I cut a tin guard the shape of the old tailwheel plate to slip over it and
protect the composite from XS heat. Worked OK
Dave Simpson-
---------
> From: Kesterton, Donald <KestertonD@logica.com>
> Subject: RE: Tailwheel Mod
> Date: 09 March 1999 18:43
>
>
> Nigel Charles wrote
> ----------
>
>
> I received a useful tip (from Donald Kesterton) when it comes to
> removing
> the original tailwheel casting. Using a hot air gun might work
> eventually
> but it heats up more than just the casting and can damage the
> bulkhead or
> aircraft skin. Heat up a 1 inch steel bar (or heavy tube) away from
> the
> aircraft using a propane torch whilst gently warming up the casting
> with a
> hot air gun at the same time. Insert the bar into the casting from
> below.
> Hold it in position for about 5 to 10 minutes and then use it as a
> lever to
> prise the casting off the bulkhead as the Redux softens. As it is
> steel the
> lower end of the bar will not get too hot if just the top part is
> heated.
>
>
> I suggest you try the technique without using a hot air gun on the
> casting. If your casting is anything like ours the heat from the bar
feeds
> directly into the casting and in about 5 minutes the redux is soft enough
to
> extract the four bolts through the bulkhead. You can then carefully
lever
> off the casting. The nice thing about the technique is heat is just
> directed where it is needed - into the casting and the surrounding layups
> stay cool. The hot air gun is too uncontolled
>
> Donald Kesterton
>
> Builder 216 G-PATS
>
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