Bear TD Limb Noise

[Kevin Hansen]

Got a new set of #1 limbs for my B riser. Right away I noticed they didn't fit as snug as my other limbs. Along with the loose fit of the new limbs there is a very audible popping/creaking sound from the limb/riser joint when ever I draw the bow. Loud enough that I don't want to hunt with the bow until I get it quieted down. I've done some research and it seems the thing to do is apply some moleskin to the limb butts. Searched for pics of this procedure, but can't find any.
Two questions:
Is moleskin the best fix?
Anyone have pics showing how this is done?
Thanks.

[Orion]

I've used moleskin for that kind of fix.  Just cut two strips about a half-inch wide and long enough to cover the base of the limb butts if there is some up and down play in the limbs (and wrap up on the ends if there's some forward and back play).

[Kevin Hansen]

Are you talking two strips for each limb butt?

[Hud]

There should be a leather pad on the bottom of the latch, not the limb. The pad puts pressure on the limb when the latch closes.  If your not sure look for a picture of the latch, or replacement parts from the dealer, mfgr, or 3 Rivers.

[Hud]

3 Rivers shows it: Bear Takedown Latch Repair Kit
Item Number: 2077 

[Kevin Hansen]

Appreciate the response, Hud. Both my latches have the leather pad in place, so I don't think that is the problem. The way I understand all the different things I've read on getting rid of draw noise in a Bear TD is that sometimes it's necessary to put moleskin on the limb butts in addition to the moleskin already on the latches.

[Orion]

How much mole skin I use depends on how loose the limbs are.  Sometimes I just put a little square on the end of either side of the slot on the base and/or top of the limb butt.  Sometimes I run a strip the length of each side of the base of the limb on either side of the slot. When you do this, be sure the latches still close snugly, but not tightly.  If they don't want to close, you have too much material under the limb.

Sometimes, I may put a small piece on the butt ends of the limbs (or at the butt of the limb pocket) to reduce forward/backward travel.  Though that usually isn't needed.  A few shots and the limbs will position themselves where they want to be on the bow.

Too, it's not always necessary to do both limbs.  One may need it.  One may not. 

Really pretty easy to fix.  Just experiment a little.  Certainly can use material other than mole skin as well.  Various tapes (thicknesses).  Good luck.

[Kevin Hansen]

Thanks for the more detailed explanation, Orion. I think I understand better now what you are talking about. I will report back with my progress.
Would still like to see a picture or two if anyone reading this thread has any........

[Kevin Hansen]

How much mole skin I use depends on how loose the limbs are.  Sometimes I just put a little square on the end of either side of the slot on the base and/or top of the limb butt.  Sometimes I run a strip the length of each side of the base of the limb on either side of the slot. When you do this, be sure the latches still close snugly, but not tightly.  If they don't want to close, you have too much material under the limb.

Sometimes, I may put a small piece on the butt ends of the limbs (or at the butt of the limb pocket) to reduce forward/backward travel.  Though that usually isn't needed.  A few shots and the limbs will position themselves where they want to be on the bow.

Too, it's not always necessary to do both limbs.  One may need it.  One may not. 

Really pretty easy to fix.  Just experiment a little.  Certainly can use material other than mole skin as well.  Various tapes (thicknesses).  Good luck.

You were correct, Orion...an easy fix (and quick, too). Thanks for the coaching.
To anyone reading this thread that is having the same problem, do NOT go out and buy moleskin. PM me your address and I will send you a section of it. I have enough for several lifetimes on hand right now.