Wanted Piper Rigging Tools

[RickFE]

I am interested in obtaining a set of rigging tools.

I would like the rudder and stabilator tools from these drawings in the Piper MM. I have a bellcrank tool and can fabricate the flap/aileron tool but the rudder and stabilator tools may require a bit more talent.

Rick

[jam0552@msn.com]

I made the stabilator tool out of plywood in order to check the stabilator travel after the stabilator cable inspection AD (requires disassembly of both stabilator turnbuckles). I used the Piper PA 28 Service manual drawing, and by tracing the contour of the stabilator against the plywood after removal of a stabilator tip, then drawing a centerline down the chord, I was able to closely replicate the aluminum tool Piper calls out. Lastly I obtained a bubble protractor and leveled the fuselage with a standard 36" bubble level, then checked the stab travel with the bubble level. It worked out pretty good.
-Joel Marketellop

[RickFE]

Thanks for the response Joel. I have a friend that can replicate the stab tool from wood if I make a template from the drawing. He has a machine that will actually trace it out. I know the MM calls for aluminum but I just don't see why a wood tool couldn't yield the same result.

Thanks for the response.
Rick