Stick conversion for BC-12D

[warbugdriver]

Found some references to converting a BC-12 to a dual-stick configuration. Was curious if anyone knew of a flying airplane that had it done? Looks like STC is owned by Swick Aircraft in Texas. Anyone know these folks? I've tried contacting them via snail mail but letter was returned.

I've seen the control layout for Brit-made T-crafts (later known as Austers) and it appears to have the same basic control assembly except for having sticks attached to the H-arms.

The sticks are L-shaped and attach at the upper horizontal part of the control assembly.

I really like the BC-12 but have to admit that after flying a Brit T-craft, the stick definitely adds a bit.

Thanks,
Chris

[Forrest Barber]

Yes we fly one here all the time; Swick conversion. The factory had two versions also. Will get back off list to you. or call me for a discussion.....

[Tcraft Classics]

Forrest,

I too am interested in the dual stick conversion. I have been playing with an old H arm and the McMaster-Carr catolog trying to duplicate the Auster style set up for my experimental. The only thing I miss about my Clipped-Wing Cub was the sticks!

I was under the impression that the Swick was a center mount single stick. What is the STC'd version or past 337 history for a dual stick conversion? Any info you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

For those of you who havent seen the Auster set-up, here's a pic from Captain Jons Website, and the link to his Auster page:

http://www.taylorcraft.info/tcraft/british.htm#Auster

[Robert Lees]

...and a similar view of a US pre-war Taylorcraft with a 1970's stick conversion (note the holes in the panel...can be converted back to control wheels): http://www.Taylorcraft.org.uk/brxs5.jpg

This aircraft is a Howard T-Minus registered in the UK as G-BRXS, no details of its US history, I flew it in May 2003. Any details on this aerobatic conversion would be appreciated. More photos at http://www.Taylorcraft.org.uk/BRXS.htm

[jdlawson]

Tribe,
Can anyone provide a sketch (rough or detailed) of the Auster type stick installation or have one that they would be willing to loan out for awhile or sell?

Thanks,

JD Lawson
[email protected]

[warbugdriver]

Auster controls

I'm wrapping up purchase of an H-arm control assembly for an Auster -- including the sticks. As soon as the parts arrive, I can provide detailed photos/measurements for those interested.

Chris Kanca
L-2M, N52347

[Chet Peek]

T-Craft stick control

Tribe: There were photos and literature of the stick control offered as an option on the 1941 T-Crafts in the research material I had for the book. I sent all this to Forrest, so perhaps he can locate them.
I have not flown a T-Craft with that stick, but I would suggest that it would not have the "feel" of a stick at all. I have flown an Auster, its stick comes out under the dash, and has some stick feel, but not completely.
Of course the L-2 has a completely different and conventional stick control, and has an even better feel than a Cub, (My opinion)
Just my two- cents worth,
Chet Peek

[warbugdriver]

Auster controls vs L2/L4

No doubt that the stick configuration of the L2/Champ/Cubs affords more "feel" than the Auster setup. My motivations are purely a personal preference for stick-type controls rather than an expectation of better control feel. In fact, by looking at the T-craft-UK linkage, I would expect to have a heavier feel to the controls, rather than lighter.

I've flown a number of yoke-equipped BC-12s and have invariably always drifted to the right seat to maintain the left-hand throttle/right hand fly orientation. Again, purely personal preference.

Compared to my L-2, an Auster feels heavier on the controls but then again the Auster is a considerably heavier airplane with a far larger engine. Aesthetically, it's really a BC-12 made using heavier gauge tubing and a big (relative terms here) engine. To quantify my comments, I've a whopping 2.5 hours in one stick-equipped Auster. No idea how this particular one stacks up against the rest of them!

[jdlawson]

Auster Style Stick

Hi. I have the capability to produce detailed drawings and convert them into serveral different electronic formats that would be useable by almost everyone. So, if anyone would like my help to create a drawing package for a stick installation (or other Tcraft related projects), please contact me and I will donate my time.

I agree that the Auster setup isn't ideal but the single center floor mounted stick would have similar off center effects if you aren't flying solo in the center of the seat (and used a straight stick instead of the "Y"). The biggest advantage to adding the Auster type stick to the existing Tcraft "H" is that you would be able to switch back to the yoke configuration fairly easy.

Safe flying and enjoy the rest of the holidays.

JD Lawson
[email protected]

[Acroeric]

Guys- I have a good friend who can make the entire Swick Stick assembly so all you have to do is weld it in place in a couple places. If anyone is interested let me know and I will get a quote. The Swick stick would have the traditional stick feel. Since it is a STC you could install it legally if Mike is still willing to sell the STC.

[Don Thimmesch]

swick assembly

Eric, I would be very interested in the assembly if the price is right. Please let me know the details when you find out. Thanks.

Don Thimmesch
N96542