Tailwheel problems
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Tailwheel problems
During the past four months, I have gone through three tailwheel inner tubes on my 72' M4. I fly from a 2000' grass strip on our farm but land on hard surface for fuel. I carry an extra tube but I'm considering going to a solid tailwheel. Is this an easy conversion or do I need to change springs, etc.
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Ain't happening even close to legally. I have the small Maule solid tailwheel on my little C-140 and it takes a beating on pavement. Works OK on a little light weight Cessna, but a heavy tailed Maule would I think Mash a solid tailwheel.
Wup has some stuff I think that thorn proofs Bushwheels and I have considered putting the solid rubber compound in my tailwheel. I'm sure it wouldn't be legal, but aside for cutting the tire in half, how would anyone know?
Don't know what the rubber stuff is called, but it's put inside of lawnmower tires etc. and of course then they can't go flat.
Wup has some stuff I think that thorn proofs Bushwheels and I have considered putting the solid rubber compound in my tailwheel. I'm sure it wouldn't be legal, but aside for cutting the tire in half, how would anyone know?
Don't know what the rubber stuff is called, but it's put inside of lawnmower tires etc. and of course then they can't go flat.
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There are many types, this is just one. search for "foam filled tires"
http://www.arnconet.com/flatproofing/ultralite.htm
http://www.arnconet.com/flatproofing/ultralite.htm
- crbnunit
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This is the stuff ABW recommends on their site.
$28.75/qt. Not sure how far it goes. You may be able to fill all your tires with a single quart.
"No Tubes
No Tubes: Seals most punctures, stop slow leaks, and virtually eliminates flats. Offers outstanding puncture resistance for holes as large as ¼”. This non-adhesive sealant is an easy to use substance that cleans up with water. It is lightweight and will not throw the tire out of balance. The thinner sealant also allows for sidewall protection that other sealants can not touch. And it doesn’t freeze!
1 quart + syringe"
$28.75/qt. Not sure how far it goes. You may be able to fill all your tires with a single quart.
"No Tubes
No Tubes: Seals most punctures, stop slow leaks, and virtually eliminates flats. Offers outstanding puncture resistance for holes as large as ¼”. This non-adhesive sealant is an easy to use substance that cleans up with water. It is lightweight and will not throw the tire out of balance. The thinner sealant also allows for sidewall protection that other sealants can not touch. And it doesn’t freeze!
1 quart + syringe"
You have to make up your mind about growing up and becoming a pilot. You can't do both!
- Hottshot
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Re: Tailwheel problems
Dan7945 wrote: During the past four months, I have gone through three tailwheel inner tubes on my 72' M4. I fly from a 2000' grass strip on our farm but land on hard surface for fuel. I carry an extra tube but I'm considering going to a solid tailwheel. Is this an easy conversion or do I need to change springs, etc.
are you useing the same tire when you put a new tube in? recomend replace tire and tube as one ...
If not need more detail please
Wup Winn
541-263-2968
Joseph Or, 97846
info@backcountryconnection.com
wup@maulesales.com
www.backcountryconnection.com
541-263-2968
Joseph Or, 97846
info@backcountryconnection.com
wup@maulesales.com
www.backcountryconnection.com
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- Maule 9V
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Good point on the tire pressure. My POM specified 18-20 but I always thought that was a little low. I can't imagine that there would be that much difference between the M-4 and the M-5 tire pressure assuming that the M-5 tailwheel is also a 2.80/2.50-4. I have already ordered Stans Tire and Rim Sealant but I believe that I will try carrying a few more pounds of air in the tailwheel.
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If re-useing a tailwheel tyre case after having a flat, check the integrity of the tyre walls. Often they are compromised when the wall and tube are pinched between rim and a hard object, (pavement crack, edge, pothole, rock etc)
Recommended pressure 50-55 psi.
A lot of air escapes through the valve when applying and removing the tyre guage so allow for this.
Recommended pressure 50-55 psi.
A lot of air escapes through the valve when applying and removing the tyre guage so allow for this.
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I recently purchased a bicycle pump that is perfect for the tailwheel. It is only about 10 inches long and has a flexiable hose and a dial pressure gauge. The best feature is a valve that selects "high Volume" or "high presure". In the "high pressure" mode it was very easy to put 50 psi into the tailwheel. "High volume" and patience can fill the mains.
- crbnunit
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Tail wheels are the weak point. If you are constantly landing tailwheel first on hard surface you will go through more tailwheels. I might recommend using wheel landings on the pavement and the full stall stuff for softer landing areas. The tailwheel should be checked every preflight for wear and pressure, also check condition of the valve stem. (I'm preaching to myself too). I carry a pump, extra tube and a tire patch kit including sealant for field maintenance. Hope this helps
Mike W.
Mike W.
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