The International Cessna^® 170 Association

Bruce Fenstermacher wrote:And since it was never answered I'm hoping someone that has their cables removed can also measure theirs. This one, which I think will be long (like the one still installed) measured 225 3/8 inches from the tip of the threads on the turn buckle end to the center of the attaching hole at the other end.

Both of my rudder cables are exactly the same length. I did not take a tape measure to them, but I will try to do that tonight. Per the IPC (and we know that NEVER has any errors ), they are supposed to be the same cable, ends and all. The cable p/n suggests to me that the length should be 224.7 inches, which would be from the measuring points you describe.

N2255D wrote:I found some broken strands on one of my rudder cables during an annual. It was where the cable went over the pulley as it goes through the aft bulkhead. There were only 2 strands broken

Exactly the same area and discrepancy I had with my left cable. The right one was kinked and wouldn't straighten out.

It is unfortunately so, but the most common point of failure of the rudder cables is within that last bulkhead area, which also has no convenient access for inspection. The cables must be removed for proper inspection (although some owners have added an inspection hole via Form 337, and others have used boroscopes...unfortunately that does not completely allow for good inspection as Josh's picture illustrates. Sometimes cables appear healthy until they are flexed and then broken strands will stand proud as they become visible.)

GREAT PICTURE, Josh! Thanks for posting it for all to see.

Hi George, Where would be the best place to put an inspection hole in the tail cone area? my 55 model has the added tail wheel steering pulleys in there, and they are really hard to inspect.
I found one not turning this spring and had to completely remove the tail to check out the problem. I was thinking at the time that an access hole would be a lot simpler, any thoughts?
Bill

Here's something that's been done (not my airplane, so I can't answer any questions about it):