Need the groups advice re solid aluminum vs steel axels for my 1956 182. I’m ruling out titanium based on the cost. I’m moving up to 7.00 mains and planning the project. My flying is mild off airport...grass fields in Texas which means dirt and ranch fields. No rocks or bars at this point. Are upgrading the axels overkill for these tires and mission....?

Appreciate any advice

There have been discussions about the relative strengths of axles on Cessnas forever in Alaska.

Most agree that the hollow steel axles are the strongest, and that the hollow aluminum axles are the worst. The solid aluminum axles fall somewhere in the middle.

Frankly, you’ll never know whether your axles are strong enough till you break one.

So, first, what kind of condition are your axles in now? Have you had them tested for flaws/cracks? If not, I’d probably go there and THEN decide.

IF you indeed stick to the kind of ops you noted, aluminum axles should be fine IF they’re in good shape to start. But I’ve seen steel axles break in places you wouldn’t expect that to happen.....probably cracked before they got there.

First thing I’d do: Call Steve Kracke at F. Atlee Dodge Inc in Anchorage and ask his advice. If anyone’s seen the effects of hard use, it’s those guys.

MTV

MTV...thanks ...make s sense to have them NDT inspected...they are not original but can’t find a log book entry to give me a date

Cost of inspecting the aluminium axles could also be applied to the purchase price of used hollow steel axles.

Not a fan of aluminium axles. The surface where the bearing rides on the axle is subject to wear. Also where the felt seals rub. Even hardened aluminium can’t stand up to that as well as steel. Aluminium has a much shorter fatigue life. There’s just no way they measure up to the strength of the steel alternative.

Greatly respect MTV’s experience, but my engineering and metallurgic education and experience won’t let me hold back on this.

I’d bet coffee and a doughnut that even the extreme weight conscious Carbon Cub has steel axles. Aluminium axles benefit does not outweigh the risk.