GEG wrote:
Hi Folks,

I'm a low-time (10 hour) student pilot.
I took my first flights in my school's 152 about 2 years ago, then had
an 18-month wait for various reasons.

When I first flew the plane, I don't remember the right rudder being
such an issue (I flew 3 times 2 years ago).

Now, the right rudder needs a lot of attention, almost all the time.
Even in straight and level at cruise, some right rudder needs to be in.

No rudder pressure should be required in cruise.


So, before a know-nothing student says something to the instructor, I
wanted to give a shout to you guys and see what your thoughts
might be.

I understand the 152 has more need for right rudder than other planes.

Actually, I would think the 150/152 would require about as little right rudder
pressure as any aircraft during climb. Been a long time since I've been in one,
but I remember transitioning to higher powered aircraft and discovering that I
then had to learn how to apply more rudder pressure during climb.

Have others had this experience?
What should I look for?

There's a bendable trim tab on the control surface itself. It's vulnerable to
being accidentally bent incorrectly.

Be open to the possibility that the turn and bank indicator is not installed
level in the panel.

What should I say - if anything?

Just report your observations, just as you have here. Have someone else confirm
your observations, if possible. Expect that your observations might be dismissed
due to your low time. You may have to be persistent.


I know it's not "no rudder needed", maybe I'm just not a very good pilot
yet.

No rudder pressure should be required to keep the ball centered in cruise.