Universal Light-Weight Controls
FAQs for "Universal Light-Weight Controls"
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean and sanitize a McFarlane Push-Pull Control?
We make the following cleaning and sanitizing recommendations to be completed between flights:
Recommended Cleaning Process
1. Put on clean disposable gloves prior to cleaning and disinfection.
2. Pull controls back to the fully retracted position to expose the full length of the control shafts.
3. Apply isopropyl alcohol to a clean microfiber towel. Do not spray any solution directly on the controls or any other surfaces or components in the aircraft.
!!! WARNING: DO NOT USE BLEACH WIPES ON ANY MCFARLANE CONTROL !!!
4. Gently and thoroughly wipe down every control knob surface and control shaft.
5. Let cleaning solution dry on these surfaces (contact time).
6. Use a clean and dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any solution residue left on knob and control shaft surface.
7. Remove all gloves, towels, and cleaning supplies from the work area in the aircraft.
Please contact McFarlane Sales directly at 866-920-2741 or 785-594-2741 or sales@mcfarlaneaviation.com if you have any additional questions regarding the disinfection of our controls.
How do I trim my engine control to length?
Please reference the Installation Instructions included with your new control.
I purchased a laser engraved knob and the thickness of the marking is very shallow. What kind of wear resistance can I expect?
The laser marking does not harm the hard durable anodize coating on the aluminum knob. The CO2 laser process only bleaches the color from the anodizing leaving a silver white color that contrasts with the surrounding dyed anodize. The durability of the laser marked area is not affected by the laser. Our tests have shown that the laser process actually improves the corrosion resistance of the anodize layer. The CO2 laser engraves aluminum knobs by vaporizing the surface leaving a deep durable groove. This groove is then filled with a special paint for contrast. The result is a durable long lasting mark.
What is the minimum bend radius for my engine control?
McFarlane's Storage and Packaging Specification requires a specific packaging minimum radius based on the length of the control, type of wire used, and the configuration of the control end(s). Please contact us to determine the exact requirements for your specific control.
Why is my new engine control too long/short?
There are several things that could be different such as engine/aircraft modifications, rigging/clocking of control arm or adjustment of rod end will be needed, placement of clamps or brackets may be different, or a previous installation change such as routing from original.
- For use in non-certified aircraft applications such as cabin heat, cabin air and defrost
- Keyed shaft prevents rotation and maintains knob alignment
- All metal construction
- High temperature Teflon lined conduit for smooth, consistent control
- Liner prevents premature wire wear due to vibration
- Cheapy controls with poly liners will not tolerate engine temperatures
- Many knob styles available or provide your own knob with 10-32 thread
- Knobs are not included with the control and may be ordered separately
- Available in 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 foot lengths
- Measured from panel fitting to end of conduit, wires extend at least 3 inches beyond conduit
- Easily trimmed to length
- Available with optional creep resistant feature to prevent control creep due to engine vibration
Specifications:
- Travel (stroke): 3.75" maximum *
- Conduit: 0.188 inch OD Teflon lined wound conduit
- Max Work Loads: 10 lbs (Pull), 5 lbs (Push)**
- Operating Temp: -65 to 450 deg F
- Inner Wire: 0.061 inch solid wire
- Screw thread for knob attachment: 10-32 x .3
- Screw thread for instrument panel: 3/8-24 x .5
- See McFarlane Universal Light-Weight Controls for further specifications
* Installer must ensure maximum travel is not exceeded during installation and rigging of the control.
** Maximum push load with 3-1/2" of wire extending from the conduit.
Note: Push loads depend on wire diameter, length of wire not supported by conduit and geometry of the rigging.
Note: Not for use for flight controls or flight control trim tabs.
How to Order:
Standard control:
Order control part number MCU124-LLL where LLL is the length of the control in inches.
Control with creep resistant feature:
Order control part number MCU224-LLL where LLL is the length of the control in inches.
Don't Forget a Knob:
Order unmarked or standard engraved knobs separately from the styles and colors indicated in the following table: Light-Weight Control Knob Options.
Custom Engraved Knobs:
Custom laser marking of the knobs is available for $25.00 per knob. Receive a $15.00 discount for each additional knob with the same design.
Please call Kelli or Randy at 866-920-2741 ext. 289 or email customparts@mcfarlaneaviation.com for details.
McFarlane rod ends, conduit clamps, adel clamps, and wire clamps also available!
Why choose McFarlane?
OUR PARTS ARE ENGINEERED TO LAST LONGER WHILE SOLVING KNOWN SAFETY ISSUES
OVER 40,000 PARTS IN STOCK WITH SAME DAY SHIPPING IF ORDERED BY 3PM
OUR TEAM PROVIDES THE OLD-FASHIONED CUSTOMER SERVICE THAT YOU EXPECT
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