Today's Message Index:
----------------------
1. 10:30 AM - Replacement tail rod...? (Nick Cassara)
2. 11:26 AM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (John Hauck)
3. 12:01 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Gary Aman)
4. 01:01 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (John Hauck)
5. 02:49 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Stuart Harner)
6. 03:20 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (John Hauck)
7. 04:21 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Stuart Harner)
8. 08:07 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (John Hauck)
9. 08:07 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Larry Cottrell)
10. 08:22 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Bill Berle)
11. 08:40 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (John Hauck)
12. 08:41 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Larry Cottrell)
13. 08:51 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (B Young)
14. 11:32 PM - Re: Replacement tail rod...? (Bill Berle)
Message 1
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
Kolbers,
A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a stiffer
piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel, but cant
seem to find it. I someone on the list could post the specifications again,
I would be most grateful.
Thanks,
Nick Cassara
Palmer, AK
Kolb Kolbra 607AK
Message 2
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
Greetings to Palmer, Alaska!
Tail wheel strut I use is 3/4" X .120" 4130 heat treat to 48 RC.
I'll see if I can find a couple photos to attach. I use mine with Maul
6" and 8" tail wheels. Can't remember the length, but think about 6"
protruding from the tail post lower tube.
These are photos of an old strut I replaced some years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Nick Cassara
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 12:30 PM
Subject: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Kolbers,
A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod
with a stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of
the steel, but can=99t seem to find it. I someone on the list
could post the specifications again, I would be most grateful.
Thanks,
Nick Cassara
Palmer, AK
Kolb Kolbra 607AK
Message 3
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| Subject: | Re: Replacement tail rod...? |
Too much weight that far back, youll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a
stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel, but
cant seem to find it. I someone on the list could post the specifications again,
I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 4
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
I can only speak from personal experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the aluminum or
fiberglass struts.
Steel probably weighs about the same as the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
Difference in weight:
Steel tube: 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
Aluminum rod: 3/4X12" 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't list 7075
3/4" rod)
Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
My tail wheel strut is less than a foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know how much, but not much.
I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel that I flew with for a period of years. Can't
remember how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft performed well.
I took it off last time I flew to Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed
with the smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't tell any difference.
On one flight to Alaska I swapped my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could
get a little more speed. No difference that I could tell.
I am not recommending anyone else use my tail wheel strut or any other changes
I have made to my MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my style flying.
I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel struts 32 years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Gary Aman
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Too much weight that far back, youll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a
stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel, but
cant seem to find it. I someone on the list could post the specifications again,
I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 5
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
Hey John,
Curious about the steel vs. aluminum gear legs. I have read lots about them on
this list and elsewhere.
I know that the aluminum will give some then bend if you don't kiss the ground
properly. So far I have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly, but not hard
enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
Anyway, do you know if any instances where a landing caused the steel gear to bend?
If so , was there damage to the airframe or did the gear take all the abuse,
thus saving the fuselage?
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
I can only speak from personal experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the aluminum or
fiberglass struts.
Steel probably weighs about the same as the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
Difference in weight:
Steel tube: 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
Aluminum rod: 3/4X12" 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't list 7075
3/4" rod)
Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
My tail wheel strut is less than a foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know how much, but not much.
I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel that I flew with for a period of years. Can't
remember how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft performed well.
I took it off last time I flew to Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed
with the smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't tell any difference.
On one flight to Alaska I swapped my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could
get a little more speed. No difference that I could tell.
I am not recommending anyone else use my tail wheel strut or any other changes
I have made to my MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my style flying.
I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel struts 32 years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Gary Aman
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Too much weight that far back, youll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a
stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel, but
cant seem to find it. I someone on the list could post the specifications again,
I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 6
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
If you hit hard enough aluminum or steel may take out the gear leg socket and cluster.
Never done nor know of a side by side comparison of crashes with alum and steel.
4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give you a good spring, but is not hard enough
to break. It will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent during operation they
can be straightened in a press.
7075 alum bends and will break if bent far enough.
