It could be something as simple as lubrication. We had a similar problem
(our A/C has been flying about 5yrs).
We raised the plane on a hoist (suspended from engine mounts) and
removed wheel and removed/ cleaned rubber block and shock absorbers. We
found there was considerable stiffness in the bearings on the landing
frame. These were freed by lubricating with teflon spray/ light oil and
the U/C cycled a couple of dozen times to work the lube in. We also
replaced the rubber block.
The gate through which the operating lever protrudes also needs a light
greasing (eg: vaseline).
This has pretty much cured the problem so there is currently no need to
tighten up the bungee cord. If this does become necessary it might be
easier just to add a couple of lengths of luggage cord using the hook
ends to attach to the landing frame and bar on the swinging arm. This
could be accessed from the underside.
Replacing the original cord is almost certainly an engine removal (and
firewall) job.
Hope this helps resolve your problem.
Carl Pattinson
G-LABS.
----- Original Message -----
From: ROBERT LINDSAY
To: europa-list@matronics.com
Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2008 4:46 AM
Subject: Europa-List: Mono-wheel gear retraction
After being installed for seven years and about 400 flight hours, I am
unable to fully retract my landing gear after take-off.
Retraction commences easily enough but resistance rapidly builds and
near the end of the stroke resistance builds to a point where I end up
with max effort about three mm short of the uplock shoulder. This
difficulty has been growing over a period of time--but in the past
overcome by pushing harder. Gear extension is easy with no problems.
Is this simply a bungee problem? Have others experienced a bungee age
problem where the bungee had to be replaced? If so, how does one attack
the replacement procedule? Would a slightly thicker bungee be better?
Looks like the job will be quite involved.
Or, if the bungee should still be good, could there be some mechanical
or misalignment problem?
Bob Lindsay A077
Gillespie Field (KSEE)
California
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