hinge pins

[astjp2]

Re: hinge pins

I am actually getting sued because some pilot did not follow procedures when he had an inflight emergency. I am getting sued, not Continental or Maule. That is what I get for signing the log book for changing some push rod tube seals. I know that univar gouges people on a regular basis because if any competitor produces the same part, they will lower the price to match. I asked how they could charge 1500.00 for a gear leg per side for a taylorcraft, their answer that its a very complex gear to build. They can charge that price because they are the only vendor for gear legs right now. Nuff said

Ok, Tim. I feel like I'm in the school yard double-daring you. I will call double-bullshit on your original call.

Besides some typical price gouging, liability costs are included in some pricing. Just because your strut-buddy charges less means he is willing to take on more liability than some others. Parts prices are outrageous, for the most part. But, your friendly lawyer has his or her fingers into just about everything. You cannot tell me the typical simple push-pull primer that has been around forever, (and cost $7.95 in the 70's), is now $185.00 just from price gouging. Scenario...A plane goes down from lack of power. Turns out the primer backed out and was pulling fuel from the primer line, just enough for the plane to not maintain altitude. The pin failed, it was not pilot error. Guess who immediately gets sued once they figure out what really happened. Ever wonder after an aircraft crash why the aircraft manufacturer and engine manufacturer representatives show up at the scene? Liability plays a large part, it not from just their curiosity. Today is so litigious people threaten to sue if someone spits on their sidewalk. I need to live in your world, it must be a nice and simple place to live where everyone gets along. Now hopefully we can get back on the hinge pin issue.

[M Towsley]

Re: hinge pins

Like I said, lawyers... 'nuff said.

[SpecialT]

Re: hinge pins

Does anyone know the size of the elevator hinge pins on a 1940 BC-65? 1/4" x length? Do you put a washer on each end of the pin, or only the terminating end? What grade cotter pins are used?

https://www.wagaero.com/pin-tail-surface-hinge-taylorcraft.html

[astjp2]

Re: hinge pins

Only 1 washer, aircraft grade cotterpins, not harbor freight or home depot stuff.

[3Dreaming]

Re: hinge pins

He is experimental, but I would still use a AN or MS cotter pin. For the washer you will likely need to turn down a 1/4" washer, or enlarge the hole on a AN3 washer.

[mike lutz]

Re: hinge pins

Over the years I noticed where some have ground or cut both sides of the 1/4 washer as to fit between the stab and elevator. Same for rudder and fin.