Thorp Air Command - T18.net

I'll throw this out to the crowd unless someone wants to reopen the fuel feed system associated with the mech and electrical pumps ? No ? OK...here goes . On a standard T-18 wing is it part of your conditional to inspect the aileron bellcranks ? The way I understand it the "standard" wing does not have inspection covers for the cranks ? Does this mean you remove the wing gap cover to inspect ? I have a very good reason for asking this and I'll let you know as soon as I remember what it was ?

RB
Shazam

That's how I inspect mine, Rich. My big X-ray machine broke.

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John Evens
Arvada, Colorado
T-18 N71JE (sold)
Kitfox 7 SS N27JE

That's how I inspect mine too.

Mucho thanks !

RB

Same here.
Getting some oil into the bellcrank bearing and onto each rod end bearing is a PITA, and I'm not sure if it actually gets there.
I have the wings off right now, so this area is geting a better inspection and / or service before reassembly.

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Scott Emery
EAA Chapter 326
T-18 N18TE

Same with me. I wish I had covers there.
Cubes

that's my concern too.

Well I'll add my 2 cents worth regarding these little devils . I am helping a good friend with his conditional and I got the wing gap covers off today and can see the problem with the bell crank access . As I have the S-18 I am fortunate to have access covers to the cranks . I came up with a solution for my AC when it comes to lubing hard to reach areas and it is quick , easy and cheap ! It involves using the plastic straw that comes with almost every spray can of lube and a length of K & S metal tubing (you can get this tubing from most hobby and local hardware stores) . Cut the plastic straw in half and insert it into the K & S tubing (it comes in brass, aluminum and I think steel) . I went with the aluminum tube . You can either silicone around the insert area or slightly crimp the tube and straw . This set up will give you extended range and control over the lube . You can also slightly bend the aluminum tube if necessary . The lube will not spray out , it has a steady drip/flow . With the hidden portion of the bell crank I think I can use an inspection mirror and light to direct the metal tube to where I want the lube to go . Probably would work even better with 2 knuckleheads conducting this precision maneuver ?

Adding an access cover in this area for the "Standard" T-18 wing would be a good option during the building process .

As an added bonus after lubing you can use the tube to fill cannoli , fill party balloons and possibly do those long over due medical procedures !

RB
Shazam

Wicks sells an extremely flexible plastic hose that is designed to fit into the spray nozzle about 3 feet long. It is great for reaching into those hard spots. I saw them in their booth at OSH this year, they are cheap as I recall.