Nose Gear Steering Bushings

[Pat Donovan]

Should the slop be taken out by increasing both left and right bushings or just one side? I'm thinking both sides would be better as it would reduce the rudder offset from the nose wheel. Comments?

PatD

[N3322G]

That's the way my twin's were done so I agree.

[skipsouthernsky]

Dear Pat and all,

I thought I would weigh in on this subject since you brought it up. Only check that clearance with the airplane on the ground with the normal weight on the nose gear. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT check that clearance with the plane on jacks. If you reduce that clearance to a small value with the plane on jacks, it is possible for the nose gear to become unlocked when on the ground with weight on it......most likely while taxing over bumps.

Due to the geometry of the nose gear, there is a difference in the slack between the rollers and the steering bellcrank when weight is on the gear opposed to no weight on the gear. Check it out yourself. Be very careful. Always assure there is some play between the rollers and bellcrank when on the ground with weight on the nose. Otherwise the draglinks can be kicked past over center while taxiing.

A little bit of play in the rudder pedals when on the ground is a lot easier to live with than a collapsed nose gear, bent prop, engine sudden stoppage, etc.

Sincerely,
Skip Dykema