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Replacing the Trigger SpringsUpdated an hour ago

This procedure can be used to replace the throttle trigger, the cruise control trigger, or both.

Important: The trigger pivot posts are moulded into the controller housing. Applying excessive force can break these posts, which may require the controller housing to be replaced. Work carefully and do not force any components.

Instructional video, see: Replacing Springs on V2 Controller

Before You Begin

You will need:

  • Replacement trigger(s)
  • Replacement spring(s)
  • Small Phillips head screwdriver
  • Needle-nose pliers (optional)
  • Small Phillips screwdriver or drill bit (optional, to help align the spring)

Before starting:

  1. Turn the controller off.
  2. Remove the five Phillips head screws from the rear cover.
  3. Carefully lift the rear cover away from the controller.

Note: The rear cover can be removed without components or springs unexpectedly springing out.

Step 1 – Remove the Existing Trigger

The triggers are spring-loaded, so remove them carefully.

  1. Gently lift one side of the trigger.
  2. Slowly lift the trigger away from the pivot post.
  3. Remove the spring.
  4. Repeat for the second trigger if required.

Important: Do not lever, twist or force the trigger off the pivot post. Excessive force can break the moulded pivot post.

Step 2 – Identify the Correct Trigger and Spring

The V2 Controller uses two different triggers and two different springs.

ComponentSizeSpring
Throttle TriggerLargerShort-arm spring
Cruise Control TriggerSmallerLong-arm spring


Important: The spring sizes can seem counterintuitive. The long-arm spring fits the smaller Cruise Control Trigger, while the short-arm spring fits the larger Throttle Trigger.

Long-Arm Spring

Used with the Cruise Control Trigger.

Short-Arm Spring

Used with the Throttle Trigger.

Step 3 – Understand Spring Orientation

Each spring has two distinct sections:

  • U-shaped section – Pushes against the trigger.
  • Locating arm – Fits into the moulded locating groove inside the controller housing.

The locating arm must be correctly positioned in the moulded groove to provide the correct spring tension and allow the trigger to return to its neutral position.

Important: Incorrect spring orientation can prevent the trigger from returning correctly.

Step 4 – Install the Trigger and Spring

There are two methods for installing the trigger and spring.

Method 1 – Install by Hand

  1. Insert the correct spring into the trigger.
  2. Hold the spring so the locating arm faces into the controller housing.
  3. Slightly compress the spring until the holes in the trigger and spring are aligned.
  4. Carefully position the trigger over the moulded pivot post.
  5. Lower the trigger onto the pivot post, ensuring the post passes through the trigger and spring.
  6. Confirm the spring's locating arm is seated in the moulded groove inside the controller.
  7. Press the trigger fully into position.

Do not force the trigger onto the pivot post. If it does not seat correctly, remove it and check the spring alignment.

Method 2 – Using a Guide Tool

A small drill bit or Phillips screwdriver can make installation easier by keeping the spring aligned.

  1. Insert the correct spring into the trigger.
  2. Pass the small drill bit or screwdriver through the trigger and spring to hold them in alignment.
  3. Position the trigger over the pivot post.
  4. Carefully lower the trigger onto the pivot post.
  5. Once the trigger and spring are correctly positioned, remove the guide tool.
  6. Press the trigger fully onto the pivot post.
  7. Confirm the spring's locating arm is seated in the moulded groove.

Important: Use only light pressure when installing the trigger. Never force the trigger onto the pivot post.

Step 5 – Test Trigger Movement

After installing each trigger:

  1. Pull the trigger through its full range of movement.
  2. Release the trigger.
  3. Confirm it returns smoothly and completely to its neutral position.
  4. Repeat several times.

If the trigger does not return correctly:

  1. Carefully remove the trigger.
  2. Check the spring orientation.
  3. Confirm the spring's locating arm is seated in the moulded groove.
  4. Check for debris or damaged components.
  5. Reinstall the trigger and test again.

Step 6 – Inspect Before Reassembly

Before replacing the rear cover, check that:

  • Both triggers move freely.
  • Both triggers return smoothly to neutral.
  • The correct spring is installed in each trigger.
  • The spring locating arms are correctly seated.
  • No wires are trapped or pinched.
  • All internal components remain correctly positioned.

Step 7 – Reassemble the Controller

  1. Carefully refit the rear cover.
  2. Ensure the cover sits correctly against the controller housing.
  3. Reinstall the five Phillips head screws.
  4. Tighten the screws evenly until secure.

Important: Do not overtighten the screws.

Step 8 – Check Trigger Calibration

After replacing a trigger or spring, check the controller calibration.

With the controller powered on:

  1. Confirm the throttle reads 0% when the throttle trigger is fully released.
  2. Pull the throttle trigger and confirm it responds smoothly through its full range.
  3. Release the trigger and confirm it returns to 0%.
  4. Check the Cruise Control Trigger if it has also been replaced.

If the throttle does not return to 0%, or the trigger does not register its full range correctly, the triggers must be recalibrated.

See Re-Calibrating the Controller for step-by-step instructions.

Important: Do not use the Foil Drive system if the throttle does not reliably return to 0%.

Final Inspection

Before using the controller, confirm:

  • The throttle trigger moves freely.
  • The throttle trigger returns completely to neutral.
  • The Cruise Control Trigger moves freely, if replaced.
  • Each trigger has the correct spring installed.
  • The spring locating arms are correctly seated.
  • The controller housing is fully closed.
  • All five screws are installed and secure.
  • The throttle has been checked or recalibrated as required.

Troubleshooting

Trigger Does Not Return to Neutral

Check the following:

  • The correct spring is installed for the trigger.
  • The spring orientation is correct.
  • The spring locating arm is seated in the moulded groove.
  • The trigger is fully seated on the pivot post.
  • There is no dirt or debris interfering with the trigger.
  • The pivot post has not been damaged.

If the trigger still does not return correctly, stop using the controller and contact Foil Drive Support.

Trigger Feels Stiff, Rough or Sticks

  • Remove the trigger and inspect for debris.
  • Check that the spring is correctly seated.
  • Confirm the trigger is correctly positioned on the pivot post.
  • Check that no internal wires or components are interfering with the trigger.
  • Reinstall the trigger and test again.

Do not force the trigger if it feels unusually stiff or does not move freely.

Still Having Issues?

If you have completed the steps above and the trigger still does not operate correctly, contact Foil Drive Support for further assistance.

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