452-766 – Piper Aircraft Flap Hinge Bearing
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The Piper Aircraft 452-766 is a genuine OEM, flight-critical bearing, specifically designed for use in the wing flap hinge assemblies of various Piper aircraft. This component provides the low-friction pivot point that allows the flaps to extend and retract smoothly and precisely. Its primary function is to support the flap under significant aerodynamic loads while ensuring minimal resistance to movement, which is essential for the reliable operation of this critical secondary flight control surface.
Manufactured by Piper Aircraft to their exacting specifications, this bearing is typically a specialized type, often a self-lubricating plain bearing or a flanged bushing, engineered for the specific load and environmental conditions encountered at the flap hinge. It is likely fabricated from a durable, wear-resistant material such as bearing bronze, a specialized polymer, or a composite material designed for long service life with minimal maintenance. The integrity and low-friction operation of these bearings are crucial for preventing flap binding or asymmetric deployment.
Key Features
Genuine Piper Aircraft OEM Part: Guarantees the correct material, precise dimensions, load capacity, and fit required for the flap hinge application.
Provides Low-Friction Flap Articulation: Ensures smooth and repeatable extension and retraction of the wing flaps.
Supports Aerodynamic Loads: Engineered to withstand the significant air loads acting on the flap surface during flight.
Wear-Resistant Bearing Material: Typically constructed from self-lubricating bronze, specialized polymer (e.g., DU®, Teflon® lined), or composite material designed for high load and low speed oscillation. (Material must be confirmed by OEM documentation).
Corrosion Resistant: Materials are chosen for durability in the wing environment.
Flight-Critical Component: Essential for the safe and reliable operation of the wing flap system.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 452-766
Component Type: Flap Hinge Bearing / Bushing (Specific type - plain, flanged, self-lubricating - must be confirmed).
OEM Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Material: Likely Bearing Bronze, Specialized Polymer (e.g., PTFE-lined), or Composite Material. (Material must be confirmed by OEM documentation or certification).
Finish: Dependent on material; may be natural, plated, or incorporate dry lubricant liners.
Dimensions: Specific Inside Diameter (ID), Outside Diameter (OD), Flange dimensions (if applicable), and Length (L) must be confirmed via Piper documentation or part inspection.
Governing Specification: Manufactured to Piper Aircraft proprietary design and quality standards.
Aircraft Compatibility
The 452-766 bearing is specified for use in the wing flap hinge assemblies on several Piper aircraft models. Common applicable families may include, but are not limited to:
PA-28 Series: Cherokee, Warrior, Archer, Arrow, Dakota
PA-32 Series: Cherokee Six, Lance, Saratoga
PA-34 Series: Seneca
PA-44 Series: Seminole
Crucial Note: The specific aircraft model, serial number, and hinge location (inboard/outboard) must be checked against the latest revision of the official Piper Aircraft Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) to ensure correct part number applicability.
Applications
Primary pivot bearing within the wing flap hinge mechanism, connecting the flap structure to the wing structure (typically the rear spar or dedicated hinge ribs).
Replacement part for bearings found to be worn (excessive play), binding, corroded, or damaged.
Why Choose 452-766?
Choosing the genuine Piper 452-766 bearing is essential for maintaining the safety and proper function of the wing flap system. Flaps are critical for low-speed flight performance, and their symmetrical and smooth operation is non-negotiable. A worn or binding flap bearing can lead to asymmetric flap deployment (a dangerous roll condition), increased actuation loads (potentially overloading the flap motor or mechanism), or control system jamming. Using a non-genuine bearing risks incorrect material (leading to rapid wear or corrosion), improper fit (causing binding or excessive play), or inadequate load capacity. The genuine Piper OEM part guarantees the certified quality, precise fit, and reliable performance required for this flight-critical application.
The 452-766 likely functions as a plain bearing operating in the boundary lubrication or potentially dry-running regime, depending on the specific material. If it is a self-lubricating type (e.g., PTFE-lined or specialized polymer), it relies on the transfer of low-friction material to the mating pin or shaft to create a low-shear interface. These bearings are designed for high load and low speed oscillating motion, typical of flap hinges. Key performance parameters include low coefficient of friction (reducing actuation force), high compressive strength (supporting flap loads without deformation), and excellent wear resistance (ensuring a long service life and maintaining tight tolerances). The bearing also plays a role in preventing fretting corrosion between the hinge pin and the aluminum structure by providing a dissimilar, often more noble, material interface and accommodating microscopic movements.
Note: This is a flight-critical secondary flight control component. It is subject to rigorous inspection at every annual/100-hour inspection for wear (check for radial and axial play), binding, corrosion, and security. Worn bearings can lead to flap system malfunctions and MUST be replaced when limits specified in the maintenance manual are exceeded. Installation may require specialized tools (presses, reamers) and must be performed by a certified A&P mechanic in strict accordance with the Piper Maintenance Manual.
Documentation
No public-facing OEM or regulatory documentation was located for this specific part number. All technical data, installation procedures, wear limits, and applicability must be sourced from the official Piper Aircraft Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) and Maintenance Manual for the specific aircraft model and serial number.