Piper PA-24 Comanche, Service Manual

Page: 235 / 846

04/01/09 IV - STRUCTURES
1F3
4-51.
Checking And Balancing Rudder.
(Refer to Figure 4-7e.)
The rudder must be checked to assure it is properly balanced whenever it has been repaired, repainted, or
altered in any manner. The balancing requirement of the rudder must be checked with the complete
assembly removed from the airplane
NOTE: The PA-24-400 rudder is properly balanced as long as head weight is installed. No further
balancing is required. Should repainting be required, it will be necessary to remove all old paint
prior to applying the new paint to insure staying within the balance limits.
A. Remove the rudder from the airplane, in accordance with instructions given in Paragraph 4-13. The
rudder must be complete including rudder control horn, balance weights, tip, etc.
B. Insert bolts in the two end hinges and place the complete rudder assembly on a suitable balance
stand, as shown in Figure 4-7e.
C. Position an accurately calibrated scale below the trailing edge of the rudder, as shown in Figure 4-7e.
D. With the centerline of the rudder level, obtain a reading on the scale. Subtract the weight of any
support used between the trailing edge of the rudder and the scale.
F. Measure the distance (in inches) between the point at which the support on the scale contacts the
rudder surface and the centerline of the rudder hinge. This is Measurement D on Figure 4-7e.
F Multiply the weight (obtained per paragraph D ) by the distance (obtained per paragraph E).
G. The product (moment) should be in accordance with specifications given for the specific model
aircraft being serviced.
NOTE: A rudder which is overly trailing edge heavy may be balanced by adding additional weight in
the form of AN960-10 washers under the heads of the balance weight attachment bolts. A
maximum of two washers per bolt along with longer bolts to accept the added washers is
allowed. The washers must be spaced evenly on both balance weights. (Refer to Figure 4-7e.)
H. Any rudder which doe not balance within the given specifications must be altered or replaced.
I. Install complete rudder assembly on aircraft, in accordance with instructions given in Paragraph 4-34.
PIPER COMANCHE SERVICE MANUAL
MODEL HINGE MOMENT (Trailing edge heavy)
PA-24-180 13. ± 2.5 inch-pounds
PA-24-250 13. ± 2.5 inch-pounds
PA-24-260 15.5 ± 2.5 inch-pounds
NOTE: Listed Hinge Moments are applicable to complete rudder assemblies, painted and with
balance weights and rudder tip installed.