Comment

Comment by Doug MacDonald on May 10, 2015 at 10:35am

I used a SPAL linear actuator, mounting block, and programmable controller in my 701 when I built it. I don't remember where I got mine from as that was about seven years ago but here is a link to the similar stuff to what I am using:

http://www.trossenrobotics.com/store/c/3388-Large-Linear-Actuators....

The two inch actuator provides about the same amount of travel as the original two position flapperon rack that the 950lb 701 used. I have the programmable actuator set up to limit the travel to about where the current SP plans call for it to be but by holding two of the buttons on the controller, I can extend the flapperons to the original limits (no need to do this under most flight conditions though). I did notch out the fuselage flapperon slots to allow for full defection at full actuation in case the actuator or controller ever ran away on me. I have been flying with this system now for almost five years and it has worked flawlessly for me.

If you go to George Race's website, he has some pictures of the same actuator system installed in the 701 he built and I installed mine in a very similar fashion.

http://www.mrrace.com/projects/Building_My_Zenith_CH-701/index.htm

Scroll through until you see the linear actuator install (his build pics are well worth looking at anyway).

Hope this helps

Doug M

Comment by Ralph Sanson on May 8, 2015 at 9:25pm

The only problem I've had with the standard system is that flaps will sometimes pop off to the '0' setting without warning.

Easy cured with riveting a pair of 1/4" washers to the top corner of the groove for the flaps down gate, the washer edges protrude slightly resting on the handle tube when in its in that position.

If you are needing 2 hands to put the flaps down, you are likely at too high airspeed. Its a safety feature.

Comment by JEFF COCHRAN on May 8, 2015 at 5:38am

Jack,

Seems like you would get more help by posting your question on the 701 forums page.

Jeff

Comment by Normand Lambert on May 7, 2015 at 10:51pm

Hi Jack

Here is a photo of my installation : http://www.zenith.aero/photo/electric-flap-actuator?context=user

The actuator is a Hiwin LAS1 electric actuator but many others could do the job just as easily.

Regards,

Norm

Comment by Normand Lambert on May 7, 2015 at 10:38pm

Hi Jack,

I replaced the odd manual mecanism with an electric actuator. I calculated I needed 3 inch throw and went with a 12v 150lbs actuator. I could of gotten an actuator wit ha smaller push displacement ...

Look at : http://www.e-motioninc.com/High_force_square_body_actuator_p/fa-05-...

Other places sell them too..

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Norm