Van's Aircraft RV-12, Maintenance Manual

Page: 131 / 217

Rev.4
11-3
SPINNER AND PITOT TUBE
Inspect the Pitot tube and bushing for excessive wear using a clearance gauge.
Make the clearance gauge by cutting a ¾ inch X 4 inch paper strip from common note
book paper (typical thickness is about .003 inch). Make a mark on the strip ¾ inch from
one end. Lay the paper strip lengthwise on the portion of the pitot tube that protrudes
out of the spinner with the marked end positioned nearest to the spinner. Wrap the
paper strip tightly around the radius of the pitot tube and attempt to insert it between
the pitot tube and the bushing. If the paper strip can be inserted to the marked ¾ inch
depth further inspection is needed.
Remove the spinner and inspect the portion of the pitot tube that turns within the
bushing for wear damage. If any is present the pitot tube and the bushing should be
replaced. To replace them see Section 47 of the KAI.
If no wear damage is present on the pitot tube, just the bushing should be
replaced.
Remove the worn bushing by driving it out from the aft side of the spinner using a
7/16 in. diameter dowel. Install the new bushing per Section 47 of the KAI.
PROP & HUB
● NOTE: T
HERE IS NO SPECIFIED SERVICE LIFE FOR THE PROPELLER
. H
OWEVER IT IS
TO BE REMOVED FROM SERVICE WHEN IT NO LONGER MEETS THE
C
ONTINUED
A
IRWORTHINESS
R
EQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER
.
The following will aid in the safe operation, longevity and appearance of the propeller.
• Do not spin your propeller above the Propeller RPM Limits specified by the
manufacturer
•
Check the hub clamping bolt torque after the first 5 hours and at each condition
inspection. Always check in the tightening direction.
• Before each flight carefully Inspect the propeller blades and hub for looseness, any
signs of damage, excessive wear or any other condition that would make the
propeller unsafe to operate.
•
When the propeller is not in use position it horizontally. If it is exposed to weather
cover it with a weatherproof cover.
• Do not use the propeller as a tow-bar to move your aircraft.
• Apply a good quality automotive paste wax to the blades at least once a year. Avoid
liquid waxes.
•
Avoid running-up in areas containing loose stones and gravel.
•
Loss of surface finish from the leading edge is considered normal wear and is
dependent upon the amount of operation in rain and grit.
• Immediately following an impact of any kind remove the propeller from service until it
has been inspected and passed by qualified personnel.