Cessna yoke tube grommet

[ateamer]

I have a 1960 175. The yoke (control wheel) tube is supported by a two-piece nylon grommet where it goes through the instrument panel. An aluminum collar surrounds the tube on the front side of the panel, into which the control lock is inserted. Photos below. The grommet isn’t broken; it is a two-piece unit.

The grommet fell out - due to wear, I suspect. I could reinstall it, but it could very well fall right back out, so I’d like to replace it. A new one is $30 to $50. (It’s a certified plane, so I’m hesitant to source the part from National Aviation Parts Association or H-D Aerospace.)

Newer Cessnas have a one-piece plastic collar that incorporates support for the tube, priced about the same as the nylon grommet. Pic below.

Anyone know if I can replace the grommet and aluminum collar with the current version? If so, is it a minor alteration, or will it need field approval?

 

[Bell206]

Anyone know if I can replace the grommet and aluminum collar with the current version? If so, is it a minor alteration, or will it need field approval?

Perhaps contact Cessna tech support? Their answer may give your mechanic direction on if the newer part can be installed. The only main issue I see from the pics is the rigging hole orientation will be off provided your model aircraft requires its use for elevator rigging. That may make it a major alteration??

 

[pfarber]

If you use a part not approved by the manufacturer or STC then you're in alteration-land. A control system alteration is a MAJOR alteration per 43 A (a)(v)

What I would recommend is that you grab the maint. manual and see how difficult it is to replace the part. If its a simple procedure (just a few screws) and doesn't require anything like checking the rigging then you could do it under Preventative maintenance with an owner logbook entry. That would save you shop fee's.

That $30 grommet probably is the original part. If you can't assume the financial cost of a $30 part with a 50+ year life then I'd get out now.... its not gonna get any cheaper than a $30 part that you install.

 

[Mikey52]

I agree the 2 piece should be easier to replace, otherwise the yoke has to come off the tube, or the tube has to be unbolted behind the instrument panel. Not many people, me included like working on their backs with feet above your head. Plus the more parts taken apart the more room for error on reinstallation. KISS.