REFLECTOR: STRONG PITCH TRIM SYSTEM

[Ronnie Brown]

I agree Scott.  I have a 173 Elite RG and the trim system works great.  I did implement the dynamic braking on the trim switch (shorts out the actuator motor when the trim switch goes to neutral - minimizes overshoot).  The spring was used as supplied - no trimming.  Well, actually, I do have a bit of a problem - during a high speed descent when flying alone, I don't have quite enough down trim - but that's OK, I can either slow down a bit or just keep some forward pressure and not worry about descending too quickly.

I have no problem getting it trimmed and it works great for long level flights.  In fact between the Navaid autopilot and the ease of getting my plane trimmed, I flew single pilot IFR to Oshkosh last year for about 2 hours in IMC.  FANTASTIC!!!!

Ronnie Brown
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Scott Baker 
  To: Velocity Aircraft Owners and Builders list 
  Sent: Friday, November 05, 2004 5:07 AM
  Subject: REFLECTOR: STRONG PITCH TRIM SYSTEM


  I find it interesting to read about builder rejection towards the fiberglass spring/linear actuator pitch trim mechanism.  True, it looks highly unconventional (so does the aircraft!) - but I have found that it works quite well.  In fact, I think it is one of the finer design features of the aircraft.  The spring is designed to provide more strength when it is needed - during landing, and less strength when trimming the aircraft at cruising speeds.  The system functions rather well.  I enjoy the fact that the aircraft is 'rock steady' in pitch.  All in all, I can't think of a reason not to like the existing pitch trim system.
  If I read correctly, the motive for installing the first "Strong Pitch Trim System" was to gain additional clearance behind the instrument panel, not because the original fiberglass set up did not work well.
  I'm all for trying new things - and the Strong system looks interesting.  But I'm also a follower of the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" fan club.
  Scott B.



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