65246-000 – Piper Aircraft Trim Shaft
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The Piper Aircraft 65246-000 is a genuine OEM, flight-critical trim shaft, a core component of the aircraft's pitch or yaw trim control system. This precision-machined shaft serves as the primary mechanical link for transmitting rotational input, typically from the cockpit trim wheel or handle, to the trim actuating mechanism (such as a jackscrew or gearbox) located in the empennage. Its function is essential for allowing the pilot to make fine adjustments to the control surface trim tab, relieving control pressures and enabling stable, hands-off flight.
Manufactured by Piper Aircraft to their exacting specifications, this shaft is typically fabricated from high-strength steel or aluminum alloy, chosen for its torsional rigidity, fatigue resistance, and durability. The precise dimensions, splines, or keyways machined onto the shaft ensure a positive, backlash-free connection with mating components, translating pilot inputs into accurate and repeatable trim adjustments. The integrity of this shaft is paramount for the proper function and safety of the secondary flight controls.
Key Features
Genuine Piper Aircraft OEM Part: Guarantees the correct material, precise dimensions, heat treatment, and finish as specified in the aircraft's original type design.
Transmits Trim Control Inputs: Provides the essential rotational link between the pilot's control and the trim actuating mechanism.
High-Strength Material Construction: Fabricated from aerospace-grade steel or aluminum alloy for optimal torsional strength, fatigue life, and minimal weight. (Material must be confirmed by OEM documentation).
Precision Machined Interface: Features accurately machined splines, keyways, or flats for a secure, backlash-free connection with drive gears, sprockets, or universal joints.
Corrosion-Resistant Finish: Typically plated or coated to protect against environmental degradation within the airframe.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 65246-000
Component Type: Trim Control Shaft / Torque Shaft
OEM Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Material: High-Strength Steel or Aluminum Alloy (Must be confirmed by OEM documentation).
Finish: Corrosion-Resistant Plating or Coating.
Dimensions: Specific length, diameter(s), and interface details must be confirmed via Piper documentation or part inspection.
Governing Specification: Manufactured to Piper Aircraft proprietary design and quality standards.
Aircraft Compatibility
The 65246-000 is specified for use in the trim control systems of various Piper aircraft models.1 Common applicable families may include, but are not limited to:
PA-28 Series: Cherokee, Warrior, Archer, Arrow, Dakota
PA-32 Series: Cherokee Six, Lance, Saratoga2
PA-34 Series: Seneca
PA-44 Series: Seminole
Crucial Note: The specific aircraft model, serial number, and trim system (elevator or rudder) must be checked against the latest revision of the official Piper Aircraft Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) to ensure correct part number applicability.
Applications
Located within the secondary flight control system, typically running longitudinally through the fuselage to connect the cockpit trim control to the empennage-mounted trim actuator.
Transmits rotational torque to drive the trim mechanism.
Replacement part for shafts that are bent, corroded, worn at bearing points, or have damaged splines/keyways.
Why Choose 65246-000?
Choosing the genuine Piper 65246-000 is an essential decision for flight safety and control system integrity. The trim system allows the pilot to maintain stable flight with minimal effort. A failure or excessive play in the trim shaft can lead to difficulty controlling the aircraft, increased pilot workload, or potential trim runaway scenarios. Using a non-genuine part risks incorrect material strength (leading to torsional failure under load), improper dimensions (causing binding or excessive backlash), or inadequate corrosion protection. The genuine Piper OEM part is the only way to guarantee the certified quality, precise fit, and reliable performance required for this flight-critical application.
The 65246-000 functions primarily as a torsional shaft, designed to transmit torque over a significant distance with minimal angular deflection (twist). Its effectiveness is governed by its torsional rigidity, which is a function of the material's shear modulus (3$G$) and the shaft's polar moment of inertia (4$J$).5 For a solid circular shaft, 6$J = \frac{\pi d^4}{32}$, where 7$d$ is the diameter.8 This fourth-power relationship means that even small increases in diameter dramatically increase torsional stiffness. Piper engineers select an appropriate diameter and material (balancing the high shear modulus of steel against the lower density of aluminum alloys) to achieve the required stiffness, ensuring that the pilot's input at the trim wheel corresponds precisely and immediately to movement at the trim actuator, minimizing hysteresis or "slop" in the system. Any splines or keyways are machined with precision to reduce stress concentrations and ensure efficient torque transfer without introducing unwanted backlash.
Note: This is a flight-critical secondary flight control component. Its installation requires careful handling to avoid bending or damage. Proper alignment and secure connection to mating components (universal joints, gearboxes, sprockets) are essential. After installation, the entire trim system must be functionally tested and rigged in strict accordance with the Piper Maintenance Manual for the specific aircraft model to ensure correct travel limits, direction of operation, and freedom from binding.
Documentation
The definitive part number applicability and all installation and rigging procedures are detailed in the applicable Piper Aircraft Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) and Maintenance Manual for the specific aircraft model and serial number.