I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated to 48RC on my original Firestar and my
MKIII. James Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs for his MKIII
with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of miles out of those legs.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Hey John,
Curious about the steel vs. aluminum gear legs. I have read lots about them on
this list and elsewhere.
I know that the aluminum will give some then bend if you don't kiss the ground
properly. So far I have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly, but not hard
enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
Anyway, do you know if any instances where a landing caused the steel gear to bend?
If so , was there damage to the airframe or did the gear take all the abuse,
thus saving the fuselage?
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
I can only speak from personal experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the aluminum or
fiberglass struts.
Steel probably weighs about the same as the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
Difference in weight:
Steel tube: 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
Aluminum rod: 3/4X12" 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't list 7075
3/4" rod)
Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
My tail wheel strut is less than a foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know how much, but not much.
I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel that I flew with for a period of years. Can't
remember how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft performed well.
I took it off last time I flew to Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed
with the smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't tell any difference.
On one flight to Alaska I swapped my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could
get a little more speed. No difference that I could tell.
I am not recommending anyone else use my tail wheel strut or any other changes
I have made to my MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my style flying.
I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel struts 32 years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Gary Aman
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Too much weight that far back, youll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a
stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel, but
cant seem to find it. I someone on the list could post the specifications again,
I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 7
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
Wow! I had no idea it would bend that far.
Any idea how far it will flex before it won't spring back all the way? I know there
is an engineering term for that but can't remember it at the moment.
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 5:20 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
If you hit hard enough aluminum or steel may take out the gear leg socket and cluster.
Never done nor know of a side by side comparison of crashes with alum and steel.
4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give you a good spring, but is not hard enough
to break. It will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent during operation they
can be straightened in a press.
7075 alum bends and will break if bent far enough.
I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated to 48RC on my original Firestar and my
MKIII. James Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs for his MKIII
with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of miles out of those legs.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Hey John,
Curious about the steel vs. aluminum gear legs. I have read lots about them on
this list and elsewhere.
I know that the aluminum will give some then bend if you don't kiss the ground
properly. So far I have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly, but not hard
enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
Anyway, do you know if any instances where a landing caused the steel gear to bend?
If so , was there damage to the airframe or did the gear take all the abuse,
thus saving the fuselage?
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
I can only speak from personal experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the aluminum or
fiberglass struts.
Steel probably weighs about the same as the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
Difference in weight:
Steel tube: 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
Aluminum rod: 3/4X12" 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't list 7075
3/4" rod)
Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
My tail wheel strut is less than a foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know how much, but not much.
I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel that I flew with for a period of years. Can't
remember how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft performed well.
I took it off last time I flew to Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed
with the smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't tell any difference.
On one flight to Alaska I swapped my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could
get a little more speed. No difference that I could tell.
I am not recommending anyone else use my tail wheel strut or any other changes
I have made to my MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my style flying.
I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel struts 32 years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Gary Aman
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Too much weight that far back, youll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a
stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel, but
cant seem to find it. I someone on the list could post the specifications again,
I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 8
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
Yes, the bend test has been conducted a couple times. Early on in my
MKIII's life the 582 failed climbing out of the local airport. Made a
good forced landing in a confined field. Checked it out on the ground,
ran it up, and took off. Engine seized about 30 feet off the ground. I
wasn't flying when I made contact. Then again in 2004, Muncho Lake, BC.
Axle fitting failed during landing on a rough strip next to the Alaska
Highway. Both times I got close to 90 degree bends without breaking.
The steel legs will take a lot of abuse before the take a set. I don't
know how many times you can straighten them. I think I have straighten
my current legs 4 times.
The longer the leg, the more spring travel and forgiving the legs will
be.
How far will they bent before they take a set? I really don't know. I
think you'll get your money's worth though.
Total length of the legs on my Firestar were 35.5". The heat treater at
the time had a 36" oven. Here is a photo of them.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 6:21 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Wow! I had no idea it would bend that far.
Any idea how far it will flex before it won't spring back all the way? I
know there is an engineering term for that but can't remember it at the
moment.
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 5:20 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
If you hit hard enough aluminum or steel may take out the gear leg
socket and cluster.
Never done nor know of a side by side comparison of crashes with alum
and steel.
