Where are control cables most likely to wear or break?

Control cables typically experience the most wear or breakage where they encounter friction and movement, which is most prominent where the cables pass over pulleys or through fairleads. This friction can lead to abrasion and fatigue in the cable material, especially if the pulleys are not properly lubricated or if the cables are not aligned correctly. Over time, the repetitive bending and rubbing of the cable against these surfaces can compromise its integrity, making this the most likely point of failure.

In contrast, the midpoint of the cable would generally see even distribution of tension and is less subjected to the concentrated wear that occurs at points of movement. While connection points in the cockpit and attachment points on control surfaces could also experience some wear, the pronounced motion and bending at pulleys and fairleads create an environment more conducive to cable degradation. Thus, while all areas may be potential wear points, the interaction with pulleys or fairleads stands out as particularly critical for maintenance and inspection to ensure the reliability and safety of the control system.