Netters, We have been discussing 6" pneumatic tailwheels so I'm going to cut and paste three e-mails below that are my posts to Matco, and their reply. Some of you may find them interesting.
I'll keep the Net posted on any developments. Larry Flesner +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ (to Matco) I have a T6 tailwheel assembly installed on my modified KR2. I have been searching for a 6" pneumatic wheel/tire to replace the solid wheel you supply with the T6 assembly. I believe I have located the wheel assy but I'm having trouble finding a bearing to fit the 1/2" axle. I'm needing a bearing that is 1/2" I.D. and a 7/8" O.D. If I'm unable to locate such a bearing I'm considering the possibility of having my 1/2" axle machined down to a 7/16" diameter. My question is as follows; how was the 1/2" axle in the T6 installed? I'm assuming it is a press fit. Can I remove the axle without damaging the assembly and if so, how would you suggest I do so? I would have the 1/2" axle (bolt) cut down only in the exposed portion and leave the portion that seats in the assembly at it's present size for re-installation. I'm assuming that I could re-threat a portion of the outer threads to 7/16 also. A short tapper in the area of the diameter change would hopefully elminate a stress point. Any suggestions? Thanks for your help. Larry Flesner Carterville, Illinois +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Mr. Flesner, The axle is not pressed fit into the casting but only preloaded by use of a sleeve inside the bearing. What wheel are you considering using on the axle? Does it not have a bearing in it now or is the bearing a 7/16? If is a ball bearing? I assume you mean a 6 inch OD tire. How much tire load will the tail wheel see? We have had requests from customers for a pneumatic version of the T-6. I have located a supplier for wheel, tire, and tube but the wheel is steel and the bearing is not sufficient for a/c use. The thought is to make our own AL wheel to fit the tire but I haven't been able to find source for just the tire & tube. A photo of the wheel you describe would be appreciated. Why do you desire the pneumatic tire? The inquiries we've had have been for ride comfort. George R. Happ MATCO mfg +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ George, Thanks for your quick reply. I'm on my way out of the house at the moment but will try to get back to you this evening with info on the questions you had. My cost on the wheel was $21.50 from a local supplier. If you would like I could purchase and ship you one. That included the bearings of 7/16" I.D. which is my present problem. I'll try to get a digital photo of the tire when I receive it also. Some testing at your location may prove it to be an answer to your search also. The supplier gave me a used wheel/tire/tube that they call an 8" tire (mounted on same wheel) that measures (tire) 7 1/2" in diameter outside. I'm not exactly sure what the 6" tire they have ordered for me will turn out to be. I hope to have my project flying soon and it could be used to test the application. I'll keep you posted. Larry Flesner
