Taylorcraft fuselage float fittings and tiedown rings

[PA1195]

Re: Taylorcraft fuselage float fittings and tiedown rings

Wow, $41 each? I made a set, in 4130, for my US Taylorcraft & that of Mike Jones of this parish (I have a welding jig) for about $3 materials and 20 minutes labour for each (my labour rate is a LOT cheaper than the US rate). Perhaps I should make a batch and bring them over on my next US trip?

There's a market there Rob no doubt. Two USA suppliers (UNIVAIR and Atlee Dodge) share the same products. Typically they are Field Approved on others besides Piper.

However further research may indicate Taylorcraft used something similar after 1/1/79 per their 1985 parts manual P. 17 listed under Miscellaneous Equipment that I noted above (http://www.taylorcraft.org/resources...raft%20Manuals). No P/N is listed that I have found....but if so then that would simplify the installation, but I doubt there's an issue.

Gary

[Robert Lees]

Re: Taylorcraft fuselage float fittings and tiedown rings

Well it's not an airworthiness issue of course, since the part is not used for flight. Longer bolts are used, which may go against the parts manual.

[PA1195]

Re: Taylorcraft fuselage float fittings and tiedown rings

Good point. They promote safety and hardware wouldn't be an issue.

The other advantage for me and others locally is the tie downs offer a mechanical stop for my wing jacks. Similar to this commercially available product (http://www.fadodge.com/wing-jack/) I modify a Hi-Lift jack (https://hi-lift.com/hi-lift-jacks/) by installing a wood 2x4 next to the upright. Put the base of the 2x4 on the jack tongue and make slide-through brackets bolted to the holes in the upright. Cut the top of the 2x4 into a U-shape and band it with a hose clamp to prevent splitting and sheet rubber for a cushion. Bolt the jack base to a large piece of heavy plywood for stability. Put the "U" under the tiedown bracket next to the strut and jack up the wing for changing wheels and skis. Been doing it for 40+ years without a problem providing the plane is stable and the wind is calm.

Gary