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Pedal modification I had not heard of ?

R

RNB

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Yesterday I talked to a new owner of an rv7. He described a popular modification for vans rvs, described a problem of the rudder pedals being nearly vertical and thus uncomfortable for long flight. He suggested the modification is very common and does something to have the top of the pedals angle towards the front of the plane more. I have heard of different things related to pedal mods before, but never in the context of changing this geometry.

I searched a bit online and saw something simple with putting some angled metal at the base of the pedals, but not changing the geometry. The post suggested this alleviated inadvertent braking while taxing.

Is there a common modification such as I describe? Can you explain it better to me or link to something that does?
Do you have this mod and why?

Thank you.
 
It is a known modification and there are DIY solutions or commercial options, e.g. Jdair and anti-splat aero. I have this mod (DIY welded standoffs from stainless tube) to prevent inadvertent braking.

www.jdair.com

Rudder Pedal Extensions for Van's RV Aircraft

Rudder Pedal Extensions for Vans RV Aircraft RV-4, RV-6, RV-7, RV-9, RV-10
www.jdair.com www.jdair.com

antisplataero.com

Rudder Pedal Extensions for RV Aircraft | Enhanced Control | AntiSplatAero

Enhance cockpit ergonomics with our rudder pedal extensions for RV aircraft. Aircraft-grade aluminum, easy installation, and improved comfort.
antisplataero.com antisplataero.com
 
PaulvS said:
It is a known modification and there are DIY solutions or commercial options, e.g. Jdair and anti-splat aero. I have this mod (DIY welded standoffs from stainless tube) to prevent inadvertent braking.

www.jdair.com

Rudder Pedal Extensions for Van's RV Aircraft

Rudder Pedal Extensions for Vans RV Aircraft RV-4, RV-6, RV-7, RV-9, RV-10
www.jdair.com www.jdair.com

antisplataero.com

Rudder Pedal Extensions for RV Aircraft | Enhanced Control | AntiSplatAero

Enhance cockpit ergonomics with our rudder pedal extensions for RV aircraft. Aircraft-grade aluminum, easy installation, and improved comfort.
antisplataero.com antisplataero.com
Click to expand...

Wow, I have seen the phrase pedal extensions and always ignored the term. I thought that it was a product for short legged people!
 
Anyone out there have the JD Air parts installed? Looks like an easy bolt on installation with no modifications required but does it really offer anything in real world flying?
 
olyolson said:
Anyone out there have the JD Air parts installed? Looks like an easy bolt on installation with no modifications required but does it really offer anything in real world flying?
Click to expand...
I had the JD extensions on my 7 for 700hrs before selling the plane. I found they were great for keeping from applying the brakes before you wanted them. Very easy install and no holes to drill in the rudder bar, unlike some extensions.
 
I got the rudder pedal extensions from Aerosport Products. Same concept, except for they're a hard plastic material. I think it was the only aftermarket part I ever got that advertised as "bolt-on" that actually was a bolt-on installation. Super simple installation, taking maybe five minutes to install with a perfect fit. The hardest part was getting down on the floor to install them. I really like them, as they put your feet in a much more natural position and prevent inadvertent braking.
 
While I have my fuse in the rotisserie, I decided to add JD Air extensions...so much easier than waiting until I have to dive into the fuse to add them!
 
olyolson said:
Anyone out there have the JD Air parts installed? Looks like an easy bolt on installation with no modifications required but does it really offer anything in real world flying?
Click to expand...
I've got them on my 9. They do help to keep me off the brakes when I don't need braking but the biggest help has been keeping my heels on the floor. Hard habit to get into after flying with heel brakes.
danny
 
A piece of split heater hose and a couple zip ties worked fine for me for a decade of flying the 6A. For the 8 I 3D printed some half rounds that bolt on. Different pedal setup on the 8.
 
Then there are mine: a piece of rubber hose strapped to the rudder bar! Put them on early in my -4 flying and it made a huge difference in both keeping off the brakes and foot position when flying. I've considered the commercially available ones but mine are working fine, just not as fancy.
 
RNB said:
Yesterday I talked to a new owner of an rv7. He described a popular modification for vans rvs, described a problem of the rudder pedals being nearly vertical and thus uncomfortable for long flight. He suggested the modification is very common and does something to have the top of the pedals angle towards the front of the plane more. I have heard of different things related to pedal mods before, but never in the context of changing this geometry.

I searched a bit online and saw something simple with putting some angled metal at the base of the pedals, but not changing the geometry. The post suggested this alleviated inadvertent braking while taxing.

Is there a common modification such as I describe? Can you explain it better to me or link to something that does?
Do you have this mod and why?

Thank you.
Click to expand...
Check your DMs. I'll send you info on the mod mentioned above, with photos. Cheap and easy to make.
 
