Rudder Bottom to Tail Spring Clearance

[NewGuy]

How much clearance is needed between the fiberglass rudder bottom and the tail spring on a taildragger?

I thought I saw a required amount stated in the plans, but I can't find that dimension now.

I fitted the fiberglass bottom on today and have about 1/4 inch clearance at the most forward, closest point and that distance increases rapidly as it goes aft.

Is that enough, or do I need to raise it just a little more?

 

[Mel]

Ken,
1/4" clearance is not enough. I just checked mine. I have right at 3/4" at the closest point. This is unloaded. The airplane is supported with the tailwheel off the ground.

 

[Jim P]

How about loaded? Any idea what clearance is needed for the vertical spring in the tailwheel? I'm getting ready to re-cut my lower fairing as well. I had originally cut it on the scribe lines and it's not nearly enough.

Jim

 

[Mel]

The nearest point is at the very forward end of the tailspring where it enters the weldment. I wouldn't expect much difference between loaded and unloaded at this point. I just mentioned that mine was unloaded because at present mine is.