Installing Rudder return spring

[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.

[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.

[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

Return Springs Order.png

[GAHorn]

Less than ten years ago they were priced around $6-$8 from Cessna dist’s.

[DaveF]

For replacing the springs I strongly recommend BL's advice to disconnect the rudder cables from the rudder horn. This gives plenty of slack and you won't have to fight the tailwheel springs when attaching the new rudder spring. Reattaching the cables to the horn is pretty easy because it's on the outside of the airplane.

[rnealon1]

Thanks, I will definitely take this advice!

Bob

[rnealon1]

Found the right spring broken. Only lasted 71 years.

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[redacted]

71 years? Pfft, they just don’t make things to last.

[ghostflyer]

Only 71 years well that must be a warranty claim.

[GAHorn]

Only 71 years well that must be a warranty claim.

In Australia maybe… But this is ‘MERICA!…. Where it’s a LAWSUIT!

[redacted]

We could make it a class action.

[rnealon1]

Well I was not able to get IA to help/supervise nor was I able to get the right hand spring connected in the right direction on the forward end using described techniques, so I just took it along with the springs to the local shop.

They eventually got both springs replaced and signed off but it took several attempts and at least one new spring. I was happy to pay their invoice.

Bob

[DaveF]

"Done" is the most important thing!

[rnealon1]

Agreed!

[GAHorn]

Is that BLOOD on the belly-skin in the pic above..??