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Date: Fri, 15 Jun 2007 01:34:49 -0400
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From: billhogarty <billhogarty@hughes.net>
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Subject: Re: [LML] Re: [Fwd: Re: Replacement Spring]
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Art:

Yes, the step has been installed for some time.  (I couldnt even imagine 
attempting to move it.)

The problem is with the little compression spring that pushes out the 
locking pin each time the step is extended.
Evidently, the geometry is such that the spring overcompresses each time 
the step retracts and extends,  and eventually fails.  I'm on my 3rd 
spring and its a real bear to change. ( I noticed that after I installed 
my wing fairings, that some smarter folks were adding a removable panel 
to service the step mechanism). 

Anyway, I contacted some spring mfgrs with the details of the spring 
hoping naively that it would be a simple matter to find a similar spring 
made from a stronger material.  WRONG.....  The spring folks need to 
know the original spring rate before they can find a replacement.  
Evidently, Lancair doesnt have this data anymore and I cant determine it 
from the drawings. 

They use a simple formula  P = R x F where P = load in lbs, R = rate in 
lbs. per inch and F = the deflection from free length.  If anyone has a 
retractable step that hasnt been installed yet and can make some 
measurements for us,  I would be a very happy camper.  

Thanks for the interest.  Regards, Bill Hogarty