The International Cessna 170 Association

Am looking for advice how to adjust the rudder trim tab. Noticed lately I've got about half a ball deflection to the left and when I looked at the tab it is noticebly running left. So I need to recenter or possibly slightly right. Anyway, we are considering clamping something like a 15-16 inch board to both sides and using that to move the tab. Are we on the right track, or is there a better method?

Thanks- Jim

Jim, your way is good, but a sheet metal duck bill pliers is best. you can get them at any aircraft tool supplier or even harbor freight, eastwood even has one.

Aryana wrote:A hand seamer as pictured above is a good choice. Horror (Harbor) Freight has em cheap.

Thanks for correcting it Aryana. He is right. It is a Hand Seamer not a duck bill. D

Jim, may I suggest before you go bending metal..... check your rudder circuit and rudder-return springs for rigging and tension (and correct parts.)
In fact, it's a great time to check the entire airplane for rigging per the instructions found in the MX Library.

AFTER you have done that, then consider rudder and wing eccentrics.

By the way.... MOST 170 rudder trim tabs are deflected slightly left. (Implying a slight need for right rudder at cruise.)

Before doing any adjustments put the plane on a level surface and use a level to be sure the fuselage and wings are level right left. Then see if the ball is centered or not. If not then adjust the gauge as needed in its' mounting until it is. Then go fly and see where it is at. With the ball centered both wings should stall at the same time, not one before the other. Then you can make any adjustments needed to fly straight at cruise setting.