Installing Rudder return spring

How to keep the Cessna 170 flying and airworthy.

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sfarringer
Posts: 323
Joined: Wed Jan 12, 2005 10:49 pm

Re: Installing Rudder return spring

Post by sfarringer »

If your spring actually became disconnected during use, that may be an indication that your rudder cables are not rigged correctly. I believe that these springs should always have some tension on them through the entire travel of the rudders. You might want to check that the distance from the firewall to the brake pedal pivot point meets the requirement of the Pre-63 Service Manual.
Ragwing S/N 18073
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Karl Towle
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Joined: Mon Sep 25, 2006 6:02 pm

Re: Installing Rudder return spring

Post by Karl Towle »

Just thought I'd post an update on this thread. Ordered today from Yingling Aviation Parts: https://cessnadirect.com/, the prices are listed below.

0310196-3 Spring - Brake and rudder return right $53.44
0310196-4 Spring - Brake and rudder return left $37.20

I actually called McFarlane, and when informed they don't hold a PMA for these springs, I suggested it might be one worth adding to their list. If others would do the same, maybe they might pick it up. I would think they could get a PMA, make the springs, sell for 50% off the above prices, and still make a decent profit. Sadly, the 172/175 use different part numbers, so their market might be too limited.
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rnealon1
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Joined: Wed Sep 19, 2018 7:28 pm

Re: Installing Rudder return spring

Post by rnealon1 »

I had not heard of this issue before but while in flight a few days ago I noticed the Captain's side left pedal was flopping several inches aft if foot pressure was removed. All these threads led me to order new return springs. I found them at Air Power Inc. for $46.10 and $33.22 with free shipping. After ordering I looked at Textron parts and they are actually listed about $1 cheaper for each but shipping is not free.

Once I receive the parts and line up my I/A I will let folks know how the the replacement goes. Thanks to this and other threads in the forum.

Bob
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Bob Nealon

Southbury, CT
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GAHorn
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Re: Installing Rudder return spring

Post by GAHorn »

Less than ten years ago they were priced around $6-$8 from Cessna dist’s.
'53 B-model N146YS SN:25713
50th Anniversary of Flight Model. Winner-Best Original 170B, 100th Anniversary of Flight Convention.
An originality nut (mostly) for the right reasons. ;)
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