Center stick conversion

[Josonex]

Hello Everyone,
I’m new to sonex builders hoping for help with a conversion.
I’m currently flying a sonex that I bought a few years ago. It came in a dual stick configuration.
Im thinking about changing it to a single center stick. What would be the process? Would I have to remove the wings?
Thanks!!

[peter anson]

You must have a good reason for wanting to change. Parts that I can think of: New single control yoke, new seat and two new aileron push-rods which are longer than the dual control push-rods.
You will need to remove the wings to change over the push-rods.

Peter

[GordonTurner]

John Gillis did this I think

[sonex1374]

John Gillis did in fact convert his Waiex to center stick, and he fabricated short "pushrod extenders" to adapt his existing dual-stick (e.g. shorter) aileron pushrods to the new center stick. The extenders thread onto the existing pushrods and then attach like normal to the center stick control triangle (and you don't need to pull the wings for this). Other that this, as mentioned you'll need a new seat pan and upholstery (or modify the upholstery perhaps). All in all, it's not that hard.

Jeff

[Josonex]

I’ve had this sonex going on 2years. Logged 51hrs. 100% solo. I have wide shoulders (fat) so I was hoping to get a little more comfort. I have the parts from a half kit I have not yet started. I’m new to the idea of building so,I’m a little nervous about changing anything, maybe this forum and a few sonex fly-ins will Inspire me.
Thanks Everyone!!


PS. LOVE THAT SONEX PODCAST!

[fastj22]

Both Gary motley and I converted our dual sticks to center. Gary replaced his push rod, I got lazy and made extensions. Replacing requires you pull the wings. The tricky part is if you have the lowered seat. It requires a fabricated elevator pushrod that drops below the seat. The new B model already has this.

[Josonex]

Thanks John!
Got any pictures or a site I can look at?
I don’t know if I have a lowered seat, however I do need a booster chair to look over
The nose(glad I kept mine)
Jorge...

[fastj22]

The lowered seat has a “tent” or “hat” protecting the push rod from your butt where the seat belts attach. I think the lowered seat is standard on the Waiex and optional on the Sonex A model. B model has a a whole new and improved seat pan. With the lowered seat, they moved the elevator push rod to the center and it will interfere with the ailerons. That’s why you need to fabricate a new one that drops down to clear them.

[Josonex]

Great information John,
I don’t think I have that. I currently on the road. I’ll check when I get home
Tomorrow.
Thanks again.