Aileron Balance

bdq

bdq

New member
Hello folks! I am new to the club and am posting this message on both the Cruisemaster and Viking forums.

For the past 4 years I've been flying a friend's 1950 Cruisemaster 14-19 with a 260 hp IO-470. Lovely airplane! Lucky me!

We are replacing the left aileron and are trying to determine the static balance. We are hoping to find the exact manufacturer's specifications to learn the correct weight distribution. For example the aileron of a Bonanza requires a nose heavy balance of 0.2 inch pounds.

Does anyone know the figure for a Cruisemaster 14-19?

Or for a Viking which apparently has the exact same ailerons?

Would anybody have details on the procedure to balance the aileron?

Thanks!

Bryan
 
Just out of ignorant curiosity on my part I am trying to clearly understand the concept of static balance for an aileron... is this a measurement taken with all controls disconnected? Assuming you are able to obtain the value you are asking about, how would you measure this... and if needed how would you make any necessary adjustments? --Rob
 
Rob58 - to address your general question, static balance is checked after all repairs, paint, etc. are completed and is performed on a test bench with the control surface removed from the airplane. Static balance measures the weight distribution fore and aft of the hinge line and is usually adjusted by adding or subtracting weights at the leading or trailing edge of the control surface. The balance point (center of gravity) is defined by the manufacturer within a range, usually defined in ounces or pounds and inches from the hinge line. It is set by design and is intended to prevent control surface flutter. Static balance is different than aerodynamic or dynamic balance which is designed to adjust the force required to move the control surface. I agree with Larry that the required information should be available from the TC holder. -- ArtL
 
Art - thank you for the detailed and articulate answer! After reading your explanation I can understand that this is really an important factor. Makes perfect sense that improper balance could lead to a flutter condition which can really ruin one's day. I will be interested to learn if Bryan is able to acquire this data. --Rob
 
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