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Thread: Trim Tabs Model 4

  1. #1

    Join Date
    Jan 2016
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    Default Trim Tabs Model 4

    I just finished covering my Rudder, stabilizer, and Elevator when it donned on me there isn't any elevator trim tab. I have the Model 4 Kitfox, have any of you installed a trim tab on your plane? Any Ideas?

  2. #2
    Super Moderator Av8r3400's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    I have extensively modified my elevator (and rudder) to add a built in tab.

    There is a system from Rans that could be retrofitted on the trailing edge.
    Av8r3400
    Kitfox Model IV
    The Mangy Fox
    912UL 105hp Zipper
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  3. #3
    Senior Member HighWing's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    The IV was designed to be trimmed by adding a little flap to correct for the typical nose up basic trim. Like you, I notices that and like Larry modified my elevator and rudder for electric trim. The rudder became a test of an idea, but the elevator is the typical tab. I have tooling to make an aluminum tab, mounts for the servo and a servo bubble cover if you decide you want to add a tab. It will require recovering the affected elevator side. Other parts are available at Aircraft Spruce. Send me an email if you decide to add the tab and might need help.
    Lowell Fitt
    Goodyear, AZ


    My You Tube Channel

  4. #4

    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    Some ideas....

    KLICK

    Olaf
    Olaf
    Bonn - Germany
    Kitfox III 582 GSC Prop
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  5. #5
    Senior Member cubtractor's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    I made this type of system to relieve control pressures. I works great and has enough throw to it that if it quits or runs away, I still have full authority in either direction.

    Mike Bentley
    Model IV-1200
    Jabiru 2200A #438
    Rotec Aerosport LCH Heads
    Ellison EFS-2 Throttle Body
    Prince Prop (64x34)
    My SPOT Page

  6. #6
    kitfoxjim's Avatar
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    Calgary, AB
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    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    I have been using RC servos for more than 10 years, first on a Model 2 and more recently on my Model 5. What started as a simple trim system has evolved into a 3 axis autopilot over the years. Using RC servos is quite practical and inexpensive. I will try to attach photos showing rudder, elevator and aileron tabs that I added during my build.
    Attached Images Attached Images
    Jim Corner
    KF2 582 1150 hrs
    KF5 O-360 1150 hrs

  7. #7
    Senior Member Norm's Avatar
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    Airdrie, North of Calgary
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    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    I fly with KitfoxJim and can attest to the fact the servos work well as does the auto-pilot. I will be using a simple RC servo based trim sdystem to my three axis. Wires are to the tail for the Servos and will be to the wing when I get to that stage.

  8. #8
    Senior Member cubtractor's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trim Tabs Model 4

    I went with the trim system I have because my tail feathers were already covered and I didn't want to redo them. I would rather have trim tabs. If I really wanted an autopilot I would probably go with the new TruTrak Eco.
    Mike Bentley
    Model IV-1200
    Jabiru 2200A #438
    Rotec Aerosport LCH Heads
    Ellison EFS-2 Throttle Body
    Prince Prop (64x34)
    My SPOT Page

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