NEO Vortex
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NEO Vortex Multi-Stage Assembly Instructions
For assembly you will need a 5/32" Allen Wrench.
When building your gearbox make sure the highest gear reduction is closest to the motor.
1) Place the Vortex Shaft - MAXPlanetary Input Coupler, securing it with the #10-32 Shaft End Screw.
2) Place the Vortex Input Stage on the SPARK Flex, securing it with the four #10-32 Socket Head Screws x5/16in. Note: If using a NEO Vortex Solo Adapter, the placement is the same.
3) Place the appropriate gear cartridge on the Vortex Shaft - MAXPlanetary Input Coupler.
Note: The cartridge may need to be rotated to get the splines to line up. Once the splines are inserted continue to rotate the cartridge to ensure that the alignment features are completely engaged.
4) Continue stacking gear cartridges away from the motor in the appropriate order.
Note: Ensure that the alignment features of each cartridge are properly engaged with the cartridges next to it.
5) Place the 1/2" Hex Socket Output onto the previous gear cartridge.
Note: The cartridge may need to be rotated to get the splines to line up. Once the splines are inserted continue to rotate the cartridge to ensure that the alignment features are completely engaged.
6) Insert the appropriate length of 10-32 Socket Head Cap Screws into the gearbox assembly holes. Tighten the gearbox assembly screws down.
0 Cartridges: 1/2in Long Screws
1 Cartridge: 1in Long Screws
2 Cartridges: 1-1/2in Long Screws
3 Cartridges: 2in Long Screws Note: It is a best practice to spin both screws all the way into the holes without tightening them and then alternate between tightening the two screws to snug them up.
Some Vortex MAXPlanetary Input Kits () purchased after November 2024 have a MAXPlanetary Input Coupler that is slightly too shallow. This may cause a space between the MAXPlanetary Vortex Input Stage and the first MAXPlanetary Cartridge leading to instability in the full gearbox stack.
This minor variation in depth still allows for the proper amount of engagement between the Vortex MAXPlanetary Input Coupler and the MAXPlanetary Gearbox stages.
1) Get a MAXPlanetary Spacer (REV-21-3249) using one of the following methods:
Use the spacer included in Vortex Shaft - MAXPlanetary Input Kits purchased after March 10th, 2025
3D Print a spacer using a rigid print material and the .STL file linked
Email support@revrobotics.com to have a MAXPlanetary Spacer sent to you
2) Align the spacer with the SPARK Flex's mounting holes Note: the placement is the same when using a NEO Vortex Solo Adapter
3) Secure the Vortex Input Stage on top of the spacer, securing it with four #10-32 Socket Head Screws x 5/16in.
Note: Do not use flexible materials similar to TPU when 3D printing the spacer
MAXPlanetary Gearbox Cartridges are pre-lubricated and sealed. If during maintenance you find that a cartridge needs more grease, we recommend using a Molybdenum Grease to apply more lubrication such as or .
