Thorp Air Command - T18.net

I am changing from veneer type push / pull engine controls to a quadrant setup. Has anyone set there quadrant to the right of the flap handle? This seems to be the best location for me when hanging the quadrant from the instrument panel. Additionally, anyone looking for a set of used veneer style throttle, prop and mixture controls I can make you a heck of a deal.

Phil Albee
118BC

FWIW this is what I did...the throttle is just left of centerline . It is a custom set-up that I made from a solid block of acrylic . I was going to go with a "Piper" type unit , but they were too big for my lady like hands ! I also designed it so all the push/pull cables were the same P/N (all the same length) . There may be other types of quads that may fit in the space , but I did not find one . I suppose you could mount the unit to the right of the flap handle ?

RB

Rich,
got it install yesterday and did not like how things were. It made the right seat fit for someone only 5' tall. I am looking at other options, like moving quadrant more to the center and ending up with a very short flap handle or go to electric flaps. I am thinning on it.
By the way you have a nice install!!!

Thanks Phil

Try this and go electric, or put a joggle in your flap handle Les K

NICE JOB LES ! I am sure you machined all the parts . Looking forward to seeing it at Sedona this year !

RB

I am thinking on the joggle idea, I have a idea to cut the flap handle 6" from the forward end, machine a threaded sleeve to fit over the remaining handle and TIG it into place so a aluminum angled extension can be screwed on the sleeve and held in place with set screws. Since the sliding portion will no longer slide, due to the bend. I am thinking at the bend using a two piece inner rod with a very stiff coiled spring (think toilet auger) in the bent portion of the new flap handle to allow movement. The only load is compression for the inner sliding portion and the coiled spring should tolerate the small movement of the flap release. Any input would be helpful.

Thanks Phil

I have a friction lock throttle, button lock carb heat and ratchet mixture cable and am happy with the operation of all. Only control I would ever have vernier would be the mixture. Did the pain of the vernier throttle turn you onto the quadrant idea?

Bernie

I own a twin Comanche with a quadrant and having things the same works out for me.

It's installed, after listing to some of your advice. I was able to curve the flap handle to the right, it misses the quadrant by about one inch. Found a bender made out of cast iron at Harbor Freight for under $40.00 that did the job. Thanks for the help.
Phil