Aileron Alignment Question
#1
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From: Saxonburg,
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This may seem like a pretty stupid question, but what is the best way to properly align the ailerons on a full symetrical wing? I am assuming that the center line of the aileron should be aligned with the center of the wing. Right or wrong? If so, what's the best way to establish that alignment?
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#2

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From: Chesterfield, MO
Yes, when the aileron is in its neutral position on a symmetric airfoil, it should be aligned right down the centerline of the airfoil. You can also experiment with them reflexed up or down from this point. As long as they are the same, the plane will fly. I have had better luck with them slightly raised as opposed to lowered.
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From: Houston, TX
I'm a big fan of the up reflex myself.
I build scale. Scale planes will often have the hinges near the upper surface of the ailerons. The bevel will be asymmetrical and moslty below the hinge point. So simply aligning the bevel of the aileron with the center of the wing trailing edge won't work in this situation. In this situation, you check that no part of the airleron is sticking up above the wing or hanging down beneath it. So the alignment check is on the upper and lower surfaces.
It appears many folks don't check this when building. It is very common to see mis-aligned ailerons at the field. Mis-aligned ailerons will rob you of speed and effectiveness.
I build scale. Scale planes will often have the hinges near the upper surface of the ailerons. The bevel will be asymmetrical and moslty below the hinge point. So simply aligning the bevel of the aileron with the center of the wing trailing edge won't work in this situation. In this situation, you check that no part of the airleron is sticking up above the wing or hanging down beneath it. So the alignment check is on the upper and lower surfaces.
It appears many folks don't check this when building. It is very common to see mis-aligned ailerons at the field. Mis-aligned ailerons will rob you of speed and effectiveness.



