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-   -   RV-10 rudder trim (https://vansairforce.net/community/showthread.php?t=111989)

colestopp 07-07-2014 03:01 AM

RV10 rudder trim
 
This was my first post here and it obviously works, so thank you to all for some great responses.

MauleDriver 07-09-2014 07:13 AM

I considered adding rudder trim and mocked up a spring bias design I had seen on a completed '10. I ended up deciding to install it post first flight.

Three years and 460 hours of cross country flying later, it will never go in because I don't need it.

It's a high performance plane that requires a good kick at the start of the takeoff roll - trim plays no role in that I'd venture.

During full power climb, and there's no reason to do anything else, some right rudder pressure is required. I use the AP for most climbs most of the time. Trim could eliminate the need to rest your right foot on the pedal.

During LOP cruise (I range between 155 and 165 knots at 8k-10k), so little right rudder is required that system friction and the carpet on my tunnel allow me to set the rudder and fly feet on the floor, hands in lap. Interestingly I know that one flier has a little loop of velcro or something that they lay over the cable during cruise to add just enough friction to allow feet on the floor cruise. That's truly KISS.

During high power cruising (ROP, <7k, 170knots) some right foot is definitely required. Since break-in, I just don't do this but many do. Trim would be useful here.

During descents there's usually a lot happening on an IFR clearance so I fly with my feet on the pedals even when using the AP.

So obviously I choose not to have rudder trim. It's useful but superfluous at the same time if that's possible. My calculus is that's it not worth the time and effort. It doesn't add lightness or simplicity. It could be cool to build/install/have.

Wayne Gillispie 07-09-2014 07:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MauleDriver (Post 895918)
I considered adding rudder trim and mocked up a spring bias design I had seen on a completed '10. I ended up deciding to install it post first flight.

Three years and 460 hours of cross country flying later, it will never go in because I don't need it.

It's a high performance plane that requires a good kick at the start of the takeoff roll - trim plays no role in that I'd venture.

During full power climb, and there's no reason to do anything else, some right rudder pressure is required. I use the AP for most climbs most of the time. Trim could eliminate the need to rest your right foot on the pedal.

During LOP cruise (I range between 155 and 165 knots at 8k-10k), so little right rudder is required that system friction and the carpet on my tunnel allow me to set the rudder and fly feet on the floor, hands in lap. Interestingly I know that one flier has a little loop of velcro or something that they lay over the cable during cruise to add just enough friction to allow feet on the floor cruise. That's truly KISS.

During high power cruising (ROP, <7k, 170knots) some right foot is definitely required. Since break-in, I just don't do this but many do. Trim would be useful here.

During descents there's usually a lot happening on an IFR clearance so I fly with my feet on the pedals even when using the AP.

So obviously I choose not to have rudder trim. It's useful but superfluous at the same time if that's possible. My calculus is that's it not worth the time and effort. It doesn't add lightness or simplicity. It could be cool to build/install/have.

You are right on the money.

BobTurner 07-09-2014 11:52 AM

+2. Same here, although I needed a trim wedge on the rudder to get the ball centered in cruise, feet off.

Ivan Kristensen 07-13-2014 05:04 PM

Aerosport Rudder trim
 
After a hundred hours or so of flight time on my RV-10 I installed the Aerosport Rudder Trim system. As mentioned in an earlier post it is simple, inexpensive and is relatively easy to install in a finished airplane. I had been looking for a spring bias system as it gives the added benefit of preventing some rudder wind damage when parked tail into the wind. Now with 500+ hours on the airplane I will say that this system works as advertised and I would recommend it to anyone.

rdamazio 12-17-2015 02:15 AM

For those who used the flap motor as the actuator - I'm curious if Van's part number for it (ES 85615-10) is actually the same as this product:

http://cad.actuator.com/product/line...ar-actuator-1?

If it is, I'm also wondering if anyone has tried using the one with the position sensor instead? The specs are nearly identical, but tought I'd ask.

Thanks
Rodrigo

woxofswa 12-17-2015 10:24 AM

I have a spring bias system (blue skunk) that is okay, but don't really use it much.

My understanding is that Dynon is working on an integrated yaw damp system that will also function as trim. Might be interesting. I didn't read this whole thread so apologies if someone else mentioned it.

One thing I have noticed is that with 3 people on board, you can really feel which side of the aircraft the third person is on. My airplane seems happiest with the heaviest person on the right side of the aircraft.

bill@fusion4.net 12-17-2015 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NovaBandit (Post 871568)
There is also an option for a spring bias rudder trim for the RV10:

http://www.aerosportproducts.com/ruddertrim.htm

I don't have it (yet) but is has a few advantages over the cut tab trim (no cutting of the rudder, no additional wire runs, keeps the rudder from flapping around in light wind, light weight, simple install.)

I have a different (discontinued) spring bias rudder trim, and am very glad I installed it. Much more so for the help with the rudder flapping in a light wind than for using the trim itself. I have not touched the trim knob in 9 months, but it really helps during the fuel stop to not have to put rudder locks in.

I would do it again for sure.

hillc95 12-18-2015 10:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ClarkieSr (Post 871651)
I'm new to RV building and have started work on the -10 empennage. I would like to know if there are other builders in my area. I live in The Villages, FL 32162.

While not "next door' by any means....I am in the Jacksonville area and I will be ordering my first kit next month.


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