Axial pipe | Assembling / disassembling

Document information

Document level:Level 0
Scooter models:All FUTURE / GHOST models
Document date:January 31, 2022

Procedure information

Time to complete this procedure:
3 min removal / 3 min assembly
Tools needed to complete this procedure:

– Seacraft service key
– Fork wrench size 15 or Knipex key
– Thread locking agent (medium strenght)

Step-by-step instructions

Introduction

The axial pipe is the “backbone” of the DPV and acts as the mechanical connection between the hull and the DPV’s drive unit, as well as a locking system.

Check if it is not flared, straight and tight. In case of slack, this can indicate a damage of body-axial pipe connecting screw. In case of breaking it, it’s removal is a difficult process.

Disassembling the axial pipe

Note!
This procedure requires, that you have already > opened the scooter, and removed ballast, battery and velcros. The DPV should look like in the below figure.

DPV without ballast and battery

Caution!
The battery support clip on the axial pipe only needs to be removed when the entire axial pipe needs to be replaced. This clip marks the position of the scooter battery. If we need to dismantle it, it is recommended to mark the clip’s position on the axial pipe with a pencil. 

Note!
If you are working on a GHOST model, first remove the expansion lock support, if it is present. It is possible that unit’s expansion is locked with 4 visible screws protruding from DPV body- in such case, there is no need to remove them.

Expansion lock support present on a older GHOST model

Using a size 15 fork wrench, or Knipex/ other locking pliers with soft surface, gently unscrew the axial tube. 

Caution!
It is recommended to put some insulating tape to cover the anodized tube layer in order to protect it from scratches. 

Placing a wrench on the axial pipe
Video showing the axial pipe disassembly

If you need to disassemble / assemble the axial pipe repeatedly (e.g. for air transport), you may also use the service key delivered with the DPV. Make sure the thread of the the axial pipe top part does not loosen when using the service key. 

After unscrewing the axial tube, the drive unit with the connecting screw remains:

Drive unit with connecting screw

Caution!
In some cases, the M6 screw DIN 913 connecting the axial tube to the drive unit remain in the axial pipe. In this case, leave screw in the axial tube.
DO NOT TRY TO UNSCREW IT! 

Connecting screw in the axial pipe

It is possible to encounter other axial pipe systems:

A hollow pipe with a long rod inside is discontinued due to tendency of flaring.

A threaded-end tube is the curently used (from 2022) solution for all DPV’s- facilitating the removal, and reassembly process. It’s working principle and actions needed are the same as with the ‘screw’ type of axial pipe.

Assembling the axial pipe

Inspect if the connecting screw (if present) is not bent/ flared. In case of any bending, it is mandatory to replace it.

See: Axial pipe screw replacement

Apply activator and thread adhesive (soft) to the protruding screw connecting the drive unit to the axial pipe. If the screw stays in the pipe, apply adhesive and activator to the screw protruding from the tube.

Caution!
It is recommended to use thread adhesive with soft holding power.
If no thread adhesive is used, the stability of the axial tube should be monitored – it may loosen when unscrewing the cap nut.

Applying threadlocker activator

To screw on the pipe, first use the Allen key (service key included) on the front screw (M10 x 40 DIN 913). In the final tightening, use a torque wrench set between 10 and 12 Nm.

Caution!
Using more force than 15 Nm may result in the screw breaking off.
Take special care to not apply excessive amount of the threadlocker. Too much threadlocker may act as a grease/wetting agent, and decrease the surfaces friction – rendering above described forces as unreliable.

Assembling the axial pipe

See the instructional video:

Slide the two velcro strips holding the electric wires onto the tube.

Placing the velcro straps

In case you have removed the battery retaining clip during disassembly of the axial pipe, place it now at the previously marked location.

Placing the clip

Apply and properly set the battery and ballast. 

Caution!
Pay attention to the correct orientation of the battery’s keel.

Placing battery and ballast. Left- olfer, ballast module system. Right- ballast attached to the battery.

For the hollow axial pipes – it is recommended to replace them for a full construction.

For the threaded axial pipes – use soft threadlocker in minimum amount to secure the connection. Thereded axial pipes are used in DPV’s above serial number #379.

Troubleshooting

Axial pipe top-part unscrewed itself

If the top part of axial pipe got unscrewed instead of the bottom one, you can follow the manuals below in order to fix it.

Read the instructions carefully before starting disassembly, which will guide you to correctly disassemble the scooter axial pipe. This procedure should be performed when when the top reduction comes loose when unscrewing the connecting tube of the scooter.

Unscrewing the axial pipe

Note!
This procedure requires, that you have already > opened the scooter, and removed ballast, battery and velcros.

Start from removing the battery positioning clamp.

Battery positioning clamp

Unscrew it’s parts, and exchange the bicycle style clamp locking mechanism with a M6 x 35 DIN 912 screw, and two washers- as shown below.

Removedand disassembled bicycle style clamp
Clamp with M6 x 35 DIN 912 screw and two washers

Take care on the washer’s sharp edges -they can damage the clamp coating.

Install the modified clamp on the axial pipe at a height of about 100 mm from the electronics coverplate, measured from the lower edge of the clamp (photo 4). Tighten moderately so that the clamp does not turn as you unscrew the axial pipe.

Clamp position

Secure the upper edges of the clamp with insulation tape so that they will not get damaged when unscrewing.

Edges secured with insulation tape

Use a 22 mm spanner on the protected parts of the clamp and unscrew the axial pipe of the scooter.

Spanner 22mm
Successfully removed axial pipe

Re-assembly of the axial pipe top-part

After succesful removal of axial pipe, the reduction need to be correctly reassembled.

Disassembled axial pipe, with separated reduction

Start by removing all of the remaining threadlocker from both parts.

Threadlocker/glue remains

De-grease the surfaces using a prefered solvent, or threadlocker activating liquid.

Both parts should freely screw in, without any resistance.

Apply threadlocker CX-80, or comperable (high strenth threadlocker) to the shown places, in medium amount.

Places to apply threadlocker

Using the soft-holding mount in the vise, and battery mounting clamp – immobilize the axial pipe. Soft-mount protects the clamp anodisation.

Axial pipe immobilized in the vise

Secure the wrench slot of the reduction with insulation tape (to protect anodisation) and tighten using wrench 15.

Using wrench 15 in the secured by insulation tape slot

Using moderate strenght, tighten the top reduction until the markings will meet.

The engraved scale in the correct positioning

In case that any threadlocker is flowing out, clean it.

Remember that applied glue need specific time to cure – usually, 24h.
Axial pipe can be screwed-in the scooter before this time, however, it should be not removed before full glue strength is acheived.

For final assembly instructions, refer to the manual. Prior to re-assembly, make sure to install the top part according to specific instruction.


In case of questions or problems,
do not hesitate to contact us: service@seacraft.eu.


Updated on 2022-11-16

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