Summary: The small room, great security

The ball clip (often called "security pin") is housed in the throat of the steering ball, just after clipping it on the sphere of the column or rocket.

• Vital function: It acts as a mechanical lock. Even if the ball takes up or wears out, the clip physically prevents the ball from "skip" and release the direction.

• Regulatory obligation: In competition, the presence of these clips is systematically verified by the technical commissioners. The absence of a single clip results in immediate non-compliance.

- Technical specifications

- Mounting Tuto: Secure without distorting

1. Checking the throat: Before installation, make sure the groove on the ball is clean and unobstructed by frozen fat.

2. Insertion: Slide the clip into the two small side holes of the ball. He must snap off with a net "click".

3. Free rotation: Once the clip is in place, check that the patella can always pivot freely on its sphere. The clip should not brush the movement, but only limiting the vertical travel.

4. Preventive replacement: A clip that has been twisted or that seems "soft" must be thrown. The elasticity of steel is its only holding force.

💡 Michel's trick

"They are often lost by making mechanics in the grass or gravel! The trick: Attach a small string of bright color or a piece of wire to brake very fine if you are afraid they jump during a quick disassembly. My Pro Council: Make the habit of rising them always in the same direction (loop forward or backward). During your visual checklist before climbing pre-grid, you will see at a glance if it is missing one. This is the detail that saves a race ... or more. "

❓ FAQ SEO (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can we use standard hardware clips?

A: It's not recommended. Clips OTK are calibrated for the hardness of steel and the exact diameter of competition ball joints. A too thin clip could open under the pressure of vibrations.

Q: Should we change the clips every disassembly?

A: Not obligatorily, as long as they retain their initial form and "spring". However, if you have to force to put them back, it is because they are distorted.

Q: Do they adapt on the ball joints of all brands?

A: Yes, most karting steering balls use the standard M8 that accepts these clips, but the original "omega" form OTK is the one that offers the best maintenance on Freeline joints /OTK.