What is a common indication of control cable misalignment in a helicopter?

Excessive wear on cable pulleys is a common indication of control cable misalignment in a helicopter because misalignment causes the cables to run at incorrect angles over the pulleys. This abnormal wear and tear can lead to frayed cables, increased friction, and reduced functionality of the control system. When a control cable is not aligned properly, it can place uneven stress on the pulleys, leading to premature wear. This wear can be observed as grooves in the pulleys, which may eventually affect the performance and safety of the helicopter's control system.

In contrast, while difficulty in hovering, fluctuating RPM readings, and delayed control response can be symptoms of various operational issues, they are not specific indicators of cable misalignment. These symptoms may arise from other operational factors or mechanical failures unrelated to the alignment of the control cables. Excessive wear on cable pulleys specifically points to the physical effects of misalignment and serves as a clear indicator that maintenance or adjustment is necessary to restore proper function.