the attitude of the aircraft. The trim inputs may be
provided by the pilot or the automatic flight control
system. The actuator has two operating speeds-high
speed for manual trim and low speed for AFCS trim.
Directional Trim
Directional trim is necessary to compensate for
yaw of the aircraft. Rudder trim is basically similar to
the aileron trim. When the momentary throw rudder
trim switch moves left or right, the trim actuator
energizes to move the load-feel bungee, repositioning
the rudder power mechanism input crank. The rudder
linkage and the rudder are repositioned accordingly to
a new neutral position.
Most aircraft with power-controlled actuators
work in a similar manner, using an electric trim
actuator to change the neutral position of linkage,
deflecting the rudder to maintain the desired
directional stability. Like the lateral and longitudinal
trim systems, rudder trim action can be accomplished
manually or automatically. Trim position indicators
provide a cockpit indication of the amount of trim or
surface deflection required by each trim system.
CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Organizational maintenance of the secondary
flight control system includes checking system
operation, rigging, periodic inspection, lubrication,
isolation of malfunctions, and replacement of faulty
components.
Proper operation of the gearboxes, intercon-
necting splined shafts, and screw jack actuators are
dependent on proper lubrication. Lack of proper
lubrication will generally result in binding and
excessive loading of torque tube assemblies. Lack of
proper lubrication promotes corrosion. Space and
time limitations during shipboard operations often
detract from the timely access to some of the slat and
flap actuators. In many cases a wing spread and
extension of the surfaces are necessary. Attention to
these corrosion-prone areas will materially contribute
to trouble-free operation of the screw jack
mechanisms.
Repair of most of the gearboxes and screw jack
actuators at the intermediate level of maintenance is
limited to replacement of nuts, bolts, washers,
gaskets, bearings, and shims. At the intermediate
level of maintenance, components of a secondary
flight control system may be disassembled for routine
maintenance, such as cure date seal and
miscellaneous parts replacement.
NOTE: Before disassembly of any com-
ponent, reference should be made to the
Intermediate Maintenance section of the
applicable MIM or accessories manual to
determine repair procedures and test
equipment requirements. If the component is
beyond the repair capability of a given
activity, it should be forwarded through
channels to an authorized higher level repair
activity.
The repair process for many of the flap hydraulic
components will generally include the following
considerations:
1. Clean the disassembled part, using a suitable
solvent followed by air drying with low-pressure air.
2. Inspect all parts, using a strong light and some
means of magnification, or one of the nondestructive
methods of metal inspection. Threaded parts are
inspected for crossed, stripped, worn, or otherwise
damaged threads. Springs are checked for distortion,
permanent set, and alignment. Spring alignment may
be verified by rolling them on a smooth, flat surface.
The free length, compressed length, and reflected load
of the springs should be verified in accordance with
the values provided in the applicable MIM.
3. Inspect mated surfaces for excessive wear,
separation of plating, and evidence of nicks or
scratches.
All parts that show signs of excessive
scoring, pitting, or other surface irregularities should
be replaced. Minor imperfections can sometimes be
removed with fine crocus cloth or lapping compound,
depending on the design and tolerance specifications
of the part.
4. Be sure that all passages and chambers of the
part under repair are clean and free from obstructions.
NOTE: During the complete repair process,
cleanliness of the work area, as well as the
external and internal parts, is a prime
consideration. The close tolerance mated
surfaces within most hydraulic components
are extremely susceptible to damage by
contamination regardless of the manner of
introduction.
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