New Rudder stub spar

I ordered the rudder trim tab recently just in case I needed it (it was only $7). New KAI instructions were sent with it. I noticed a new internal piece inside the rudder that was not part of my original rudder KAI.

Does anyone know why this piece was added (R-01211 STUB SPAR)? Is it necessary if you want to add the trim tab? What is the risk? Is it worth adding it after the rudder has been built?

The plans that came with my trim tab several years ago didn’t have the stub spar (Page 7A-01, Rev. 0, 04/03/14). I don’t think there’s much risk adding the trim tab to a rudder without the stub spar. The trim tab has been used successfully on hundreds of original-style RV-12 rudders.

Let us know if you find out why Van’s decided to add the stub spar.

That's interesting. Ours (early RV-12, S/N 222) doesn't have it. The builder had installed a couple of wood wedges for trim. A couple years back I removed them and replaced with the metal trim tab, which did not come with the stub spar. Didn't have to adjust it at all.

DaleB said:

That's interesting. Ours (early RV-12, S/N 222) doesn't have it. The builder had installed a couple of wood wedges for trim. A couple years back I removed them and replaced with the metal trim tab, which did not come with the stub spar. Didn't have to adjust it at all.

Click to expand...

I looked at the KAI for my RV-12, S/N 212, and it shows a polyethylene plastic wedge for the trim tab, riveted in place.

FYI... My empennage kit and KAI, delivered three months, include the Stub Spar.

Plenty of them flying without it.