4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give you a good spring, but is not
hard enough to break. It will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent
during operation they can be straightened in a press.
7075 alum bends and will break if bent far enough.
I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated to 48RC on my original Firestar
and my MKIII. James Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs
for his MKIII with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of miles
out of those legs.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Hey John,
Curious about the steel vs. aluminum gear legs. I have read lots about
them on this list and elsewhere.
I know that the aluminum will give some then bend if you don't kiss the
ground properly. So far I have only hit hard enough to bounce the
Firefly, but not hard enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
Anyway, do you know if any instances where a landing caused the steel
gear to bend? If so , was there damage to the airframe or did the gear
take all the abuse, thus saving the fuselage?
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
I can only speak from personal experience with steel tail wheel strut.
Heat treated to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than
the aluminum or fiberglass struts.
Steel probably weighs about the same as the standard length 3/4" 7075
solid rod.
Difference in weight:
Steel tube: 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
Aluminum rod: 3/4X12" 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't
list 7075 3/4" rod)
Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
My tail wheel strut is less than a foot. Don't remember the exact
length. The little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know how
much, but not much.
I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel that I flew with for a period of
years. Can't remember how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft
performed well. I took it off last time I flew to Alaska thinking I
would get a little more speed with the smaller 6" Maule solid rubber
tail wheel. Couldn't tell any difference. On one flight to Alaska I
swapped my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could get a little more speed.
No difference that I could tell.
I am not recommending anyone else use my tail wheel strut or any other
changes I have made to my MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me
and my style flying. I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel struts 32
years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Gary Aman
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
Too much weight that far back, you=99ll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod
with a stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of
the steel, but can=99t seem to find it. I someone on the list
could post the specifications again, I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 9
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|
| Subject: | Re: Replacement tail rod...? |
I have some hardened steel legs, and when I put on my tundra tires, I
decided to land off the strip in my field. I intended to skim the ground
and touch down "like a feather". The only problem was I was a bit previous
and hit a fairly large roll in the ground at about 50 MPH. I hit hard
enough to launch me quite high in the air, and hard enough to flex the cage
on my firestar enough for the center post on my windshield to come out of
the socket at the top of the enclosure. I had difficulty in putting enough
pressure on the cage to reinsert it back in the socket. I checked the legs
and could see no sign that they had bent at all. If I had had alum, I would
have been sitting on the ground with the bottom of the cage.
Larry
>
> If you hit hard enough aluminum or steel may take out the gear leg socket
> and cluster.
>
> Never done nor know of a side by side comparison of crashes with alum and
> steel.
>
> 4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give you a good spring, but is not har
d
> enough to break. It will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent during
> operation they can be straightened in a press.
>
> 7075 alum bends and will break if bent far enough.
>
> I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated to 48RC on my original Firestar
> and my MKIII. James Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs f
or
> his MKIII with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of miles out of
> those legs.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-
> server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48 PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
>
>
> Hey John,
>
> Curious about the steel vs. aluminum gear legs. I have read lots about
> them on this list and elsewhere.
>
> I know that the aluminum will give some then bend if you don't kiss the
> ground properly. So far I have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly
,
> but not hard enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
>
> Anyway, do you know if any instances where a landing caused the steel gea
r
> to bend? If so , was there damage to the airframe or did the gear take al
l
> the abuse, thus saving the fuselage?
>
> Stuart
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-
> server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of John Hauck
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01 PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
>
>
> I can only speak from personal experience with steel tail wheel strut.
> Heat treated to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the
> aluminum or fiberglass struts.
>
> Steel probably weighs about the same as the standard length 3/4" 7075
> solid rod.
>
> Difference in weight:
>
> Steel tube: 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
>
> Aluminum rod: 3/4X12" 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't list
> 7075 3/4" rod)
>
> Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
>
> My tail wheel strut is less than a foot. Don't remember the exact
> length. The little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know how
> much, but not much.
>
> I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel that I flew with for a period of
> years. Can't remember how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft
> performed well. I took it off last time I flew to Alaska thinking I woul
d
> get a little more speed with the smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel
.
