Thorp Air Command - T18.net

The neoprene/rubber washer on my landing gear looks like it could stand to be replaced. Could I get a replacement washer, cut a slit in the washer, and slip it into place? The alternative installation process is not appealing.

What is the purpose of this washer?

Do it right, Ryan.

McMaster Carr has rubber with the right Duro. They are easy to make out of sheet stock. It's not just the washers ..... you may as well replace the rubber bushings too.

Once you get the weight off, the gear bolts are easy to remove.

D

If the washer looks like it needs to be replaced (is it cracked , broken ,missing ? ) then the bushing should be replaced also . I took the drawing to a local rubber supply house and they punched out a hand full to the required washers (and a few spares) from scrap material in a matter of minutes ! I think it cost me $15.00 ? Once they knew it was for a homebuilt aircraft . The washer and bushing act a shock absorbers and keep the gear from metal to metal contact ?

RB

Do NOT split the washer. I found some sheet rubber with fabric reinforcement in it. It lasts much longer. I wrote an article for the newsletter a while back that details the steps required for replacement of those washers.

_________________
Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

I have a Die and the rubber to punch these washers..............Dan

Dan, we should talk! Can I pay you for the rubber and also pay you for your time to punch the washers?

I appreciate all the info, I'll go hunt up the newsletter entry about this subject.

Will I have to remove the engine and motor mount in order to get the weight off these bolts and replace the rubber bushings and washers? Or can I raise the front of the plane to get the main gear off the ground with the engine still on?

The last time Bob and I changed out these parts, we picked the fuselage off the floor clearing the tires and place it on saw horses. With a engine hoist supported the engine and gear leg just enough to take the weight off, unbolted replace parts . You do not have to remove the top gear leg bolt, let it pivot.

glad to hear that Bill. I am tired of working on my plane for a while. I'm ready to fly more. Heres a couple of pics of new engine (2 year old paint) and a new (2nd one I've done) panel.

What's your address Ryan..........Dan

PM coming to you Dan.

Ryan, your washers were sent in the mail yesterday, you should have Friday - Monday...............Dan

Dan, thank you very much. That's good of you to take the time to do that. I appreciate it. Ryan