SonexBuilders.net

Fellows,
There are a number of turf strips in my area that I like to use which is why I've been considering the optional larger tires, but need more info. I've checked ACS and it looks like the tubes are about the same price as the tire…around $60, which I hesitate to spend. Has anyone found better pricing than that? So far, three Sonex guys in my area say they haven't had any problems with the standard tire size on turf. I realize this is rather subjective since it depends so much on the condition of the runway, but if anyone would like to give their experience I'd sure appreciate it. At this point, I'm leaning slightly to the larger tires.

Darick,
What have you been flying to those strips? What tires and what weights?

Bob Mika put the big tires on his plane last year but he's about decided it wasn't worth it. I have the normal tires and have flown off of turf for several years with no issues.

Bryan,
My Ercoupe was based at a grass strip near York,Pa. If I recall correctly, the Ercoupe had 6.00x6 tires and we typically flew at 1250 lbs. Keep in mind the 1946 Ercoupe was designed at a time when most runways were grass. The landing gear was a beefy trailing arm design with 12" travel, designed to land in a crab position in 25mph cross winds. I never worried about arriving at an airport with a cross wind. It is the easiest airplane to land I've ever seen.

I have a tri-gear Sonex. I would like to switch to 5x5 for the little bit of xtra ground clearance. Does anyone know if they will fit into the front fork? -SNX1454

What is the difference in the height and weight of the larger tires versus the standard tires?
And is there anyone out there cheaper than the spruce price of about $60 tire and $60 tube for the larger tires?

Answering my own question here. After a quick look on ACS. Standard Sonex size tire is 7046-8 that is 11.5 inches tall at less than $35 each for 8 ply and tube about $32.

Larger 500 x 5 tires stand about 12.5" tall which is 1/2 taller axle height for $60 tire and $60 tube....
I have decided to stick with standard size tires for now. I dont see the benefit of more weight and the difference in size for double the price at this time. After flying, maybe I could change my mind and switch then if needed.

What about the width? I know I've seen tables with all that info, but maybe you still have it handy?

BTW, Vic, thanks for the slip indicator kit, haven't built it up yet but the parts look really nice. Good project for my sons, and nice touch for a mostly electronic box panel.

Gordon