Sonex 883 Pilot Operating Handbook 4
The main landing gear legs are 1 1/8” titanium rod. Due to the
mechanical properties of titanium, the Sonex gear is extremely robust,
yet forgiving. The titanium gear legs will bend gently under landing
loads, then rebound slowly without springing the aircraft back into the
air. Steering is accomplished through a direct linkage to the rudder and
front wheel, resulting in very accurate and positive directional control
while taxiing, and during takeoff and landing.
Baggage Compartment
A baggage compartment is provided aft of the occupants heads. The
baggage limit is 40 pounds. Depending on the pilot, passenger, and fuel
to be carried, baggage may have to be limited because of gross weight
or center-of-gravity (c. of g.) limits.
Flight Controls
Pitch and roll control is actuated by dual control sticks located between
the pilot’s and passenger’s legs. The rudder pedals are conventional. All
flight controls including the flaps are pushrod actuated.
An in-flight cockpit adjustable pitch trim system is provided. It works by
adjusting a movable control tab mounted on the left elevator half. The
trim system is completely independent of the normal pitch control
system, thus providing back-up pitch control system in the event of a
primary control problem. The primary pitch control system (i.e. the
stick) can override any position of the trim system.
Engine Cowling
The cowling is split into upper and lower sections. To remove the
cowling, loosen the ¼ turn SouthCo fasteners along the upper part to
separate it. Next, remove the lateral piano hinge pins, thereby
separating the lower cowling sections.