> Couldn't tell any difference. On one flight to Alaska I swapped my 8x6
> tires for 6x6 to see if I could get a little more speed. No difference
> that I could tell.
>
> I am not recommending anyone else use my tail wheel strut or any other
> changes I have made to my MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me an
d
> my style flying. I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel struts 32 year
s
> ago.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-
> server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Gary Aman
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01 PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
>
>
> Too much weight that far back, you=99ll feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net> wrote:
> >
> >
> > Kolbers,
> >
> > A while back we had a discusion about replacing the aluminum tail rod
> with a stiffer piece of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of th
e
> steel, but can=99t seem to find it. I someone on the list could pos
t the
> specifications again, I would be most grateful.
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Nick Cassara
> > Palmer, AK
> >
> > Kolb Kolbra 607AK
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
===========
===========
===========
===========
===========
>
>
--
*The older I get, the less tolerant I am of those who are intolerant of
others.*
*If you forward this email, or any part of it, please remove my email
address before sending.*
Message 10
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
I have a question on this subject. I have just replaced the standard (early) Firestar
tailwheel ass'y with the new heavy duty swiveling ass'y offered by Kolb.
I have an aluminum tail spr ing rod, and I cannot see any fasteners, rivets, bolts,
clevis pins, etc AT ALL that secure the front of 5the aluminum rod into the
bottom of the tail weldment.
So I could not remove/inspect/replace this tail spring, and I also could not remove
the tailwheel assembly from the back of the rod. I literally had to cut the
spring rod just forward of the old tailwheel, and then I slid the new tailwheel
onto the rod. I drilled, reamed, and bolted the new tailwheel.
What I am wondeering about is... did the Firestars have the aluminum tail spring
GLUED into the steel weldment? I can't see any other way. They wouldn't have
welded aluminum to steel. They would not have used flush countersunk bolts and
nuts to bolt it in.
So absent seeing any fasteners holding the tail spring into the fuselage weldment...
how are these springs attached? How are you supposed to remove and replace
them? I would have been very happy to machine a new tail spring, because I
have the material ( 7075 aluminum main gear legs form the Firestar).
Bill Berle
www.ezflaphandle.com - safety & performance upgrade for light aircraft
www.grantstar.net - winning proposals for non-profit and for-profit entities
--------------------------------------------
On Sat, 2/17/18, John Hauck <jhauck@elmore.rr.com> wrote:
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
To: kolb-list@matronics.com
Date: Saturday, February 17, 2018, 8:07 PM
Yes, the bend test has been conducted a
couple times. Early on in my MKIII's life the 582
failed climbing out of the local airport. Made a good
forced landing in a confined field. Checked it out on
the ground, ran it up, and took off. Engine seized
about 30 feet off the ground. I wasn't flying when I
made contact. Then again in 2004, Muncho Lake,
BC. Axle fitting failed during landing on a rough
strip next to the Alaska Highway. Both times I got
close to 90 degree bends without breaking.
The steel legs will take a lot of abuse
before the take a set. I don't know how many times you
can straighten them. I think I have straighten my
current legs 4 times.
The longer the leg, the more spring
travel and forgiving the legs will be.
How far will they bent before they take
a set? I really don't know. I think you'll get
your money's worth though.
Total length of the legs on my Firestar
were 35.5". The heat treater at the time had a 36"
oven. Here is a photo of them.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 6:21
PM
To: kolb-list@matronics.com
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
tail rod...?
"Stuart Harner" <stuart@harnerfarm.net>
Wow! I had no idea it would bend that
far.
Any idea how far it will flex before it
won't spring back all the way? I know there is an
engineering term for that but can't remember it at the
moment.
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 5:20
PM
To: kolb-list@matronics.com
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
tail rod...?
"John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
If you hit hard enough aluminum or
steel may take out the gear leg socket and cluster.
Never done nor know of a side by side
comparison of crashes with alum and steel.
4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give
you a good spring, but is not hard enough to break. It
will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent during
operation they can be straightened in a press.
7075 alum bends and will break if bent
far enough.
