"Stick Type Control"

[VictorBravo]

While looking through the type certificate data sheet on the pre-war series, I noticed that there is an option for a "stick type control". I also saw a photo in the Chet Peek book showing a little L-shaped handle that went through the same hole in the instrument panel.

I also have owned a British Auster, which had a different stick control, that actually hooked up to the same "A-Frame" pivot tube as the American T-craft.

My question is whether BOTH the Auster style stick control setup AND the L-shaped handle were two similar but separate factory options back in the day, or whether the Auster system was developed completely in England and not ever offered on an American T-craft.

The L-shaped handle looks pretty awkward and probably wasn't too enjoyable to fly. The Auster system was slightly strange but was perfectly pleasant to fly. Obviously, if the Auster system was ever built in America and offered as an option, then it would be a minor alteration using parts approved under the original TC.

Does anyone know the exact "stick control" option or options that were offered by the factory?

Bil Berle

[Chet Peek]

Re: "Stick Type Control"

While looking through the type certificate data sheet on the pre-war series, I noticed that there is an option for a "stick type control". I also saw a photo in the Chet Peek book showing a little L-shaped handle that went through the same hole in the instrument panel.

I also have owned a British Auster, which had a different stick control, that actually hooked up to the same "A-Frame" pivot tube as the American T-craft.

My question is whether BOTH the Auster style stick control setup AND the L-shaped handle were two similar but separate factory options back in the day, or whether the Auster system was developed completely in England and not ever offered on an American T-craft.

The L-shaped handle looks pretty awkward and probably wasn't too enjoyable to fly. The Auster system was slightly strange but was perfectly pleasant to fly. Obviously, if the Auster system was ever built in America and offered as an option, then it would be a minor alteration using parts approved under the original TC.

Does anyone know the exact "stick control" option or options that were offered by the factory?

Bil Berle

Bill, I have never even seen one of the Alliance-built stick controls, and I'm certain very few, if any were ever sold. I did fly and Auster briefly in England, and liked their stick. Best answer, get an L-2 like I did and have a really comfortable, nice plane, --With a stick control! Chet Peek

[midniteflyer52]

Re: "Stick Type Control"

Hi Bil,

The Alliance made stick actually did not come out the same hole in the panel as the wheel. If you look closely at a picture of one, you will see it comes out from under the panel. Under the tube that goes across the bottom of the panel there are two sets of lugs. There is a bracket of sorts that mounts into these lugs and stablizes the stick. When you pull the stick all the way back like in a flair for landing it will actually touch or come very close to the seat cushion. These weren't too popular. By all reports one didn't get a good feel for the ailerons. I happen to have one that I'm planning to install in my '41-BL but it's going on the right side. Like in the advertisements and Tom Baker's prize winning ship. It will be a good conversational piece.

Best Regards,

Glen Brodeur
TF #42
NC36318