Gust lock straps lose tension

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danno2000
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Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by danno2000 »

Hi all - I’m having an issue with my DA40’s gust lock. I can pull the straps taut, but the clips don’t hold the straps tight, and the result is inevitably a loose fit that eventually falls out completely under windy conditions.

Two questions:
1. I don’t see any way to replace the straps as they’re connected to the lock bar, but are the clips replaceable? Maybe better/newer clips would hold tension better.
2. Is there a good alternative to the standard gust lock that people use to secure the controls?

Thanks,
dan
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Colin
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by Colin »

I found the clips at REI. I also found other buckle-like items to hold the webbing better.
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hkavasch
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by hkavasch »

could you post a link?
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hkavasch
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by hkavasch »

I think I found the buckles at ITW Nexus U.S. (seems like they make the originals..) Part number WSR25.. but clue how to buy them..
@Colin: what partnumber did you order at REI ?
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Colin
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by Colin »

I wandered into REI holding the strap and one of the clips. They gave me the clip and also had more webbing later.
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Tim H
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by Tim H »

I believe this is the part number:

Nexus Trovato Side Release Buckle 150 0100

Tim
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Kyle
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by Kyle »

I had the same problem but then just tied knots in the straps right behind the clips after adjusting them. They’ve held tight for at least a few months now.
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AaronF
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by AaronF »

I figured that as long as the lock bar is not pressed down against the pins on the rudder pedals, the slack in the rudder/elevator/ailerons is much greater.
See picture (DA40NG). A short bungee cord seemed to considerably reduce the slack and possibly prevent the lock bar from dislogding from the rudder pedals in strong gusts.
Image
Image
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chili4way
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by chili4way »

Here's how my gust lock is attached and I haven't had any slippage.

IMG_5507.jpg
IMG_6111.jpg
(yes, the second picture was taken on the ground - just ahead of the 28-day G1000 database update) :)
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Re: Gust lock straps lose tension

Post by Davestation »

AaronF wrote: Mon Mar 02, 2020 10:41 am I figured that as long as the lock bar is not pressed down against the pins on the rudder pedals, the slack in the rudder/elevator/ailerons is much greater.
See picture (DA40NG). A short bungee cord seemed to considerably reduce the slack and possibly prevent the lock bar from dislogding from the rudder pedals in strong gusts.
Tying the sticks together isn't really doing anything for your ailerons though...
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