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3 Answers

Definition of a balanced control surface

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Aircraft Systems, FAA Regulations

Reading Appendix A of Part 43, it says that painting (removing and replacing decorative coating) is allowed, excluding balanced control surfaces. What is the definition of a balanced control surface? 

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3 Answers



  1. John D Collins on Aug 08, 2014

    Most control surfaces are balanced such as the ailerons, rudder, and elevators. This is done so that the control surface does not vibrate or worse yet go into a flutter at higher speeds and altitudes. The latter can result in catastrophic failure of the control surface and loss of control of the airplane, The balance I have seen is around the hinge point and is specified by the maintenance manual. On a V tail Bonanza, it is critical not to paint the ruddervators as the balance specification is very tight and even an ounce can put it out of balance. It can ruin your day if they are out of balance.

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  2. Brian on Aug 09, 2014

    “The balance I have seen is around the hinge point”

    This is the only balance point I’ve seen as well. It’s spoken of in great length in aerodynamic literature for precisely the reason you cited; flutter.

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  3. Nibake on Oct 03, 2014

    I just learned a little more detail about this from an A&P IA. Many older control surfaces may not be balanced, especially in slow airplanes. However, as an example the Cessna 150 elevator has a section that extends forward of the hinges, which makes it balanced. In some airplanes, it is hard to see the balancing weight, such as low wing pipers, where the stabilator balance weight is in the back of the fuselage, so I think the best advice would be to consult an A&P if you’re not sure.

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