II.F.

Trim Devices_________________________________________________________
References:
1. FAA-H-8083-3 (Airplane Flying Handbook)
2. AC 61-23 (Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge)

Objective To develop the students understanding of trim devices.

Elements 1. Purpose
2. Location, attachments, and system of control
3. Direction of movement relative to airflow
4. Effect on airplane control
5. Proper technique for use

Schedule 1. Discuss Objectives 03

2. Review Material 02
3. Development 20
4. Conclusion 05

Equipment 1. White Board / Markers

2. Model Airplane
3. Airplane Flying Handbook
4. Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge

IP’s Actions 1. Discuss lesson objectives

2. Present Lecture
3. Ask and Answer Questions

SP’s Actions 1. Participate in discussion

2. Take notes
3. Ask and respond to questions

Completion 1. This lesson will be complete when the student demonstrates an understanding
Standards of the elements related to TRIM DEVICES.

II.F. Trim Devices 1

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Instructor’s Notes: Trim Devices____________________________________________
INTRODUCTION:

WHAT? - Trim devices are secondary flight controls, which balance the airplane in flight by reducing
the control yoke forces.

WHY ? - They are used for trimming and balancing the airplane in flight and to reduce the force
required of the pilot in actuating the primary flight control surfaces.

OVERVIEW - This lesson will cover the basic elements pertaining to Trim Devices, including:
1. Purpose of each primary control
2. Location, attachments, and system of control
3. Direction of movement relative to airflow
4. Effect on airplane control
5. Proper technique for use

DEVELOPMENT:
HOW?
1. PURPOSE
A. Relieve Control Pressure allowing pilot to focus on other duties
2. LOCATION, SYSTEM of CONTROL
A. In most airplanes trim is controlled from the cockpit. Trim can be adjusted by a wheel or
electric switch. To apply the trim, the wheel or switch must be moved in the desired direction. The
position in which the trim is set can normally be determined by reference to a trim indicator.
B. The Trim Tab that is controlled is usually on the surface being trimmed...i.e. elevator.
3. DIRECTION of MOVEMENT
A. Direction of movement relative to airflow and the primary control surfaces.
1.Trim tabs are moved in a direction opposite to the direction that pressure is being
applied on the yoke control.
2. If the elevator requires a constant up deflection, deflecting the trim tab down can
relieve the backpressure on the control yoke.
1.) Trim Tab: Trim Tabs are the most basic of designs. The tab is
positioned by the pilot and stays in position through entire motion of
primary surface.
2.) Anti-servo tabs also look similar to trim tabs. The anti-servo tab is
coupled to the control surface by a rod, so that when the control surface is
moved in any direction, the tab is automatically deflected in the same
direction. These are commonly found on aircraft with stabilators. Anti-
servo tabs are designed to prevent a control surface from moving to full
deflection due to aerodynamic forces.
3.) Balancing tabs look like trim tabs and are hinged in approximately the
same places as trim tabs. The difference is a balancing tab is coupled to
the control surface by a rod, so that when the primary control surface is
moved in any direction, the tab automatically is moved in the opposite
direction. So, the airflow striking the tab counterbalances some of the air
pressure against the primary control surface and makes it easier for the
pilot to move and hold a position.

4.) Servo tabs are found primarily on larger aircraft. The force of the airflow
striking the tab causes the main control surface to be deflected to a
position what will correct the unbalanced condition of the airplane.

Technique for use: The trim tab should not be used to position the primary control. Rather,
control pressure should be used on the control yoke or rudder pedals to position the primary
II.F. Trim Devices 2
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control, then the trim tab should be adjusted to relieve the control pressure.

Common errors:
Non- use of trim devices
Using trim to adjust primary controls

CONCLUSION
Overview:

Discuss Elements

II.F. Trim Devices 3

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