Crown CWL-309-MJ-NEW-Helpme-KMS-ST30 Joystick

Disclaimer

Following customer reports, we learned that the Samducksa DX bobbin that comes standard with each New Helpme does is a tight fit with their existing battops. You will find a note with each unit purchase explaing to use additional effort to insert the shaft into the bobbin.

Samducksa's original Crown CWL-309Helpme-K-KMS-ST35 Joystick - produced using gameplay feedback from Tekken player Helpme to create a notable departure from earlier 300 series levers.  The NEW HELPME now has a low-profile collar, adding compatibility with Japanese-style S-plate mounts. However, there are a number of internal adjustments worth noting as well.

ST-30 Tension Grommet. DX Bobbin

Samducksa's expanded range of grommet tensions start as low as 20 up to 55.  The NEW HELPME utilizes a ST-30 grommet, colored violet.  This grommet is a bit softer than the previous HELPME, which has the ST-35 tension grommet installed. A DX-style bobbin - similar to the Crown CWL-309MJ-BENYLIS-ST35 Joystick and Crown CWL 303MJ Crazy Dongpal Joystick, keeps the shaft in place. However, the bobbin in the NEW HELPME is a bit smaller in diameter, leading to a tight fit with our CWL based shafts. You will find a note with each unit purchase explaing to use additional effort to insert the shaft into the bobbin.

Two Actuators Included

Available with each NEW HELPME are two actuators with slight differences in outer diameter.  The first white actuator with outer diameter of 16.0mm is suitable for most fighting games such as Street Fighter V, or King of Fighters series. The second white actuator with outer diameter of 16.2mm is designed to address the movement of game characters that need more neutrality (ex: Tekken Mishima). The diagonal is narrower in the white actuator, but the neutral range is more effective.  Below you can compare the two actuators that are included, along with actuator installed in the popular Crown CWL-309MJ-KMS-ST25 Joystick.

GSM-V1603A3HM Microswitches

One other unique aspect of the NEW HELPME lever is its use of the Gersung GSM-V1603A3HM. On the subject of the V16 switch, there are differences in the GSM-V1603A3HM switch in comparison to the GSM-V1623A3 model, as shown in the below chart.

Specifications

Please refer to the dimensions shown in the illustration to determine if there is enough clearance to mount in your fightstick.  This model has a low-profile 35mm collar. That typically works for Fightstick models that have an S-plate mount. Others with no height clearance for the 5mm low-profile collar may need a mount whose screws can extend 5mm down, and seat the collar directly against the panel.

Model and Part Guide

The following reference list provides information of the battop, Silicone rubber, and bobbin style installed into each recent Crown model by the manufacturer. This is helpful if you are looking to purchase the correct grommet or bobbin for your chosen model. 

Bobbin and Grommet Install

If you intend to replace an existing grommet: First lift the battop and shaft from the joystick body.  To do this, you must remove the e-clip at bottom of the lever.  A mini screwdriver wedged into the e-clip often works, pulling the clip away from the shaft.  Be careful not to lose the e-clip, as it can fly off the shaft from the pressure. Lift the shaft upwards and put aside.  The actuator may also loosen from the microswitches which is normal - you can put it back on when reinstalling the e-clip. Second, remove the 4 long screws that hold the mounting plate and upper body in place. Remove the original grommet from its housing by pulling on the plastic ring with your thumb and fingers.
The top of the grommet will have round creases in the silicone. The bobbin top will have similar creases, or when viewed from the side, may have a slightly larger area than the opposite side. This is available in the CWL and DX bobbin.  The SDL bobbin appears to have both sides the same, meaning it should allow you to install the without regard to its top or bottom.	While holding the grommet with your left thumb and fingers, use your right thumb to push down into the grommet center. You are attempting to dislodge the grommet's bobbin for replacement. The silicone grommet is durable; removing the bobbin should not tear it. Push until the bobbin is free from the grommet.
With the grommet's bobbin removed, you can move to the next step. If you purchased a Crown grommet from FA, the previous steps are already performed for you. You will proceed to install your replacement bobbin.	Holding the grommet with your left thumb and fingers, push the new bobbin downward so that it catches between the grommet center. You can stretch the grommet's edges away from the bobbin to give it enough room to move downward, then back to surround the bobbin.
Make some small adjustments to the grommet to ensure it seats correctly with the bobbin.	Now, install the new grommet by placing it in the joystick lever housing. Line up the grommet in the same orientation as the original grommet.  You should see the circular rings impressions on the grommet.  If you don't, you need to flip the grommet over. Once installed, place the upper housing onto the bottom housing, and replace the long screws into the metal plate.