Loose Aileron Hinge Brackets

N

NPela

New member
I own a 1965 Bellanca 260 14-19-3A. I noticed that the ailerons are a bit loose – there is play in the outboard hinges. Examination by removing the wing spar inspection covers indicates that the four bolts holding the hinge brackets are loose. I can access the “nutâ€
 
You may want to call Weber's in Alexandria or Witmer's in PA and see how they suggest dealing with this. Worst case may involve cutting the fabric on the aileron to get a wrench on the bolt heads and then doing a fabric patch/paint touch-up.
 
The problem is not in the ailerons - it's the hinge brackets that are connected to the rear spar in the wing. We have to cut a new inspection hole in the wood wing skin or the aileron bay, I think. I'm not familiar with Weber or Witmer. Do you have contact information?
 
My 14-19-3 is currently undergoing its Annual @ Witmers; he found the same problem with my brackets. However, they are too worn and need to be replaced. He does have a method of getting to the bolts, though, by making a small (patchable) hole. I'd call him at (610) 323-0320 for advise.

John Morrison
 
One thing to be aware of is that there is a reason that your brackets became loose, and you need to do a little investigation before you go cranking on the bolts to tighten them up. I have done many annuals and found that someone previously had just tightened things up instead of investigating and had wound up almost completely crushing the wood beneath the brackets. There might be nothing wrong, but I would surely be suspicious if it was me!
John H.
 
I found my brackets loose also .I cut small holes in the fabric and replaced the hardware ,the pached the fabric.
 
You need to buy Service Manual B20-001 from the club. Sec 4 tells you how to get to the brackets and what to do. At least your model has a Service and parts manual, my Bellanca 14-19-2 has neither. I bought all the clubs manuals on 14-19-3A and up. They have helped. Whitmer is the hands down best Bellanca service in the U.S. and if you call them they will help you. LYNN N9818B :roll:
 
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