Bent Elevator Push Rod

[ScottS97385]

Same question I posted on Facebook.

Is the rear most elevator pushrod supposed to be bent? It's about 1.5 inches from being straight.
I purchased the KF a few months ago and build quality has been excellent.

The tube is clearly bent and is 3/4 OD, .035 ID, and 49" long. It's described in the build manual as part # 51041.106.

I tried to fit a 1" tube but a diagonal brace and the elevator trim actuator interferes.

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[rv9ralph]

For clarification, what model Kitfox do you have.

On first review... no, that pushrod should be straight. If it interferes with anything, then you have to ensure it is installed correctly.

Is the bell crank that connects the middle pushrod to the rear pushrod installed correctly? The down rod portion of the bell crank should be on the right side of the aircraft.

Just a few things to check.

[Eric Page]

While you're in there, I would secure the wires and connector that are dangling next to the elevator trim actuator. If they're free to move around, over time the copper wires may work harden and crack.

[jiott]

This is the same answer I posted on FB:
My SS7 tube is straight, but here is what can happen: I trailered my Kitfox tailfirst about a year ago and I tied the stick in the full fwd position so the elevators were angled down. At 55-60 mph highway speed for 150 miles the wind on the downward elevators pushed so hard that it bent the long pushrod tube just like you show it. I flew it for about 50 hours before I discovered the bend during an annual. That tube does not withstand a lot of force in compression. I suspect your Kitfox was trailered under similar conditions. The good news is that with only that amount of bend, it is easily removed and straightened on the bench, as long as there are no kinks in it.

[ScottS97385]

For clarification, what model Kitfox do you have.

On first review... no, that pushrod should be straight..

Thanks for the comment, I will check.

It's a Series 5

[ScottS97385]

While you're in there, I would secure the wires and connector that are dangling next to the elevator trim actuator. If they're free to move around, over time the copper wires may work harden and crack.

They seem to be well tied down, there is a tie wire not seen in the photo but I will be sure to check!

Thanks!