Brodhead Pietenpol Association

Original Posted By: "Jack Phillips"
Has anyone shortened the aileron horns from stock length in order to get a faster roll response with smaller stick inputs? After flying my plane 300+ hours, there have been times where I wished I had more aileron. Typically in gusty, high wind conditions during turns. Especially when turning into the wind (like base to final), I've experienced gusts that tend to pull the low wing further down...not a comfortable situation when you are already low. Max aileron input in the opposite direction gives a response that is delayed and much slower than I would like. I'm running out of room for the stick, as it hits my leg. There is more aileron deflection left before I hit the stop, but in my typical flying position my leg is in the way (I'm about 6'0", BTW, with a stock Piet cockpit). If I shift to one side and lift my leg I can get more aileron deflection, so I'm not talking about increasing total deflection, just increasing the response rate.It seems that shortening the aileron horns 20% to 30% would give me more deflection for the same stick movement. What are the potential downsides that I'm not considering? Has anyone done this? I'm interested in any thoughts or opinions on the subject.Thanks,Steve RuseNorman, OK________________________________________________________________________________

Original Posted By: owner-pietenpol-list-server(at)matronics.com
Steve,I agree that roll response is not the strong suit of this design, but Idon't know that making the ailerons move faster will help much. Mostairplanes achieve their max roll rate at some point before max ailerondeflection, but it would certainly help a little because you could get theaileron response in a little faster.The Pietenpol has about the same roll rate as other planes of that era, suchas the Piper J-3 Cub, the Fairchild 22 (and it has full span ailerons!) orthe Aeronca L-3. The Aeronca Champ has a significantly higher roll rate.Faster roll rates can be achieved by clipping the wings, but I don't thinkyou'd be happy with the climb rate of a clipped-wing Piet.I've flown mine in gusty 25 knot winds, with a nearly direct crosswind. It'sa challenge, but can be done - you've just got to be ready to give quick,full deflection responses.Jack PhillipsNX899JP _____

Original Posted By: Steve Ruse
In addition to the other comments, don't discount the increase in stick loads you would have. This could have other effects such as bending the torque tube or pulling at it's attachment fittings. Bad idea!Gene ----- Original Message -----