Thorp Air Command - T18.net

I've seen a few pics of airplanes with the flap return springs just inside the fuselage skins, anchored to the forward seat mount structure and threaded through the aft outboard seat support assembly. I can't seem to find any details in the NL's, the old Thorplist, or this forum. Do any sketches or articles exist? This seems like a better way to go than going through the wing gap.

While on the subject, my flap springs seem awfully stiff compared to some of the ones I saw at Oshkosh. Are people in fact using lighter springs these days?

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In theory, theory and practice are the same. In practice, they are not.

I think Bill Williams airplane has the inboard flap return springs under the seat.

If you want my 2 cents I think it's a heck of alot more accessable (especially since you have a "C" wing) at the wing junction. Anytime you can work outside the airplane is preferable to inside. It may not seem like it but under the seat is not a real comfy place to have to turn a wrench.

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Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

I agree with Lee. The only advantage for the C-wing to mount them inside is to reduce the possible interference with the rear "U-joint bolts." Mine had a slight interference and I cured that by using a C/S screw in place of the AN3 bolt. The older I get the less I like standing on my head to work !

RB

The "S" plans show the under the seat setup for the inboard flaps. However, I have both inner and outer at the wing fold. I agree with Lee, keep it out of the cockpit. I use the area under my seats for storage. Don't want stuff getting into the mechanism.

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Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL