Cheers!

Jim

Thanks folks. I bought fast, high torque, ball bearing servos for the Harrier 3D's airlerons, and will get 3004 or equivalent for the rudder and elevator.

Wish you had presented that info when you first asked the question. If you're flying 3D, then high torque ball bearing servos are the minimum I'd have recommended.

Depending on the plane's size and your abilities, I may have suggested Digital servos.
Dennis-

I'm an advanced flyer at best. Definitely not contest material. I just enjoy "stretching the envelope" of my current skill set. And it is fun to pull off some of the wilder looking maneuvers. I particularly enjoy spins.

Your mention of heavier servos got me thinking. I've always used a standard 600mah receiver battery. Do you think there may be a problem with current draw with 5 control servos (2 airleron, 2 elevator, 1 rudder)?

Yes, you should use a bigger battery! An 800mah at least. 1000mah would be better. The 600's will not have enough juice when you really throw a plane around with that many servo's. It is not worth the risk. As flight time will be severly shortened. And you will be pushing the cells hard. Leading to a premature demize.

Mark Shuman

600ma might be ok, depending on the size of the plane, I'm not familar with the one you mention. However, with 5 higher power servos, you're going to see a higher drain on the pack. I have a 600mah in my Funtana, and I only get 2 10-15min flights before I pop it on the field charger. (actually, when I think about it, I recharge after every flight, it's easy to do, and no worries).

So, if you want the same kind of duration you had with a trainer-type, you'll need a bigger pack.

Oh, and I agree, for that kind of plane, you want quality servos, the best you can afford will help. If you go digital, the 600mah pack won't cut it anymore, those things really draw a LOT more power. Not because they draw more power at peak, but because they hold better and draw more power at "no stick" or small movements. (though digitals often have more powerful motors as well, upping the current draw even more).

If the plane is larger than .60 size with 5 standard BB servos (50inoz range), you should upgrade the battery.

Of course, packs are cheap. airplanes aren't.