British Gliding Association Aircraft Inspection Mandatory

Number:
026/03/2002
Date: 11 march 2002

Issue:
1

Subject:

Flying Controls. Rudder cable jam

Applicability:

Schleicher K18

Accomplishment: Part “A” visual inspection – before next flight (BGA Pilot may certify as part of Daily Inspection) Part “B” Maintenance action – within 10 flight hours

Reason:

The rudder cable became jammed in a spiral split in the forward end of the nylon guide tube alongside the pilots seat causing the rudder pedal adjustment to unlock and extend to full travel.

Instructions:

Part “A” visual inspection. Inspect the forward end of both left and right rudder cable nylon tubes adjacent to the forward edge of the pilots seat for evidence of spiral splitting or evidence that the rudder cable has jammed. If a spiral split is present part “B” must be carried out before flight. Some straight wear through the tube is acceptable provided the rudder cable cannot jam.

Part “B” Maintenance action. Trim the free end section of nylon guide tube forward of the front welded support to 2mm (3/32”). Ensure the cutting action does not mark or cut into the rudder cables. Inspect the remaining nylon tube for wear or splitting. Check that the rudder cable is not chafing on the support at the small change of direction as it exits the nylon tube. Inspect the rudder pedal adjusters (Hook teeth and cross pin) for excessive wear and the rudder pedal return springs for adequate tension.

Approved By Jim Hammerton, Chief Technical Officer

Issued by - The British Gliding Association Ltd, Kimberley House, Vaughan Way, Leicester, LE1 4SE, U.K. Note: Mandatory inspections must be recorded in the aircraft log book, unless specified, and certified by an appropriately rated BGA inspector.
Optional inspections should be entered into the D.I. book or log book as appropriate. Optional inspections may be certified by a BGA Pilot. Alternative methods of compliance will be considered providing an equal level of safety is accomplished. Contact BGA for authorisation.