Tailpost; replace or splice?

[mhorowit]

Attached is a picture of a tailpost from Capt Jon's site; I'm using it to illustrate my question. By the way, that's a great site to use when you need just a bit more info on how a splice should look.

Anyway, my tailpost has sufficient corrosion about one inch above the bushing to have eaten a 1/8" hole thru the tubing. My options seem to be replace the complete tube, or replace a section. I'm thinking of replacing a section of the tailpost extending from 4" above to 4" below the bushing (internal sleeve). If I were to replace the tailpost, I'd have to disturb two clusters.

Could I get your opinions on either approach? - Mike

[Ragwing nut]

Re: Tailpost; replace or splice?

Cut the tube just below the rudder hinge so not to disturb it either and do an inner splice.

[mhorowit]

Re: Tailpost; replace or splice?

Cut the tube just below the rudder hinge so not to disturb it either and do an inner splice.

Thanks - the damage is just above the bushing/hinge so I think it will have to be disturbed.

It appears Captain Jon cut the bushing and tubing from his old tailpost and welded it to the new; does it look that way to you? Doesn't that move the centerline of the bushing aft by at least .035? - Mike

[Pearson]

Re: Tailpost; replace or splice?

Measure twice, cut once!

[astjp2]

Re: Tailpost; replace or splice?

atlee dodge can fix anything if you can get it to his shop. Tim

[mhorowit]

Re: Tailpost; replace or splice?

atlee dodge can fix anything if you can get it to his shop. Tim

Let's see..... Atlee Dodge is in Anchorage, AK and I"m in Falls Church, VA.
Nope; don't think so. - Mike

[crispy critter]

Re: Tailpost; replace or splice?

LOL,it would be cheaper to buy a nice flying t-craft then it would to tow your fuslage up there and back.......however it would make for a nice vacation this summer.