Someone asked me off list how to use the control surface gauge: The gauge is nothing more than a device to provide three specific length measurements that are associated with measuring movement in our control surfaces.? So if you look at the cut out to the left of where it says rudder, the distance between that cut out is 1/2".? The fact that it's a cut is of? no further significance.? To use the gauge, it is positioned perpendicular to the trailing edge of the control surface and the movement is checked against the appropriate value on the gauge which is a maximum.? Unless you are very steady, I find it useful to hold the gauge fixed against some non-moving part of the aircraft during these measurements.? For instance, when checking rudder movement, the gauge can be held firmly on the elevator.? It's important to have the Service Memorandums? (and in the case of rudder, the AD) since they provide very specific instructions on the conditions under which these movements are checked.? For example, for the rudder, we are not really measuring free play, but rather deflection under a specific load.? Further, along with rudder movement we are also listening for sounds that might suggest damage that would require further action.? In the case of the ailerons and elevator we specifically do not want to introduce deflection which would cause a false reading.? Note that this can all be done just fine with a ruler.? The gauge just makes it more convenient.
I think it's in the interest of safety for owners to find every way they can to get involved in maintenance of their aircraft. Having said that though, I probably should also point out that at least in my interpretation, in the United States, this would not fall under owner maintenance but would require at least an airframe rating.? This would also apply (in my interpretation) to checking cable tensions, a topic that we discussed a while back.? For non A&Ps the best thing is to establish a good working relationship with your A&P. As a final note, Kevin Gassert contacted me concerning the prospect of having these gauges available for the folks that might want them at the EOC convention.? I volunteered to try to mass produce these from card stock.? They will probably look something like the attached picture.? Since I'm raiding my wife's scrapbooking stash, they will most likely be available in a symphony of pastels :-). Cheers, Bill
