MrNomad
Well Known Member
I've enjoyed the Vans FPS flap positioning system on my 9A for 13 years and it worked fine until this past week. During my December conditional inspection, the system went up and down properly, however, flying back from CGZ the other day, when I requested 10 degrees, it barely moved. A few more attempts (toggle down) and I was able to get 10, then 20 and so on.
Once on the ground, they retracted properly. When I inspected it today, on the ground, covers off, it worked properly up and down. I tested it 10 times and it never failed.
Is it possible that the system needs to be completely disassembled, remove old lube, add new lube, and reassembled? Did I experience wind resistance added to internal friction which prevented the flaps from operating in the air? I am certain my airspeed was < 10 degree flap limit.
Comments welcome. Suggested lube type welcome too.
Once on the ground, they retracted properly. When I inspected it today, on the ground, covers off, it worked properly up and down. I tested it 10 times and it never failed.
Is it possible that the system needs to be completely disassembled, remove old lube, add new lube, and reassembled? Did I experience wind resistance added to internal friction which prevented the flaps from operating in the air? I am certain my airspeed was < 10 degree flap limit.
Comments welcome. Suggested lube type welcome too.