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API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2016 00:14
by Chief Pilot
Hi all,
I recently replaced the Scott 3-24B tailwheel on my Chief with an Aviation Products Inc API 6131. Before I fly it, I have a question for someone with the same setup: Full rudder deflection puts the tailwheel in full swivel mode. Is that the way it is supposed to work? The Scott wouldn't swivel until additional pivot was induced by brake application on one side. Is there any problem if it unlocks during landing rollout? Granted, I shouldn't be using full rudder travel during rollout, but I'm not sure I've developed enough finesses yet that it won't happen.
Thanks,
Raleigh
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2016 17:04
by Paul Agaliotis
Raleigh,
If it unlocks at the full travel that's what you want. It shouldn't unlock prior to full deflection, add a link if it does. Keep it lubed with a light weight grease, I used chassis grease and had to clean the lock mechanism. Not a big job but this wheel needs a light lube.
I think you'll like your new tail wheel.
Paul
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2016 23:49
by Chief Pilot
Hi Paul, thanks for the info. You're right, I do like the tailwheel. I had a chance to fly last weekend and try it out. It works well, looks good, and doesn't cost a fortune.
Raleigh
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2016 23:55
by Paul Agaliotis
One of the best bargains in aviation. Glad it worked out for you.
Paul
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2016 09:09
by MikeB
Agreed!! Much better than the "shimmering, shaking" Maule and the price is right.
Mike
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2021 15:02
by KCOI7
curious, howdid you guys sign off the API 6131 tailwheel?
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Sat Nov 06, 2021 17:28
by Paul Agaliotis
It is signed off as a minor alteration to the TCDS. Tailwheels are not a regulated item per the Civil Aviation Regulation 4.b, the Certification basis of the Aeroncas'.
Paul
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Fri Nov 19, 2021 20:21
by KCOI7
Looking for some tailwheel help. 1946 Chief: Old maule is shot, bought an API 6131 and not working out so good.
When I move the rudder anywhere near the limits it goes into castering mode. Spoke to Karen/API and she says it is not adjustable. Initially I had the chains lose but did not like the play associated with the slack.
Could API users tell me about their experience/ how tight they have their chains?
Re: API Tailwheel on a Chief
Posted: Fri Dec 10, 2021 19:23
by KCOI7
Chief Pilot wrote: ↑Tue Jun 28, 2016 00:14
Hi all,
I recently replaced the Scott 3-24B tailwheel on my Chief with an Aviation Products Inc API 6131. Before I fly it, I have a question for someone with the same setup: Full rudder deflection puts the tailwheel in full swivel mode. Is that the way it is supposed to work? The Scott wouldn't swivel until additional pivot was induced by brake application on one side. Is there any problem if it unlocks during landing rollout? Granted, I shouldn't be using full rudder travel during rollout, but I'm not sure I've developed enough finesses yet that it won't happen.
Thanks,
Raleigh
I did install on my Chief. When I left slack in chains I did not like it at all. Took a few links out so there is not play but also not very tight. Works great. Yes with full deflection it will caster, ditto for sharp brakes tap - does a nice pivot in tight spots. And yes, if you ar edoing full deflection you are in trouble on rollout.