We test the gyro on our power supply to check it's function.
What we are looking for is that the gyro draws the proper amount of amperage at start up and that after 10 minutes running
time, the amp draw drops to it's proper specifications.
If the amp draw is excessive at start up, then there is a short somewhere.
This can occur in the cord or inside the gyro. The cord is an easy fix, the gyro, not so easy. The gyro then needs to be opened
up and inspected.
If while running, the amp draw does not drop to spec, this usually
indicates a loss of helium (we call them "LEAKERS")
The gyro must be pressure tested to find the source of the leak. Sometimes the
leak is an easy fix, sometimes it's not. A leak can occur at the copper filler pipe located under the serial name plate. This
is where the helium is induced into the gyro. NEVER move it, cut it or solder it!
Another possible place for a leak is around the pins the gyro cord is attached
to. These are very delicate due to the nature of their purpose. If those pins get bent, which can occur if the cord gets pulled
on with excessive force, they become damaged inside and the helium can escape. You may also be looking at a total frame replacement
if this happens.
One other area of concern when looking for the helium leak is around the end
caps. This can happen if the gyro is dropped or hit hard, especially if there is a noticable dent anywheres near the
seams.
REMEMBER THIS: If a gyro is dropped while it is running, you can seriously
damage the bearings, resulting in a rebuild.
AND ANOTHER THING: If a gyro that has lost it's helium is used for an
extended period of time, a lot of heat is created and the bearings will suffer, eventually resulting in a rebuild.
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF THERE IS A HELIUM LEAK?
Does your gyro feel weaker than it used to?
The helium allows the wheels to spin faster, no helium, the wheels cannot get
up to full running speed.
Does the gyro feel unbearably hot?
The gyro will get warm, this is normal, especially in hot weather
and running for an extended period of time, remember the wheels are spinning at around 20,000 RPM., but if it is uncomfortably
hot in a short period of time, it may have a leak.
THE GOOD NEWS:
GYRO REBUILDS ARE STILL ONLY $500 FOR ANY SIZE GYRO, EXCEPT FOR THE KS-12 AND YOU
BASICALLY GET BACK A "LIKE NEW" GYRO.
A "leaker" can usually be fixed for
between $80 - $125 depending on why and where it has developed a leak.
Is your gyro
noisy or have excessive vibration? Well, then you will be needing a rebuild. The bearings are tired and the wheels will need
rebalancing, but $500 is still cheaper than a brand new gyro, now isn't it?
