Rudder bar fittings

[jrzangger]

The forward bracket on the left side of the rudder bar attach fittings has broken on my dad's 46 BC12-D1. This is the lower half of the bracket that is welded to the fuselage. Anyone have an idea how this might be repaired? Not comfortable welding in such a confined area in close proximity to the gas tank, but don't really want to pull the engine, windshield, boot cowl and tank either!

[Robert Lees]

One of mine had broken too (before I purchased the plane). Certainly appeared that they welded in situ. I should think that TIG would be OK, with some heat-proof shielding to protect the corner of the bootcowl/floor.

If the fuel tank is full, it cannot explode! Also a very big heat sink. Just make sure you have no leaks!

Rob

[jrzangger]

Thanks Robert. We've got a guy on the field that is an excellent tig welder so will probably take your advice. Fill the tank and protect the aluminum or as you might say alu minum!

[Robert Lees]

Jim,

you might need him to have the rudder bar in place for at least the tacking to get the correct alignment.
If you need a photo of the repair on mine, I can provide.

Rob

[jrzangger]

A picture would be great, thanks. The bearing support is still attached, it is just the tab that holds the bolt for the top bracket.

[Robert Lees]

Jim,

I hope the attached photo helps. You can see that the repair was on the opposite (right) side; the whole bracket came off and was (rather messily) welded back on, but it is structurally sound.

Rob

[jrzangger]

Yup, that's the place. Actually, his is the forward bolt hole on the left most double bearing support. Thanks, nice pictures and I'm envious how you can write on them and put arrows and stuff in!
Thanks

[David Price]

Re: Rudder bar fittings

N96045 is in for annual.
Guess it is my turn to be schooled in the repair broken rudder bar brackets.

Seems that if you don't fly them they go bad, and if you do fly them, they go bad...damed if you do and damed if you don't!

Could not find a part# in the book for the bracket. Anyone know?

"LOVE AIR"

[jrzangger]

Re: Rudder bar fittings

Pretty sure the factory has them new now. My dad had new ones built locally that worked out pretty well.

[David Price]

Re: Rudder bar fittings

Thanks Jim, I'll give them a call tomarrow.
Can't help but wonder if it failed due to normal fatigue, or could it have been my intense exicitement, while aloft in a bliss of heavenly joy!

"LOVE AIR"