Le lundi 2 mars 2015 15:13:11 UTC+1, a écrit*:
On Monday, March 2, 2015 at 6:49:32 AM UTC-5, wrote:
On Sunday, March 1, 2015 at 5:36:08 PM UTC+2, wrote:
On Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 10:29:06 PM UTC-6, Stu wrote:
I owned an ASW-20A for 25 years. Now have a 27. I was very careful in checking the hookups (like JJ). You will want to add to your list to check the tail bolt - yes, I flew all afternoon in mountain turbulence with the tail bolt in my pocket!! That 3M white tape holds very well!

I also know of a modification that can be done to the top of the tail so that the elevator push rod will still push the elevator up, even if the hookup is not connected. Not sure this would help unless the CG was 60%+. I never did this mod and decided it was best to double check the hookups.

Stu. 2Z

Stu,
That story of the elevator bolt in your pocket made my skin crawl. Can't believe you got away with that. 3M wingtape is the best, though.

Remember- the bolt is "just" a safety. The forces are taken up by pins and sockets in the joint itself. And yes... the safety bolt has its own safety wire/spring :-)
Uri
4XGGG

Not correct. The bolt holds the leading edge down. I know of a couple cases where the bolt was forgotten and tape held tail on, but it is more than a bit scary. No bolt- no tape- the tail is very likely to come off, especially on a bumpy field. There is no excuse for forgotten bolt of elevator connection. That is why we push the critical assembly check so hard.
UH

Depends on your CofG. With a forward CofG, the tailplane will produce a downward force throughout the flight envelope (and the bolt is just for security). With a center to rear CofG and a decently designed glider, the tailplane will produce a downward force at speeds higher than speed for best L/D, zero force at best L/D and lift at lower speeds (and then you'd better have the bolt in place...).
Still, my face would turn green if I'd find the bolt during flight in the cockpit... On my Ventus, the red mounting knob stays on the fin as long as the tailplane is not locked in place for the very same reason.

TW