I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated
to 48RC on my original Firestar and my MKIII. James
Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs for his
MKIII with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of
miles out of those legs.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48
PM
To: kolb-list@matronics.com
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
tail rod...?
"Stuart Harner" <stuart@harnerfarm.net>
Hey John,
Curious about the steel vs. aluminum
gear legs. I have read lots about them on this list and
elsewhere.
I know that the aluminum will give some
then bend if you don't kiss the ground properly. So far I
have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly, but not
hard enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
Anyway, do you know if any instances
where a landing caused the steel gear to bend? If so , was
there damage to the airframe or did the gear take all the
abuse, thus saving the fuselage?
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
On Behalf Of John Hauck
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01
PM
To: kolb-list@matronics.com
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
tail rod...?
"John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
I can only speak from personal
experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the
aluminum or fiberglass struts.
Steel probably weighs about the same as
the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
Difference in weight:
Steel tube:
3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
Aluminum rod: 3/4X12"
2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't
list 7075 3/4" rod)
Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
My tail wheel strut is less than a
foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know
how much, but not much.
I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel
that I flew with for a period of years. Can't remember
how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft
performed well. I took it off last time I flew to
Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed with the
smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't
tell any difference. On one flight to Alaska I swapped
my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could get a little more
speed. No difference that I could tell.
I am not recommending anyone else use
my tail wheel strut or any other changes I have made to my
MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my
style flying. I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel
struts 32 years ago.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
On Behalf Of Gary Aman
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01
PM
To: kolb-list@matronics.com
Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement
tail rod...?
Gary Aman <zeprep251@aol.com>
Too much weight that far back, youll
feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick
Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net>
wrote:
>
> --> Kolb-List message posted
by: Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net>
>
> Kolbers,
>
> A while back we had a discusion
about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a stiffer piece
of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel,
but cant seem to find it. I someone on the list could
post the specifications again, I would be most grateful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Nick Cassara
> Palmer, AK
>
> Kolb Kolbra 607AK
>
>
>
>
Message 11
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|
| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
Bill B, you could have saved all that typing by asking how to secure the tail wheel
strut to the tail post.
I attached mine by drilling and attaching with two 3/16, maybe 1/4 bolts.
john h
mkIII
Titus, Alabama
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bill Berle
Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 10:22 PM
Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
So absent seeing any fasteners holding the tail spring into the fuselage weldment...
how are these springs attached? How are you supposed to remove and replace
them? I would have been very happy to machine a new tail spring, because I
have the material ( 7075 aluminum main gear legs form the Firestar).
Bill Berle
www.ezflaphandle.com - safety & performance upgrade for light aircraft www.grantstar.net - winning proposals for non-profit and for-profit entities
Message 12
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|
| Subject: | Re: Replacement tail rod...? |
Just a heads up about the swivel tail wheel. I bought mine quite a long
time ago, so things may now be different.
I found that the one I had tended to break away much too soon. The only
real problem occurred when landing with a cross wind. The necessity of
crabbing caused enough deflection of the rudder that the tail wheel would
break away well before I was ready. I once landed at an airport coming back
from the Alvord, and there was about a 15 MPH cross wind. I had no problem
until the speed dropped off, the wind then kicked me 90 degrees and out
into the sage before I could react.
I took the thing apart and used a router to extend the detent on both
sides, until I had to input full rudder before it would break loose. Use
your own judgement however.
Larry
On Sat, Feb 17, 2018 at 9:22 PM, Bill Berle <victorbravo@sbcglobal.net>
wrote:
>
> I have a question on this subject. I have just replaced the standard
> (early) Firestar tailwheel ass'y with the new heavy duty swiveling ass'y
> offered by Kolb.
>
> I have an aluminum tail spr ing rod, and I cannot see any fasteners,
> rivets, bolts, clevis pins, etc AT ALL that secure the front of 5the
> aluminum rod into the bottom of the tail weldment.
>
> So I could not remove/inspect/replace this tail spring, and I also could
> not remove the tailwheel assembly from the back of the rod. I literally h
ad
> to cut the spring rod just forward of the old tailwheel, and then I slid
> the new tailwheel onto the rod. I drilled, reamed, and bolted the new
> tailwheel.
