No matter how much we expand our product offering, it's impossible to have the exact off-the-shelf solution for every single application. Every now and then our customers contact us asking about ways that they can modify their device to better suit their specific engineering needs.
One of the more common requests that we get from OEM design engineers and expert hobbyists is how to change their actuator's end tip. Fortunately, this is possible and fairly simple on several of our core micro linear actuator models.
Model Compatibility: Which Actuators Have Removable Tips?
Before grabbing your tools, it is essential to note that end tip replacement viability varies significantly across the Actuonix product lineup:
Removable Tip Models (L12, L16, P16, and S20): These series feature a standard plastic clevis end tip pre-installed from the factory. They are designed with a threaded connection, allowing them to be swapped out easily.
Fixed Shaft Models (P8, L8, and PQ12): These micro actuators utilize fixed plastic shafts with pre-drilled tips molded directly into the component rather than a separate threaded end tip.
Track Actuator Model (T16): The T16 features a traveling carriage block that moves along the chassis instead of an extending rod, meaning there is no traditional end tip to swap.
If your application requires a unique interface on a fixed shaft or track model, you can develop a custom tip designed to slide over the existing shaft structure. If you require higher volumes and would like us to produce a custom end tip for you, please visit our custom actuator page to learn about factory-level modifications.
Related Post: How To Synchronize Linear Actuators
Unlocking Endless Mounting Possibilities
Engineering a precision motion solution can be restrictive if you are limited to a standard clevis mounting. Swapping to a custom end tip opens up a new realm of mechanical possibilities, allowing you to tailor the interface material, shape, and size to your exact specifications.
While our stock units come equipped with lightweight, durable plastic tips, you can design and manufacture your own alternatives out of aluminum, brass, or specialized polymers. Tip geometries are virtually unlimited depending on your application. Common custom examples include:
- Piercing tips for puncturing packaging or materials.
- Spring-loaded tips to dampen impact or absorb mechanical tolerances.
- Rubberized tips optimized for tactile button-pushing interfaces.
- Flat plunger tips for evenly distributing force against a flat surface.
- Threaded studs for direct fastening to external linkages.
- Flex joint/spherical tips to accommodate slight angular misalignment.
If you choose to fabricate your own custom end tip, the internal thread designation required to match our actuator shafts is M8 x 1.25.
Step-by-Step Replacement Procedure
The actuator end tip is screwed directly into the end of the shaft. This shaft is in turn threaded onto a delicate Delrin fiberglass composite drive nut located inside the actuator housing.
Because the internal drive nut cannot tolerate high torsional forces, incorrect removal or installation can easily twist and break this internal component, rendering your actuator useless. We do not sell replacement drive nuts or recommend disassembling the housing, as the internal PCB is easily damaged. Follow this safe extraction and replacement procedure precisely:
Step 1: Extend the Shaft
Power your actuator to its full outward stroke position.
Step 2: Secure the Shaft
Firmly grip the exposed metal actuator shaft with your fingers or a non-marring tool. You must completely stabilize the shaft against rotation during the next step.
Step 3: Unscrew the Tip
While maintaining your firm grip on the shaft, insert a screwdriver or small metal rod through the hole of the clevis tip. Turn the end tip counterclockwise to back it out of the threaded shaft.
Step 4: Install the New Tip
Thread your new custom or alternative end tip into the shaft clockwise.
Step 5: Torque Specifications
While continuing to hold the shaft securely, tighten the new tip. The maximum torque rating for the end tip connection is 7 inch-pounds. If you do not have a small torque driver available, tighten the tip firmly by hand (finger tight) to ensure you do not over-torque and fracture the drive nut.
For a visual demonstration of this technique from our engineering team, watch our quick video tutorial below:
Linear Actuator End Tips FAQ
Is it possible to make my own custom actuator end tips?
Yes. You can design and manufacture your own custom alternatives out of materials like aluminum, brass, or specialized polymers to fit your specific application needs. If you choose to fabricate your own tip, the internal thread designation required to match our actuator shafts is M8 x 1.25.
Can actuator end tips be 3D printed?
Yes, 3D printing is an excellent option for prototyping or producing custom tip geometries, such as specialized flat plungers or custom button-pushing interfaces. For functional use, it is highly recommended to use durable engineering filaments like Nylon, polycarbonate, or PETG rather than standard PLA to ensure the M8 x 1.25 threads can handle operational mechanical loads.
Will changing the end tip void my actuator's warranty?
Swapping a removable factory end tip does not automatically void your warranty. However, because the internal Delrin fiberglass drive nut cannot tolerate high torsional forces, any internal damage caused by incorrect removal or installation (such as twisting or fracturing the component) is not covered under warranty. Always ensure you stabilize the shaft completely during the process.
Can electric actuators be customized to meet specific requirements?
Yes. For large-scale applications or specialized OEM requirements, our engineering team can develop custom electric actuators. We can customize stroke lengths, force ratings, input options, limit switch positions, motor voltages, and custom mounting configurations. For more information, please check out our custom electric actuators page.
What should I do if my actuator model has a fixed shaft instead of a removable tip?
For fixed shaft models like the P8, L8, and PQ12, the tips are molded directly into the component. If your application requires a unique mounting setup for these models, you can design a custom sleeve tip that is engineered to slide over and secure to the existing factory shaft structure. For high volume orders, we can design you a custom actuator end tip in house.
Can I order spare factory end tips for my actuator?
If your project requires extra standard plastic clevis tips or the threaded end tips that come in our hardware kits, reach out directly to our sales department for assistance.
Does Actuonix offer other end tip styles out of the box?
Our L12 and L16 models include an additional threaded end tip inside the standard hardware kit, providing an immediate alternative configuration for your design.
Browse Actuators From Actuonix Today
Replacing your actuator end tip is a highly effective way to adapt micro linear motion devices to your precise design goals. If you have further questions regarding compatibility, thread tolerances, or bulk customization for your product assembly lines, contact our team at [email protected] or call us at 1-888-225-9198.
