Gust Lock for Rudder

[jiott]

I just finished making a simple gust lock for my rudder. I saw the idea on someone else's post and wish I could remember who to give them credit. All the parts come from the hardware store without any modification (may want to shorten some bolts), for about $10. It uses the hollow cross tube just above the tailwheel spring bolt. Goes on or off in less than a minute-easy-peasy. I just use my seat belt to hold the stick back for flaperon gust locking. Parts list is:
1/4-20 x 5.5" carriage bolt
1/4" turnbuckles with hook on one end & eyebolt on other end (2 each)
1/4-20 x 6" eyebolts (2 each) replaces eyebolts that come with turnbuckles.
1/4-20 nuts (3 each)
1/4-20 wingnut
1/4" flat washers (2 each)

[jrevens]

That looks great, Jim! I'm gonna' copy it!

[Av8r3400]

Now you need to paint it bright orange with a long streaming flag on it!

[GWright6970]

Excellent!! Looks like a trip to the hardware store is on tomorrow's to do list! Thank you!!

[jiott]

I thought about a red "Remove before flight" streamer, but it is quite obvious that it is on if you attempt to taxi. You cant move the rudder pedals at all.

[David47]

That'll do it ....!

[Rooster]

I humbly submit that it was I...

I also use 3 Bonded roofing washers to protect the paintwork on the fuselage tubing.

The whole thing cost 3 dollars about.

2 inch PVC T piece and short aluminium angle takes care of the elevator and aileron lock. Another $ 2.50.

What about adding the red "attention getter" to a washer on each side?

I have left it on 2 occasions, but soon remembered while trying to move the plane from its parking before getting in.

[jiott]

Thanks Rooster for stepping forward with the original idea. I had seen it quite a while ago, but just now got around to making one. Its the quickest, easiest, and lightest/most compact rudder gust lock I have seen. I like your use of the rubber bonded washers.

[avidflyer]

Nice gust lock, I do think that if I was trailering the plane tail first, I would want a couple of padded 1x4" just above the wing enclosing the vert. stab. and rudder to keep the rudder from flapping in the breeze. JImChuk

[ken nougaret]

With the vertical "hat" for the flaperons to rest against, the rudder wont flap in the breeze.