>
> What I am wondeering about is... did the Firestars have the aluminum tail
> spring GLUED into the steel weldment? I can't see any other way. They
> wouldn't have welded aluminum to steel. They would not have used flush
> countersunk bolts and nuts to bolt it in.
>
> So absent seeing any fasteners holding the tail spring into the fuselage
> weldment... how are these springs attached? How are you supposed to remov
e
> and replace them? I would have been very happy to machine a new tail
> spring, because I have the material ( 7075 aluminum main gear legs form t
he
> Firestar).
>
> Bill Berle
> www.ezflaphandle.com - safety & performance upgrade for light aircraft
> www.grantstar.net - winning proposals for non-profit and
> for-profit entities
>
> --------------------------------------------
> On Sat, 2/17/18, John Hauck <jhauck@elmore.rr.com> wrote:
>
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Date: Saturday, February 17, 2018, 8:07 PM
>
> Yes, the bend test has been conducted a
> couple times. Early on in my MKIII's life the 582
> failed climbing out of the local airport. Made a good
> forced landing in a confined field. Checked it out on
> the ground, ran it up, and took off. Engine seized
> about 30 feet off the ground. I wasn't flying when I
> made contact. Then again in 2004, Muncho Lake,
> BC. Axle fitting failed during landing on a rough
> strip next to the Alaska Highway. Both times I got
> close to 90 degree bends without breaking.
>
> The steel legs will take a lot of abuse
> before the take a set. I don't know how many times you
> can straighten them. I think I have straighten my
> current legs 4 times.
>
> The longer the leg, the more spring
> travel and forgiving the legs will be.
>
> How far will they bent before they take
> a set? I really don't know. I think you'll get
> your money's worth though.
>
> Total length of the legs on my Firestar
> were 35.5". The heat treater at the time had a 36"
> oven. Here is a photo of them.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 6:21
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "Stuart Harner" <stuart@harnerfarm.net>
>
> Wow! I had no idea it would bend that
> far.
>
> Any idea how far it will flex before it
> won't spring back all the way? I know there is an
> engineering term for that but can't remember it at the
> moment.
>
> Stuart
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of John Hauck
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 5:20
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
>
> If you hit hard enough aluminum or
> steel may take out the gear leg socket and cluster.
>
> Never done nor know of a side by side
> comparison of crashes with alum and steel.
>
> 4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give
> you a good spring, but is not hard enough to break. It
> will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent during
> operation they can be straightened in a press.
>
> 7075 alum bends and will break if bent
> far enough.
>
> I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated
> to 48RC on my original Firestar and my MKIII. James
> Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs for his
> MKIII with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of
> miles out of those legs.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "Stuart Harner" <stuart@harnerfarm.net>
>
> Hey John,
>
> Curious about the steel vs. aluminum
> gear legs. I have read lots about them on this list and
> elsewhere.
>
> I know that the aluminum will give some
> then bend if you don't kiss the ground properly. So far I
> have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly, but not
> hard enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
>
> Anyway, do you know if any instances
> where a landing caused the steel gear to bend? If so , was
> there damage to the airframe or did the gear take all the
> abuse, thus saving the fuselage?
>
> Stuart
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of John Hauck
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
>
> I can only speak from personal
> experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
> to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the
> aluminum or fiberglass struts.
>
> Steel probably weighs about the same as
> the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
>
> Difference in weight:
>
> Steel tube:
> 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
>
> Aluminum rod: 3/4X12"
> 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't
> list 7075 3/4" rod)
>
> Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
>
> My tail wheel strut is less than a
> foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
> little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know
> how much, but not much.
>
> I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel
> that I flew with for a period of years. Can't remember
> how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft
> performed well. I took it off last time I flew to
> Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed with the
> smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't
> tell any difference. On one flight to Alaska I swapped
> my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could get a little more
> speed. No difference that I could tell.
