Piper Comanche PA-24 Service Manual page 280

Figure 5-10. Determining Neutral Rudder Position
B. Check, and if required, adjust rudder for neutral alignment with relation to the neutral position of
the rudder pedals, and cables for correct tension as required in Table V-I. The following procedure
may be used:
1. Place airplane on jacks (refer to Jacking, Section II) to clear the nose wheel.
2. Clamp the rudder pedals to align in a lateral position as shown in Figure 5-13.
3. If not previously removed, remove the tail cone fairing by removing attaching screws.
4. Position the rudder trim in the neutral position in accordance to Paragraph 5-31.
CAUTION: DO NOT USE A ROD LARGER THAN THE BEND RADIUS OF THE
5. Insert a small diameter rod into the bottom of the rudder at the trailing edge, and allow its end
to extend down to the stabilator trim control rod. (Refer to Figure 5-10.)
6. Apply masking tape at 90° to airplane centerline, between stabilator halves immediately
beneath rod inserted on rudder. On tape, mark the airplane centerline (stabilator tab actuator
arm rod). (Refer to Figure 5-10.)
7. With the rudder pedals clamped, check that the rod in rudder aligns with the trim control rod
and cable tension is correct as required in Table V-I. (Cable tension is taken at the flexible
portion of the cable at the forward cabin bulkhead station 50.0.)
8. Should alignment and/or cable tension be incorrect adjust the turnbuckles which are attached
to the rudder pedal assembly to obtain correct alignment and tension.
9. Remove the clamps from the rudder pedals.
V - SURFACE CONTROLS
PIPER COMANCHE SERVICE MANUAL
TRAILING EDGE SO AS TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE RUDDER.
Figure 5-11. Checking Rudder Travel
1G20
04/01/09