Description

WHLT- 8LD

Matco Aircraft Landing Systems produces a superior light weight version of the dual fork eight inch tail wheel for use with tail dragger aircraft which require a lighter weight tail wheel–the T-8LD.

DIMENSIONS

The T-8LD tail wheel has a eight inch pneumatic tire and an overall length of 10.8 inches.Maximum width of this tail wheel with fully splayed arms is 7 inches and overall height is 10.8 inches.This cast aluminum tail wheel weighs 5.4 pounds.

FEATURES

The T-8LD tail wheel utilizes a dual fork configuration and incorporates a geometric release mechanism that allows the wheel to caster after reaching a steered angle of 40 degrees (earlier release available with optional steering arms WHLT-03A). The WHLTW37 wheel used on the WHLT-8LD has a .625 precision sealed ball bearing which is rigorously tested and designed to resist bearing fatigue providing a long bearing life.The arms and wings of the tail wheel fork assembly are composed of 4130 which is heat treated to a Rockwell 38-43 to ensure strength and are irridited to prevent corrosion. The tail wheel base and forks are cast and then black anodized to prevent corrosion as well.The wheel halves are die cast aluminum for light weight and superior strength.The T-8LD features split rims for ease of mounting and dismounting its 200×50 (8″x2″) tire and tube assembly.

The tail wheel assembly is both steerable and full swiveling and provides easy installation with variant spring tension.This wheel has been designed to release with light spring tension and can accommodate either a 1.25 or 1.50 inch wide spring (Use part number WHLTWB-1 adapter for 1.75 inch wide springs). When a 1.50 inch spring is used, a .1875 inch spacer may be used between the base and the spring.The assembly should be mounted on the flat spring so that the pivoting axle is as close to vertical as possible when the plane is loaded.All assembly bushings are made of oil impregnated brass so no lubrication is needed during the life of the tail wheel.In addition, the shaft has been redesigned to .625 for added strength and durability.

HOW THE GEOMETRIC RELEASE WORKS