>
> I am not recommending anyone else use
> my tail wheel strut or any other changes I have made to my
> MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my
> style flying. I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel
> struts 32 years ago.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of Gary Aman
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> Gary Aman <zeprep251@aol.com>
>
> Too much weight that far back, you=99ll
> feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick
> Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net>
> wrote:
> >
> > --> Kolb-List message posted
> by: Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net>
> >
> > Kolbers,
> >
> > A while back we had a discusion
> about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a stiffer piece
> of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel,
> but can=99t seem to find it. I someone on the list could
> post the specifications again, I would be most grateful.
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Nick Cassara
> > Palmer, AK
> >
> > Kolb Kolbra 607AK
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
===========
===========
===========
===========
===========
>
>
--
*The older I get, the less tolerant I am of those who are intolerant of
others.*
*If you forward this email, or any part of it, please remove my email
address before sending.*
Message 13
| INDEX | Back to Main INDEX |
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|
| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
My plans show a 1/4 inch bolt 4 inches in from the end of the tail post.
See pic.
Boyd Young
On Feb 17, 2018 9:24 PM, "Bill Berle" <victorbravo@sbcglobal.net> wrote:
>
> I have a question on this subject. I have just replaced the standard
> (early) Firestar tailwheel ass'y with the new heavy duty swiveling ass'y
> offered by Kolb.
>
> I have an aluminum tail spr ing rod, and I cannot see any fasteners,
> rivets, bolts, clevis pins, etc AT ALL that secure the front of 5the
> aluminum rod into the bottom of the tail weldment.
>
> So I could not remove/inspect/replace this tail spring, and I also could
> not remove the tailwheel assembly from the back of the rod. I literally h
ad
> to cut the spring rod just forward of the old tailwheel, and then I slid
> the new tailwheel onto the rod. I drilled, reamed, and bolted the new
> tailwheel.
>
> What I am wondeering about is... did the Firestars have the aluminum tail
> spring GLUED into the steel weldment? I can't see any other way. They
> wouldn't have welded aluminum to steel. They would not have used flush
> countersunk bolts and nuts to bolt it in.
>
> So absent seeing any fasteners holding the tail spring into the fuselage
> weldment... how are these springs attached? How are you supposed to remov
e
> and replace them? I would have been very happy to machine a new tail
> spring, because I have the material ( 7075 aluminum main gear legs form t
he
> Firestar).
>
> Bill Berle
> www.ezflaphandle.com - safety & performance upgrade for light aircraft
> www.grantstar.net - winning proposals for non-profit and
> for-profit entities
>
> --------------------------------------------
> On Sat, 2/17/18, John Hauck <jhauck@elmore.rr.com> wrote:
>
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement tail rod...?
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Date: Saturday, February 17, 2018, 8:07 PM
>
> Yes, the bend test has been conducted a
> couple times. Early on in my MKIII's life the 582
> failed climbing out of the local airport. Made a good
> forced landing in a confined field. Checked it out on
> the ground, ran it up, and took off. Engine seized
> about 30 feet off the ground. I wasn't flying when I
> made contact. Then again in 2004, Muncho Lake,
> BC. Axle fitting failed during landing on a rough
> strip next to the Alaska Highway. Both times I got
> close to 90 degree bends without breaking.
>
> The steel legs will take a lot of abuse
> before the take a set. I don't know how many times you
> can straighten them. I think I have straighten my
> current legs 4 times.
>
> The longer the leg, the more spring
> travel and forgiving the legs will be.
>
> How far will they bent before they take
> a set? I really don't know. I think you'll get
> your money's worth though.
>
> Total length of the legs on my Firestar
> were 35.5". The heat treater at the time had a 36"
> oven. Here is a photo of them.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 6:21
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "Stuart Harner" <stuart@harnerfarm.net>
>
> Wow! I had no idea it would bend that
> far.
>
> Any idea how far it will flex before it
> won't spring back all the way? I know there is an
> engineering term for that but can't remember it at the
> moment.
>
> Stuart
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of John Hauck
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 5:20
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
>
> If you hit hard enough aluminum or
> steel may take out the gear leg socket and cluster.
>
> Never done nor know of a side by side
> comparison of crashes with alum and steel.
>
> 4130 if heat treated to 48 RC will give
> you a good spring, but is not hard enough to break. It
> will bend 90 deg and not brake. If bent during
> operation they can be straightened in a press.
