kitfox classic 4 speedster tail problem

[Jfquebec]

if i dont put 2 3/8" at the bottom the rudder can't make any move...and if i put 2 3/8" my rod end was to short...i gone take some pic to show you...

[Jfquebec]

i put small video to show thw problem....thank's to all

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcuwZLCjD8c

[t j]

It appears that the bushing the rod end screws into is too short. The bushings on my classic 4 stick out about 7/8 inch past the rear of the fuselage tail post which is near even with the center of the cutout in the rudder stop tabs.

This one has just the foam gap seal on the tail post. The rod end check nut in this picture is tight against the end of the bushing. The left end of the ruler is near as I can tell where the rear of the tail post is.

[Geowitz]

LOL, Love the video...

Don't have much more to add other than I agree it does appear that the bushings in your case are too short. Perhaps someone cut them off? They should stick out more. Not sure how you would fix that, but you definitely want a lot of the thread holding on all three points and the bushing as far out as possible for strength. Here is the best picture I could find which shows mine. Also a model IV Speedster. Looks like I have about 7/8 to an inch sticking out as TJ measured.

[Jfquebec]

My bushing is only 1/8" out...thats what my problem...if it was like your ,everything was perfect....

[Jfquebec]

If i have seen that before to install all rib's and fairing on vertical .i've probably welded an extention to this bushing???

[Geowitz]

Yes, as long as you could keep it straight.

Maybe thread a new bushing onto an "all thread rod" and then thread the "all thread rod" into the existing bushing to align the new extension piece. Then use a sleeve over the old bushing to the new bushing for the actual welding so you are not welding the "all thread rod" in place. The "all thread rod" would just keep everything perfectly straight for the weld between the sleeve and the old and new bushings.

[jamesmil]

hi guys, the utube video is great help to see the problem. for what ever reason the threaded post is to short, but being where it is I would not bandade the repair.
I would drill out the stub and fab another and clean the area around the hole and weld in the new one. use the rudder with the rod end screwed in the new post to get the alinement right then tack weld the post and disassembal the rudder from the frame to make a good weld on both sides.
it not as big a job as it looks like and is well worth the peace of mind even if you had to get a welder to come to you. Make sure you use 4160 aircraft grade welding wire. hope this helps.