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Thread: Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

  1. #1

    Join Date
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    Default Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

    Hello forum
    I did not build this model 4, so when the A&P did the condition inspection he found that the machined aluminum adaptor (that the rod end that activates the elevator attaches to) that is riveted to the elevator pushrod is slightly loose in the pushrod.
    Drilling out the rivets would most likely enlarge the holes if the plan was to attempt re-riveting with the same size rivets to secure the interface.
    The steel adaptor that the rod end attaches to and is also riveted to the same aluminum adaptor is also slight loose in the adaptor.

    Would going to the next size rivet be acceptable?
    Has anyone else dealt with this issue?
    Is structural adhesive used to help bond that joint before riveting?

    Thanks
    Herman

  2. #2
    Senior Member 109JB's Avatar
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    Default Re: Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

    I just had to replace the steel end that has the threads for the rod end because it got bent in the nose-over before I got it. In my case, I was able to drill out the 1/8" rivets and go back with 1/8". In your case, if they are loose then going back in with 1/8" probably won't help, at least not for long. I would probably go with 5/32" stainless rivets. 3/16 would fit too, but I would only go up one size to start. Mine weren't hysol'd in and were tight. Actually had to heat with a propane torch to get the bent steel end out.
    John Brannen
    Morris, IL
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  3. #3
    Senior Member efwd's Avatar
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    Default Re: Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

    They actually sell rivets precisely for this purpose if My memory serves correctly. They are slightly oversized from the original rivet.
    Eddie Forward
    Flying
    SS7, 912iS, Garmin G3X

  4. #4
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    Default Re: Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

    Not sure on the 4 (although it looks just like the same setup) but I recently installed these on my Model 5 and they are hysoled in as well as riveted.

  5. #5
    Senior Member 109JB's Avatar
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    Default Re: Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

    Quote Originally Posted by efwd View Post
    They actually sell rivets precisely for this purpose if My memory serves correctly. They are slightly oversized from the original rivet.
    Do they sell oversize pop rivets? I'm aware of oversize solid rivets but have never heard of this for pop rivets.
    John Brannen
    Morris, IL
    Sonerai IIL (Single Seat)
    Kitfox 3/4 1050 - Rotax 582 (Back Flying and sold)
    Kitfox IV 1050 - Rotax 582 (sold)
    Kitfox IV 1200 Speedster - Rotax 912 UL (project)
    Piper Twin Comanche (Sold)
    Glasair 1 FT (Waiting to start)

  6. #6
    Senior Member jrevens's Avatar
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    Default Re: Model 4 elevator pushrod end adaptor is loose.

    Quote Originally Posted by 109JB View Post
    Do they sell oversize pop rivets? I'm aware of oversize solid rivets but have never heard of this for pop rivets.
    CherryMax rivets are available in a slightly larger diameter for this purpose. They can be pulled with a regular "pop rivet" gun. I believe they require a hole size of 0.143 to 0.146" (#27 drill). They have the equivalent or better strength of a solid "AN" aluminum rivet. I would definitely bond the joint with epoxy as well as rivet.
    John Evens
    Arvada, CO
    Kitfox SS7 N27JE
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