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Last of the three general rigging steps

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

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONIn the three general steps used to rig a flight control system, which step is performed last?

  1. AAdjusting the control stops
  2. BAdjusting the cable tension
  3. CLocking the controls in neutral
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Adjusting the control stops

  • A — correct After the controls are locked in neutral and cable tension is adjusted, the control stops are adjusted to limit surface travel to the specified dimensions.
  • B — incorrect Cable tension is adjusted in the second step, while the surfaces are held in neutral.
  • C — incorrect Locking the flight deck control, bellcranks, and control surfaces in neutral is the first step.

BACKGROUND

Rigging any control system requires that the aircraft manufacturer's instructions in the maintenance manual be followed, but the general procedure has three steps. First, the flight deck control, bellcranks, and the control surfaces are locked in the neutral position, typically with rig pins or blocks. Second, the cable tension is adjusted while the rudder, elevators, or ailerons are maintained in the neutral position. Third, the control stops are adjusted to limit the control surface travel to the dimensions given for the aircraft being rigged. The range of movement of the controls and control surfaces is then checked in both directions from neutral.

STUDY TIP

Fix the order in memory — neutral, tension, stops — because questions often ask which step comes first or last.

KEY POINTS

  • Step one: lock the flight deck control, bellcranks, and surfaces in neutral.
  • Step two: adjust cable tension with the surfaces held neutral.
  • Step three: adjust the control stops to the specified travel.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Control Surface Travel" (three general rigging steps)
  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Travel Adjustment"
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MORE ON FLIGHT CONTROLS

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.