>
> 7075 alum bends and will break if bent
> far enough.
>
> I used 1.25X1.20 wall 4130 heat treated
> to 48RC on my original Firestar and my MKIII. James
> Tripp used my Firestar 4130 legs to fabricate legs for his
> MKIII with same landing gear as mine. Getting a lot of
> miles out of those legs.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of Stuart Harner
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 4:48
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "Stuart Harner" <stuart@harnerfarm.net>
>
> Hey John,
>
> Curious about the steel vs. aluminum
> gear legs. I have read lots about them on this list and
> elsewhere.
>
> I know that the aluminum will give some
> then bend if you don't kiss the ground properly. So far I
> have only hit hard enough to bounce the Firefly, but not
> hard enough to bend anything. (knock wood).
>
> Anyway, do you know if any instances
> where a landing caused the steel gear to bend? If so , was
> there damage to the airframe or did the gear take all the
> abuse, thus saving the fuselage?
>
> Stuart
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of John Hauck
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 3:01
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> "John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
>
> I can only speak from personal
> experience with steel tail wheel strut. Heat treated
> to 48 RC, the steel strut has performed much better than the
> aluminum or fiberglass struts.
>
> Steel probably weighs about the same as
> the standard length 3/4" 7075 solid rod.
>
> Difference in weight:
>
> Steel tube:
> 3/4X.120X12" 4130 .807 lbs
>
> Aluminum rod: 3/4X12"
> 2024T3 .529 lbs (Aircraft Spruce didn't
> list 7075 3/4" rod)
>
> Steel 1.8 oz per foot heavier.
>
> My tail wheel strut is less than a
> foot. Don't remember the exact length. The
> little plate and bushing increase weight. I don't know
> how much, but not much.
>
> I have a Maule 8" Tundra Tail Wheel
> that I flew with for a period of years. Can't remember
> how much that weighed. Tail wheel and aircraft
> performed well. I took it off last time I flew to
> Alaska thinking I would get a little more speed with the
> smaller 6" Maule solid rubber tail wheel. Couldn't
> tell any difference. On one flight to Alaska I swapped
> my 8x6 tires for 6x6 to see if I could get a little more
> speed. No difference that I could tell.
>
> I am not recommending anyone else use
> my tail wheel strut or any other changes I have made to my
> MKIII. However, sure has worked well for me and my
> style flying. I went to steel gear legs and tail wheel
> struts 32 years ago.
>
> john h
> mkIII
> Titus, Alabama
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com
> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com]
> On Behalf Of Gary Aman
> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2018 2:01
> PM
> To: kolb-list@matronics.com
> Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Replacement
> tail rod...?
>
> Gary Aman <zeprep251@aol.com>
>
> Too much weight that far back, you=99ll
> feel it. 7075 3/4 I think
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Feb 17, 2018, at 1:30 PM, Nick
> Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net>
> wrote:
> >
> > --> Kolb-List message posted
> by: Nick Cassara <nickc@mtaonline.net>
> >
> > Kolbers,
> >
> > A while back we had a discusion
> about replacing the aluminum tail rod with a stiffer piece
> of steel tube. I thought I had ordered a piece of the steel,
> but can=99t seem to find it. I someone on the list could
> post the specifications again, I would be most grateful.
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Nick Cassara
> > Palmer, AK
> >
> > Kolb Kolbra 607AK
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
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>
>
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| Subject: | Replacement tail rod...? |
posted by: "John Hauck" <jhauck@elmore.rr.com>
Bill B, you could have saved all that typing by asking how to secure the tail
wheel strut to the tail post.
Well. my real question is whether it is acceptable to have it glued in, because
this one sure looks like it is glued in. I can easily drill through it and put
in a bolt, no biggie.
But since many people here have far more experience with these airplanes, I figured
maybe I would like to know what the advantage/disadvantage is of glue versus
bolt. Aluminum sure does NOT like to be glued.
In order to get the glued one out it appears that I would have to put a torch on
it to heat it and melt the glue, which would melt the fabric off, etc. If it
is acceptable to leave it glued then that is the easiest way. But maybe not the
safest or lowest risk.
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