Upgrading buttons on Clubsport Formula V2.5 rim.
Jason Barnett
Member
Hello, all! First post!
This is my first week with my new Fanatec CSW 2.5 (used), Clubsport V3 pedals and CS Formula V2.5 rim. Obviously this upgrade over my Logitech has changed everything. There's just one thing I think that was downgraded in the swap, and that's the buttons on the rim itself.
The standard buttons for "X," "Y", etc. feel a little cheap and are already kinda squeaking on their way down. The "funky" switch thumbstick is much too soft and leads to a lot of accidental directional commands when I want to click it. (Is that why they put the "A" button right there?)
I expected more and I have heard these same complaints from much more credible racers like Boosted Media. I can't imagine wearing gloves and trying to feel these buttons. The thumbwheels spin much too easily to avoid "over-switching."
So, is there any place and has anyone endeavored to upgrade such buttons and switches on a Fanatec wheel rim? If so, where does one find such parts? Thanks in advance!
-Jason
ForNoGoodReason
Comments
Is the wheel used also? If so, that can be a reason or the squeaking. Are you still using the button caps? They are not the best quality, I personally don’t use them. The buttons and joysticks are part of the main board, so no you can’t change them. Same goes for the thumb wheels.
The wheel is brand new. I am still using the button caps and have only seen that they can be swapped because of the included substitute caps. I will try to take them off and see what that's like. I also have some powdered graphite often used in locks that I considered trying, but don't want to mess anything up on this beautiful new wheel. I'm getting more used to the funky switch, though. Thank you very much for your response.
-Jason
Hi Jason,
The 7-way functionality of the FunkySwitch means that you need to be more precise with your thumb pressure to activate the push button in the middle, compared to a standard push button. I would therefore avoid using the FunkySwitch push button as one of your commonly-used push buttons. It is more effective as a rotary encoder and a d-pad.
[Fanatec Community Manager]
You don't want to use powdered graphite anywhere near a circuit board for obvious reasons.
I tried removing some button caps, and the squeaky/sticky feel is still there. I think it's just how they are. I may still try brushing some powdered graphite around the base of the button in case there is friction between the outside of the button and whatever surrounds it.
powdered graphite is conductive - the base of the button is soldered directly to the circuit board. Conductive powder and circuit boards don't play nicely. If you want to lube the buttons use PTFE.
I was going to check on that, but thanks so much for pointing out that very important fact!
Good advice. Thanks. I do think the Funky switch is a nice solution for a lot of navigation.