I dont understand why others dont just flip around the side angles on the pedal. See pic of partial pedal. It places the plate 3/4" back and sets the cross tube ahead of the plate. Works as long as there is added clearance behind. Granted, the extenders can be wider and more comfortable on the tube, but this seems like such a simple solution.
pedal pic- partial_2.JPG
 
It was easy to mock up a set in Fusion that I printed in ABS. Also made a brake pedal extension for my wife. When I get home I can upload them if anyone wants them. I think it was about $1 in material to make the set.
 
Cth6 said:
It was easy to mock up a set in Fusion that I printed in ABS. Also made a brake pedal extension for my wife. When I get home I can upload them if anyone wants them. I think it was about $1 in material to make the set.
Click to expand...
Yes, please upload the file that would be awesome. thank you!
 
olyolson said:
Anyone out there have the JD Air parts installed? Looks like an easy bolt on installation with no modifications required but does it really offer anything in real world flying?
Click to expand...
Just bought a set from JDAir with OSH special and installed them past Saturday morning. Super simple addition. Two CNC machined pieces that use two allen head screws each extension to clamp the bottom rudder bar. I have a bad habit of running my toes up and riding the brakes when I taxi. These move my toes away from the pedal and I feel that I have better positive rudder pedal authority.
 
Cth6 said:
It was easy to mock up a set in Fusion that I printed in ABS. Also made a brake pedal extension for my wife. When I get home I can upload them if anyone wants them. I think it was about $1 in material to make the set.
Click to expand...
Yes please upload the file,or I can PM you if preferred.
Thank you!
 
RNB said:
Yesterday I talked to a new owner of an rv7. He described a popular modification for vans rvs, described a problem of the rudder pedals being nearly vertical and thus uncomfortable for long flight. He suggested the modification is very common and does something to have the top of the pedals angle towards the front of the plane more. I have heard of different things related to pedal mods before, but never in the context of changing this geometry.

I searched a bit online and saw something simple with putting some angled metal at the base of the pedals, but not changing the geometry. The post suggested this alleviated inadvertent braking while taxing.

Is there a common modification such as I describe? Can you explain it better to me or link to something that does?
Do you have this mod and why?

Thank you.
Click to expand...
There is a reason for that...... https://vansairforce.net/threads/rudder-brake-pedal-angles.217616/#post-1692098
For long flight, place your feet on the floor....... It's also ok to ride the brakes during X-country

The above highlighted situation really just applies to ground maneuvers, roll out and takeoff.
 
Last edited:
You can move the tubes forward without changing the cable attachment. That changes the pedal angle from vertical. Shortening the cable attachment bars will further increas the angle
 
Here is the link to the file for the pedals, I realized I had it on my laptop. Ignore the photo of the pedals that are missing the block as I had to put a picture up so Bambu would publish the model. That was the only one I had close to rudder pedals on my phone. Will take some real pictures when I get home. My pedals worked at 100% scale, I did scale up to 102% for another RV. These are a snug fit so they do not rotate on the bottom of the pedal.

makerworld.com

Vans RV Rudder Pedal Bottom Grips - Free 3D Print Model - MakerWorld

Download this free 3D print file designed by Chad. These are rudder pedal extensions that provide additional grip.
makerworld.com makerworld.com
 
"He described a popular modification for vans rvs, described a problem of the rudder pedals being nearly vertical and thus uncomfortable for long flight."

I don't get it. At least on the 6, and I believe the 7, 9... you adjust the pedal angle by making different sized 'straps' that attach the pedal to the rudder cables. No need to invent new add-ons to adjust the pedal angle. RV6 plans, Drawing 43a, calls out the length of the strap as "Varies with Rudder Pedal Location".
 
blaplante said:
"He described a popular modification for vans rvs, described a problem of the rudder pedals being nearly vertical and thus uncomfortable for long flight."

I don't get it. At least on the 6, and I believe the 7, 9... you adjust the pedal angle by making different sized 'straps' that attach the pedal to the rudder cables. No need to invent new add-ons to adjust the pedal angle. RV6 plans, Drawing 43a, calls out the length of the strap as "Varies with Rudder Pedal Location".
Click to expand...

Yep. Personal preference. Adjust to suit.

Then in the cruise if you want another 6” of leg room then just flip the pedals up (aft).
This only works on top mounted - hanging - pedals obviously.

Nothing wrong with adding spacers/rails etc to the bottom bars but I suspect that’s more a thing for subsequent owners who don’t get the chance to get their geometry to suit them perfectly during the build.
 
Actually I see a business opportunity for me: Sell a kit of various length pedal to cable straps. $70 for a set.
 
blaplante said:
Actually I see a business opportunity for me: Sell a kit of various length pedal to cable straps. $70 for a set.
Click to expand...
Actually the standoffs serve a different purpose than adjusting the length of the links. The bottom of the brake pedal is about even with the rudder pedal bar, so it is easy to inadvertently activate the brakes when intending to push on the rudder part only. The standoff gives a little more clearance and can be as simple as a piece of rubber hose around the bar (as mentioned above) or a wooden block, or something fancier (DIY or commercial). Or, don't do anything if you are happy with the standard design!
 
