Tuning and setup

Change draw weight and set tiller: 1980s–90s Oneidas

On pylon-style Oneidas you change weight with the two weight bolts, re-tiller so both cams sit the same distance from the string, then lock the timing screw. Skipping the timing screw step is the most common way these bows get hurt.

  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Time 20–40 minutes
  • For 13 Oneida models

Pylon-style Oneida Labs bows, H-500 through Lite Force.

All how-to guides

We're still double-checking this guide against how we do it in the shop. If anything doesn't match your bow, stop and text us or call 270-318-2020.

Before you start

  • Know your weight range and never go above it or modify the bow for more.
  • Find the slotted timing wheel: bottom on 1990-and-later right-hand bows, top on left-hand; reversed before 1990.
  • Check the string and cables for wear first.
  • Wear safety glasses. Never dry-fire.

Steps

  1. Loosen the timing screw on the slotted wheel. On 1993-on bows it's a socket-head screw by the friction washer and slot; on pre-1990 bows loosen it until the star washer spins freely. Call us if yours matches neither.
  2. Keep the bow undrawn while the screw is loose, and never touch a weight bolt while it's tight.
  3. Turn the bolts with a 3/16 in Allen: clockwise adds weight, counter-clockwise removes it. One full turn on each bolt is about 5 lb.
  4. Give both bolts the same total turns, never more than 2 on one before switching.
  5. Slip a short pipe over the Allen for leverage near maximum weight.
  6. Measure tiller square from the string to the nose of each cam. Matching numbers mean the bow is in tiller.
  7. Turn the top bolt counter-clockwise if the top cam is closer, clockwise if farther, until both match.
  8. Tighten the timing screw firmly against its friction washer.
  9. Check the weight on a scale. Repeat the same order for any further change.
  10. Press the timing cable between the timing wheel and idler; Oneida's target is about 1/8 in of flex. Also recheck brace height.

Tips

  • Losing weight over time? Oneida's list: brace height too high, bolts not turned down, worn power cables, or the plastic weight-bolt washer stuck under the power limb. (Dealer Instructions p.38)
  • For weight outside your limbs' range you need different power limbs; we make shaved power limb sets for the AeroForce and Lite Force.