Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Ok so I put in some new parts pics to come tomorrow with everything updated. Problem is I need to get rid of the flap handle anyone have a how to on adding electric flaps?

Chris

Here is an outside shot with the new wheel pants and the 360 and CS prop on. Hope to run this week! Sun N Fun is the goal.... Might not have all the pretty details done but it will be flying.

Chris

Google "Firgelliauto" search for FA-240-S-12-3 linear actuator.
Remove your old flap assembly. Behind the seat bulkhead under the baggage compartment add a bracket to support the linear actuator. The flap cables will need to be shortened and wiring for the motor added. This actuator has built in limit switches.

Here are a couple of visuals using the actuator Bill mentioned. Makes for a very simple and clean install in just about every way.

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Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

Looking at the specifications for that actuator it weighs 2 pounds am i right to suggest that by removing the flap handle and associated mounting then there is likely to be no or very little overall weight penalty going electric?

Correct! And you free up the tunnel to provide an entry step.

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Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

On the Thorp site in the questions and answers is says use the 2" actuator, but I see a 3" actuator discussed. Does it matter which one is used?

Brent Schultz

Brent you want the FA-150-S-12-2 (2 inch) actuator.

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Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

Ok, got it.

The 2" travel will yield about 30 degrees flap.

Yes The original T18 drawing -742 shows the travel required as approx 2.8 inches, So llimiting the travel to 2 inches with the accuator effectively removes the 3rd stage of flap and thus avoiding the possible "bunt" issue.
The -150 accuator gives 150pounds force but is there a need to go to the stronger one as mentioned in The earlier post, the suggested -240 actuator has 200 pounds of force but moves fractionally slower?

The flap handle is about 12" long with the pivot point about 2". Using the handle in flight requires about 8 pounds of force to extend the flaps, thus the 150 lbs. actuator should get the job done. The other requirement is up/down should take about 5/7 seconds. The 150 linear actuator fits this requirement. YOu are correct the 250 is about twice as slow,

My thorp has roll trim built into the flap lever. Do most have this? Do you lose it with the electric flaps?

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http://www.dixiefriedfabrication.com/

Correct. You will lose the roll trim function which is really a method to "drag" a flap. Most of us with electric trim have a dollar sized aileron trim tab installed.

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Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

Lou: Put in the electric aileron trim. You will be much happier ! The only reason i keep the flap/trim knob in is because it fills the hole until I can put in electric flaps...probably next annual ?

RB