Taildragging Conversion

[rwthomas1]

Hello All,
I introduced myself in a previous post, I have an almost completed tricycle gear Sonex I want to convert to a taildragger. I have searched the forum, but not found exactly what I want, so I'll ask.

Looking at the plans, it appears that this is relatively simple. The bottom aft fuselage is not installed yet so I have access to the interior of the tail, no problem. Order/fabricate tailwheel mount parts, and tailwheel assembly.

The conventional main gear attach to the engine mount, so that part is as simple as ordering a new engine mount, gear legs, etc.

Looking at the existing main tricycle gear mounts in the fuselage, under the seat, it seems like a bit of work to remove them, with not much to gain except loosing a bit of weight. Am I correct in thinking to simply fabricate plugs for those holes and be done with it?

This doesn't look all that difficult, am I missing something?

Thanks, RT

[DCASonex]

Weight alone might be sufficient reason to remove the old mounts. Also cleans things up a bit giving more open area to fit other items and or storage.

David A.

[fastj22]

Hello All,
I introduced myself in a previous post, I have an almost completed tricycle gear Sonex I want to convert to a taildragger. I have searched the forum, but not found exactly what I want, so I'll ask.

Looking at the plans, it appears that this is relatively simple. The bottom aft fuselage is not installed yet so I have access to the interior of the tail, no problem. Order/fabricate tailwheel mount parts, and tailwheel assembly.

The conventional main gear attach to the engine mount, so that part is as simple as ordering a new engine mount, gear legs, etc.

Looking at the existing main tricycle gear mounts in the fuselage, under the seat, it seems like a bit of work to remove them, with not much to gain except loosing a bit of weight. Am I correct in thinking to simply fabricate plugs for those holes and be done with it?

This doesn't look all that difficult, am I missing something?

Thanks, RT

I converted mine. Left the weldments for the main gear in place. Yes weight penalty. But removing will cause trauma. I’m converting to B model and scavenged the weldments from the old fuse to give to another builder. Ended up using a grinder to cut the rivets heads. If going tri to tail, leave them in place.

[edclee]

I think the main gear legs are longer on the taildragger!


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[RCfly46]

Yes, the taildragger legs are longer, so you'll need new ones.

What engine are you using? I have a new Aerovee TD mount I don't need, I'd be happy to have someone put it to good use. Shipping would be the challenge.

Joe in SE Mich
Waiex 181
Fuselage on gear
Corvair 2.7

[wav8tor]

I have tricycle gear and tail wheel and motor mount. Will trade for your main gear mounts.
Mike
wav8tor@aol.com


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[rwthomas1]

I sold most everything with the FWF package. The only thing left is the actual main gear welded steel mounts in the fuselage. I had intended to just leave them be as removing them requires drilling out rivets in a fuselage that is already painted. I know I can get them out, I disassembled a flap with rodent damage, just because. But sometimes it's better not to mess with stuff?

[wav8tor]

If you will remove the main tricycle gear mounts I will pay $100 plus shipping to Indiana
Mike wav8tor@aol.com
Phone 317-339-7781


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