I think the gentleman that recommended removing the torsion springs from the co-pilot pedals was basing it on his experience with Lancair’s floor mounted adjustable pedals – which have fairly high torque and introduce some friction in their mechanism.  Our torsion springs are very low torque and do not introduce noticeable friction in the system with our use of polymer bearings between surfaces.  There’s  just enough torque to take up slack in the cables. 

 

So we don’t think it’s necessary to remove the springs from our mechanism.  You certainly can remove, if you’d like, and they will operate just fine.

 

Valin

 

 

 

 

Thanks to all who weighed in on the need for co-pilot rudder pedals.  The consensus seems to be that for instruction, insurance or for the occasional right seat driver that dual controls should be installed. So I decided to go with the Starflight rudder pedals because they are somewhat larger and more adjustable. I like the idea of removing the springs to minimize the pedal force.  And I also plan to make the co-pilot control stick removable.

 

Stan Fields

LEG #201

Austin, Texas

www.lancairlegacybuilder.com

 

 

 

Stan,

 

We didn’t put right side rudders in our 320 and have not regretted that decision. When it’s Sue’s leg, she’s in the left seat. When it’s mine, I’m in the left seat. If right side pilot wants to fly…no problem as long as it’s not a takeoff or landing. As has been mentioned cruise rudder use in minimal in these airplanes.

 

Having said that, I would remind you that if your insurance company requires any “dual instruction” you may not be able to use your own airplane for it. The FAR’s require “fully functioning dual controls” in order for a CFI to provide  instruction. I know that this requirement is sometimes ignored but if the feds ever got involved (accident investigation, etc) you, and/or your instructor, might find yourself having an unwanted conversation with an Administrative Law Judge. Just something else to consider.

 

Bill Harrelson

N5ZQ 320 1,750 hrs

N6ZQ  IV under construction

 

 

 

 

I'm building a Legacy and I'm trying to complete the Rudder controls. At 6'3" I need as much knee and leg room as possible without resting my feet on the exhaust manifold. So, I'm installing the StarFlight hanging rudder pedals. My question to the group is this:

Should I get both pilot and co-pilot rudder pedals?

- Will I need the co-pilot controls for training?

- Many have said they would not let anyone make a right seat landing in their Legacy and most of my passengers could not land the plane regardless.

- Is the value of a single rudder pedal Legacy materially lower than one with dual controls?

- I am installing an air conditioner evaporator/blower behind the panel and could possibly use the space.

- Are there any other considerations?

Stan
http://www.lancairlegacybuilder.com