PaulvS said:
Actually the standoffs serve a different purpose than adjusting the length of the links. The bottom of the brake pedal is about even with the rudder pedal bar, so it is easy to inadvertently activate the brakes when intending to push on the rudder part only. The standoff gives a little more clearance and can be as simple as a piece of rubber hose around the bar (as mentioned above) or a wooden block, or something fancier (DIY or commercial). Or, don't do anything if you are happy with the standard design!
Click to expand...
I would argue they serve the same purpose. Moving the bottom of the pedal aft (i.e. shortening the links) or moving the bar forward, changes the pedal angle, moving the brake pedal further from your toes, just like a rubber tube does. Just a different way to achieve the same objective. Shortening a link takes 15 minutes and a drill. Pedall extensions are $100 and 15 minutes to install.
 
lr172 said:
I would argue they serve the same purpose. Moving the bottom of the pedal aft (i.e. shortening the links) or moving the bar forward, changes the pedal angle, moving the brake pedal further from your toes, just like a rubber tube does. Just a different way to achieve the same objective. Shortening a link takes 15 minutes and a drill. Pedall extensions are $100 and 15 minutes to install.
Click to expand...
Here are a couple of pics to illustrate the difference.

On the pilot side there are standoffs, note the gap between the contact on the standoff and the bottom of the brake pedal:

20250813_130302.jpg

On the co-pilot side there are no standoffs and note how close is the rudder bar to the bottom of the brake pedal:

20250813_130336.jpg

Notice also in the first pic how long are the linkage plates. In this installation the rudder pedals are mounted as far forward as possible and the seat backs are hinged as far back as possible. Did I mention I don't have short legs? ;)

YMMV
 
I use the sides of yoke, clear of the brakes, and transition to the brakes as needed. Many here do the same. It is not difficult to adapt and become accustomed to this. It becomes very natural after a short time.
If I put extensions on I would have to “untrain” my feet.
 
JonJay said:
I use the sides of yoke, clear of the brakes, and transition to the brakes as needed. Many here do the same. It is not difficult to adapt and become accustomed to this. It becomes very natural after a short time.
If I put extensions on I would have to “untrain” my feet.
Click to expand...
I did the same. Push in the verticals and slide over when braking. A model, so less concerns. And I fitted rubber hose
 
Here is the link to the file for the pedals, I realized I had it on my laptop. Ignore the photo of the pedals that are missing the block as I had to put a picture up so Bambu would publish the model. That was the only one I had close to rudder pedals on my phone. Will take some real pictures when I get home. My pedals worked at 100% scale, I did scale up to 102% for another RV. These are a snug fit so they do not rotate on the bottom of the pedal.
Cth6 said:
makerworld.com

Vans RV Rudder Pedal Bottom Grips - Free 3D Print Model - MakerWorld

Download this free 3D print file designed by Chad. These are rudder pedal extensions that provide additional grip.
makerworld.com makerworld.com
Click to expand...
I gave this very kindly posted pedal extension model a try in my stock build RV14A.

The unmodified .stl was simply re-sliced so to print 100% on my Elegoo Centauri Carbon in PETG.
20250826_204616.jpg

It fits the bar okay, but be advised that the upper corners of the print will need to be relieved in order to fully clear the brake pedal treadles.
20250828_153051.jpg

And on the chance that the RV14's pedal weldment geometry was somehow different; I did also check their fit in an RV7 observing that same interference.

Thank you,
 
JonJay said:
I use the sides of yoke, clear of the brakes, and transition to the brakes as needed. Many here do the same. It is not difficult to adapt and become accustomed to this. It becomes very natural after a short time.
If I put extensions on I would have to “untrain” my feet.
Click to expand...
This is what I do, and I put a set of JD Air extensions on the side in addition to the bottom cross-member (Pilot side only...passenger only has them on the bottom).

Works great, very natural, and keeps my feet away from the brakes on the take-off roll. I tend to use the bottom member while taxiing, just to make it easy to "toe" the brakes if I need to...
 
RV7A Flyer said:
This is what I do, and I put a set of JD Air extensions on the side in addition to the bottom cross-member (Pilot side only...passenger only has them on the bottom).

Works great, very natural, and keeps my feet away from the brakes on the take-off roll. I tend to use the bottom member while taxiing, just to make it easy to "toe" the brakes if I need to...
Click to expand...
That’s a good idea!
 
Re posts 15 and 28...
I've been mounting the pedal angles on the pedal face (aft with respect to the aircraft) for seven builds. Works like a champ. No inadvertent brake application, drill to the cylinder for a comfortable angle, no dancing a jig on the yoke to compensate for a poor design to begin with. Only downside is your size 20 Brogans won't fit between the angles. Then, you're too big for an RV anyway.

John Siebold
 
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