TM Warthog Joystick: how to replace a button?

[LeCuvier]

The Weapon Release button on my TM WH grip seems to be dead. I have another grip whose electronics I destroyed when I tried to install the VKB adapter, and I want to cannibalize it to get a working button.

I have opened the grip, but I don't see how to get the weapon release button out without damage. I'd be grateful for advice from somebody who has done it.

[Gustavo Germano]

Similar situation.

In my the RDR ALT throttle button just died.

[LeCuvier]

Solved

 

I managed to get the defect weapon release button out and replace it with the good one from my spare grip.

The shaft of the button has 2 springs which act as barbs. You have to compress both of them with long thin pliers and then you can push the button out from the inside, keeping the springs compressed of course.

 

Unfortunately I had to take off not only the top lid but also the right half of the grip shell to get access to both barbs with my pliers. This requires taking off the lever from the grip. When you take the grip shell off, it's a good idea to put the grip on the table with the screw holes down. This way the trigger will not be tempted to fall out.

Edited November 23, 2018 by LeCuvier

[=Panther=]

Similar situation.

In my the RDR ALT throttle button just died.

 

This video shows how to take apart the throttle to access the switches on the throttle. It's a long video, the author changed out the EAC to a magnetic switch. That part can be ignored, but the disassembly portion is helpful.