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Meaning of tight rig pins after rigging

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 14 of 16 on Flight Controls. ACS element AM.II.C.K9 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONRig pins were installed to set the pulleys, levers, and bellcranks of a control system in their neutral positions. At the end of the job the pins are difficult to withdraw. What does this indicate?

  1. AIncorrect tensioning or misalignment of the system
  2. BThat the control stops have been set too close together
  3. CThe rigging is correct and within tolerance
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Incorrect tensioning or misalignment of the system

  • A — correct Any undue tightness of the pins in the rigging holes indicates incorrect tensioning or misalignment of the system.
  • B — incorrect Stop settings limit surface travel; they are not what binds a rig pin in its rigging hole.
  • C — incorrect When final alignment and adjustment are correct, the rigging pins can be withdrawn easily.

BACKGROUND

Pins, usually called rig pins, are small metallic pins or clips used to simplify the setting of pulleys, levers, bellcranks, and similar components in their neutral positions. When rig pins are not provided, neutral positions can be established by alignment marks, special templates, or linear measurements. If the final alignment and adjustment of a system are correct, it should be possible to withdraw the rigging pins easily. Any undue tightness of the pins in the rigging holes indicates incorrect tensioning or misalignment of the system. The general rigging sequence begins with locking the flight deck control, bellcranks, and control surfaces in the neutral position.

STUDY TIP

Treat a stiff rig pin as a finding, not a nuisance — recheck cable tension and alignment before removing the pins.

KEY POINTS

  • Rig pins set pulleys, levers, and bellcranks in neutral.
  • Correct rigging lets the pins be withdrawn easily.
  • Tight pins point to incorrect tensioning or misalignment.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Control Surface Travel" (rig pins)
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.