What the thread found

• Multiple operators have successfully installed PRO-specification bearings into M2 gimbals; the dimensions match and the retrofit produces noticeably smoother operation, though gimbal disassembly is labor-intensive.
• A press aid is available as a 3D-printable template on Thingiverse, and a length of PVC pipe can serve the same purpose.
• One installation technique uses cold spray or inverted compressed air cans to cool the gimbal body and heat the bearing, creating enough clearance for insertion.
• An M1 gimbal exhibited poor performance from the factory due to grease in the bearing (likely a factory assembly aid); cleaning and light oiling resolved the issue.
• Early M2 gimbals may have used a lower-grade bearing that Tiffen later replaced with the better M1-specification bearing, though even that may not reach PRO-level performance.
• One operator found the older MK-V gimbal to perform better than the M2.

Depends on

• Bearing specification and quality control varied across production batches and model generations.
• Success depends on precise bearing dimensions and correct installation temperature management.

Parts

Gimbal Bearing

Same gear or parts

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